Current buy - Pretty Little Thing plus wrap off the shoulder jumper

Hello loveys, 

I'm back with another outfit post. I think I may have got my blogging mojo back! The are two new things in this post - a wrap off the shoulder jumper from Pretty Little Thing, and some faux leather joggers from ASOS Curve. I'm wearing a size 28 in the jumper and size 30 in the joggers as I wanted them to be baggy. 

The jumper is a fine knit and is very close fitting, it just about fits over my shirt potatoes. If you're between sizes and have the scope to size up, do. You can flash as little or as much boob as you want to by pulling it more off the shoulder. 

The joggers have pockets - huzzah! - and are nice and baggy as I wanted them to be. They're very high waisted but don't stay there because of the slippy fabric, so I do have to put up with a bit of baggy ankle. They don't rustle much as I walk and they do make me warm, but it's nice when it's freezing outside. 

Pretty Little Thing wrap off the shoulder jumper £18

ASOS Curve faux leather joggers £22

I got both of these items on a discount code. I paid about £13 for the joggers (they were in the post Christmas sale and I had a discount code) and the jumper was about £15 with a code. I got them with my Christmas money. 

Thanks for reading. 

Leah xoxo

Current buy - ASOS Curve green sweat dress

Hello lovelies, 

I bought this sweat dress in the ASOS Curve sale at Christmas time. I got it in a size 30 for that super oversized feel. All sizes are still in stock at the time of writing and it's only £9. 

It washes and tumble dries well and comes just above my knees at the front (it's longer at the back). I'm 5ft 5 inches tall. 

Green smock back sweat dress £9

Thanks for reading. 

Leah xoxo

Current buy - ASOS Curve dark berry sweat dress

Hello loveys, 

I've decided to label my outfit posts with either 'Current buy' so you know you can still buy things, or 'Shopping my wardrobe' so you know it's old. 

I've had this ASOS Curve sweat dress for a couple of months but it's still available. I wear it about once a week as it's like a hug you can wear. So cosy! 

I sized up to size 30 for a really oversized feel but I needn't have. It's a really oversized item already. It washes so well too. As you can see it's knee length on me and I'm 5ft 5 inches tall. 

I'm wearing:

ASOS Curve sweat dress in dark berry £18

Navy Snag tights £6.99

Old Simply Be boots

I have a blog post coming up about Snag Tights soon. They're as good as everyone says. I've been buying them since they started up and have about 15 pairs. 

Thanks for reading. 

Leah xoxo

Shopping my wardrobe - snake print tunic

Hello lovelies, 

How is January treating you so far? I've got Labyrinthitis, an inner ear infection that causes vertigo and nausea. I'm taking it a day at a time. 

Here I'm wearing something from my existing wardrobe again. This is a tunic from Yours Clothing from a couple of years ago. 

I don't know why I'm sharing, as very few people read my posts any more. Maybe it's to say I'm still alive, I'm still here, and I'm still plodding on even though my life has gone to shit over the past few years. If I can do it, you can too if you're also struggling. 

I received a lovely email from someone who still reads my posts. Thank you May! 

Thanks for reading. 

Leah xoxo

Winter layering

Hello lovelies! 

It's been colder than a witch's tit here in the UK so I've been layering under or over my clothes to keep warm. This day I wore a red long sleeved top under a shirt sleeved dress to stay toasty. You can't see it because I'm wearing my jacket, but wearing something under or over a summery dress is a great way to maximise your wardrobe. 

Here's me wearing the dress in 2017.

Everything in this outfit is old but my hat, but it's out of stock at the moment (River Island). 

How are you keeping warm? 

Thanks for reading. 

Leah xoxo

Happy 2021 - I'm still cute

Hello lovelies! 

I hope you had a great Christmas and New Year? Mine was really quiet but good. I don't have a lot of money for outfits these days (which is one of the reasons I hardly blog any more) but I've decided to work with what's already in my wardrobe rather than always looking to buy new things. 

Here's a recent outfit I put together which I really love. 

You can see my funky socks and Skechers in the shot below. I go out walking every day to keep my mental health on the right side of healthy. 

I'm wearing:

Hat River Island via Asos (out of stock) 

Jumper old George at Asda

Leopard print dress Simply Be (from two pack)

Are you interested in my forays into my existing wardrobe? Or are you all about the new? 

Thanks for reading, 

Leah xo 

Boohoo Plus Leather Look Wrap Dress

Hiya lovelies, 

I'm back with a blog post, my first in such a long time. I've lost my way with words but really want to find my way back to them again. Here's a dress I bought recently which really makes me feel amazing. 

Boohoo Plus Leather Look Wrap Dress size 28 

As you can see it's tight, short and indecent but I love it! You can grab it here - Boohoo Plus Leather Look Wrap Dress. 

I'm wearing a size 28 and it's true to size. 

Thanks for reading. 

Leah xoxo

In Need Of A Good Night's Sleep?

Hey loves, this is a collaborative post (not written by me). 

Image by Engin Akyurt from Pixabay

If you're not sleeping well right now, you're not alone. Many people are suffering from anxiety or stress due to coronavirus and are worrying about their jobs, money, family members, catching the virus and the uncertainty of what will happen over the next couple of months. However, right now, to fight and avoid this virus, it's important to be as healthy as you can be and sleep is so important for your health. If you're struggling to get a decent night's sleep right now, here are some tips to help you.

Stay in a good sleep routine.

While it can be difficult if you're not working right now or some days you're working from home so can sleep in longer than other days, if you want to sleep well every night then it's really important to get in sync with your body's natural sleep-wake cycle and try to keep to this. Go to bed and get up at the same time each day and avoid sleeping in—even on weekends. If you can do this, you'll soon find that you feel much more refreshed and energized.

Use a Sleep App

Sleep apps can wake you up naturally when you're in your lightest sleep, which helps you to wake up feeling fresh instead of an alarm, making you jump and leaving you feeling groggy. Sleep apps are also really useful for data too as they show you how much sleep you have and what your sleep patterns are

Wind down and clear your head

It's important to deal with your stress before you go to bed. Try having a bath or reading a book to prepare your mind for sleep. Getting into a good bedtime routine and freeing your mind will really help you to sleep well. Try a relaxation technique, dimming the lights and listening to soft music or an audiobook, or click here to find out more about CBD and how this can help you to relax.

Avoid bright screens

Try to avoid bright screens before you go to bed. The blue light emitted by your phone, tablet or computer is not good for sleep, and neither is a lot of the material you are taking in on these devices either. If you want to read, read a book but try to avoid screens as much as you can. If you must use a screen, then use a device with a smaller screen and turn the brightness down.

Turn off the TV

Many people believe that watching television in bed helps them to relax. However, again the light from the TV is no good for sleep, and it suppresses melatonin which is the hormone you need to go to sleep. Also, just like with using your phone or laptop before bed, the content is usually stimulating rather than relaxing, which won't help. Try listening to relaxing music or audiobooks instead.

Exercise during the day

People who exercise regularly sleep better at night and they feel more alert and energized during the day. You don't need to do a lot, simply start with a ten minute home work out each day and see if you notice a difference.

Thanks for reading, 

Leah xoxo




Thanks for reading. Leah xoxo

10 Quick Fashion Fixes That Won't Break the Bank

Hey lovelies,

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).



https://unsplash.com/photos/R2aodqJn3b8


It can be tough to find new clothes without breaking the bank, especially if you've gotten into a habit of buying whenever you feel like you have nothing to wear (spoiler: you always do). This habit can be a severe drain on your finances, and it also makes your wardrobe too cluttered. While you might be buying more clothes, you rarely get rid of the ones you already have. There are solutions to this, though, and they are often quicker and cheaper than you think.

Have a Clearout

The first step toward fixing your fashion is to stand in front of your wardrobe and have a good old fashioned clearout. Here, you can get rid of every clothing item that you don't wear, or even plain forgot that you had. The feelings that come with clearing out long-forgotten pieces will be a relief, and you won't feel so stressed every time you need to decide what to wear.

Dress Up

There will always be some clothes that you can never decide on, though. Do you throw them out? Do you give them another chance? Dressing up and putting on a fashion show for yourself will help you decide what to do with the vast number of clothes in the Maybe pile. By playing dress up, you can test different items with each other, create complimenting outfits, and finally realise which types of clothes you want to keep for good.

Learn From Mistakes

We have all made fashion mistakes in our lives. Maybe we were inspired by something we saw online or in a movie. Perhaps we went shopping and bought something just for the sake of buying it. Whatever these mistakes were, it's time to learn from them to make sure you never repeat them. You can ask yourself how often you have worn it; you can consider whether you even like the colour, or whether it fits you (or ever fits you), if the answer to any of these is hardly at all, no, and no again, it's a sign to say goodbye.

Think of 30 Wears

You can take this attitude the next time you go shopping (or rather, browse sites online because who wants to go into a shop right now?) When looking for new clothes, ask yourself if you will get 30 wears out of it. This is an idea promoted by Livia Firth, the Eco-Age founder, and it encourages people to be more intelligent with their fashion choices. Sure, you might find a stunning dress that would be great for your next night out, but if you're not going to wear it again, then what's the point?

Don't Be Afraid to Repeat

There is a weird idea within the fashion world that you can't wear something more than once, but if you're trying to be more conscious with your fashion choices, it's time to ditch this idea. You might not want to wear the same outfit again, but you can mix and match existing items to create something entirely different. Repeating outfits will stop you running to the shop every time you have a big night coming up, meaning you can protect your bank balance.

Embrace Your Accessories

Accessories can often make an outfit. But, you've got plenty of options available for you, whether it's a chic pair of specs from Eyeglasses.com to an array of gorgeous bangles, bracelets, or rings, polka dot headbands or just an elegant watch, there are no limits to how your accessories can improve an outfit. If you've got a low cut top, adding a necklace will make things look less bare. For short sleeves, bracelets add some sparkle to your attire and make it much more interesting.

Ditch the High Street

High Street shopping is something that everyone flocks to whenever they need a new outfit, but with rumours (and sometimes evidence) of unethical practices, it's time to ditch the High Street and look elsewhere. Sustainable brands can be found all over the internet, and even Charity shops or Vintage clothing stores can help you find something special. While these clothes can sometimes be more expensive than what you're used to paying, they will also be better quality, meaning they will last longer and you'll not need to replace them as often.

Get Creative

If you're tired of the same old fashions every time you browse your social media feed or spend hours looking for the perfect outfit, you might be better off getting creative. Self-made styles are becoming increasingly popular, and if you have any knowledge about sewing, stitching or embroidery, you can create something new out of something old. Here, you can indulge in your creativity and create something unique, or you can fix old clothes to make them as good as new, meaning you don't need to throw them out.

Try Pre-Orders

Pre-ordering clothes is becoming a popular trend in the battle against wasted items. Rather than mass-producing endless denim skirts and cute t-shirts, pre-order companies will only start making something when a customer purchases it. Aside from helping the environment, it will also test your interest in trends. As all clothes are made to order, you'll need to exercise patience, and if you can't wait, it is unlikely to be an essential purchase.

Borrowing

Sometimes you can't find the right outfit no matter what wells you try to source it from. Or, you'll find the perfect piece, but it's way out of your price range. The solution to this is borrowing from friends, family, and even clothing rental companies. Rather than splurge on one item that you'll only wear once, you can exchange items with your friends or have an item delivered to your door, all you need to do afterwards is send it back in perfect condition.

Fast Fixes

Fixing your wardrobe and filling it with items that you love rather than just like, or have even bought for the sake of it, can transform your style while still giving you plenty of options the next time you head out. A refreshed wardrobe is something that makes you feel better about all your clothes and means you'll step outside with more confidence than you've ever had before.

Thanks for reading. Leah xoxo

Dealing With Mental Health Amidst A Pandemic

Hiya loveys,

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).

There’s no doubt that 2020 has been one of the hardest years that many of us will ever have to experience in our lifetimes. Whilst numbers are very much dropping, the virus is still at large. It’s understandable that worries and fears about the virus may have negatively affected your mental health and today, we’re going to talk about the best ways to deal with depression and other mental health problems amidst a pandemic.



Photo by Kat Jayne from Pexels

Don’t believe everything you read in the media

While it’s important to stay up to date on news surrounding the virus, the media are notorious for creating clickbait articles that are used as scaremongering techniques. Using only trusted sources such as the BBC website and app will ensure that you’re reading accurate information and advice. Staying away or reducing your time on social media may also help relieve your worries and fears.

Use regular relaxation techniques

This is a scary time for everyone, so practising calming techniques is important for mental well-being. However, when you suffer from depression and anxiety, these fears are amplified and can be difficult to alleviate. Here are some tried and testing relaxation techniques:

Use the grounding method. Find something you can see, smell, taste, and touch. This will help calm anxiety and help you gain clarity on what’s actually happening.

Practise yoga. It’s an amazing way to stay in shape and also promotes breathing techniques to help keep you calm.

Consider using CBD to help diminish your fears. You can read here how CBD oil can help with depression.

Distracting yourself is a fantastic short-term solution for calming anxiety. Read a book, play a game, or even try cooking that dish you’ve been wanting to make - you’ll feel better sooner than you think!

Speak to family and friends

One thing that may help tackle your depression during this pandemic is talking to your family and friends. We’re all in the same boat and it’s very likely your loved ones have the same worries. Whether it’s your parents, your best friend, or even someone you went to school with, talking it out can make a massive difference. 

Take necessary precautions

Did you know the reason we feel anxious is our minds trying to protect us? So naturally at a time like this, your mind is going to go into overdrive. Taking the necessary precautions as issued by the government will give you peace of mind that you’re doing everything in your power to keep yourself safe. Here are some safety guidelines in regards to the pandemic.

Remember that you’re not alone!

Finally, always remember that you’re not alone! As mentioned earlier, we’re all in the same boat throughout this pandemic, and it’s important not to shut yourself off from those who care about you. Remember if you feel that you cannot cope to speak to your GP as soon as possible, and they will be able to direct you to the right method of care. Together we can beat mental health difficulties amidst the pandemic!

Thanks for reading. Leah xoxo

#Ad Perfect4u babydoll nightwear

Hi lovelies! 

Recently the kind folks over at Perfect4u Fashion sent me a babydoll, and I'm in love! 

I was already familiar with Perfect4u because I'd seen them at the Curve Fashion Festival in 2018 and I bought one of their babydolls then. Their designs are very detailed and such a good price. 

I'm wearing the babydoll in size 26-28 and it's generously sized. It comes with a matching thong and it's very well priced at £28.50. It's available from sizes 18-32 in plus sizes, and Perfect4u also do straight sized lingerie too. Don't walk, run to get yourself some of their designs. 

Thanks for reading. 

Leah xoxo

5 Powerful Ways to Get Rid of Bad Habits*

Hey loveys,

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).

Is there something you do that you're tired of? Has it gotten so bad that it's interfering with your regular activities and relationships? Well, you're definitely not alone, and it's always good to become the best version of yourself. With that said, it is not so easy getting to that stage where you can be satisfied with yourself, and you'll need all the help you can get. Here are five tips that can make it easier for you.

1. Start small

Quitting a bad habit does not happen in a day and so be patient with yourself about the behavior you want to get rid of. Start with baby steps, changing one little thing at a time until you have reached your goal. For example, if you want to quit smoking cigarettes, switch to a less invasive option such as vaping. Click here to find out more information about quality accessories you can use. From there you can move to something less damaging and so on. Trying to stop at once might worsen the situation.



Image credit

2. Find a Partner

Doing it by yourself might be harder than finding someone going through the same process. An accountability partner will be useful in getting rid of the undesired behavior. You can also join a group of people with the same aim as you to share your journey with. This way you know that you're not alone and that you will be relieved of some pressure, making it easier to quit.

3. Change your environment

Changing your environment involves making it harder for you to access the things that contribute to your bad habit. For example, put junk food out of reach or throw it away altogether. If seeing the grocery store makes you want to buy some snacks, then walk on the other side of the street. And if having more clothes makes you disorganized then give some away.

4. Have a solid reason why

It is easier to eliminate an undesired habit if your reason is legitimate and meaningful. Though important, it’s simply not enough to try to stop ‘just because you want to’. What does it mean for your health if you quit? How will your friends and family feel about it? Are there people looking up to you that you can change your behavior for? These are some excellent, sentimental reasons you can have to keep you going on your behavior change journey.

5. Delay your urges



Image credit

Slowing down your response to the urge for the habit can make you forget it temporarily. Count to 20 seconds whenever you feel you want to get into the practice, and you might not feel the same way after. It is like procrastinating the practice, and like how that works, it can lead to you forgetting to do it altogether.

The life you desire is just within reach if you take the necessary steps. It is great that you are thinking about getting rid of the bad habit, and that is the most critical step. Once you have that at the back of your mind, it's smooth sailing going forward.

Thanks for reading. 

Leah xoxo

Mornings Matter: Beating The Blues One Day At A Time*

Hey loves! 

This is a collaborative post (not written by me). 

We’re living through a moment in history. A moment that we’ll tell our grandkids about in the same way that our elders regaled us with tales of world wars and rationing. Yet, knowing that we will come out of this the other side doesn’t always make the present easier to live through. Even if we’ve been fortunate enough to avoid contact with the coronavirus itself, we will not have been able to insulate ourselves from the physical and psychological effects of the pandemic. Yet, while we can’t change the circumstances which have necessitated the lockdown, we can take control of how they affect us. If you’ve started every day feeling sluggish, groggy and sick, the action we take at the start of the day can make all the difference to the rest of it.

Image by Free Photos via Pixabay

Why mornings matter

The moods and thought processes that we develop at the start of the day can be carried around with us right up until the day ends. If you’ve ever had one of those days where a bad nightmare or a fitful sleep has effectively ruined the rest of your day, you know just how impactful the morning can be to our mental state.

Still, we have every opportunity to improve our perception and shape a better reality from the inside out. Here’s how...

Start out with some CBT

Feeling down or depressed? Feeling a non-specific dread that you can’t shake off? Negativity can toxify all of our thought processes. But that doesn’t mean that we can’t take back control. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) encourages us to challenge negative or damaging thoughts and replace them with more positive and wholesome alternatives. It might take a while, but over time you can condition yourself to shrug off negativity and get every day off to a positive start.

Get whatever exercise you can

Our moods are partly affected by external circumstances, partly by our thought processes and partly by our complex neurochemistries. Little lifestyle changes can make a big difference to the latter. Like starting your day off with some gentle exercise. Whether you choose to try stretching with yoga in the morning or starting the day with a brisk walk or jog, you can start your day off riding an endorphin high. You don’t have to start with a gruelling workout. Just get your blood pumping and your mind and body activated.

Try reading or music instead of the TV

When our bodies and minds feel sluggish, everything we do seems like more of a challenge, whether we’re working or not. As well as awakening our bodies, we should also try and gently awaken our minds in the morning. So instead of plonking yourself down in front of the TV for a few episodes of The Simpsons, why not play some music and read a book while you enjoy a leisurely breakfast?

Reading in the gives us some quality time with ourselves while also warming up our minds so that they’re better able to cope with the challenges of the day.

Thanks for reading, 

Leah xoxo

Affordable, Adorable Accessories for your Wardrobe*

Hey lovelies! 

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).

As soon as the seasons begin to change, it seems, we all start rummaging through those closets and daydreaming about the new wardrobe we’d buy if we had infinite money. Those pieces we’d just love to have, that accessory to finish off the perfect outfit, those shoes that we saw in the shop window.



Photo Credit: Skitterphoto

Unfortunately, for most of us, a season change just means pulling out all our clothes from last year and throwing them back in the drawer, because affordable fashion is hard to come by. When you’re trying to save, or overrun with bills, buying new clothes, especially if they aren’t essential, just isn’t a thing, you know?

Lucky for you, you can jazz up your wardrobe no matter what the season, with just a few simple little affordable accessories to breathe new life into your outfits. Small pieces accentuate your already awesome style, making them seem new again and making you feel fabulous. Here’s a few of our best suggestions:

A bright, colorful scarf or shawl

In the cooler months, and even in Spring, a bright scarf, shawl or pashmina can make any outfit look polished, vibrant and adorable. If you’re a crafty person, why not knit or crochet your own using one of the many adorable patterns online? If that’s not your thing, don’t worry: you can find really cute, well-made scarves and other accessories at most stores for very reasonable prices. Find the perfect one for you, the one that goes with every outfit, in your favorite color, and let it become the epitome of you!

A great pair of shoes

Shoes. Who doesn’t love shoes?

Whether you’re only comfortable in six inch heels, like rocking it grunge style in a pair of Chucks or Doc Martens, or prefer a pair of comfy and functional trainers with your leggings, affordable shoes make a great accessory for any outfit. And you never have to feel guilty for buying a good pair of trainers. After all, they’re kind of a necessity, aren’t they?

Find cheap trainers at Footasylum and other great stores, or purchase that pair of vintage pumps you’ve been eyeing. Whatever your style is, you can find affordable and durable kicks that will put a spring in your step and accent any outfit.

A conversation piece

Love cameo necklaces? Feel most comfortable in a pair of huge sunglasses? Enjoy wearing your grandmother’s heirloom costume brooches? No matter what your particular style is, find those accent pieces like jewelry, glasses, watches and other accessories that will bedazzle, and complete your overall look. Cute jewelry and eyewear need not be affordable; many stores carry costume pieces that look like the real thing that are super budget-friendly. An added bonus is that you won’t have to worry about losing anything, because it was cheap!

Affordable, super-cute sunglasses are always a sophisticated, quirky look. Find your best pair online!

These are just a few ideas for how you can accessorize your wardrobe while still saving money. A few cheap, trendy pieces can really tie an entire look together without breaking the bank. All it takes is a little practice.

Thanks for reading. 

Leah xoxo

Sick of feeling sluggish? Read this!*

Hey loveys,

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).

Carrying that sluggish feeling around with you is the absolute worst. But all you have to do is talk to a room full of people to find out that everyone is probably feeling the same way that you do. We put it down to life and the fact that we have to get up and go to work five days a week. Or perhaps you’re a health worker doing shift work, then you’ll definitely have a reason to moan. But carrying that sluggish feeling around every single day is not normal. It’s about time that something was done to make sure that we actually feel alive again. Do you remember the times of being a child and just having boundless amounts of energy? No? Well then, it’s time to make a difference in your life. We want to show you that a few changes to how you treat your body and how you’re living your life, will make all the difference to that sluggish feeling you’re carrying around with you.



Image Source

Take Away The Mental Stress

Mental stress is something that so many people have to deal with in life. It’s now more common than ever to find people with mental health problems. But that’s only because we let all of this stress pile up on top of us. Think about how many times you’ve taken on someone’s stress by listening to their story. Or, think about how many times you’ve gone home and locked a thought away in your mind, rather than tackling it then and there? We take on all of the mental pressure that life throws at us, but forget to let it all out. Simply talking to someone you love might be enough. Or, give yourself an outlet in life that allows you to forget. Pick up a hobby and focus your mind on something positive, rather than the normal life that you’re used to.

Try Some New Health Alternatives

New health alternatives are all the rage at the minute. You’ve got the elderly generation who refuses to take tablets in case they cause too much harm. Then you’ve got the younger generation who is willing to try everything. It’s leading to new healthy alternatives that the world is loving, such as CBD. It’s not a psychedelic drug, although it does derive from the same plant. CBD oil, in particular, has become more popular. It can now be used as a drip or a spray under the tongue, and it’s said to have so many different healing properties, including getting rid of that sluggish feeling. There are many more healthy alternatives out there to try, just do a quick Google search!

A Trip To The Doctors

If you really do try everything in your power to shift the feeling, and you still feel like you can’t, it might be time to take a trip to the doctors. It could be that you have a minor vitamin deficiency that’s stopping your body from functioning how it should be.

Thanks for reading.

Leah xoxo

Spotting The Signs Of A Crumbling Relationship*

Hello loveys!

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).



(Image Source)

The relationships which people share with one another are one of the most beautiful parts of humanity. Some people show their love through grand gestures, while others are much more subtle, but anyone will admit that the idea of a couple in love is something to cherish. Of course, though, it isn’t always easy to keep the spark alive in a relationship. Some couples will last for a very long time before they fall apart, while others will only make it a few months. In any case, spotting the signs of a dying relationship can make the collapse a lot easier to bear, and that is what this post is here to help you with.

Feelings & Time

Most people will know the feeling when you first get into a relationship; you won’t want to spend time away from your partner. As time goes on, though, this feeling will often fade, and some people find themselves dreading seeing the person they care about. Whether this is thanks to arguments, past bitterness, or simply because you’ve grown bored of one another, it can be hard to live with, and is something you should always be looking out for. Even if you’ve been with someone for years, it’s not worth sticking with them if you simply don’t want to spend time with them.

Shared Experiences

Being in a relationship opens a lot of doors, with one of the biggest being the opportunity to share experiences with your partner. While you probably won’t be going on weekly dates like you were in the early days, you should still be spending quality time with your partner every few days. This can be watching a movie together, playing video games, or just about anything else which you both enjoy. If you’re not able to find common interests which work for this, it’s likely that the relationship you’re in isn’t the right one. Family solicitors can often help you to figure out why these cracks are forming in your relationships.

Arguments

Every couple has arguments from time to time. This can be a healthy way to express your emotions, and most couples will find themselves making up very quickly. If you find yourself arguing each and every day, though, there is probably something wrong. It should be rare that you fight with the person you love, and constant disagreements can be a sign that you’re not meant for one another. Of course, though, as time goes on, you may be able to mend these scars, but this will often take one side of the couple dropping the things which make them angry.

While this may sound a little doom and gloomy, it’s crucial that you consider the state of your relationship from time to time. The earlier you can spot the problems forming in a relationship, the quicker you can work to remedy them, and this is something which far too many people ignore. The end of one relationship is always the doorway to a new one, and you can always make loss into a positive experience.

Thanks for reading. Leah xoxo

A Good Heart These Days Is Hard To Find! Simple Ways To Improve Your Heart Health*

Hello lovelies,

Pixabay - CC0 Licence

We all know the importance of a healthy heart, but with temptations around every corner, and the fact that a sedentary lifestyle tends to be rammed down our throats, we can gradually lose sight of maintaining a healthy lifestyle in favour of a cheeky takeaway and Netflix binge. While you can start exercising or eating a little bit healthier, when it comes to having a healthy heart, there are simple things that we can all do. What are these?

Flossing

You might not think this is directly related, and some studies contradict each other, but there has been a connection between poor oral health and cardiovascular disease. Visit any private dentist, and they will tell you the importance of flossing anyway. But we have to remember there are lots of other variables, including lifestyle choices, such as smoking. It's important that we floss because the bacteria that infect the gums can travel to blood vessels around the body and can cause blood vessel inflammation.

Increasing Your Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids have long been touted as a way to decrease inflammation in the arteries. Having a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids through foods like nuts can also help to lower cholesterol levels. Due to the healthy fats, they can also help to fill you up. This is partly why the Mediterranean diet is so popular and appears to be one of the best all-round diets to protect us as we age.

Learning To Relax

There have been studies that have shown that people suffering from heart disease who practice transcendental meditation for 15 minutes a day cut their risk of heart attack and stroke by 50%. Meditation is thought to lower blood pressure. Having an opportunity to relax by practising deep breathing exercises or yoga have been shown to provide similar benefits. Learning how to relax is crucial, especially as we get older. And learning how to relax can minimise that blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and provide that little extra meaning to our lives.

Minimise Alcohol

The one we all don't like! While there are reports that moderate drinking could benefit your heart, there isn't any proper proof. The fact of the matter is that drinking too much alcohol can cause issues all around your body, from high blood pressure to abnormal heart rhythms, and can contribute to cancer. Cutting down on alcohol, and having it in moderation is the key. And the great thing is that now there isn't as much of a culture focused on drinking as there used to be. With Dry January or Sober October becoming the norm, and with Christmas on the horizon, there are ways for you to enjoy the season without excessive drinking.

Learning to help our heart as we get older is a lot to do with the right habits. Unfortunately, it's one of those things that we can ignore, especially when we're younger. But as we get older we could do with a little bit more exercise, a healthier diet, and an improved outlook. A little bit of what you fancy is always good, but moderation is the key.

Playful Promises X Felicity Hayward lingerie collection

Hello lovelies,

Photo credit - Playful Promises

Plus size supermodel Felicity Hayward has collaborated with London-based lingerie brand Playful Promises to bring a collection of underwear in bra sizes 32-44 A-K and sizes 8-26. It's the first UK lingerie collection by a plus size supermodel and features retro inspired girdles and bodies, suspender belts and diamanté chain detailing, as well as Felicity's Self Love Brings Beauty sloganing. There's lots of pretty pink, lilac, as well as standard lingerie staples like black, red and leopard print. 

Photo credit - Playful Promises 

Playful Promises are the queens of the collab collection, having previously teamed up with Gabi Fresh and Fuller Figure Fuller Bust, among others. Felicity was one of the first models to show stretch marks, cellulite and scars in global campaigns with brands such as Missguided and The Body Shop, who were inspired by her digital campaign and body positive movement #selflovebringsbeauty. Felicity’s movement promotes self-love, diversity, confidence and acceptance in the fashion industry for everyone She explains that she “wanted to create something for everyone, to view beauty from your perspective, not the media’s view on body image and worth.”

Felicity Hayward is excited to partner with Playful Promises, as she believes they share the same values in terms of design style, and the promotion of body positivity. She says, “I wanted to create a lingerie range for everyone, so that no matter what your size or body type, you can be empowered to feel sexy. I’ve always loved Playful Promises for its wide size range, quirky designs and inclusive and diverse imagery, so to collaborate with them on this collection was an absolute dream.”

Emma Parker, Director of Playful Promises says, “We feel Felicity perfectly embodies our brand values of body confidence and self-love, and she’s helped created some fabulously sexy pieces that are designed to really give that wow factor – whatever your size.”

I have a gorgeous leopard print set which was kindly gifted to me by Playful Promises. I'm wearing a 44F and size 26 and both are generously sized. I usually wear a size 28 in underwear, but the 26 fits with room to spare. The bra cups are very roomy, so do consider sizing down at least one cup size. I'll be sharing my photos on social media and in a separate blog post as soon as possible. 

Photo credit - Playful Promises 

Are you excited for this collection? 

Thanks for reading. 

Leah xoxo

#AD - Gifted Product - Wolfairy A Line Tunic Dress OOTD*

Hello sweet peas,

The folks over at Wolfairy sent me over this lovely sporty tunic dress last week, so here are some pics of it.

I'm wearing a size 28 and it's oversized. It's made of the softest cotton and it was made in the UK. The cowl hood is so cosy for this time of year and it has pockets! It's also longer at the back, which I love. I absolutely love the colour but it isn't available in green on the website at the moment, but it is available in 4 other colours. As you can see it's long enough to wear without leggings or trousers underneath. I'm wearing my trusty Snag 80 denier tights with it.

Wolfairy A Line Tunic Dress (I've linked to the black one as the green one isn't on the website).
Snag tights
Leopard print boots

Thanks for reading.
Leah xoxo

5 Self-Care Hacks You Might Not Have Tried Yet!*

Hello loveys, 

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).
pexels

We all have different ways of prioritizing our self-care, from the old favourites like long-hot baths to the new hobbies like meditation. Perhaps you’re looking for a self-care hack or two that you haven’t given a try yet? If so, you might enjoy a few of these nifty ideas.

1 . Join a new club or group

Trying something new can be a fantastic act of self-care to boost your confidence, skills, and widen your friendship circles. Perhaps there’s a hobby that you’ve always wanted to try? It could be a sports team, a creative group, a study-based course- you name it! When you put yourself out there to try something unknown, you allow yourself to indulge in an activity that’s just for you and your wellbeing.

2. Spend time alone 

Between work, jobs, family life, and friends- it can be hard to get a little me time. The fact is, though, spending time alone can be great for our mental health. Spending time alone allows you some thinking space and lets you fully enjoy your own company. What’s more, you’ll have time to plan your goals and build up your emotional resilience. It’s amazing to have a support network, but sometimes it’s good to remind ourselves that we can cope alone too. Why not book a random day off work just for you? Visit a museum, take yourself for lunch, write in a journal, meditate, and just spend time being grateful in your own company.

3. Write a poem

Random acts of creativity can be a fabulous gift of self-care just for you. Writing a poem can be a lovely release of emotions and a healthy way to express your mental health. The poem doesn’t have to be shown to anyone; it can be something just for you. You might use it to express a difficult emotion that you’ve been going through, a joyful memory, or something totally abstract. If you’re not sure where to start, you can always get a poetry book or two from the library for a little inspiration!

4. New oils & supplements

So we’ve all heard much about the benefits of lavender or peppermint oil, but what about trying something new? There are plenty of great oils and supplements out there that can do wonders for our self-care. One great example is St. John’s wort; it’s made from a flowering plant and can be consumed in the form of a pill supplement or a tea. St. John’s wort is beneficial for reducing anxiety. Another product fast gaining popularity is CBD oil, extracted from the marijuana plant (but not the same compound which produces the intoxicating effect). CBD oil has also been linked to pain relief in conditions such as arthritis. When ingested and inhaled, the oil can promote a sense of relaxation. For popular CBD oil products, Vsavi offers great quality vape pens.

5. Make a book of memories

Spending time amongst cherished memories can be a lovely gift to yourself. Why not print out all of your best photographs and make yourself a scrapbook of memories? You can write descriptions of the pictures and reminisce about these times spent with loved ones. When we celebrate our good memories, we’re reminded of all the good things in our lives that we are grateful for. Self-care is as much about our mental health as it is about improving physical health.

Thanks for reading. 

Leah xoxo