A message from the heart: Graduation

Hello everyone,

My posts have been a bit all over the place recently which I think is reflecting what is going on in my life right now. Instead of all the outfit and spending summary posts I thought would be the main focus of my blog, I am finding what I want to write is what is going on in my head right now and that's job hunting and finishing Uni. I guess that is how it should be because as much as I try to take outfit photos and talk to you about what i'm buying or wanting, my heart isn't in it and I need to be honest for my posts to have real meaning.

I had my graduation on Thursday and as much as I would love to write how fabulous, liberating and celebratory it was, I just cant as I would be lying. It was a bit of weird one. We set off at 630 am to travel down to Southampton and snoozing along the way left me feeling grouchy when we arrived in the city. I think the windy weather didn't help, making my mood stick for the rest of the day.

Everything was a bit difficult with the weather and with my dad having spinal problems (which he finds it painful when doing too much walking or on the contrary, too much sitting) I was anxious of the crowds of people and of us waiting around. In typical Dad style he insisted he was ok so neither my mum or I knew what was the best thing to do. The crowds in the photography hall and the people lingering behind me whilst I was trying to sort out my unruly long fringe (very important of course) made me tense and frustrated. I was already nervous about walking across the stage in heels I wasn't used to so couldn't relax. I then was so unhappy with my official photograph when seeing the snap my mum took over the guys shoulder. I know to everyone else I probably seem like a drama queen and they don't see the problem but I think it comes down to expectations and it wasn't how I've always imagined it. I was angry at myself because it was all because I just wanted to get us into some space so we could all relax; I rushed it and didn't take my time to enjoy the moment. 

The ceremony was actually really nice, the speeches were inspiring and actually got me quite emotional. Even though it was quite a long time I still enjoyed it and felt relieved walking down the stairs successfully, all modesty intact.

Outside it was again horribly windy which I think everyone found a battle. I was freezing and with that came a reality shock to what my University experience had really been like. It left me disappointed as it highlighted to me I wasn't or hadn't been who I thought or liked to have been and I really had wasted 3 precious years of my life.

This is quite hard for me to be this honest but I think its important to share with everyone what happened to me so other people can learn from it. I am also hoping it will be a great aid in helping me overcome my regrets and move forward.

When I started University I had just met my boyfriend. It wasn't my first choice and I don't think I was really sure what I wanted. I had a really tough time settling in, so home sick I was ready to leave or transfer at Christmas. I felt I wasn't being the lively,  outgoing, funny person I used to be and found I slotted into a rut of someone I never thought I would be. 2nd year I decided to go home at weekends as I was only in a few days (and hours) a week. I thrive off a busy lifestyle and I soon found I became a lot happier having a balance of home and uni life with a lifestyle to stop my from sitting in a room over thinking things.

me and my housemates

Come third year I had really found myself at University. I was throwing myself into my work and loved my PR modules. My house mates and I became incredibly great friends and I loved living in our own little house as our own little family. I wasn't ready to leave Uni. I couldn't believe it, after all this time, I DIDN'T want to leave. I felt happy and content with who I was and what I was doing. It soon dawned that I had been over ruled by my emotions and not really tried. I should have forced myself to join clubs and made that plunge to say  'lets go out' to course mates I saw day to day. 

Standing in the wind outside the grand Guild Hall at Southampton I watched groups of girls from my course toss their hats in the air and huddle together in groups for photos to Kodak the final stage of their journey they took together. Now, don't get me wrong, I am NOT a complete loser. I have friends, I promise. My friend Ellen and I got a few snaps in but sadly I didn't pursue finding my friends Abi, Katie and Georgia (all from different social groups) for a graduation snap. I am so sad about this as now I am full of regret and trust me, that's the worth feeling you could ever have. I think if my house mates had been there it would have been a completely different vibe as they are the ones that made my University life but sadly we all graduated on different days.

John Lloyd, QI, Black Adder and Monty Python writer was our guest speaker at our ceremony and his words really stook with me. It was strange it was almost like he was speaking directly to me. In a few different words he said 

"Don't plan, don't worry and take the leap as in the end the net will always be there to catch you." 

Now, I plan EVERYTHING. I worry, ALL THE TIME and with my university life in particular - I DIDN'T LEAP.

He said one more thing which has been really poignant for me these few days after the disappointment of my graduation which have caused me to give myself the full on silent treatment through anger at not embracing the day the way I should have.

'It will be the things you didn't do you will regret more than the things you did do"

Nothing has ever had such meaning as that has right now having not embraced my graduation day and my University life like I should have.

BUT I'm going to end this post on a positive note. It wasn't ALL bad. I got some alright photos. (HA, joking, I got more than that!) I am so thankful for everything University taught me and I am proud of my 2:1 degree because I did work so hard. I am thankful for the friends I made, though few they know me inside out and I will never forget them and the bond we have. The lessons it taught me about who I am and the determination I had to stick it out despite my incredibly rocky start. It might not have been the vision I had for my University days and I probably could have done a lot more but everything happens for a reason and learning this now, only means a brighter future.

Sadly,  I will always regret not making the most of the one of the most important days I will have in my live and I only ask anyone reading this to learn from me and embrace not only your graduation or University days but EVERY day because you won't get it back. I know this all sounds pretty deep but it was a significant 3 years of my life that has shaped me to who I am right this second. John Lloyd said that 'advice means nothing until you have past it on' and I think he is so right. Nothing hits home until you are advising someone else and if I could advise anyone anything it would be to go into everything saying yes and to go into everything with no expectations and I promise it will be better. Everything I have done with the hope it to be like the vision in my head has always left a little part of me disappointed. Expect nothing as the best parts of life are called surprises.

On that note, I leave you with the words of  U2's single 'One' as we really do only have 'one life'.

Company fashion forum

Last Wednesday I went to Company's Fashion Forum at Hackney's Picture House. Recently finishing Uni  my life  is now consumed with job applications, CVs and student withdrawals  My friend Steph and I decided to check it out to help us on our mission for our dream job but also decided it would be a great excuse for a catch up since leaving our student home.

Picture courtesy of company.co.uk

It came around so quickly I wasn't really sure what to expect. It all started with a welcoming glass of champers in the bar upstairs and some sociable mingling....with a stuffed buffalo  The crowd then seemed to move and we were swept into one of the screens. Steph and I got a little excited at the prospect of being back in a student esque atmosphere; lots of girls sat in a room similar to a lecture room note books at hand, 5 professionals with a mic and a slideshow behind them. Missing Uni life? Just a tad. The only difference was an amazing goodie bag on each of our seats, now that was definitely something my University could have invested in.

Now call me sad but I was already feeling a bit star struck seeing the lovely Victoria, editor of Company magazine. After tweeting about earlier in the day in which she replied I got all excited seeing someone who I aspire to be as successful as. I always knew I was going to be a career headed women when I grew up. I like to succeed and talk about anything to do with what I want to be, how I am going to do it and all the possibilities along the way so a lecture type talk with some high street experts was right up my street.

The professionals giving their advice were Mandy Heasman, Senior VM from Misselfridge, Sarah Walsh, Oasis Buying Director, Aradia Crockett Freelance Stylist,  Jamique Campbell from IPR public relations and jewellery designer and blogger Fred Butler. Victoria talked through each of the industry experts on their success stories, tips and advice for all us budding fashion girls in the audience.

Picture courtesy of company.co.uk

Admittedly I felt a bit old when some of the girls in the audience started asking Uni choice related questions. I wanted to pipe up and go, 'I know, been there, done that!' and thought, should I be here? So I put up my hand straight away in hope to ask a question for all us graduates out there (also to secretly get noticed). I always remember being told to ALWAYS ask questions, its one of the easiest ways to stand out, show your passionate and confident.

So what did I ask? "Iv'e just graduated and been noticing a lot of entry level positions in PR are asking for 1 year or more experience. I've done about 5 months of work experience and live outside London so can't really afford to do any more. When is enough, enough? and should I go for these jobs despite not having a full years experience?" Or something like that...

After, I thought I must sound a bitter graduate in which me and Steph laughed over afterwards but I believe it was a really important question and was something I was adamant to get some industry views on. Victoria had already touched on how people who can't afford to come to London can go about getting valuable work experience which I thought was an excellent point to cover, so I was glad I could cover this for graduating students.

The panel mainly agreed that this is not something they have come across and basically said I shouldn't be phased and to go for it no matter what, which I guess was like a big hug and telling me, you are doing ok! Which honestly, was just what I needed.

It was great listening to the experts advice and I thought I'd share with you some of the top things I thought were the best pieces of advice:

• Always find out a name to send your letter to and make it personal ' I love this shoot you did or I love this client of yours because of this' 
• Choose people that inspire you.
• You don't have to go to London for experience - approach a local store and suggest starting up a twitter feed, join your student paper or team up with your friends that are MUA or photographers as they will be the future talent.
• Stand out - write a funny, catchy subject line 'Makes great coffee' or even write a hand written note - everything is done by email these days so it would be refreshing.
• Be keen and enthusiastic but not annoying - keep in touch with your connections for future opportunities.
• Work hard and be friendly - it will go a long way.
• Work experience is vital - you can still get a job in journalism from work experience even if your degree wasn't journalism or even if you don't have one.
• If you do go to University, do your homework, look out for ones that have industry experts teaching or guests.
• Social media is a great tool to look out for jobs and opportunities
• Manage up - go with solutions not problems
• Fashion isn't as glamorous as you think - you need to get down with the dirty first.

Afterwards there was the opportunity to mingle with the guest pannel in the bar which unfortunately we had to miss. I was pretty gutted about this as I love networking but if we hadn't have left when we did we would have missed the last trains home! Ideally we should have stayed the night in London but with us both working lots recently we failed to plan. A failure to plan = plan to fail. Dammit.

Overall the night was a huge success and a great help to all us fashion hopefuls. Steph and I agreed that for us it was really mainly inspirational and comforting to know that we are doing everything we can and are on the right track. I loved being part of the night and look - even managed to make into a photo on the Company website (cream blazer with an engaging look into the question at hand - cringe!). 

Picture courtesy of company.co.uk

Great night, thank you Company! xx

BeautyFriday: Review: Tesco Make Up wipes.

I had been recommended Tesco facial wipes by a friend from University not only because of their extremely cheap price tag (99p) but because of their excellent ability to remove make up. Admittedly it was the cucumber range but these Sensitive Cleansing Wipe bad boys do just as good.

tesco.co.uk

I know face wipes are extremely frowned upon, or so it seems, but they are so handy and so commonly used its worth the review. Due to my often busy schedule I am a sucker for them and surely taking off your make up with anything is better than not at all. (Unless it is some sort of corroding acid!)

I am not a fan of soggy versions as you know from my post on Johnsons wipes but these are warming on me. The wipes are so soft and remove your make up instantly, even tough mascara after a few fiddles with your eyelashes. They are bordering on the wet side but the moisture soon soaks into your skin and doesn't leave you feeling greasey like other products I have tried.

They smell soft, are kind to the skin and don't leave me red raw from scrubbing. Just as it says on the tin - or packet in this case. I always buy Sensitive skin friendly products and am so pleased when they work, the worst thing is blotchy skin.

I tried the cucumber ones a while ago and remember being relatively pleased but due to it being some time ago do not want to review on my foggy memory.

At 99p for 25 wipes from many Tesco stores and online, I say - 4 stars! Hurrah! Go get it girls.

Wednesday Wants: Graduation

Hello! I'm back and what a better day to come back to than a Wednesday and my Wednesday want post! Sincerely apologise for the absence again but now everything is settled with my family  after two shock hospital check ins, I am back to blogging.

This Wednesday I am wanting... a Graduation outfit! Next week I will be receiving my certificate for my 2:1 in my degree and I am doing some mad, last minute shopping for a suitable outfit. For some reason I am finding it hard. I want something smart yet comfortable, that isn't going to be too cold for this time of the year but fashionable (I did do a fashion course so got to live up to expectations.) Its got to be able to go underneath my graduation gown and I have got to be able to totter across the stage. I am not tooo bad in walking in heels but am insistent I wear them as flats make me look young, small and casual. I am going to be going for a nice meal afterwards so have put these ideas together for some inspiration. Thoughts? Anyone else graduating this time of year or got any tips on what they wore to theirs?

Katie xx

Graduation Look 3 by katie-constable featuring closed toe wedges

I'm sorry

Hello, I am sorry I havn't been blogging recently but had a unfortunate family circumstance tied in with a busy schedule. I have started writing again so will be back soon but hope you can appreciate sometimes life throws unexpected things at us and we can't always fulfil what we set out to date.

I am gutted it has been a while as I really wanted to prove I could do this blogging thing but I havn't given up, just taking a break.

Be back soon xx

Diary of an Intern: Never knowingly undersold.

Last week I had the joy of doing a weeks work experience with the John Lewis press office. This came about after not long finishing uni in May and sending out lots of emails to get some much needed work experience for my CV. The only spot they had was in October in which I accepted despite hoping to be employed by then (ha we can all dream) Since May I have done a few other placements but I was still adamant I wanted to stay committed to this week with John Lewis due it being a company with such a renowned reputation on the high street. I am so glad I did. Here is why....

Photo from http://www.global-blue.com/brands/john-lewis/

First impressions count. 

From day one everything was easy with John Lewis. Even as early as May I was given a complete break down - what I would get paid, where I would go, what to wear and what time I would be there. I didn't even need to part with my cash with going for an interview. Ok, so it was more 'work experience' than an internship which requires less responsibilities and expectations from you as an individual but everything seemed so straight forward and more informative than anything I had done before. Being paid completely for travel too was a revelation. Only living about an hour out of London on a fast train doesn't seem too bad but when my ticket is just under £50 a time it really means a lot when company's appreciate you are a student and help you out. I even got £10 a day for food which was so amazing. ( I am not that fat but you know, if I got hungry...) The whole organisation was a complete breath of fresh air compared to many other places I have been. Even then I sensed something great  was brewing.

A week before or so I emailed my contact to confirm everything was still going ahead, again, a lovely email confirming times, address'. Could it really be this easy?

What's next - what to wear? This is always a tricky one. In fashion PR companies have a real casual approach to uniform which my contact explained yet asked if I was to be at their Oxford Street store to wear black trousers. Knowing John Lewis as a very respected and smart brand I didn't wanna push the boundaries too much on my first day, after all, first impressions count. For this reason I would always suggest dressing much smarter on your first day until you have sussed the scene out. Pretty sure I went with a simple black skirt, lace blouse with a casual/smart black blazer and my studded ballerinas. Nothing  screaming AW 12 catwalk but I think appropriate (especially considering 6 am wake up calls).

When greeted I was welcomed by Vikki who was to be, you could say, my mentor. She is the Press Assistant at the Victoria offices and I was so happy to be looked after someone so lovely, warm and welcoming. Throughout my whole experience Vikki was there and made the whole experience what it was. Welcoming me to the team, showing me the offices, explaining procedures, general chit chat; It really helps knowing you have someone to go to who is always happy to help. The worst thing as an intern/work experience is feeling like a nuisance. I always try to use my initiative as much as I can but sometimes, you just have to ask and feeling comfortable is important! Having someone who is generally interested in you is an added bonus. I have had some experiences where things that I consider basic manners or chit chat such as 'how was your weekend?' is ignored. Vikki really was lovely at this; asking about my course, what I want to do now graduated and offering advice whenever I needed it. I do have to say, all the team were so friendly and really made me feel at home. Even the guys in the canteen offered help to me which really blew me away -  I am used to being ignored!. All John Lewis staff are partners in the business and I really believe this shows as there is a real 'team work' feel to the staff. So far? So good!

Photo from http://www.flickr.com/photos/stephenpoole/5076428866/

"Now this, I thought, THIS is what work experience/ internships should be about."

To do list.

My first day included a meeting. YES! A MEETING! Having never been invited to a staff meeting before this was exciting and quite frankly felt like a royal invitation (me? to a meeting?). Being able to see and hear the whole department - home, fashion, internal communications etc (25 people in total) talk about their duties, to do lists for the weeks really gave me an insight in how everything comes together and the work that goes in. I took notes and typed these up later which were distributed to the team for reference, a job that Vikki normally does. Now this, I thought, THIS is what work experience/ internships should be about.

My other office duties included organising the sample cupboard (my expertise), updating the best of press board in the staff canteen ( which was like heaven on earth - YUM!), updating contact lists, filing the daily newspapers and writing up AVE highlight reports (this is how much coverage would have been in advertising). I also got the chance to create  a small press release and a media alert based on a theme to be sent out to journalists. This is a visual piece with a brief description to capture journalists attention and provoke ideas in hope to get some coverage. I did mine on Movember and the press release on board games for Christmas which will look great on my CV. I then helped prepare a few goodie bags for a Trend Update press event and welcomed Journalists when they arrived by taking their coats. This was a great opportunity to show my social skills and communicate with industry professionals - my five minutes of fame you could say. I managed to watch the presentation too which was presented by two Home Buyers that explained the main trends for S/S. The room was decorated beautifully with wooden table tops, big glass ornaments and flowers. This was so interesting and another great insight into the world of PR at John Lewis.

"My five minutes of fame I guess you could say"

For two days of my work experience I was at the Oxford Street store with the press team there. This was where all the product calls took place by a girl called Lauren and some external PR girls from a company called Rain communications who work on the fashion side with John Lewis. Lauren was again lovely showing me around the floors, the canteen and coming to the canteen with me. Can I point out, I have no quams with walking and sitting in canteens by myself, I am used to it and it doesn't phase me and.I think this is why it made the whole gesture so much more endearing. These two days included a lot of going up and down the escalators returning products tot he shop floor. I will admit, this was a bit daunting and believe it or not - exhausting! I don't know how Lauren copes by herself. Sample management is kind of becoming my forte through work experience yet it is always interesting to see how different companies carry out the procedure.

Photo from http://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/style/articles/2012-10/17/john-lewis-grooming-man-sanctuary-london

When it came to my last day I really was gutted to be leaving and wish I could have stayed longer. The office already had a long term intern there so this was unfortunately not an option for me. I did have conversation about returning later this year or early next year for another week though as I really want to continue a relationship with the team and company. ( Yes, ok, I want a job! Is that a crime?)

After being 'the Intern' for some time now, things really have started to blur, drag and get a bit samesy but this experience really helped put the fire back in my belly and the spring in my step. Short and sweet but so worth it. John Lewis seems like a fantastic company to work for, a place that really appreciates their employees and staff that really care about making it the best it can be. I would highly recommend getting in touch with the company if you are looking for some experience in high street. I cannot speak for other departments but my experience was so positive. I knew where I stood and there was a mutual respect where I wasn't taking advantage of. I was there 930 - 5 and not a minute over unless I insisted.

As a thank you I got the team this cookie.  I wanted to give something memorable as for me, the experience was just that.

Any regrets? Just one... I wish I had took more photos but hey, we live and learn. ( And didn't wanna break any company rules!) Over and out,

Katie xxx

Beauty Friday: Rate and slate

Today I am rummaging through my cupboards again to review some of my loves and not so favourite beauty products.

First up is Batiste Lace Dry Shampoo. To begin with, all their products are a god send for that day you just haven't got time to wash you hair because beauty sleep was just too important. Spraying this on, your hair goes a bit of a dusty closet grey but brush it through with your comb and it reduces greasey shine for a healthier look.  The only problem I have with these products is the funny feeling it leaves on your hair when you run your fingers through - a sort of silky soft but dry reminiscent on your finger tips. I always tend to use this just before the day I need to wash it as even though it gives you an extra day I always feel I need to definitely wash it the day after as I can't go any longer. The scent for this one reminds me of rose so lovely and feminine 7/10

Toni and Guy Glamour Firm pocket hair spray. L-O-V-E this hair spray. Having thick, heavy hair, my curls drop when I have styled my fro and this extra firm range from Tony Guy is my god send, keeping my hair in tack all day! It is easily brush through-able with maybe a slight tacky feeling after but for me that is not a deal breaker. This pocket size is perfect for my handbag for any touch ups on the go. Boots are always doing special deals on Toni and Guy so keep your eye out, I highly recommend this product.  9/10

My name and shame this week is Johnson face wipes for normal skin. My mum constantly uses these and I tend to use them too but after having a break from them whilst using my Simple face wipes  I am reminded why I tried something different. Even though soft to your skin when removing your make up I instantly feel drenched. The wipes are so wet with moisture it leaves me feeling quite greasy and really lives up to the stories I hear of wipes dehydrating your skin. If you have a beauty routine after wipes you might be ok but if you are a bit lazy like me and use wipes quickly before bed I think these wouldn't help your skin - I always feel like I need to rinse my face afterwards! I have also tried the dry skin range but have found not much difference. I will give good points to the soft wipes and give it extra ticks for sensitive skin as I never feel irritated by the smell or moisture but for me, too soggy! 3/10

Anyone else got any reviews on their best and worst products? Tried any of the ones above?

Have a beautiful friday,

Katie xxx

Wednesday wants #3

Apologies for the absence on my Beauty Friday spot but hopefully this will make up for it. I really want to update my make up bag since reading more beauty blogs and picked up on these brands as some favourites. I never spend that much on beauty products but after being really good with my wages this month, I may just take the leap and invest.

Think some of my wants this week will also be perfect for the party season due to their deep shades and glitter tones. What do you think? What is hot on your want list this week?

Katie xxx

Wednesday wants by katie-constable featuring benefit cosmetics

Sunday Summary: Spending splurges #6

Hello everyone, how are you all coping with the winter weather? All I have seen the last week or two is rain, rain and more rain! Given me lots of chances to write some blog posts though. What have you all been doing?

This is another addition to my spending splurges series backtracked from some birthday spending. Once again, I took to Missguided. Updating their New In section at least every week I am constantly hooked by their fresh designs, multiple colour waves in my favourite styles and the affordable price tags.

So, what have I brought?

The first is this 'Trudy Peplum Cross Dress' which I had on my 'want list' since their AW press day that I helped out with. I had been thinking about investing in a new LBD and this one ticked all the boxes as well as a little bit of glamour  Great silhouette, on trend peplum, sheer sleeve and glitter crosses - check, check, check and check! I haven't had chance to wear it out yet but I think it is going to be fab for Christmas and New year.

Trudy peplum Cross dress £29.99

Next on my order was this Susann double cross vest. If you haven't noticed, I am loving the cross trend. I should stop, like really. I need to learn to not get so obsessed with a trend but I just can't help it, I am sold! I have heard a few people think its weird for people to wear religious symbols when they aren't really religious but personally I think that is a very weak argument. Symbols are not so black and white as they used to be and carries less meaning, it is a fashion statement not a political or religious message. I hope this doesn't offend anyone as truth is I am vaguely religious myself so am not meaning to be rude, I just mean that people shouldn't take the whole cross or symbol thing so literally.  ANYWAY, this was  brought on a bit of a whim and I was contemplating returning it but I actually really like the khaki colour, it seems such a wearable colour for winter.

My necklace is from Outfit (I think Missselfridge) and my studded ballerinas are from Next which are my pride an joy! I had been hunting for some for ages and finally found these. Mainly velvet they are actually pretty sturdy for Ballerinas and I feel they completely lift any outfit. They are hurting at the moment as I think they need some wearing in but I am so pleased as I live in ballerinas. I wore this outfit to watch Michael Mcintyre at the NIA in Birmingham which was a birthday present from my boyfriend. I was debating what to wear - whether to go dressed up or casual but decided to lean more towards casual due to having to walk to the place and sitting down for the whole show. What do you think?

Necklace: Outfit, Top: Missguided, Jeans: Next Shoes: Next

Who else has been shopping recently? Share the crime with those who understand ;)

Katie xx

Wednesday wants

Hi Everyone!

Sorry this is posted quite late tonight but I started my new internship last week (details to come in a post soon) so am working a six day week along side my part time job so as you can imagine, I am pretty hectic and feeling the affects.

Anyway, better late than never, check out what I am wanting this week with my weekly Wednesday Want post below. Trying to be good with my  wages this month but we will see how long that lasts! What do you think? :)

Read further for my why I want these items...

1 Bio Oil - Really want to try this out to see if it makes much difference, I have heard good things. Is £19.99 a lot does anyone know? I am going to try see if running helps tone me up and eases out any lumps and bumps but I do want to try this out at some point. I found it around the £10 mark online but don't fancy buying beauty products off Ebay just yet!

2&3 Bracelets - Ok, so I will let you into a secret - it is Claire's Accessories I am doing my internship at the moment so sorry for the plug! If I am honest, I've always associated Claire's as a teen and younger girl brand due to spending endless weekends blowing my pocket money here when I was eight. But I will admit, since spending time at their head office in Birmingham I have been enlightened - they have so much cool stuff and I love these bracelets! Really getting into the cross and wooden jewellery trend so will be snapping these up when I get a chance. My new high street secret. Shhh!

4. Fell in love with this nail pot after seeing someone tweet Barry M about it. I have to agree with Tash Piggot (the girl who tweeted it) I have always been on the fence with glitter pots as again, reminds me of my childhood days, but this pot is such a solid glitter with a wicked colour palett of red blue and white, I am swayed!

5. H&M shops always put me off - I can never shop in store. I don't know what it is but I never come out with bargains like other people and this makes me frustrated. I am a lazy shopper and maybe I just don't have patience to dig into my local one. Found this beaut of a top online though and love the country esque theme ( Very Carolynne Poole from X Factor right? New trend?). This colour is my latest craze too so tick and tick.

What are you adding to your want list this week?

Katie xxx

Sunday Summary: Spending splurges #5

Part 5- are you ready? Writing this all up I can't actually believe how much I spent. I think its safe to say I will be keeping a long 'I want' list these next few months to save my bank balance any more severe dents.

I brought this contrast studded shirt from Missguided after really getting into the buttoned up shirt look. I can tend to be a bit safe with my outfits despite loving more edgier looks. I felt this shirt pushes me gently to that slightly edgier style. Ok so it's hardly anything to most people but when you get stuck in your own style for a while it can be a bit daunting to try something out of your comfort zone. I felt this was a subtle way of making my style a bit more interesting without scaring myself off and feeling all ‘awkward turtle’. Missguided do this in loads of different colour waves but white and black is so wearable so is why I chose this one. Despite coming out quite crystal white in my photos the colour is a bit more off white and to be honest didn't bide well with a cami underneath, I think i'll brave just a bra underneath so not to ruin it.

Contrast Studded Shirt, Missguided, £24.99

I love the stud detail on the cuffs and collar, so simple yet so effective. They aren't the best quality but for a quick fashion fix I think it does the job nicely. At £24.99 with 10% discount for students I think its a pretty good price compared to some other high street labels.

Perfect for drinks out teamed with black skinnys/ black metallic leggings and heels I hope to get a lot of wear out of this in the Christmas season.

I think these Dorna scallop edge pink shorts (also from Missguided) go with this really well. They add some brightness to my winter 'going out' wardrobe'. I will be honest, they were an impulse buy to go with the studded shirt; I just saw them and loved the hot pink and the scalloped edge but I am starting to find impulse buys to be the best - I always end up getting more wear out of them! Not only have I had an unhealthy obsession with shorts but as mentioned before, they are comfortable and so wearable for day or night. They are a bit bright for me for day wear but I thought I might brave it as it would be a great statement look.

Contrast studded shirt £24.99. Dorna scallop pink shorts £17.99. Both from Missguided.co.uk

I don't know if these pieces are still available online. I had a quick look and I couldn't see them I am afraid butI did buy them back in June so it is unlikely - I just havn't had chance to blog about them. Sorry about that, I just thought they were still worth a post as I love the outfit. However, do not fear! Missguided have loads of similar pieces  in stock. They do a lot of styles in numerous colour waves so if you like what I brought it is still worth a look. I have a few more spending splurges posts on Missguided, I just love the affordable fashion, so watch out if you enjoyed this!

For now, happy shopping xx

Beauty Favourite Fridays

I decided to pull together some favourites, new and old after rummaging through my cupboards the other day.

1. The first is the Rapid dry for nails from Elegant Touch. Always being in a rush, this helps dry my nails instantly. It really does what it says on the tin give or take a few seconds. I forgot how much I love this until the other morning when I spontaneously decided to change my nail colour before heading to work. The only down side to this is it leaves a greasy finish but this simply can be washed off by washing your hands. It quotes it has Vitamin E in it which I can only guess is an added bonus. I brought this a while ago but I am sure it can be found in any local Superdrug or Boots.

2. Simple exfoliating facial wipes. I brought these from Superdrug on offer at £3. I wanted to try something different to my usual brand and I am glad I did. At first they felt a bit rough and a lot dryer to other wipes I have used. I wasn't sure if it was even getting off my make up! I actually prefer the dryer wipes as some wipes just make me feel greasy and soaked through. I know a lot of people say wipes are bad for your skin as they dry it out but I think they are always handy to have as its better to take off your make up than to leave it on. I get such bad skin if I forget to take my make up off. The wipes are quite rough like I said but this is obviously for the exfoliating and it really feels like your skin is getting a good clean. I have noticed my skin to be so much softer and now I rarely forget to take off my make up because I am looking forward to using these wipes and seeing some positive results.

3.Benefit BAD gal Lash. This is a small tester one I got from Cosmopolitans Benefit gifting they did a few months back but I have a full size one I have had for a while. This one however is the perfect size for my handbag or for packing for nights away. The brush is quite dry which I like and you feel the suction as you pull it out the tube. I never find it has any mascara dripping and its the best mascara I have found that helps your lashes seem larger without sticking together or feeling too heavy. You can buy this from Boots for £16.50 which is slightly more expensive than your typical Rimmel or Max factor but is definitely worth the investment.

4. Adore Eay de Toilette from Next. Working at Next more since finishing University I am finding myself trying out all their perfumes. I brought this one which isn't a huge seller but when I encourage  people to try it they love it. A lot of customers describe it to be very light. Its flowery but isn't over whelming and apparently has 'golden amber accords' which I think helps balance it out from being too floral. This size is 30ml at £6.50 but it also comes in 100ml for £10. Perfect price and perfect size for your handbag. I am wearing this every day at the moment and saving my more expensive ones for special ocassions. A lot of people love Next perfumes for their price tag and often claim they smell so similar to many branded bottles. I had one customer the other day who told me she is allergic to all branded ones and Next perfumes are the only ones that don't irritate her! Must be something good inside them. Diamond, Pink and Gold seem to be huge favourites. Out of the three I would recommend Diamond and Gold. Diamond smells similar to Dior Cherie yet only comes in at about £6 a bottle. 

I would encourage anyone to go and part your cash with these, if you do let me know how you get on :)

Katie xxxx

Wednesday Wants

Hello and welcome to the debut of my Wednesday Wants posts. As I mentioned in my previous post I know a lot of people do wishlists on a Wednesday due to the irresistible alliteration opportunity but I am jumping on the bandwagon. I feel this sort of posts really fits in with my blog (hence name and tagline) so I hope you aren't sighing too much and enjoy what I pick. I am going to look into developing this more but for now...

These winter days and heavy rain is getting me all excited for winter. I am not a fan of my hair going all frizzy and the switch between the cold and then the heat in the shops where you get all stressed having to unlayer yourself, but this year for some reason that isn't my first thoughts. I am embracing the frosty weather with images of cuddling up with hot chocolate, movies and celebrating Christmas and New Year (gulp, I said it!)

So, in good fashionata fashion I start shopping for my AW wardrobe. Chunky nits, winter coats and evening outfits in deep shades. I love this Topshop parker but it's pricey for my budget but hopefully this chunky knit Next jumper will keep me snuggly without being itchy. I love these purple and plum shades at the moment and well my cross obsession returns with these leggins to break up some dull outfits. Thoughts?

How you all planning to keep warm? Any new purchases or bringing out old items?

Katie xxx

Wishlist by katie-constable featuring peplum tops

Internship: Styling for Stuff magazine

IT'S OUT!!!

Hello everyone! I am so excited to share this post with you! This is the October issue I helped out stylist Charlotte Adsett with during some work experience. Charlotte contacted me through the girls at Boudoir PR passing on my details to her. I helped Charlotte out for a few days in the big city and managed to assist her  on this shoot for Stuff magazine on my final day. I have never done any sort of styling work before so was really exciting to get to know a different part of the fashion industry. If you don't know Charlotte she does a lot of celebrity styling with the likes of Pixie Lott and Kelly Brook and can also be found at Stylist Pick as an A list stylist. 

After meeting over a scrummy lunch at Leon's down Baker Street I went about taking back returns before heading to a Press evening at Little Mistress. It was a great chance for me to meet everyone from Eden Can Can who held the event, get to know the brand (which I admit, I had never heard of before), meet other stylists and munch on some scrummy canapes and sip champagne! For those who don't know Little Mistress, the brand is known for it's glamourous occassion wear. The brand is for day or night wear, but is ideal for the party scene. I would compare the brand to Lipsy due to its prom style dresses and sparkly detail. Little Mistress have worked with the likes of the The Only Way is Essex girls; Billie and Sam Faires from TOWIE  who have their own collection with the brand called 'Little Mistress by Minnies'.

My final day (the whole point of this post) was assisting this shoot for Stuff magazine. My duties included prepping the clothes Charlotte had called in: hanging, steaming and packing it all away and the end of the shoot. It was set in a location house which someone actually lives in but rents it out for photo shoots or  likewise. I was told Stuff are trying to take a more fashion forward approach to their shoots, this one was based around the theme of block colour. It was great to see it all come together and to learn the impact lighting makes due to this being the focal point of the shoot. The photographer was David Venni, HMU, Emma White Turle, Art Director Alex Fanning and the clothes were from a variety of brands including Lipsy, American Apparel, Marc Jacobs and more. The model was Bruna from Nevs who was incredibly gorgeous! Definitely made me feel frumpy.

We were treated to a yummy lunch and everyone was very friendly. I wasn't a huge contributor to this shoot but it was a fantastic opportunity to learn a lot about how it all comes together. I was so excited when I saw this issue in the shops and to be able to go I WAS THERE. I DID THAT! I IRONED THOSE CLOTHES!  Ha ha you may be laughing at me but it does mean so much seeing something you helped with in national press in national shops!



























What do you think of the shoot? Has anyone had any internship luck recently? Any features or work to share? We all have to celebrate our achievements and stick together!

Katie xxx

Spending splurges: #4 Jewellery special

Yes, I am still rattling through some recent spending splurges despite currently being on a lock down. To be honest something quite miraculous has happened which makes the post just a tad more interesting. I have spent a hefty amount of my recent wages on jewellery. Yes I said it, jewellery. I am serious. For all those of you are a bit confused by this statement, staring at the screen doing an unimpressed 'yer and?' sort of look -this is big news. Let me explain.

I may have mentioned this before but I normally avoid parting with my cash on accessories due to the cost. I love necklaces, rings mostly and bracelets. I AM a magpie to all things shiny and sparkly but I just find the cost of it unjustifiable. I am a clothes junkie and would much rather that £15 go towards a new top than a sparkly chain or similar. Fact is I am being completely ignorant to fashion. We all know accessories can transform an outfit and this is a big lesson I have learnt recently. And I've gone crazy. Ok, so a little confession, all these purchases have been influenced by red sale stickers helping ease the pain but nevertheless, I have invested and my accessory hooks are bulging by the day. So take a look and let me know what you think. You may notice a few from my previous posts but I have put them all together to highlight my spending splurge. I am officially over the jewellery virgin label. Someone pass me a gold medal!

Dorothy Perkins - £1

Miss Selfridge/ Outfit

Outfit

Topshop

Dolly Bow Bow

Topshop

MissSelfridge/Outfit set of 4

Dorothy Perkins/ Outfit - set of  4

Topshop (this one tarnished after a couple of wears)

Next

River Island £5

  Dolly Bow Bow, Next.

I am really getting into the 'cross' trend and have about 3 cross rings in total now. I have been wearing the Outfit multi cross chain quite a lot, I love the turquoise and white crosses that have been added to the typical gold chain and the funnel shape is really flattering on plain tops. My biggest disappointment was the layered wire Topshop ring. Ok, so its a cheapy but I was still shocked with it tarnishing after just a few wears.  I think I can just about get away with wearing it and maybe flog it as a new jewellery colour? 

Whats your favourite from my collection? Any jewellery magpies out there?

Katie xxx