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