Pick of the Best Gym Kit

While January marks the beginning of the time for good intentions, many have managed to see their fitness resolutions through until Spring. Myself and my boyfriend began a new gym routine in December and somehow, have managed to stick to it - totalling four decent sessions a week. For me, exercise is as important for mental health as it is for physical health. Running has always been a way for me to zone out, focusing on my breathing and mileage and as I get fitter, I can't help but feel mentally stronger too.

At the moment, I'm particularly keen on alternating my runs with some of the Les Mills classes. Body Attack is a high-energy and high-intensity workout that makes me feel like I'm really using my body and increasing my fitness, while Body Balance serves perfectly for laid-back Sunday mornings after a Saturday afternoon run.

One thing I'm passionate about at the moment is decent gym wear, simply because there is so much good stuff out at there at the moment for decent prices. Nothing spurs you on to work harder, run faster or lift heavier than good kit - so here's my pick of the best.

A good sports bra is a must. Good old M&S have really upped the ante with their amazing range - this high-impact bra is just £18 and is pretty as well as functional.

Eye-catching kit is actually a bit of a motivational booster if you don't fancy hitting the gym. These striking leggings are a much more exciting choice than baggy jogging bottoms, although possibly not for the faint-hearted or those worrying about the state of their thighs. 

A decent top that makes you feel comfortable and confident is one of the basics for a great gym kit, which is why I love this leopard print sports top from H&M. Subtle print, great cut and under £10 - it is also worth checking out the rest of their sportswear for good technical kit at pocket money prices.

Even New Look have got on the sportswear bandwagon! Their slogan tees and brightly-coloured vests are great for slipping on before a gym session but this one is one of my favourites for its motivational message.

Decent running trainers are important to me because I walk everywhere and don't want my poor feet to suffer! If the extent of your gym sessions are low-impact workouts and laid-back classes, it isn't worth spending that much on trainers, which is why these ones from New Look are great. Maybe I should just purchase a pair anyway?

What is your favourite place to purchase gym kit from?

Pay Day Lust List: Disney

It might surprise you to find out that I'm a bit late to the Disney party. When I was a kid, I was more focused on growing up than watching cartoons and as a result, I never really had an affinity with Disney that most children seem to. In the last five or so years, I have really begun to enjoy the films and have built up quite the collection, with my boyfriend and I making our way through old favourites and new additions.

When I graduated from university four years ago, one of our first holidays together was to go to Disneyland Paris for the week and I have never experienced anything quite like it. Completely surreal and magical, there is nothing that matched the feeling of walking through the gates to the park each morning, the lingering scent of sweet treats and sound of music in the air. 

Four years later, I'm being whisked away to Florida to Disneyworld and I can't quite contain my excitement - with just over six weeks until our getaway, I've started reading as many blogs and articles as I can to plan our holiday of a lifetime! Here's my payday lust list for heading off to experience the magic!

The first major thing on my list is this beautiful bead. A great addition to my Pandora bracelet, it reads 'Believing is just the beginning', a quote from Cinderella. I've been looking for something to commemorate the Disney trip and this would be a wonderful item for my birthday wish list!

Walking around the Disney parks in the heat of Florida's sunshine is going to mean decent shoes! These lovely Finley sandals from Topshop are not only suitably pretty but also brilliant for putting in the miles. Want!

Alright, so I can't see myself wearing these without feeling like I'm about five years old but how cute are they? Topshop are brilliant for pyjamas and these Disney Princess ones would make a great gift for die-hard Disney fans. 

Beauty and the Beast is my all-time favourite Disney film and this dress from Hot Topic is subtle enough to be worn outside without feeling embarrassed! I love the stained glass window effect on the skirt - the ideal outfit choice if you've been lucky enough to get a reservation at the Be Our Guest restaurant! 

Finally - something I will actually be treating myself to! The one thing I never did when visiting Disneyland Paris was buy some Minnie Mouse ears but I'll be rectifying that with this rock n' roll headband from the Disney Store. Well, you've got to look the part - haven't you?

Any die-hard Disney fans out there? Until next time...

The Sunday Review

Blogging has taken a bit of a back seat lately. The last few weeks have been a whirlwind of visits from far-flung friends, weddings, city breaks and unfortunately pulling a muscle in my back (ouch!). Still, I'm looking back to settling down and enjoying the next few (hopefully quiet) months before Christmas. 

With the arrival of October, I can't wait to make my home all cosy with candles and the smell of home-cooked casserole from the slow-cooker. There is nothing better than the crunch of leaves under your feet, wrapping yourself up in gorgeous knitwear and indulging in long hot baths and hot chocolates on a Sunday evening. Autumn, bring it on!

I have been listening to...U2's Songs of Innocence.

I must be the only person in the world (bar my other half) that actually nearly jumped for joy on the news that U2 had released their album. Best of all, it was free! Although it surely isn't one of their best, it still sounds pretty fantastic, with plenty of infectious tunes. I'm going to be delving into their back catalogue now.

I have been watching...Doctor Who. 

Ok, I know this is one of the most popular television programmes on the planet but I'm still a bit in love with it. Last week's episode was fantastic and Peter Capaldi has definitely captured my attention. 

I have been reading...Daughter.

I've seen a fair few people reading this book on my commute to work.Although I'm still reading it, I can't help but wonder where its going. The premise is of a woman struggling with the aftermath of the disapperance of her teenage daughter - so far, so cliche. Unfortunately, it isn't really living up to expectation at the moment but I'll let you know. 

I have been lusting after...Cosy knitwear.

With chillier nights on the horizon, there is nothing better than a bit of virtual shopping for autumn fashion. Big cable-knit jumpers, chunky cardigans and leather boots are my favourite things.

New Look Lust List: Summer Days

I'm a big fan of New Look. While it isn't top-end high street style, it always seems better quality than anything I purchase from dear old Primarche. As its mid-season, they've gone and bought out a great new line of stuff for fashion bargainers to enjoy. So, I've gone and created a top outfit for say, a lovely summer barbecue, picnic in the park or cocktails in the local beer garden.

I love a good floral dress. I'm sorry - I've been wearing them since I discovered bold patterns circa 2006 and I don't think I'll ever change. This lovely tunic dress is bold enough to allow you to stand out, while remaining flattering - so you'll be able to have a few packets of salt n' vinegar in the beer garden without looking like you swelled up in the heat. 

I'd much rather sandals or boots than heels any day, but especially if it is sweltering and I've had a few beverages. I really like these Tan Gladiators- they look so comfy! They're also on sale for £11 at the moment, so I'd snap them up quick!

I have a bit of a thing about red bags. I also have a bit of a thing about satchels. Which is why I'm a little bit in love with this burgundy offering that looks much more expensive than it is. The ideal size to fit your phone, keys, purse, lip balm and sun cream in - what more do you need? 

I know, it all seems a bit silly to take a jacket while the sun is out. However, come 10pm when the light has begun to wane and you're caught in a freak summer storm, you'll thank your lucky stars that you've taken this leather jacket with you. 

 What is on your summer lust list? 

The Sunday Review

This week has been a bit of a quiet one but well needed! I'm settling into my job nicely and looking forward to three weeks time when my best friend Rachel comes to stay. She lives in Singapore and sometimes the distance feels like a crazy amount - I can't wait to see her and chat to her like old times, although I'm not sure we'll be entering Student Union nightclubs or drinking whole bottles of vodka. Then again, you never know!

Here's what I've been up to this week.

I have been listening to...Giant in my Heart by Kiesza. Since Hideaway came out, I've been a little bit obsessed with Kiesza. There is definitely no-one in the music business like her at the minute, and there is something so unashamedly cool about her. This track is her latest offering and although it hasn't yet been released, I'm already in love with its infectious sound. Check out the video for dancing drag queens and crop tops a plenty!

I have been watching...Utopia. Wow, this television drama is fantastic. After becoming interested in the first series, I wasn't expecting anything too spectacular but the second series has surpassed itself. Perhaps not one to watch with the kids or the grandparents for its shocking violence, it is crammed full with black humour and wit and I cannot stop watching it. I love the comic book feel, the brilliant cinematography and the terrifying notion of a dystopian future. Where is Jessica Hide?

I have been reading...What Alice Forgot. After reading The Husband's Secret, I had to read this one as well. A real page-turner, this is well worth a read. Reviews will be up soon!

I have been buying... Rimmel Sunshimmer Instant Tan BB Perfector. What a mouthful! These beauty products are getting ridiculous with their extravagantly long names. Anyway, in the light of the summer season and the amazing weather we are having, I decided I'd top up my tan with this little beauty. I'm hoping it'll give me a nicely bronzed glow on my face without having to resort to faux tan that makes me look like streaky bacon. I'm yet to try it but I'm sure reviews will be up as soon as I have.

I have been lusting after...More floral dresses.  So, New Look have just bought out more summer offerings and I want to head in store to purchase everything they've got. Floral wrap dresses, gladiator sandals and stylish-but-comfy printed joggers are all going on the list. Someone lend me their credit card?

Happy Sunday everyone!

Birthday Lust List

This week I'll be celebrating my 24th birthday. It only seems five minutes ago that I was celebrating my 18th, so it is a little scary to think that I'm not technically in the mid-twenties age bracket. Nevertheless, I won't be acting my age- I've taken the day off to challenge Liam at the bowling lane followed by watching the new X Men film on the big screen. Proof I'm still a big kid at heart.

Remember the days when you would receive enough birthday money from various family members to make you feel like a junior millionaire? I used to love the trips to the shops to spend my birthday money on new clothes (leopard skin leather jacket...one of the most memorable and regrettable fashion decisions of my youth..), big bags of pick n' mix and endless supplies of stationery. These days, I don't receive many ten pound notes through the post. Definitely doesn't stop me making a birthday list, though...

I love this Initial necklace in Rose Gold from Etsy. I've always been a bit of a fan of anything with my name on it and this is a great alternative to a name necklace. I love the flattering shade of rose gold that looks great with any skin tone and the long chain means it'll look great with anything from a ditsy tea-dress to a smart shirt and blazer combo.

For anyone that reads my blog regularly, they'll know that over the last eighteen months, I've become a bit of a running fan. Whilst I love my old faithful Adidas trainers, I'm definitely ready for a change. These lovely Nike Lunarglide running shoes are just the ticket- brilliant technology, great stability and they come in this gorgeous shade of pink. Definitely an incentive to clock up the miles each week. 

Right now, I feel like I'm the only person in the world that hasn't seen Frozen. Just about everyone I know has been raving about it and I cannot wait to see what all the fuss is about. Liam and I have our very own Disney shelf at home (in chronological order, no less!) and this would be a great addition to it. Sounds like the perfect feelgood movie for a Sunday afternoon!

I'm grateful to be starting a brand new job in two weeks time! I am pretty excited as it is exactly what I want to do and is a massive step in the right direction. Lately, I've been clearing out my wardrobe in the hope it will soon be filled with new work clothes. Whilst the dress code is fairly smart casual, I'm looking forward to working in a creative industry where I can express myself a little more with what I'm wearing. Knowing me, this will mean a lot of smart printed dresses, Chelsea boots and brogues. I'm also loving this Pink crepe Knotch Blazer to smarten up simple outfits for work. This bold shade of pink will add a pop of colour to any outfit and will also look great with a floral dress for my friend's upcoming wedding in September. 

This perfume is a bit of an old favourite of mine. I was first bought Vera Wang Princess Perfume when I began seeing Liam over four years ago. Since then, I've made my way through the Vera Wang princess range but nothing matches the original. The scent has notes of waterlily, apple, mandarin, apricot, dark chocolate and vanilla and smells wonderful. I'm lucky enough to get a bottle of this for most birthdays and I just love it. 

Dear Santa...Lust list

The build up to Christmas seems to bring the child out in me. This week, I have had a lot of fun sourcing the best mince pies, visiting the Coca-Cola truck on tour and painting ceramic Christmas tree decorations. I also managed to get the entirety of my Christmas shopping done! It is around this time of year, of course, that most of us will be posting our lists to Santa. Here is one winter wishlist for the cosiest, comfiest and most stylish christmas yet...

These cute Topshop reindeer pyjamas are perfect for wearing with a warm knit and some long socks to cosy up on the sofa after a long day. As someone with a penchant for fairisle print, I love these festive shorts!

As someone who lives in ankle boots all year long, I am always on the look out for a new pair to add to my collection and these studded ones were unique enough to catch my eye. Currently with £20 off the full price in the sale, they are practical and stylish.

Winter is also about stocking up with lots of yummy food and drink to get you through the season. Whittard's hot chocolate is indulgent enough to be a treat but also contains 70% cocoa and is fairtrade. Guilt-free hot chocolate! Yum.

This cosy Fairisle cardigan from H&M is a real favourite of mine. Perfect for layering over dresses or jeans as well as covering up on a night in front of the telly.

I have recently bought Great Expectations. A perfect present for anyone, this novel is a wonderful read in the build up to Christmas and these Penguin Classics look good on a bookshelf too.

Finally, this Aztec snood from Topshop is a lovely little cover-up for chilly walks through the country.

Here is my week in pictures...

(L-R: Ceramic Christmas tree decorations, Painting a christmas plate at Fun pots, Fairisle knits, peppermint tea and french onion soup, cosy slipper boots, Rimmel Ruby Crush nail polish, hot chocolate, Holidays are coming...)

The most wonderful season of all

This time of the year is my favourite. The anticipation of christmas, the burnt oranges and golds of autumn leaves, the cold in the air. Here are some of my favourite things about Autumn and Winter...

Starbucks christmas coffee. Fairisle knits. Berry nail colours. Being under a quilt when it is freezing. Getting stuck into a good book. Long hot baths on a Sunday. Cinnamon and apple spiced candles. Fireworks. Big fur hats. Wrapping christmas presents. Long winter walks. Christmas gift guides. Chelsea boots. Gingerbread. Crisp, cold and sunny mornings. Slipper boots. Hot chocolate. Thick socks. Mulled wine. Snow. A Christmas Carol. Chunky boyfriend cardigans. Running in the cold. Toasty log fires.

(L-R: Christmas spice candle, Models Own Thunder & Lightning nail polish, Starbucks Caramel Latte, Charles Dicken's Great Expectations, Autumn Leaves, Glitter roses from Liam.)

For celebrating the best of Autumn, head to these lovely little blogs.
Lauren Likes muses over the best in fashion and beauty this season (red lips and oxblood knits, anyone?) whilst Little Black Heart will make your mouth water with her scrumptious autumn delights. I love the look of her Caramel Macchiato cupcakes. What is your favourite thing about this season?

The Sunday Review

Working a full-time job as well as attempting to fit in gym sessions, running and job applications has kept me very busy indeed. Liam is currently in New Orleans, organising a conference and sampling the culinary delights of the USA, so this weekend has been a bit of a quiet one. Today definitely warranted a morning lie-in, jam on toast, Sunday Brunch on the telly and the Sunday papers beside me. Sometimes its good to be lazy. 

I have been wearing...My new ASOS Albany Chelsea Boots. Ok, so if I could, I'd wear varying colours and patterns of Chelsea boots and nothing else. These are the most perfect pair I have ever found- they go with everything. I've mainly been pairing them with floral skater skirts, tights and jumpers ready for the winter, because our office usually resembles an ice-box! 

I have been listening to...Just be by Paloma Faith. Having always been a bit of a fan of Paloma, I was looking forward to her new album Fall to Grace. I love the idea behind the album that she has treated it like a 'film of her life', with each track depicting something she has experienced. You might recognise this song as featured on the ITV drama adverts. Listen to the lyrics, they are wonderful. 

I have been reading...The Slap by Christos Tsiolkas. Having only completed the first chapter of this book, there isn't much I can say about it yet. I've been meaning to read it for a very long time, so I really hope it fufils expectation. 

I've been watching...The Hunger Games. Last weekend, Liam and I sat down to watch this again. Having seen it in the cinema, it was slightly disappointing having to watch it on a small-screened portable DVD player, but it was still fantastic. If you haven't seen it, give it a chance, or even better- read the books!  Here is my review on the film.

I'm also really looking forward to the return of Downtown Abbey this evening. What can I say? I've been converted to period dramas.

Well, its alright riding around in the breeze

After a week of being in bed, feeling sorry for myself and wallowing in illness and Harry Potter films, I managed to get outside today for a long walk and some fresh air. Granted, it made me feel worse- but I'm sure I'll feel better for it in the long term. I also purchased the lovely leopard print slipper shoes I have had my eye on for ages but not been able to resist. I'll blame it on the illness entirely, of course. 

I also spied this on the fridge yesterday that made me smile. Proof that he can be soppy sometimes. ♥

Sunday Review

Ok, so I cheated. It is in fact, a Monday.  I’m more than aware that there has been a bit of a hiatus from blogging recently. There seems to be loads going on at the moment, what with job interviews, the Isle of Wight festival, birthdays, various outings and looking after unwell family members. Still, here is what I’ve been filling those small moments with lately...

I have been wearing...Leopard print from Dorothy Perkins. I’ve recently become a bit enamoured with leopard print and this jersey top has been worn many times now over my favourite skinny jeans and my ASOS red suede Aggie boots.

I’ve been listening to...Bruce Springsteen’s new album Wrecking Ball. The seventeenth studio album from The Boss, it is a comment on America’s economic situation. Brilliantly emotive and wonderfully clever, my favourite tracks are Death to my Hometown, Jack of all trades and Wrecking Ball.

I’ve been reading...Before I go to Sleep by SJ Watson. I recently finished this book in a weekend as I could not put it down. A psychological thriller, it depicts the life of Christine, an amnesiac who forgets her life when she goes to sleep. Even though it was ever so slightly predictable, it was executed wonderfully and still had be gripped. The rights to the film have been sold, with Nicole Kidman lined up to play Christine.

I’ve been watching..Sex and the City. I was recently bought the box set for my birthday and am currently enjoying the third season. Light-hearted and really clever and great fantasy lives. If only we could all write columns and drink Cosmopolitans all night, right?