MANGO The Tourist Collection 2013

I am head over heels in love with MANGO's new summer collections. Although I love the pretty and feminine pastel pinks and blues from the 'Ready for Summer' collection, I'm utterly entranced by the beautifully exotic look of 'The Tourist' collection which features Geometric Prints, gold and turquoise and a touch of edgy florals. The perfect wardrobe for going somewhere hot!
The Tourist

Doesn't this look make you imagine a tropical warm breeze or just relaxing on a rooftop as you watch the red hot sun slowly melt into the horizon...These clothes will really get you in the holiday spirit even if going abroad is not your destination for the upcoming summer, bring the exotic into your wardrobe!

Moroccan Spice...is what I want to call this outfit, it just defines it's striking nativeness! LOVE IT.

Casual with a tourist like twist...I'm loving the authentic beige tones with the hint of turquoise to create a mesmerizing twist. It's the ultimate sightseeing outfit! The one on the right would be great for the beach...

What do you think of these exotic styles, does it also transport you to a place where the sun always shines?
Megan,
xox

MANGO, Louise Roe and Self-expression...

"deep down, all women have the same dreams and insecurities. It's comforting - there's a very universal empathy" - Louise Roe, Fashion journalist. Whilst browsing through the MANGO website, I came across this quote which I can't help but truly empathise with. As a 17 year old student I feel as though everyday I'm getting to know myself a teensy bit better and understanding the importance of being true to myself when it's so easy to turn into a fashion/personality sheep! So many times I've fallen into the trap of becoming a people-pleaser; but one of the things that you eventually learn with self-growth is that you need to stay true to yourself and not try to fit the mould. One of the great things about fashion is that it is the ultimate form of self expression...

Louise wears Boyfriend trousers, shirt with abstract print and belt with fluoride touch. I love this look! Casual but with a touch of class.

To create a really feminine outfit Louise usually wears tube skirts and for everyday wear combines them with sweaters or jumpers. I adore this look as it's super flattering for women with slender but curvy figures, it really brings attention to your gorgeous hourglass shape!

Louise Roe has been hosting the TV-series Plain Jane which has aired in 66 countries, has gained a mass response in social media including thousands of young women who have been inspired to be more confident in themselves after watching the show. I haven't had the chance to watch this yet but I will be once I've finished this post! Click on the link above to watch a the Plain Jane episodes and tell me what you think! 

What do you guys think about feminine fashion? Please share below!

Megan,

xox

The Truth about Natalie Portman...

It's not unknown that Natalie Portman is showered with praise and affection worldwide for her powerful performance as an actress and inspirational. Although Portman's timeless beauty and elegance is not necessarily something you can brush on with make up or spritz on with perfume (like adverts may suggest!). You can still enhance your own looks by following her surprisingly affordable skin care and overall healthy routine...

  Her golden beauty rule: “Don’t overdo the brows — stop plucking now or you’ll regret it.” This is a vital piece of beauty information! I've seen so many people over pluck their brows to the point where there are only a few sparse hairs remaining! It's oh so easy to get too enthusiastic about neatening your brows, but remember that thicker eyebrows look more natural and expressive.
 
Her Product Essentials: “I love Pai organic skincare — particulary the Chamomile and Rosehip Cream. I am also a fan of Lucas’ Papaw Ointment — my best friend sends it to me [from Australia].” It sounds great doesn't it! Just reading it makes me imagine it's aromatic and intoxicating smell. With products it's always best to buy quality, even if it means spending a little more than you usually would if it means that you'll gain all the improvement that you want to see in your skin.
 
Her make-up bag must have's: “I was never into red lipstick, but I wore Rouge Dior Rouge Blossom for the Miss Dior Chèrie ad [directed by Sofia Coppola] and I’ve loved it ever since. And the Diorshow Mascara is amazing. In perfume I love florals and jasmine. When I was filming Star Wars in Tunisia, kids on the streets used to sell us jasmine. I’m a one-perfume kind of girl — that way, people recognise it when you walk into a room.” The classic red lipstick never fails to give that instant sultry/sexy look and floral perfume simply enhances your femininity and not to mention the way that people perceive you! According to AskMen.com, Women who where floral scents feel more seductive...I think I may test this theory tomorrow ;D
 
Do you guys have any other skin care tips or advice, please share! Please follow me via GFC of bloglovin' if you can.
Megan,
xox

The Secrets of Fashion Journalism...

Live and breathe fashion? Do you aspire to be part of the sorority of stylists and fashion editors? Invitations to the best fashion shows and parties, discounted designer clothing; visits to Paris - the fashion capital of the world.... A fashion editor's lifestyle may sound heavenly, but the journey to success is not a straight-forward route to success. The Fashion industry is growing faster then ever...and since Fashion is such a competitive industry, more and more people are fighting for the best yet incredibly demanding fashion careers out there! However, passion, devotion and determination are key in this fast-paced industry! Aaah...the fashion world! It's delivered to us in a flurry of color, excitement and beauty, a dream career too difficult to resist! Sadly though, not everybody can handle the pressure of competition as well certain expectations that employers expect their potential employees to meet... but there are a few secrets to getting yourself on the work ladder early...   
1. Create a Blog. Creating a blog and posting fashion related news each day; will not only help you
get a taster of what it feels like to be an editor, it'll become increasingly popular as you gain more views and followers! This'll help you get a step up on the work ladder if you can eventually get your blog to become well known. Future employers will be impressed by your initiative to produce a blog, especially if it is high standard with captivating and inspiring posts! Make a blog on Blogger for free!    

2. Networking. Being a social butterfly is key to gaining valuable contacts in the Fashion industry! As many people say, its not what you know, it's who you know which is very true in many circumstances! Introduce yourself to all the people you happen to meet and find out their career path. You never know who you might meet and you could potentially find a door in to the fashion industry, with a positive reference from a friend!
3. Internship. To enter this competitive industry you need to be realistic about what job you'll start with and understand the fact that it won't be well paid or particularly interesting at first. In fact, you'll probably need to find an internship with a fashion magazine or website which probably won't be paid! However, gaining this kind of experience will be soo beneficial as you'll get a first hand insight into the fashion industry. Even though you'll only be assisting and bringing coffee etc to the editors, you'll learn so much about the industry and so it'll help you in the future.   
4. The Right Attitude. It takes determination, patience and hard work to build a reputation in the fashion industry. Approach and perform all your given tasks (no matter how small) with passion. This will help you to stand out from the competition by going just that little bit further. It's essential that you're eager to listen and learn everything you can; it's likely that the people above you have worked a long time in the industry, and so have a lot of useful knowledge about it to share with you. And remember that a smile goes a long way - even when you may be exhausted - everyone loves an upbeat, happy soul.   
Megan, 
xox

The Naturally Beautiful and Inspirational...Rachel Weisz

42 years old!! I couldn't believe it! When looking on the front cover of the newest Vogue magazine; I admired Rachel Weisz' warm and glowing complexion and naturally assumed that she must be in her late 20's or early 30's...However when I read through her interview I was very surprised at her age considering how youthful she looks! Rachel's natural beauty is surely an inspiration to so many women who aspire to retain their youth. She really makes the phrase "your as young as you feel" a reality as the article says " Being in her forties suits her. She's still minxy, obviously, with those dramatic features and raven hair, but she seems wiser, more maternal, perhaps". Rachel Weisz has really challenged my attitude to the thought of aging with her positive perspective of growing older, saying "but then I loved turning 40, and the idea of turning 50 is fantastic". Perhaps living and breathing health and positivity really will make you blossom with age!   [Rachel Weisz wears cashmere sweater, £720, Celine at Dover Street Market and Selfridges. All hair and make-up by L'Oreal Paris. Make-up: Lisa Butler. Nails: Sophy Robson. Set design: Andy Hillman. Fashion editor: Francesca Burns. Photographer: Alasdair McLellan.Rachel Weisz.]

  [wool/casmere and cotton/lace dress. from £1,300 Sacai, at Dover Street Market, Feathers, Joseph and Selfridges. Satin Shoes £322. Celine at Selfridges
however, she is not only blessed with stunning beauty, but she's also known to be very intelligent, incredibly accomplished and according to vogue '"smart, smart, smart"! In 2006 she won an oscar for her role of Tessa Quuayle in the The Constant Gardener, and her Blanche DuBois in the production of Streetcar won an Olivier. No wonder America has embraced her with welcoming arms!At the moment I'm not concerned about age. At the age of 16, my life has only just begun and I have so many dreams for the future...Though when I reach 40 I hope that I continue to embrace each year that I age; instead of beginning to dread each birthday for presenting me with a new wrinkle! I really admire Rachel's positive attitude towards age; it's just so refreshing to see that she loves her age without letting it define her, and I hope that I share this perspective in the future :D
Megan,
xox

The Secret to Success in the Fashion Industry...

Do you want to be successful in the fashion industry? If yes, then you need to grasp the opportunities for yourself. Although a lucky few manage to pursue opportunities when they happen to come their way; most search desperately for a doorway into the industry with undying determination and persistance. Don't expect chance to hand you your dream career on a golden plate...You've gotta fight for it! However, a great way into the fashion industry is internship, a vital learning tool which will assist you in learning key skills that'll help you in the long run! Once you find or are offered an internship DO NOT take it for granted! You can make the most of it in so many ways...
1.Take Initiative. Don't just do the tasks that are given to you, find another task that needs to be
completed. Supervisors will always be impressed when people offer to do things without being asked. It shows your enthusiasm and willingness to work - qualities which don't go unnoticed. Being a 1 in 20 interns will make it difficult for you to stand out from your peers. This means that you need to go the extra mile to ensure that your supervisor recognises your special qualities that separate you from the crowd. Get to know your supervisors, skills and education can take you far but a warm and friendly smile can go a long way too. Developing friendly relationships with people in the fashion industry can hugely benefit you - giving you important contacts who'll give you positive references for a job that you pursue!

2.Be Proactive."I love to see someone be proactive about pitching ideas."-Jane Keltner de Valle, Senior Fashion News Director.Yep, although you may be an intern, it doesn't mean you shouldn't contribute valid ideas or feel inferior and intimidated to express your own opinions. Speak up! Supervisors want to know about what you're interested in and what's on your mind. If they like your proposal then they are likely to use it! Also, confidence in discussing ideas is key to this industry and essential to enthusiastically express ideas. So make yourself heard!
3.Dress for the Job you Want, not the job you have. First impressions are important and if you're dressed in something plain and boring then they'll simply assume that you lack style and creativity and in an instant...you're crossed of their list.If you are uncertain about what to wear, try taking tips and cues from other people in the office. You need to stay professional, but also show off your creative eye. Employers don't look for designer labels when they're hiring, but also look for a sense of personal style. Working at a magazine is a visual job. They want to know that the person has an eye and a certain taste level that is in line with the Fashion brand they're hoping to work for.  

4.Network! Of course you want to make a good impression on the boss, though what people often don't realise is that it's equally important to develop relationships with your peers. Don't discount the value of networking with other assistants and interns. Although they may not be at the top of the masthead right now, they are the people who are going to be growing up in the industry with you and who could be recommending you for your next job! Don't write them off!
Good luck readers with any great opportunities that you find in life, remember this advice!
Megan,
xox

The Life of Miranda Kerr...

'Not yet 30, Miranda Kerr has the Hollywood husband, beautiful baby and burgeoning business career' How does she do it? Somehow she manages to juggle caring for her baby, spending quality time with her hubby -Orlando Bloom (wow!) and keeping her body slim and toned for her modelling career! Sounds like a dream, right? Miranda features in the newest issue of Vogue and exposes how she manages to keep her wonderful lifestyle in tact..

Alexandra Spring discovered that the relationship between Kerr and Bloom is still bitter sweet. She said 'There's a lot of "love" and "darling" between the couple, who wed in 2010'. So cute! In her interview Kerr was accompanied by Bloom and her baby Flynn, and agreed to include him in the photos on the proviso that they could get one for the family album.









'With Flynn in her arms, Miranda's all earth mother, balancing on her child on one hip as he holds up a blossom to her'...





































'But put the 29 year old in a bikini or short skirt and an irrepressible sex kitten emerges, all cheeky winks and playful smiles'.'"I dance for him" she says coquettishly  with a naughty grin, swaying her hips' 

In her Vogue interview, Miranda also expressed how its more difficult to keep in shape. She says "Working

16, 17 hours, you need to know how to take care of yourself or you'll fall of the wagon. I know it's cliched, but I feel health is wealth" and admits that it takes more effort to keep in shape, and so took on a personal trainer to keep her on her toes."I was lucky for a while there, I just did yoga. Now I'm exercising a whole lot more, but it's for my job" She also swears by health supplements (noni and aloe vera juices, goji berries, chia seeds and maca powder...) "It is a lot of work" she grins.    
                                                                        
So there it is, a few snippets from the treasured life of Miranda Kerr, a lifestyle that so many dream of one day having...What do you guys think?
Megan,
xox                                                

How to Stay Ahead of Fashion...

Fashion really is a fascinating industry...New trends are constantly being introduced and copied by various inspired individuals and so on, but how do we keep up to date with these quickly changing style's? - which us Fashion Bloggers and all Fashionista's feel a need to know. I now realise and understand that you don't have to just keep up with fashion, let fashion keep up with you! When researching the latest trends, keep in mind to remember the the trends that you love and the fashion that you're inspired by. If you love the fashion that you blog about or wear then your passion for it will inspire others. Here are some tips to discover new trends and fashion news:  
1. Subscribe to a Fashion Magazine.Yeah I know...!We all know that
subscription to magazine's can be costly but how cool would it be to get the latest fashion news delivered to your door every month! You can be inspired by Celebrity icons, make-up tips or the latest collection in a Fashion brand...Whatever ever magazine it is that catches your attention, it will surely be a useful source of inspiration to pursue new trends that you feel express your individuality! I would suggest Vogue magazine as it is excellent for people who have a passion for fashion but also for those who want to expand their knowledge about the fashion industry!    

2.Go out Shopping. I know that many of us Fashion lovers have fallen prey to ordering clothes online, but sadly it fails to deliver a real shopping experience. Don't you just love the feeling when you go out shopping with your money in your purse, and feel excited with the many possibilities of what you can purchase? Going out also gives you a chance to freshen your mind, clear your head - something which online shopping doesn't give you, when you're sat in front of your laptop. Also, trying on clothes yourself before you buy them is an important feature to shopping. Trying on clothes allows you to feel the material and see if it flatters and fits nicely on your body shape - as it is essential to look your best as well as in style. 
3. Buy Quality Clothes and Accessories. Sometimes its difficult to afford high end fashion items, though it's still important to understand the concept 'quality, not quantity'. Resist the urge to go to a cheap clothing store like Primark to buy a bundle of bargain clothes for less than £30 just to fill your wardrobe. Invest in quality clothing that you love, one piece at a time; and gradually you'll fill up your wardrobe with clothes that you'll never want to throw away! After all luxury lasts longest and cheap clothes are likely to be thrown away pretty soon!  
I hope you find this advice useful!
 Megan,
 xox

3 Ways to be Bold and Beautiful..

Ever feel worried to wear something because you're worried what people will think? Do you ever settle for something more neutral just so you'll blend in with the crowd? Well snap out of it! You need to understand that the only person who's holding yourself back is yourself. If you're in love with a dress thats a little out of the ordinary, then wear it as a statement of who you are, wear it with pride! If others can see that you are glowing and confident in your outfit, then they'll love and accept it too. Don't fear judgement from others; everyone's entitled to an opinion...after all its Human nature to judge others but you must accept this and be carefree, be yourself.

1.Trust your Instincts. Do you believe in love at first sight? If you see an item in a shop that you love straight away then go for it! Once you've tried it on and you still love it then it was meant to be, and chances are that if you feel and look good in it, then others will think so too. Don't listen to the niggling doubts in the back of your mind like 'so and so might not like it' or 'what will so and so think', you're treating yourself not them, so buy something that you love.  

2. Surround Yourself with Feel-Good Friends. If you're going to dress how you like then you'll want to be around people who make you smile and feel good about yourself, right! The people your with really influence the way you feel so avoid those that depress you and are filled with negativity; and spend time with people who will love you for whatever you wear and your personality. It'll boost your self confidence and provide you with like-minded friends who'll maybe share your interests.   
3. Be Inspired.Whether its a favourite fashion mag, a Celebrity fashion icon or anything... we could all do with a little inspiration here and there to encourage us fashion-wise or in anything that we pursue in life. For me, looking through Vogue magazine is a great source of inspiration as it exposes me to so many styles and trends...some I like, some I don't, but its helping me to develop my own individual taste and opinions about fashion which you can do too. Branch out for new and creative inspiration...look outside the box!   
Be yourself in everything you wear and do,
Be creative and care-free.
 Megan,
xox

Feminine Curves: A History of Elegantly Waisted Icons...

A timeless focus on the hip and waist ratio for women has always been a high priority, being curvaceous is a beautiful feature to possess as it gives you a vast choice of what clothes will flatter your frame, a slim waist and wider hips looks both elegant and feminine as well as creating a desirable soft silhouette. Crowd pleasing curves has been a focus for women for centuries and so many icons have helped encourage women to embrace or  emphasize their naturally curvy and feminine physique...

 1950's Marilyn Monroe

"The body is meant to be seen, not all covered up"- Marilyn Monroe

1960's Elizabeth Taylor

"When people say: she's got everything, I've only one answer: I haven't had tomorrow" - Elizabeth Taylor

1960's Brigitte Bardot

'Every age can be enchanting, provided you live within it'- Brigitte Bardot

1970's Farrah Fawcett

"I am proud of what I've got, and I need an audience"-

1980's Pamela Anderson

"And I'm not an actress, I don't think I am an actress. I think I've created a brand and a business.' - Pamela Anderson

2000's Beyonce Knowles

"Some people think one thing is beautiful, some people think another is. When people say that I am 'most beautiful' or 'most sexy', it bother's me. "I like fashion and I like to look good . I like to try at least, but everyone has their own opinion"- Beyonce Knowles

2000's Scarlett Johansson

"If you're comfortable with yourself, then it's sexy. Maybe people think I look sexy because I feel sexy. I am a very liberated person that way. I am very comfortable with my sexuality, my body, my face - well, sometimes I'm not comfortable with my face, but it's stuch there and there's nothing I can do about it." - Scarlett Johansson

Megan,

xox