Impulse Purchases: Guilty As Charged

When Jessica from Raise.com asked me to write a blog post about impulse purchases and ways to shop a sale, I thought it'd be really interesting and fun! Let's face it, we all have items hanging in our closet or lying around the house that are essentially impulse buys. aka things you bought in the spur of the moment without much thought/reflection and then when you get home you think, "Hmmm...maybe I wouldn't wear this as often as I thought I would..."

Here are some of common impulse buys enablers: 1. Flash Sales

Caged Dress - Romwe

In my opinion, they're one of the deadliest, almost as bad as the 'limited edition' tag! The fact that it's about 40% cheaper than usual only for a limited amount of time makes the item all the more desirable - there's no better time than to get it now & you might regret not getting it if the price rises or if it runs out!

Sadly, this Romwe dress was the victim of such. During Valentine's season, this gorgeous caged dress that I've seen on loads of bloggers and which I've coveted from a far was reduced from $37.99 to only $11.29 on that particular day...and there was a limited amount in stock! Of course, I took it as fate and bought it without a second thought. Although this dress is gorgeous, the amount of times I"ll get to wear such dress is slim...

2.  eBay The black hole of all impulse buys, sucking you in with their super duper crazy cheap prices that you rarely think twice before purchasing it, despite not totally love it because hey, it's only x amount so no harm done right? It's not until you add up the amount of money you've spent on those 'crazy bargains' that you realise that the damage is not as low as you think...

3. "I don't have anything like this" / "You never know when you will need it in the future"

Denim Skirt - Orange Sorbet

Hahah, I use this argument a lot. I convince myself that I should get something because well, I don't have anything like it in my closet and you never know when you might need it in the future. After all, better to be prepared for those 'in case' moments right? Because of such thinking, I often buy things that I don't normally wear, or usually doesn't suit me...like this denim mini skirt.  Denim mini skirts do not do anything for my shape whatsoever, but I still got this one in the hopes that one day it might or if I might need it in the near future. Well, it's been about 3 years and I've only worn it once.. :/

4. Dupes



You see something at an expensive store and then, you saw something similar, but for a fraction of the price. In your mind, there is no hesitation - you've got to get it! But if the quality is on par with the low price or if you won't wear it as often...you're better off not getting it.  I saw a very similar dress in Forever 21 and really wanted to get it. I would have if it wasn't for the price tag. A few weeks later, I saw a super duper similar one that it was probably a dupe at a much lower price. Naturally, I bought it. However, that dress was 2 sizes too big and the elastic is not great quality so... :/


Tips: Preventing impulse buys
1. How often will you wear it? It's all good and well that the item has a more favourable price tag, but if you don't envision yourself wearing it in the near future, the cost per wear is not worth it! Don't just leave it at the back of your closet! This is especially true for more crazy, unique items with very loud prints that you normally wouldn't like to be caught out with, sky-high heels that are only made to be look at, not worn or formal/prom dresses where the chances are, you'll only wear it once or twice despite it being the most beautiful thing you've ever seen.

2. Does it fit right? Sizing is everything. Don't buy a pair of jeans that are 2 sizes two big even if they're at a reduced price because you may be paying even more to get it tailored. Also, if it doesn't fit right - chances are, you won't wear it again!

3. What can you pair it with? Before I get anything, I always skim through my closet in my mind to see the combinations that an item can be paired with with things already in my closet. No point getting that only to spend money on getting something else to match! 

4. Time is Galleons For those of you that do not know, Galleons is a form of currency in the Wizarding world of Harry Potter - sorry, had to include it. Never go shopping when you're pressed for time because that's when the most impulse buys occur! When the clock's ticking and time's running out, you don't think as rationally as you probably should and purchase it, only to get home and realise you don't love it as much as you did. My tip is to go home and give it a few hours/days to think about it, especially if it's an online shop. If you still really want it, then go for it.

5. Shop in the present
Dress - Nichii

Things change, trends change, your style and preferences change. Unless it's a super basic, fool-proof item such as jumpers, don't buy for the future or those "I might need it so I'll get this just in case"moments. You never know when your style might change and the item that you once thought was very 'you' and cool...is not anymore. I debating whether I should get that dress because the print is quite unusual which meant I wouldn't really wear it that often...but then I remembered thinking, "I could wear this for a garden party!" And thus, it went in my closer *facepalm* Don't get me wrong, it's a gorgeous dress and I still love it to bits, but I don't wear it as often as I thought I would.

6. Be smart when choosing shopping buddies


Sometimes, it may not be entirely your fault, but the people that you shop with. After all, as humans, we often listen to other people's opinions and can be easily swayed by it. They might convince you that it looks really good even you're a bit unsure about the cut/style and how it hangs on your body. In the end, you end up spending $$ on something that may not be 100% what you want. This 'mini-cardigan' was bought via my mum's influence. I don't really wear things like these...but my mum convinced me it looked great & that I would wear it. Yea...nope... :/

Of course, treating yourself to a more expensive item or that super unique piece is completely fine once in a while, but don't let impulse purchases become a habit or you'll find that you end up with a closet full of clothes that may have been bargains, but you rarely wear!

Do you have any impulse purchases yourself?  What are some of your tips for resisting impulse buys?

Guest Post // 5 tips for naturally beautiful skin all summer long!

This is a scheduled post as I'm currently at the beach! Wheeee! But don't worry, I've got awesome guest bloggers lined up for you (: Today is a post from Michelle who works at a spa called Skana in a small town at Upstate NY -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Between heat, sun, and pools, summer can be hard on your skin. It doesn't have to be that way, though!  Follow our tips, and enjoy healthy glowing skin all through the hot months.
1. Go bare Summer sweat mixed with heavy make-up can clog pores and create skin problems. Since summer  activities are typically casual anyway, why not ditch the foundation and let your skin breathe during your  road trips and barbecues this summer?
2. No tanning Whether you're concerned about skin cancer or premature aging, sunbathing is definitely out. Even dark  skin is susceptible to sun damage, so bring an umbrella and stay in the shade! Don't let fake tanners draw  you in, either. They're still loaded with chemicals, many of which haven't been tested for long-term affects  on skin or health.
3. Rinse your skin Salt and chlorine will both dry your skin out, so don't forget a refreshing shower after you swim this  summer. It'll rinse off any chemicals from the water and keep your skin looking young.
4. Eat right
Unhealthy processed and sugar-filled foods can cause premature aging, so stick with fresh fruits and  veggies. Cool salads and grain dishes are refreshing in summer. And don't be afraid of healthy fats! Good  fats from Greek yogurt, fish, and nuts will keep your skin supple all summer long.
5. Stay hydrated Do you get thirsty in the heat? So does your skin. Avoid chemical-filled soft drinks, and stick with water  throughout the day. It'll flush out toxins that dull your skin to give you that perfect summer glow. Summer can be tough on skin, but it doesn't have to be. Stay fresh and natural with our summer skincare  tips, and you won't have to worry about skin issues ruining your summer fun! And when it's all over for the  day, try this recipe inspired by Skana Spa of New York State Resort, Turning Stone. It's perfect to soothe  your for oily/combination skin.

Tightening Green Tea and Grapefruit Toner

Ingredients:

2 green tea bags steeped in 1 cup water and cooled.

1/4 cup witch hazel

Juice of 1/2 of a red grapefruit

Directions

1. Steep the tea bags in the water and let cool.

2. Remove the teabags.

3. Add the witch hazel and the grapefruit juice to the tea water.

4. Mix all together.  Apply to skin with a cotton ball, let dry and then rinse off with water.

5. Mix all the ingredients in a blender until the mixture is perfectly smooth. Apply to skin with a cotton ball. 

6. Once it's dry, rinse off with cool water.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you Michelle for some great tips and an awesome, 'au naturel' recipe!
P.S: Please do vote for me for a Missguided competition HERE - it will only take a few seconds and I'll be eternally grateful!

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How to: Everlasting Lipstick

Recently, I had the pleasure of guest posting for Laura @ A Scottish Lass who owns one of my favourite blogs in the blogosphere (so I highly recommend you go check her blog out!)
So I thought I'd share what I guest posted about here for my readers (:

As a girl, a lip stick is often a must. They come in so many shades and finishes that there's something for everyone! But what most people dislike is touching up during the day. 
What if there isn't a mirror? Or if there isn't enough time?  Here are some quick steps to ensure that your lipstick lasts:
1. Scrub it   Use a lip scrub or a toothbrush to gently remove the dead, dry skin. Lipstick won't stick to dry, flaky lips and no matter what you do, it's always important to have a good, clean base.
2. Balm it  Apply a layer of lip balm. Lip sticks can dry your lips out, so apply a layer of lip balm underneath to protect your lips and to keep them moisturized
3. Dab it  Dab a bit of foundation on your lips and it fills in fine lines and give your lipstick something to cling to
4. Line it  Using a lip liner that matches your natural lip color, line and fill your lips to create a base for the lipstick to prevent bleeding. By using a liner that's similar to your natural color, it prevents any major contrast between the liner shade and the lipstick shade
5. Apply it  Apply that lipstick!
6. Blot it   With a tissue, gently blot your lips as it'll extend the wear of your lipstick
7. Layer it   Apply another layer!
8. Seal it  Using translucent loose powder, lightly dust your lips to seal in the colour
That's it! Now you don't have to bring your lipstick out with you and save space in your bag! How do you make your lipstick last?
P.S: Do check out Laura's BLOG!

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Party Tips for the Century

Hosting a party could be daunting, but very rewarding if it's a huge success! Here's a few tips that I feel makes a great party (:

1. Think of a theme

Themed parties make things a little more interesting and are easier to plan! You can match the decor, food and music to the theme, get your guests to dress up accordingly and bring something theme related and even play theme-orientated games! A make-shift Quidditch game for die-hard Harry Potter fans (meeee!) anyone? The theme can be virtually anything. Your favourite series, movie/tv show, an event e.g The Oscars, Cirque du Soleil... or even more generic themes like under the sea, all things french, hearts or the colour orange. Come on, you must've attended a themed prom! Last Halloween, my friend threw a 7 deadly sin  party which was genius! We had to come dress up as one of the 'sin' and she a different section of her house representing different 'sins' with corresponding food! It was so much fun!  Here are some of my favourite themes: Harry Potter - cause I'm a huge fan

Images from Pinterest

Tea Party

Image source

Luau Party

Images from various places on the Internet

Stuck with ideas? Click HERE and HERE

2. Plan ahead

It's wise to keep a checklist of everything that needs to be done in time for the party to because you want to avoid last minute rushes and sudden changes! Some things such as booking the caterer, sending out invites may need to be weeks in advance whilst others like preparing the food, setting up decor or buying groceries can take from hours to days. So prepare a list with the 'deadline' next to it and actually stick with it!

Image source

3. DJ it up

Set up a playlist depending on the type and possibly theme of  the party. More upbeat, festive music for a normal get together kind-of party and maybe more mellow tunes for dinner. Also observe the age range and tastes/preference of your guest and adjust the music volume according to the sound level. No one wants to be shouting over background music! You can even go with your chosen theme and choose songs based around them (:

4. Have fun.

As cheesy as it sounds, have fun. YOU (the host/hostess) set the mood. So if you're having a good time, your vibe will give off and everyone will too - it's like follow the leader (:

Just to end off - me having a bit of fun. I promise you I'm normally sane and do act my age :D

Hope you guys enjoyed the tips and have fun throwing your parties - do not forget a camera to take pictures to commemorate those memoriessss (:

P.S Linking back to Tip Tuesday and Friday Link Up @ Simple Easy Style

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Summer Series #3 // Work your body type: Swimwear

My third post in the Summer Series! To see the others, go HERE (under 'Summer 2013 Series')

Summer's approaching real fast which means it's time to head to the beach/pool and break out them swimwear. Most people are under the illusion that any great body will look good in any bikini. However, even the best of bodies wearing the wrong swimwear could be extremely unflattering. Swimwear comes in loads of styles and patterns there will be one that suits your body type - bandeau, tankini, monokini, halter top, triangle... So it's a good thing to spend a little time in understanding your body shape and invest in swimwear that flatters you. No two person has the same body shape, but everyone can look a million dollars. If you've got it, flaunt it ;)

(L-R): Tangerine Rose Bikini (Topshop) // Snake Print Balconette Bikini (Matalan) //
Watercolor Halter Bikini (Forever 21)

If you're athletic:

- Focus on feminine cuts & details

- Show off your toned lower half with embellished and printed bottoms 

AVOID: strapless bandeaus; boy cut briefs; shapeless tanks

(L-R): Navy Bikini (Topshop) // One Shoulder Monokini (Forever 21) //
L*Space Knotted Fringe Dolly Bandeau Bikini (Sundance Beach)

If you are straight:

- Fake some curves OR take advantage of the fact that you have nothing to hide

- Enhance chest and butt with ruffles, gathering or padding

- Exaggerate the apperance of a fuller chest with ruffles, frills and fringes

- Flaunt your straight silhouette in an itty-bitty string bikini

- Opt for cut outs & prints

- Horizontal stripes break up long lines

- Look for bikinis with adjustable straps, padding or underwire

AVOID: Sporty bottoms & plain bandeau tops

(L-R): Navy Spot Underwired Tankini Set (Fashion Union) //  Orange Halter Padded Stud Bikini Set (Lingadore) //  Striped Tankini Set (Fashion Union)

If you are pear shape

- Opt for higher cut bottoms

- A tankini will lengthen you

- String style bottoms will  bare plenty of thigh

- Draw the eye up with molded cups, halter straps or cleavage detailing

AVOID: loud prints on your lower half + bikini boy shorts as they will cut off your thighs at the wrong places

(L-R): Biba Goddess Bikini (House of Fraser) // Enchanted Bandeau Top (Betsey Johnson) //
Navy drape push up halter bikini (River Island)

If you have an hourglass figure:
- Opt for a solid or small print that won't distort your proportions
- Look for an underwire, balconette or halter style top for support
- Look for styles that are banded around the midrif and can be tied back, around the neck and has wide shoulder straps
- Unless you have features you want to exhibit, stay away from anything with a shifty string top or bottom

AVOID: String bottoms or tops (unless you have features you want to exhibit); bandeau style tops (offers no support & could flatten chest)


(L-R): Walter Mio ruched bandeau (Norma Kamali) // Rococo Rose Vintage Maillot Swimsuit (Seafolly) //
 Tulle bandeau tank (JCrew)

If you're apple shaped/self conscious about your tummy:
- One piece suits with a cinched waist create an hourglass shape
- Belted waistline give a appearance of a smaller middle
- Try empire waist or colour block swim suits
- Ruching helps to eliminate bulges

(L-R): Green Hawaiian Print (River Island) // Mara Hoffman Medicine Wheel Ruched (Madewell) //
Giejo Floral bikini (Madewell)

If you are petite/have shorter legs:
- Ditch the plain and boring, go for exciting prints & graphics
- A high cut bikini will elongate your legs

There you have it, the perfect swimwear for YOU (: Which one will you get?
Don't know what kind of body shape you have? CLICK HERE

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Summer Series #2 // Melt Proof Makeup Tips

(Image from the World Wide Web)

My second post of the Summer Series! To see the others, go HERE (it's under 'Summer 2013 Series') It's summer! Which means more sun, more heat and more fun at the beach! When putting on makeup in this weather, the fail-proof method is to use melt-proof makeup. Whether you're out and about, sunbathing or frolicking in the ocean, no one wants shiny faces and panda eyes at the end of the day! So here are some tips:

Face

- Lighten the load: Just like how you would switch to sandals and flowy dresses, lighten up your makeup. Swap foundation for tinted moisturizer as they’re less likely to turn cakey and feel lighter. Brush powder foundation over the tinted moisturizer if you have to for added coverage

- It's prime time: Use a silicon-based primer before applying foundation. Silicone is a key ingredient in most long lasting formulas which means it acts as a barrier between heat and skin and thus, will keep face makeup from melting off.

- Go cream: They’re less likely to cake up and gives you a light, natural glow.. Sweat mixed with powder won’t make a pretty picture! Eek!

- Bronze away: Bronzers makes your eyes look brighter and teeth whiter. Apply it where the sun naturally hits your face– forehead, cheekbones, chin and nose

- Don't forget to blot!: To eliminate shine from your T-zone

Eyes

- Prime...again!: Your eyes need to be primed too! This is so your eye makeup won’t melt. Don’t forget to dab some on your bottom lid if you’re using bottom liner and shadow. It also minimizes creasing. Begone panda eyes.

- Skip the liner: It melts and drip which is never a good look on anyone. But if you insist...

- Liquefy: Wax in pencil liners are most likely to melt so use liquid liner instead!

- Crystal clear: Use waterproof mascara (of course), but if it’s too drying for you, swipe a coat of clear mascara on top of normal mascara instead.

- Everlasting shadow: Use long lasting cream shadow

Lips

- Scrub-a-dub-dub: Exfoliate them lips to give your lip product a smoother base. You can use a soft toothbrush or a basic lip scrub.

- Bye bye lip gloss: Skip the sticky lip gloss which will slide right off! Use lip stain or tinted lip balm instead.

- Switch thick for thin: No one wants their lips to feel heavy in the heat. So opt for clear tinted balm.

Hope these will help you enjoy your summer! Who says you can't look good at the beach? (:

P.S: Linking back to Tip Tuesday Link Ups!

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Summer Series #1 // 15 tips for the ultimate summer

This week's my last week of school before...SUMMER! Wheeeeee! So to count-down (sort of), every post this week will be related to summer (:

I recently guest posted at the lovely Chloe @ Chloe's Way about the 15 tips for well, the ultimate summer (: So I thought I'd share it with my readers here! Do go check out Chloe's blog btw (:

1. Exercise: Worried that you're not in tip-top bikini shape? Start now! Grab a friend and get some form of exercise regularly- whether it's jogging, swimming, team sports or  fitness class, do something that YOU enjoy because it will make working out and toning up a lot more fun.

2. Less is more: Lighten your beauty routine and let your skin breathe - replace foundation and blush for a simple swipe of bronzer to make your skin glow

3. Try letting your hair succumb to their natural waves this summer

4. SPF 15 or more!: Lips lack a protective layer so they're super sensitive to UV rays! So put on that SPF 15 (at least) lip balm to keep your lips moisturized and safe

5. Avoid anything sticky: sand will stick to it and it will break down faster in the heat

6. Go au naturel with pinks, peachs, golds and bronze

7. Remember to pack waterproof items! Even if you're not swimming, you don't want the humidity to give you panda eyes.

8. SUNSCREEN! Apply it above the moisturizer and below makeup.

9. Don't forget to bring along oil blotting paper to wipe away the sweat & shine.

10. Mop your hairline after wearing a hat - oil can get trapped under your hat or headband and you don't want acne on your forehead!

11. Wear light, flowy clothes: Choose dresses and tops that are made out of lighter material like cotton. Avoid dark colours because they absorb heat and can make you sweat faster!

12. Skip powder and opt for cream: Face powder turns cakey when you sweat so apply cream-based items that blend easily into your skin

13. Sunburnt? Apply aloe vera extract or lotions containing aloe vera as that will soothe the burn and helps it to heal faster

14. Exofliate: Putting on self-tanner without exfoliating results in blotches and streaks

15.Stay hydrated! Carry a bottle of water with you wherever you go so you have no reason to forget!

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Beginner's Guide to Blogging

Hey guys, today I'm linking up with Jacquelyn for the first ever "Tip Tuesday". This week's theme is... *drum roll* Blogging Tips! (: Since I've only started blogging myself about a month ago, I admittedly do not have that much experience. However, I would like to share with you a few 'starter' tips on getting started and making a name for your blog in the blogosphere (love that word).  Without further adieu, here's a beginner's guide to blogging: 1. Think of a good URL

The best URLs are catchy, easy to write and thus, easy to remember. You can draw your URL inspiration from anything! Your favourite things, the main focus of your blog, favourite song...anything and everything. Unleash your creativity! 2. What will your blog be about?

There are loads of different 'types' of blogs. Beauty, fashion, lifestyle, food, hair, fitness...anything you can think of. It's often that you'll connect with bloggers in the blogosphere with similar interests as yours (: Your blog can be a combination of a few topics but it's best if they're generally related. Most importantly, it should reflect your interests and your personality because then, it'll make blogging regularly a whole lot easier, interesting and more fun! 3. Posts planning

Like everything else in life, it's much easier to have a plan so you know what you'll write about each day of the week. And if something interesting suddenly comes up, you can easily shift your schedule without being disorganized and going crazy trying to remember what post was scheduled for what day.  4. Pictures, pictures, pictures
It's boring to just read a large chunk of text so spice up your posts by having pictures! You don't really need to invest in a super expensive and professional Canon or Nikon, but just make sure that it's of reasonably good quality and has top notch content. You can also take pictures from the Internet but be sure to source them if possible! 5. Layout: Simplicity is key

Your layout is what everyone will first see when they go on to your blog so that will be their first impression! My tip would be to make it aesthetically pleasing by keeping it neat, have a colour scheme with no more than 4 colours and a pretty yet simple background - either printed or just plain! Have a nice header that's unique and creative and play with fonts - but have no more than 2/3 different ones! No two blogs are the same so tweak it, spice it up and make it yours. Want more blogging tips? Check them out here! (click on the image below)
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"It's up to you to find beauty in the ugliest days" - Quote #1

No matter how cheesy that quote is, it's true. Life's what you make of it. There will always be some days where everything seems to go wrong and you just want to rage or quit. But I like to believe that there's always 'light' at the end of the long tunnel (another cheesy metaphor). And here are some tips:

1. Turn your least favourite day of the week into something more enjoyable - Treat yourself to a new pair of earrings, necklace... something small, or eat at your favourite restaurant or buy that cupcake, or even wear your favourite outfit... make it so you look forward to that day (:

2. No matter how disastrous your day seems, try to think of at least 3 good things that happened. No matter how small it may be. There'll always be something good behind all that bad

3. Look forward to the next day. Chances are, your troubles will be over (hopefully)

4. Relax. Make yourself a bubble bath, a hot cup of tea and just chill with your headphones on or do something that relaxes you. After all, you deserve it.

How do you like to spice up your dreaded days or how to you cope?

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Trend Report: Cropped Bustier/Bralet (Part 1/2)

From L-R: Lashes Bralet Lace Top (House of Fraser) //  Mara Hoffman Bustier Top (Les Nouvelles) //
 Electric Tropical Print Bustier (Forever 21) // Barbie Comic Zip Bra (Miss Selfridge)

Cropped bustier (or as some people call them 'bralets'): Not to be confused with a bralette - which is a really really small girly bra

This what I am currently coveting. Unsurprisingly, it's become a huge trend and guess what? It's perfect for summer when you want to keep cool! Even though it goes with just about anything, there's a fine line between classy and trashy with this item because it there's a lot of skin baring going on! So here's how to wear this trend without looking like a ______ but yet exposing a little subtle sexiness:

#1: Think high waisted! - not only does it accentuates your waist, but prevents more than unwanted/inappropriate baring of midriff 

#2: If you're petite (like me): Try wearing maxi skirts or flared trousers/pants to give the illusion of height

#3: Think you're exposing too much? Just wear a blazer or cardigan

#4: STILL think you're exposing much more than you're comfortable with? Layer it over a fitted top (not those flowy ones) - yes, that's kinda cheating but shhhh...

#5 Let it peek out under a half buttoned blouse or V neck top

#6: Get one that FITS and has the right amount of boob-coverage! You don't want it to spill out!

#7 Under a flowy, light summer dress/ loose top with large armholes to turn it into a bandeau and to give your outfit a little peek of colour. BUT: Try to stray away from lace ones if the top is sheer because it could be mistaken for lingerie!

With so many styles (strapless, super cropped, halter neck...) and patterns (denim, floral, polka dots...) to choose from, there's definitely one to suit everyone! It just depends what level you're comfortable with!

  Check back next time where I will show you how I (and others) will style it!

Update: PART 2 is up HERE

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