Funky bracelets!

Hey there!

In our goody bags from the Plus North After Party was some lovely treats :) One of the things I loved the most was these gorgeous little bracelets from a company called Bekl.

You may notice I have two....Mike didn't mind me stealing his one! Anyway, as you can see in the top picture, both bracelets have a little silver cube with the letter 'B' on, which stands for Bekl. But for me, it's my initial! I was quite pleased with that!

On the other side, there are these embellishments, each different, but both lovely.

The white bracelet is sporting an 'Infinity' symbol in a brass coloured metal. 

This one has a silver ring engraved with the quote 'Peace starts with a smile'. I thought this was such a great quote.

So, as I love these, I decided to have a look on their website.....which was in fact a bad idea, as now I want soooo much! Here are some of my favourite items.

1.  Red Turtle Anklet
2. Lilac Gold Bar Thread
3. Turquoise Thick Plaited Threads
4. Lad's Holiday from the Men's Collection
5. Orange Elegant Beaded Thread
6. Turquoise Knotted and Beaded Threads

Take a look at their website, they have some amazing pieces! You can find it here.

Lastly, I just wanted to share with you a poem that I found on their site :)

The Bekl Poem

“Tie me around your wrist,
And I’ll continue to persist,
To encourage you through and sew the seed,
To help you in your life succeed…

Once I start to weather and fray,
Cut me off at the end of the day,
And see that problem fly as light as a feather,
You’ll have learn’t a lesson to stay with you forever…”


Bekl

Beka x

Returning soon...

Hey! 

I am so excited to announce that Five Question Friday will be returning from next week!! I am so excited to be able to bring you some more lovely ladies, their amazing blogs, and just be a nosey madam and get to ask them some questions!

I used to really enjoy this post every week, getting to email and chat to some truly inspirational women who have helped me to grow, and I even had the pleasure of meeting a good few of them at Plus North. I had to take a break during my vlogging in August as I had taken on way to much trying to vlog everyday and try to keep on top of my blog, let alone find the time to try and contact people and sort out some questions... and I didn't want to have to rush any part of it.

So anyway, it is back, and better than ever :) I have got some great ladies lined up that have kindly agreed to take part, plus I'm on the hunt for some new blogs to have a read of and chat to their writers :) 

If you have any suggestions of anyone who you think would be good for me to talk to, then please leave a comment below!

See you next week!!

Beka x

OMCZ #16

Hey friends!

Welcome to Outside My Comfort Zone! I have been loving these challenges, and this one was no different.....

This theme was set by Rebs @ Sullen Hearts.

Date Due:  Wednesday, 29th September 

Time Due prior to noon your time.   

Challenge: Nightwear

'I want to pick 'nightwear'! Let's see what you wear to bed, or flash us your naughty but nice undies, or show us what you'd wear for a good old fashioned sleepover.'

Like a lot of the ladies taking part in this challenge, we mentioned how we don't actually wear anything in bed......and that's not something I think anyone would want to see!! 

So I've gone more with the last part of the theme, and this is what I wear in the evening or on a Sunday just around the house.

Vest - TU @ Sainsburys

Trousers - George @ Asda

I bought these pyjama bottoms from Asda a few weeks ago in a size 20, and they fit lovely! They have an elasticated waist and are plenty long enough for my long legs :) And then I team it with a vest top, this is a really stretchy comfy one I bought from Sainsburys, which again, is lovely and long.

Here are a few out take pics I thought I'd share with you too :)

Being photo-bombed by Mike!

One is not amused!!

This is what happens when Mike is left in charge with the camera......

Don't forget to check out the other ladies taking part in the OMCZ challenge.

Leah http://www.justmeleah.blogspot.co.uk

Mary http://www.marysbigcloset.blogspot.pt

Becky Brown http://www.doesmyblogmakemelookfat.com

Rachel http://www.adressisforlife.com/

Natalie http://awheelbarrowfullofstyle.blogspot.co.uk/

Nikki http://www.nattynikki.blogspot.co.uk/

Rebs http://sullen-hearts.blogspot.co.uk/

Verena http://aplussizefashionobsession.blogspot.de/

Beka http://bekasstuffystuff.blogspot.com

Vicky www.TheCurvedOpinion.com

Rebecca http://theplussideofme.com

Hollie Http://www.prettybigbutterflies.com

Sabina http://www.femmefatalexsabina.blogspot.de/ 

See you next time!

Beka x

Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream review

Hey lovelies :)

Today I wanted to share with you my thoughts on a new purchase of mine - Clinique's Moisture Surge CC Cream SPF 30 Hydrating Colour Corrector.

For a while now I have been looking to get a new foundation, and I wanted to spend more than I normally would as I wanted it to be a good one. I sent out a tweet asking for opinions on which brand I should go for, and the main brand being recommended was Clinique. A few products were mentioned, but I decided the best thing to do was to be to go to a Clinique counter and get some advice from a professional.

So I headed to my local Debenhams and told the lady at the counter what I was after, and she recommended their new Moisture Surge CC Cream SPF 30 Hydrating Colour Corrector. This was what I had eyed up the night before on their website. I wanted something with only a little coverage, more to even out my skin tone, without being too heavy. I have dry a dry area on my nose, and have slightly oily patches on my temples, so was a little sceptical that I would be able to find something that would work on all of these areas. But, trusting the lady's advice, I bought it!

The assistant suggested the best colour for me would be Light/Medium. She gave me a little bit onto the back of my hand so I could see the texture and colour, and I agreed with her advice. 

This was £28. I haven't EVER spent this amount on any beauty item, I am more of a cheap and cheerful kind of girl.....but I knew I wanted to spend more and get something that is of a better quality, and would last me longer. Also, I don't plan on wearing this everyday, and is only for occasions when I want to look a bit more 'done up' than my normal day to day make up, so will hopefully last for a good while!

So, on first try, I applied the cream with my hands, and then used my Real Techniques Stippling Brush to make sure I didn't have it smeared and streaky on my face! It covered really well, and did what I wanted it to, evened out my skin, without feeling too heavy on my skin. I lasted pretty much all day, so I would say 9 hours, and my skin still looked good. I used this again the following day, applied it the same, but used a bit more. This, was a mistake.... it just didn't look right. The assistant did say that 'a little goes a long way' and she was right!

I used this for Plus North weekend and wore a light covering during the day, and then built it up for the after party in the evening. This worked really well as it gave me more coverage but it didn't feel too heavy.

I am really enjoying using this and would definitely repurchase! You can find more information on the Moisture Surge CC Cream here.

Beka x

Oh Lord Grantham!

Hey there.

As you may or may not know, Downton Abbey is back for series 4 on Sunday. I personally can't wait! But I didn't actually start watching it until series 3 was nearly finished! When it first started, I didn't really bother to watch it, I think i had kind of judged it before seeing what it was like. I am sure we are all guilty of that at some point :-)

Anyway, there were a lot of people talking about it when series 3 was on, so when I saw that the first 2 series were on Netflix, I decided to give it a go! And I loved it straight away! The characters, storyline, scandals and sets....it was all so good. 

So, as soon as I saw the new trailer, I got really excited. I have missed it all! The last episode ended on such a high/low - the death of one of the main characters - so this series promises to be full of more great story lines, and more new faces...... including some more handsome chaps!

But, without any shames, I have to say that my Downton crush, but a long, long way is this man....

Lord Grantham! I'm not 100% sure what it is, the title, the power, his handsomeness....... it's all so......dreamy! 

So, I hope you fellow Downton lovers enjoy the new series, I know I will :)

Beka x

Harry Potter Studio Tour

Hey!

For Mike's birthday, I booked us tickets to go to the Warner Brothers Studio Tour in London. We are both big Harry Potter fans, so we were really looking forward to seeing all the sets and props, and whatever else we could! So, we dropped the kids off at school then we headed off round the M25! Luckily, it wasn't too bad traffic-wise, and we had the time to stop to a cheeky Starbucks at South Mimms services. 

We then got back on the road and in what seemed like no time, we had arrived! We were a little early, as you have to book a time slot, so there is a constant flow of people, rather than everyone turning up at once and having to queue for ages!

Outside the building was some of the actual chess pieces used in the film when the characters play wizard's chess in the first film. They were massive! But really kool. Mike also get a special 'Happy Birthday' badge which was really good too!

After a short time queueing (about 15 minutes) we were lead into a cinema room where we watched a short film about what we were going to see. Then we got guided into 'The Great Hall' which was amazing! After that, we were pretty much free to make our way around the studios. We saw the set of Dumbledore's office and the clothes worn by Harry, Ron and Hermione for the last film.

As we were looking at some of the costumes and makeup from the films, one of the people who worked there brought out a little box to show s couple of us....it was Harry's scar!!! It was small flakes of what looked like skin, that they would glue onto Daniel Radcliffe's head, then just make it look more real by adding blood on the top. Only about 5 of us got to see it, which was amazing :)

I really enjoyed seeing all of the costumes from, Snape, Hagrid and Dobby, to he shall not be named!

We then go to go out into a courtyard area which had lots more in it! Firstly, we had to try some Butterbeer. It was pretty sickly, but not too bad! Then we got to see some of the vehicles used in the films, Hagrid's bike and side car, the flying car, and my favourite...The Night Bus!

There were also some outside sets - 4 Privet Drive,  The Potter family home at Godric's Hollow and the Hogwarts Bridge. Plus, you could see into the bottom floor of the Night Bus!

We then went inside another studio, where we first some animation bits, and then through to Diagon Alley! It was like we were really there....well we were, but you know what I mean! All of the different shops, with lots of details in all of the windows. From Olivander's wand shop, to the Weasley brother's joke shop, it was so real!

Then lastly, there was Hogwarts! It was so amazing to walk into this room and see it. There was some gorgeous music playing, and the lighting changed after about 5 minutes so it looked like it was night time.....it was sooo pretty! 

What I wore - ASOS Dress, Market Leggings, and Evans Ballet Pumps

Hair was in my 'signature' side plait :)

We had such a fab day! Mike really enjoyed it, which I was pleased with, and it is something I think everyone who likes the Harry Potter films should do.

Have you been, or do you want to go?

Beka x

Big feet = no choices!!

Hey,

This is going to be a bit of a ranty post, I apologise now....

I had a little twitter conversation with Emma @ Meet The Millards about it now being winter and going from flip flops to boots. We both agreed that we like both style of shoes, but it reminded me that I don't have any comfy flat boots, ankle or long, that I can wear this winter :( So I set some time to have a little look online to see what I could find.

Evans Black Buckle Strap Chelsea Boots £39.50

I really like the look of these boots, and they have a really small hell, so help with not making me any taller! And for just under £40, could be a great winter staple without breaking the bank.

Tall Girls Double Buckle Ankle Boot £95

I think these boots look great, and like the fact that they are slightly taller than the first ones, so would be more comfortable around my ankles, but also worry they would be a bit restrictive on my chubby ankles. Quite pricey at £95, but could maybe last a good few years.

Brantano Knitted Worker Ankle Boots £40

These boots look soooo warm! The knitted lining looks like these would be lovely in the cold winter months. These are different from my other choices, but I really like the look of these, and would maybe be a better boot for doing the school run in.....and for £40, I think they are a great price!

Evans Grey Stud Back Chelsea Boots £49.50

These are beautiful! I love the studs on the back of these boots, adding a bit of sparkle to them. Again, they look nice and comfy, and have only a small heel, so nice for me and my tallness.

Tall Girls Triple Button Boot £95

This, again, is a different style of boot than what I was looking at, but they look so warm! They are lined with fleece wool and have a zip on the inside. I would love these soo much for this winter!!

Evans Black Triple Velcro Comfort Boots £59.50

I'm in two minds about these ones..... They look like they would be really comfy to walk in, but I'm not sure about the Velcro fastening. With my big legs, I question whether, once put on and done up, they wouldn't come undone as I walk? Anyway, at just under £60, another good investment buy for the winter.

So there are some great winter boots for my big size 10 feet. But were the rant comes in is here.....

More with the Brantano website, as they cater for all shoes sizes, I got a little annoyed. I have been into one of their stores before and bought a pair of shoes, so I knew they went up to size 10 in the ladies section. I thought the easiest way to search for boots would be to choose my size and see what it brings up. So I scrolled down to the size section and this is what I saw....

REALLY??? you have 571 pairs to choose from if you are a size 7, but I get 10!!!!!! And this is for all shoes, not just boots!! 

I don't even know what to say now.. I don't really think I need to say anything else.

Anyways, have you got your winter boots ready?

Beka x

I Feel Good!

Hey guys!

Welcome to my first post of a new monthly challenge titled 'I Feel Good'.

This is the brain-child of Vicky @ The Curved Opinion and when she asked for people who wanted to take part, I was right in there! Here is how she describes the challenge....

"You know sometimes when you spend ages getting ready for a night out, an event or even just a blog post, and the reflection in mirror isn't what you hoped?  This challenge is for those times when you look in the mirror, no pre planning involved, and think "I look good today".  

We all have our good days and our bad, but this challenge is to record those good days and to remember that confidence, at any size, is beautiful."

When we got an email from Vicky about this challenge, I realised straight away which picture I wanted to share with you :)

This is me 'au naturale'.
No make up.
Just out of the shower.
And I look good :)

A few months ago, I wouldn't have even considered posting this picture as I hate my dark circles, patchy eyebrows and pale skin. But, you know what, I look good :) 

Thank you to Vicky for instigating this challenge. It's never a bad thing to enjoy how we look, and feel good about ourselves.

Don't forget to check out the other gorgeous ladies feeling good....

Becky http://www.doesmyblogmakemelookfat.com/
Bee http://www.thelittlestbuzz.blogspot.co.uk/ 
Felicity http://felicityhart.blogspot.co.uk/
Hallie http://knitteddaisy.blogspot.co.uk/  
Karen http://toodulltoblog.blogspot.co.uk/ 
Kaye http://www.polishedcurves.com 
Laura http://laurapantslifestyle.blogspot.co.uk/ 
Leah http://justmeleah.blogspot.co.uk/
Mhairi http://www.lilybobombslovelylumps.com/ 
Natalie http://awheelbarrowfullofstyle.blogspot.co.uk 
Nikki http://nattynikki.blogspot.com 
Toni http://theonlywayistoni.blogspot.co.uk/ 

Vicky http://www.thecurvedopinion.com/

Beka x

Pink Clove review

Hey everyone!

I had a great time at the weekend when Mike and I travelled to Manchester for Plus North. This weekend had been building for months, and I was getting more and more excited! 

In August, I came across a new company called Pink Clove that other bloggers had mentioned, so I decided to take a look, and automatically fell in love with a dress - read about my impulse buy here! So, after the dress arrived, I couldn't wait to try it on! Now, I knew that the dress was going to be a little short for me....most are being 6"1!! But I really loved how it looked on me, the style and the quality of the dress.

It was a little short, but I loved it! I automatically knew that this was my party dress for Plus North! And I did!

Dress - Pink Clove

Shoes - Evans

I loved it! My favourite part would be the sleeves. I think they are such a great length and the lace was so comfy, and not at all itchy! That was a worry for me, but I had the dress on for just over 5 hours and it was so comfortable.

If you haven't done so already, check out there range of clothing at www.pinkclove.co.uk, they have some amazing items! I am planning my next purchase soon!!

Beka x

OMCZ #15

Hey!

On this instalment of Outside My Comfort Zone, the amazing Nikki @ Natty Nikki was in charge of the theme....

I decided to go with Oversized as sometimes I like to try an oversized top or dress rather than something more form fitting and I think that with the right accessories etc it can look good. If people don't have oversized clothing then use oversized accessories instead!

Nikki x

I have had this top in my wardrobe for the few months but I haven't worn it yet. I tried it on when I bought it, but I really wasn't sure on how it looked. But when I was looking through my wardrobe for something for this challenge, I thought this would be a great time to give it another go!

Top - Swanley Market

Jeans - New Look

When I looked back at the photos I took, I was pleasantly surprised on how it looked :) It's a great length on me, I contemplated putting it with leggings, but I think it is slightly too short. But this is a lot different to the fitted tops I usually wear, and is what I would consider big for me! I do think I will wear this again though!

Don't forget to check out the other lovely ladies taking part in this challenge.

Stephanie http://www.seeingsp0ts.blogspot.co.uk

Leah http://www.justmeleah.blogspot.co.uk

Mary http://www.marysbigcloset.blogspot.pt

Becky Brown http://www.doesmyblogmakemelookfat.com

Rachel http://www.adressisforlife.com/

Natalie http://awheelbarrowfullofstyle.blogspot.co.uk/

Nikki http://www.nattynikki.blogspot.co.uk/

Rebs http://sullen-hearts.blogspot.co.uk/

Verena http://aplussizefashionobsession.blogspot.de/

Beka bekasstuffystuff.blogspot.com

Vicky www.TheCurvedOpinion.com

Rebecca http://theplussideofme.com

Hollie Http://www.prettybigbutterflies.com

Sabina http://www.femmefatalexsabina.blogspot.de/

Beka x

Claire Richards Range

Hey!

I was invited to a Fashion World event in London on Tuesday to see the unveiling of the new Claire Richards range. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the event, so I decided to have a look through the current collection on the Fashion World website. To be truthful, I haven't looked at the items at all from the Claire Richards range...... so I was dying to jump in and see what was there!

Sequin Bodycon Dress £90

This dress caught my eye straight away! I don't own a bodycon dress...yet! I am still a little unsure on how they will look on me, and how I will feel wearing one. But, if I was to wear one, this would be it! I love the sequins and think this would be a great dress for Christmas and New Year.

Bird Print Dress £50

I had actually seen this dress modelled by my lovely friend Emma on her blog here, and she looked so fab in it! I love the print, and the length of the dress, which on me, would probably be more knee length!!! But that's a reason why I like it.

Stud Slouchy Jersey Top £30

I love this for the winter! It looks stylish, yet so comfy. I looks like a great length and is in the colour aubergine, which is a colour I am loving at the moment!

Tweed Prom Dress £70

This looks amazing. I try and stay away from too much black in my wardrobe now, but this looks so good! I love the design, including the V neckline, and the sleeves are so cute! 

There are some lovely pieces in the current collection, and I am looking forward to taking a look at the new products soon!

Check out the collection here.

Beka x 

Custom necklace

Hey!

Over the last few weeks, I've been gazing longingly at some necklaces from a company called Black Heart Creatives. They sell acrylic laser cut jewellery and handmade crafts that are amazing! They have an amazing range on their website, and here are some of my favourites.

I then got really excited when I saw that they did custom pieces.....I got quite excited! I had a good look through their website and got in touch to enquire about their custom service. They were so helpful, and when I told them what I wanted, they sent me a picture of what it would look like. I hate to wait until pay day, but then.......

It arrived!! I was so excited to get it open, and inside I found....

There was some information about the company, a lolly (so amazing!) and a box. Inside was the beauty...

It was better than I thought it would be! I know I had seen the design before hand, but it was so brilliant to see it in real life :) The wording is black acrylic, and the little star is a gorgeous purple. Also, by the clasp there was this lovely little heart....

Then I just had to pop it on and see what it looked like.

I am soooo happy with this and I loved wearing it at the weekend at Plus North. I got lots and lots of compliments on it! I highly recommend you have a look at their website, they have some great things on there, and don't forget, they can make pretty much anything you want :)

http://www.blackheartcreatives.com/

Beka x