New Years Outfit Idea

Dress, ASOS, £95 // Shoes, ASOS, £15 (were £42) // Jacket, Topshop, £65 // Bag, Ted Baker, £89

Still in this little lull we were talking about yesterday, thought now would be a good time to chat New Years outfits. This won't be the cheapest outfit you'll ever buy, but we think it's totes worth it.

This shift dress from ASOS is the centre of the outfit with gorgeous jade tones lightening up the black. The look is pretty sophisicated with the tux jacket and the heels and the bottle green bag from Ted Baker to tie it all together.  Alternatively, you could go for a black clutch, and the dress could look great with black tights, or if you're feeling brave in this weather, you could go bare legged. Overall, LOVING IT! This outfit is sure to set your NYE off with a bang, so have fun everyone!

Love always,

LLB x

Best Celeb Moments of 2014

Well well well. Long time no speak fellow blogees. We hope you had an amazing Christmas and Boxing day, are all satisfied with all presents recieved and enjoying some well earnt time off. We're fortunately still in the lull between Christmas and New Year which is good, still something to cling onto before the depression really hits come January. Since we're in this lull, what better way to celebrate 2014 before we say goodbye to it with a look back at some of the best celeb moments of this year? Grab some leftovers and lets get cracking!

First item on the agenda has got to be the announcement of another Royal Baby. Already parents to little Prince George as of summer 2013, it was announced early that future King and Queen, the  Duke and Duchess of Cambridge would be expecting again in Spring 2015, due to Kate suffering again with severe morning sickness. Although we're fully aware that there won't be 24 hour coverage from the hospital for weeks on end as there was last time Kate gave birth (due to this child not being the first heir in line to the throne, unfair or what?), we are thrilled at the prospect of another little Prince or Princess, purely because babies are cute and we love Wills and Kate. Congrats everyone!

Next up is everyone's favourite celebrity paring, Kim Kardashian and Kayne West and their wedding bonanza. On 24th May, gazillions of family, friends and celeb assosiates gathered to witness the marriage of Kim and Kayne in a lavish ceremony in Italy. The celebrations seemed to go on for quite a while, including a pre wedding holiday in Paris and dinners in the Palace of Versailles, Kimye were pulling out all the stops to impress the guests. Parents to the uniquely named North West, the 4th August marked the couples 73 days worth of marriage. You may think that seems an insignificant detail, but 73 days was the amount of time Kim was married to second hubbie Chris Humphries before it all got too much and they called it quits. So when said like that, at least they're looking like they might make a full year. Congrats Kimye!

One thing that will go down in history is the now infamous Oscars Selfie taken by Ellen. The most retweeted tweet of all time sees a quick pic at the Oscars with some of the most well known acting talent of modern history. Everyone from Brad Pitt to J-Law, Meryl Streep to the glorious Julia Roberts. Anyone who is anyone is in this selfie. And what a glorious thing it is too!

On a more serious note now is Emma Watson and the 'He for She' campaign. She's fast becoming the British Angelina Jolie, far from just being a pretty face with a strong message. Recently becoming a UN ambassador, Emma famously made her HeforShe speach which subsequently, made the internet errupt. Tackling the powerful issues such as prejudices and discriminations that women globally face, Emma had a message that men and women must unite to solve this a humanitarian problem together, not just leave it to the likes of Germaine Greer to have a downer on men. And not to cheapen her work, but if we could have the likes of Eddie Redmayne, Douglas Booth and Harry Styles showing their support for the work we were doing, we'd be pretty chuffed too. Emma has been credited with making feminism and gender equality engaging for young people, which is no mean feat. So good on you Emma!

On a slightly more light hearted token, we turn to another of the Kardash clan. Another highlight of 2014 has got to be Kylie Jenner and her ever growing lips. Despite being the tender age of 17, Kylie, it seems, is no stranger to a few botox/filler injections. It's brought about sheer bewilderment and, quite frankly, excitement, to see them grow over the year. However, with the amount of selfies she posts (what can you do, she is related to a very selfie orientated family), you can't help but notice her ever changing appearance.

Lastly, we head all the way back to this year's Brit awards in February. One Direction were having a good night. One award had already been won and a killer performance had been given, things were looking good. They were then called up to win their 'Global Success' award, the place errupted into high pitched screams and applause. The boys jumped to their feet and headed towards the stage. As they made their way to the floor, one thing was made apparent, one was missing! Where was Harry??? After a few awkward shakes and some shoulder shrugs from the remaining 4 lads, Styles suddenly appeared, running onto the stage as fast as his bandy legs could carry him. You would have thought Daddy of the group Liam might have taken over and saved the day, but no, they made Harry do the speech of course. During of which, he utteered the two famous phrases "what did we win?" and "sorry, I was having a wee". Well at least that cleared that up. Crisis averted.

So those were our fave celeb moments of 2014! We hoped you enjoyed reminising with us, and if you have any moments we haven't mentioned, do  leave a comment of your fave moments.

Love always and a Happy New Year!

LLB x

Advent Day 24 | Ultimate Christmas Songs

Happy Christmas Eve one and all!

Now, as it's Christmas Eve and we're all in full Christmas spirit. So we thought what better thing to do on Christmas eve than get properly festive with some of our all time favourite Christmas tunes. Then you can all go off and make great Christmas playlists, just in the nick of time for tomorrow! Ahhh, it's finally here!!!

1. Sam Smith's rendition of  'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' may be a newish Christmas song, but my god, is it beautiful. Sam Smith is a fairly new revelation to man, but he's an extrordinary global talent. If he isn't big in your country, check him out on the youtube waves. Once you're hooked there is no going back.

2. Chris Rea's 'Driving Home for Christmas' is just a golden oldie classic. It combines all those feelings of excitement and anticipation of coming home for the Christmas holidays. It's super catchy and gets you in the right frame of mind for the holidays. Yipeeee

3. 'Do They Know It's Christmas' hammers home the message of the mixed world in which we live, Christmas is not a time for joy for everyone. The 3 diferent versions by various Band Aid teams each give an updated but still grounding message. The most recent Band Aid team includes the likes of One Direction, Ed Sheeran and Rita Ora. That in itself should be enough to give it a play or 10.

4. 'All I Want For Christmas' ooooooohhh babbbyyyy. Sheer classic of a Christmas song, and we have nothing else to say. Apart from play it over and over, it's only Christmas once a year.

5. Leona Lewis, 'One More Sleep' is a marmite kinda song. I personally don't have much time for it, but others of us here at LLB have quite a deep rooted love for the song, hence it being on the list. Play at your peril, it's very catchy.

6. What a great one to finish on. 'Last Christmas' is such a pinacle of Christmas songs, it's just an absolute belter. And so Christmasy, deffo have it on repeat tomorrow!

Well, that concludes all our days of advent before Christmas Day. We've enjoyed counting down to Christmas with you lot so much, we hope you've enjoyed it too. We hope you all have an amazing Christmas, and we'll see you at the weekend for some LLB loving.

Love always crazy Christmas cats,

LLB x

Advent Day 23 | Favourite Vogue Cover of 2014

Happy Christmas Eve Eve!

Now any style enthusiast will never be without a copy of Vogue. Loitering on the coffee table, stacked up on the bedroom floor, or enjoyed on the daily commute, Vogue Magazine is an instiution for fashion conscious women across the globe. Looking back on the UK editions of Vogue this year, we chose some of our favourite cover girls. They include everyone, from the pouty fashion exec Vicky Beckham to model of the moment Cara Delevigne. Every month we're desperate to see what lucky star will be gracing the cover, and not one month are we disapointed.

So If you aren't usually a Vogue reader, make it your New Year's Resolution. You won't regret it.

SEE YOU TOMORROW ON CHRISTMAS EVE :D

LLB x

Advent Day 22 | Fave Hair Product of 2014

So, Christmas is a matter of single figures away, and it's safe to say we're REALLY excited. So naturally, you'll want beautifully maintained locks throughout the festive period. Let us introduce you to our haircare product of 2014; the Tangle Teezer brush. This brush is perfect for unruly and thick hair, although anyone can enjoy using one. It glides through the tangles seamlessly, and can be used on wet or dry hair because it's very gentle. Other brushes can make your hair fluffy or frizz out, but a Tangle Teezer avoids this issue perfectly. Possibly the best thing, is the varying sizes they come in. So you can own the bigger one for at home, and the compact one for in the handbag. And any of you who are cutting it fine with your Christmas shopping, this would make a perfect stocking filler. So there are just some of the reasons why we love a Tangle Teezer. Try one for yourself and let us know what you think!

Happy Holidays,

LLB x

Advent Day 21 | Style Icon | Miranda Kerr

Day 21 is bringing you another girl crush in the form of the gorgeous Miranda Kerr. Yes, we just can't get enough of the stylish wears of Miranda, whether it's dressed up at some big glitzy event or just strolling round NYC with her adorable son. Therefore, we're aiming to give you some grand style alternatives to rock her trends.

One of our fave looks of Miranda's is this chic but relaxed tailored look. The crisp white shirt and teamed with caramel cigarette pants are a great work to play alternative. We found these verrrry similar items to recreate the look. The trousers from a River Island and the shoes from Topshop are practically identical. Yay!

1. Next, £28 // 2. Topshop, £58 // 3. River Island, £35 // 4. (not shown) Bag - ASOS, £140 (was £200)

This grey wooly coat is a DREAM in style and substance terms. Whilst looking elegant and unrehearsed, it still has practical value of keeping you warm and cosy during the winter months.  Grey is a great colour, as it tones in with pretty much anything, so it's a great investment. Again, there are some really similar coats out there to Miranda's. There are some great ones such as these featured below, via Jack Wills, Selected and Zara.

1. Selected, £160 // 2. Jack Wills, £179 // 3. Zara, £59.99

This floral dress is a hit with pretty much anyone who claps eyes on it; it is simply stunning. However, don't be under any illusion that there aren't any alternatives. These ones from Ted Baker, and Missguided will do you just fine. These ones may also be slightly more wearable, so have fun being fab in florals.

1. Ted Baker, £149 // 2. Misguided, £29.99

 So that concludes our latest Style Icon. We hope it gives you some other options when trying to channel the lovely Miranda Kerr.

Until next time,

LLB x

Advent Day 20 | Valentino s/s 2014 Collection

Day 20 of advent (ooooo holidays are coming ahhhh) and today, it's all about Valentino baby. This s/s collection has been one of our favourites ever since we claped our beady eyes on it. The faaaabulous collection sees Gretian/Egyptian influenced garments, which have been heavily embroidered in deep colours to create the mistque and zest of the east.

The makeup look the models sported was very natural and dewy. Although the brows were thick (ala Cara) they were still kept very light looking and natural. No one likes an overdone eyebrow, remember that. The face was also kept simple, there is the slightest touch of pink on the cheeks, paired with highlighter on the cupids bow and along the bridge of the nose and chin. There was use of mascara but only to create definition of the natural shape of the lashes and to open up the eyes.

To recreate this look, we would prescribe: MAC Face and Body foundation, which gives great blendable coverage, and L'Oreal volume millions lashes for mascara to give full on volume, but still very natural looking.

Have fun huns,

LLB x

Advent Day 19 | Perfume we're loving

Day 19, and we're feeling all things perfume. Not only does perfume make a great crimbo present, but it's great to treat yourself with. As we were going to review these products, we begun to realise the challenges in providing an accruate review of a smell. Soon as it's so subjective, we decided to just feature the ones we're been loving at the moment. Then we thought whilst you're out and about, you can pop into debenhams (and such like stores) to have a cheeky tetser and try them all out, and see which one floats ya boat. Yeah? Cool beans.

WE ARE LOVING:
Diesel Loverdose
Valentino Valtentina
Marc Jacobs Daisy
Eau de Gaga

Have fun smelling amazing,

LLB x

Advent Day 18 | Nail Idea | Festive Red Nails

*Nail Design Alert *

As Christmas draws in closer and closer, these nails will see you all the way through to New Year.

Simply use a good boozy Christmasy Red, (we plumped for OPI Kardashian Kollection 'Sealed with a Kris') then we used ORLY white nail art pen to create the festive design. You can experiment with the designs until you feel more confident.

Have fun designing, and don't forget to send in your pics of your nails!

Until next time elves,

LLB x

Advent Day 17 | Makeup for Brown Eyes

We're talking about the brownies today (eyes I'm referring to), but you, blues and greens have already had your turn. So unfortunately for us fellow brown eyed beauties (I wasn't referring to myself as a beauty, just of the brown eyed nature. Just so we're clear) we don't, what artsy people refer to as a 'complimentary colour' aka a colour that makes us look dead cool. But fear not, because as that turns out peeps, that's actually a marvy thing. Because my friends, it means we can wear pretty much anything. Sick one. It's best for us to stick to natural colours such as woody Browns and dark khakis. Brown eyes have the power to hold black shadow or smokey dramatic eyes. Winning all round I'm feeling. I mean we shouldn't get too complacent, I'm assuming bright yellow eye shadow is not a good look on anyone, so be careful everyone. It's a cruel world out there, full of false hope and advertisements. So have fun brown eyes, conquer all!

Until next time,

LLB x

Advent Day 16 | Makeup for Green Eyes

Hello Greens, you're up today, you lucky things you.

Your complimentary colour is... Wait for it... Red. Taaadahhhh. Yeah very practical I hear you scoff, well yes, more practical than you might assume actually. For a natural look, just turn it down a tad, and go for more natural redish browns. Like a fox. Again, slate colours are also good for you, as black can be a touch harsh. Moss. Olives also compliment the eyes well, such as 'Fiction' and 'sumptuous olive' from MAC. Play around and see what works best for you.

Have fun! Brownies, you're next tomorrow :)

LLB x

Advent Day 15 | Makeup for Blue Eyes

Turn around... Bright eyes. Today we're giving tips to the doey blue eyed amongst us. It is apparent that to make your eyes really zigga ziggga ahhh, you have to use your complimentary colour on the colour wheel. We appreciate not everyone may have one of those lurking  in their make up bag, or even heard of one. So we'll do all the work for you, and just tell you what colours to buy. And don't worry greens and Browns, your time will come.

Unfortunately for you blueys, your complimentary colour is orange. We expect that wasn't even what you were hoping for, but we don't suggest actual orange. Instead why not try a more subtle gold toned eye shadow? MAC Woodwinked is GOLDUST (like what we did there?) to excentuate your eyes. However, if you want something proper orange, Amber Lights is a good option to make a statement. If you want to go for something opposed to bright orange, slate colours are a good alternative to black. This is beacause black can sometimes be too oppressive to your lovely sleeping beauty eyes.

So have fun blue eyes, see you on the other side. Greens, you're up tomorrow.

LLB x

Advent Day 14 | Style Icon | Kim Sears

Hazzaahhh, another style icon to share with you all! We do love our icons, someone to look up to and hopefully chanel in some minor way. This time, it's the turn of the glowingly gorgeous Kim Sears. Long suffering Girlfriend (now fiance, congrats guys!) of Wimbledon champ Andy Murray, and soon to be daughter -in-law to tennis and strictly legend Judy Moo, Kim and her perfectly blow-dried barnet have become a household name. Yes, the nation (like Andy) has taken sweet Kimmy into our hearts; happily watching on as she never faultered to put a foot wrong, gracing every tournament with efforless style. Let's take a look back at some of our fave looks of hers:

This black full length dress Kim wore to the Wimbledon Winner's ball back in July. We loved the top part of the dress and the intricate detailing. We also loved the black, because you can get away with wearing it anywhere and it still looks effortless. We tried to find some alternatives to Kim's look. These ones from ASOS are a pretty sure bet, as they incoperate some of the finer details and the sleeves. If you wanted something as more of a luxurious item, this one from Ted Baker is a belter. The neckline is simply stunning.

1. Lipstick Boutique, £75 // 2. ASOS, £120 // 3. ASOS, £100 // 4. Ted Baker, £249

 Kim paired this gorgeous lace dress with these chic wedges. We found these alternatives from TOMS which could be paired with everything. Also, these beauties from Kurt Geiger would also work wonderfully.

1. TOMS, £59.99 // 2. Kurt Geiger, £49 (Was £75) // 3. TOMS, £59.99

Kim loves a LWD as much as a LBD it seems. With Andy, Kim sported this sophisticated V neck dress to the Burberry Show at LFW. Knowing Anna Wintour is going to be giving your outfit the once over must be a very daunting prospect. But Kim didn't seem to mind, as she beamed down the white carpet. We found these alternatives from Missguided, which are very similar. Dressed up or down, these LWDs won't let you down.

1. Missguided, £34.99 // 2. Missguided, £24.99 (Now £10.99)

So there concludes our declaration of style worship for the lovely Kim Sears. We hope you all now adore her style and sophistication as much as we do. Kim, we salute you. As for the tennis, GO TEAM MURRAY.

Until next time friends,

LLB x

Advent Day 13 ❊ | How to... Reindeer nails

Horahh for the weekend! To celebrate, we've created some Christmas inspired nails, perfect for the festive season. Here's a step by step guide to how we did it:

1. Firstly, paint the nail all over in a base coat. You could use clear, or you could use a slightly coloured base (as shown in the picture) to make the nail look a bit more finished.

2. Using a brown colour, paint half a circle on the base part of the nail (the size of this depends on how big your nails are)

3. Using a nail art pen in either black or dark brown, paint the antlers

4.Using a dotter pen (we used the Orly pen) dot on two white circles for the eyes. Then using the smaller black pen on top of the wite to create a smaller circle. Then repeat the white circle on top of the black, as this will make the eyes look like the eyes are sparkling!

5. Lastly, paint a smaller semicircle in red, and paint red glitter over the top to make the nose shiney! Then finish with a clear layer of base coat.

And taaadahhhh, you are complete with some very cute, very Christmasy Raindeer nails. Enjoy!

See you tomorrow people!

LLB x

Advent Day 12 | Favourite Knitwear

Guys, it's been seriously cold hasn't it? Undeniably cold by anyone's standards we feel. So here's some accessories to keep you wrapped up and cosy:

First up is this two toned printed scarf/wrap is perfect for the chilly days. Its great as it doubles up as a blanket, which is just super cosy. As well as being bang on trend with the print. The colour scheme goes with everything too, WELL DONE ZARA. Buy me here - £19.99

This matching hat and mittens set from Jack Wills is just marvy. The geometric print and use of bold colours is ust snazzy, and brill for brightening your day. The fur lining makes them super warm for the colder months.  Buy the hat here - £29.50 // Buy the gloves here - £24.50

 These mittens from ASOS have a trendy check print. The darker colours give a feel it a real moody and winter feel. Perfect! Buy me here - £7 (Was £10)

This cape has some warm and rich colours in. Perfect for layering up! Buy me here - £35

Hopefully after this, you'll be able to warm up!

Until next time,

LLB x

Advent Day 11 | Fave Highstreet Store

A few weeks before Christmas, we thought it might be a good idea to give you some inspiration as to where to shop. We're loving Zara at the moment, and here's a few key pieces as to why:

These grungy tartan trousers are beautiful. Perfect for the grey days and the darker tones avoid the rupert the bear situation. Buy me here

We love monochrome, so these clashing black and white prints on this coat is pretty much our idea of heaven. You'll be needing it in this weather anyway! Buy me here

 This dress is a perfect day-to-evening situation. The print is beautifully understated, and the bow adds some depth and drama. Buy me here

This scarf is divine. Enough material to wrap around and keep you cosy, and a lovely bold print to brighten up those stormy days. Perfect pressie too! Buy me here

This monocrhome dress has another snazzy print. Perfect to dance the night away in! Buy me here

So have fun shopping at Zara. Whether it's online or on the highstreet, Zara provides excellent style.

Until next time,

LLB x

Advent Day 10 | What we're loving... | Valentino Rockstud Shoes

We are simply LOVING these Valentino heels at the moment. Not only are they the accompaniment for any outfit, they come in a range of colours to complete the look. These beauties were first seen way back in the Autumn 2012 collection, and then spotted again in Paris Fashion week in 2013. With everyone from Vanessa Hudgens to Kourtney Kardashian rocking the rocksuds, it would be a crime not to invest.

LLB x

Advent Day 9 | MAC Paint Pot

For day 9 of Advent we thought we'd just share with you a product we've been loving. It happens to be this MAC Paint Pot. It's just an amazingly creamy and lasts perfectly without creasing. To top it all off, it's a fab base for any powdered eyeshadows. The colour is a subtle gold/pearly colour, perfect for a highlighted glowy look. Just what you want at Christmas time. We recommend this to pretty much anyone, as it will just improve your overall make up look. It would make a great Christmas present too. Don't say we never give you anything ;)

LLB x