Asos Wishlistin'

August 24, 2015, 10:08 am

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As always, just click on the image to be taken straight through!

SO. I haven't done an ASOS wishlist in a while and, since my saved items is currently overflowing, I thought now would be an apt time to do one. Particularly because there's no better time to shop than on a grey, rainy Monday. I've been naughty and bought a couple of bits myself this week - this jumpsuit and these shoes to be precise - uh, and these boots. I'm an animal - but I'm off to Malta in a couple of weeks and need (yes, NEED, Mum) some holiday clothes, so that's how I'm justifying that one. Plus, I had a gift card. Ok, no. No I didn't, I'm just saying that so you won't think less of me. There's a lot going on there - 36 items in total - so scroll slow, scroll good, and let me know what your favourite bits are.

Also, a few people have asked about what skincare I use so, although my skincare routine is neither exciting nor long, I shall certainly put together a little post on it for you before I go away!

Amy

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Shooting with ASOS & Juicy Couture

August 27, 2015, 1:19 am

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ASOS sequin shift dress& platform heels (sold out, similar)

Photographer: Gary Didsbury | Stylist: Luci Ellis

Well, howdy! You might remember me talking a little while back about a shoot I did with ASOS... WELL, I'm soooopa excited to finally be able to share the results with you! I thought I'd mix in a few BTS alongside the final shots to mix it up, keep it fresh, keep it real, y'know. I should probably tell you what the shoot was all about, shouldn't I? It's to celebrate the launch of the new ASOS x Juicy Couture hub, which in turn is to celebrate the launch of the new Juicy 'I am Juicy Couture' fragrance, so me, Dunya and Em were styled up in some shamazing party gear before doing our shoots in three separate locations, mine being The Hawksmoor Bar in London. I tell you what, I have a new found respect for models; pretending to laugh with and toast to an imaginary friend all whilst trying to remember which position minimises your bingo wing is no easy feat. Especially when there's a team of twenty watching. Everyone truly was lovely though, which made it a whole lot easier.. The fact that I was drinking cocktails as part of the shoot might have helped as well. So big, fat thanks to ASOS for getting me involved in such a fun shoot, and I hope you guys likey these shots!

Amy

Shop the Post:

New in

August 28, 2015, 9:26 am

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ASOS suede ankle boots (also in black)

Herrrrrlo. Today's post is just a quickie because I've just realised it's a week until I go to Malta and the only exercise I've done is lift a fork to my mouth, so I need to go and spend my night/the next 5 years in the gym - can you buy a Victoria's Secret body on ebay? Let me know - but I wanted to share my new babies with you first. Beautiful, aren't they? I actually originally bought them in black because I needed a black pair that were high enough to trick people into thinking I'm of normal human height but that were also comfy on my hobbit feet (how to make yourself sound incredibly sexy in one sentence, take note). As soon as I realised that these ticked both boxes I knew it wasn't a question of IF I should get them in burgundy as well but WHEN. And the answer was, well, immediately. Spoken like a true shopaholic, ey?

Amy

Back to Belted

August 31, 2015, 3:18 am

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TOPSHOP belted trousers | H&M linen vest | ASOS lace-up platforms (now in sale) | RAY BAN sunglasses | KATE OF ARCADIA bag

Helllllo bank holiday Monday! I'm just back from a trip to Glasgow where I spent the weekend hanging about with Paolo Nutini. Yes, there was a stage and 5000 other people between us but let's not focus on that. As you may or may not know, Paolo has been my long-term boyfriend since I was about 14, so by the time he came back and did Stand by Me as an encore - one of my favourite songs, which leads me to think it was definitely done for my benefit - I was a puddle of emotion on the floor. Also; Iron Sky to a backdrop of fireworks. Beautiful.

This outfit was one of my many colourful ones from last week. Although, if you look a little bit closer there is a hint of blue on my nails so it's not all grey. Speaking of which, you have no idea the amount of self-restraint it took not to call this post 50 Shades of Grey.

Amy

Photo Diary: A Trip to Brighton With Etsy

September 2, 2015, 9:17 am

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TOPSHOP trousers& crop jumper

SO, as you may have spotted over on Instagram or Twitter (or I might even have told you here? My memory's mush), myself and a bunch of my favourite blogging ladies - Kate, Hannah, Liv, Dunya, Lucy, Carrie and Kristabel - headed down to Brighton a couple of weeks ago to visit some of the many sellers Etsy works with and get to know them a little better/see behind the scenes. Today I present to you a photo diary from our whirlwind 48 hours. 

- WARNING: lengthy post ahead; cup of tea highly recommended -

Me and Kate travelled the day before, so that we had ample time to get ourselves down to London from the land of haggis and kilts, and stayed at the Hoxton Holburn hotel, which just so happens to be one of my favourite hotels in London. From the mahoosive mirror (very handy for outfit photos, or so you'll soon find out) to the big, beautiful bed to the lovely restaurant downstairs, it's got it all. 

CLAUDIE PIERLOT stripe top | MISSGUIDED leather skirt

H&M slogan tee | TOPSHOP belted trousers

After checking in and having a little mooch around (code for 'massive cup of tea in bed'), we headed along to visit the lovely Nat and Sarah at Etsy HQ which, as you can imagine, was filled to the brim with amazing trinkets and treasures. Are you ready? Feast your eyes on THIS:

Lovely, innit? And yes, that is indeed clouds on the ceiling. After that, me and Kate headed back to Hubbard and Bell for some grub and a chat before heading up to bed for an early night before the big trip to B-Town the next day. You can't hold us down.

After catching up with all the lavly ladies at Victoria station, we hip-hop-hibbity-hopped on the train to Brighton and then continued to chat very, very loudly. Which I think all the other passengers really enjoyed. As soon as we arrived in The Land of Pastel Doors, we headed straight to Silo, which is somewhere I'd been meaning to visit since hearing about their compost machine and zero waste policy from my brother. The menu is really unique and, um, verging on off-putting at times (do I fancy the sound of curd? I just don't know) but when it actually comes out it all works incredibly well together so just take the plunge and order something if you're not sure and I guarantee it'll delight your taste buds and leave you feeling all healthy and self-righteous. Make sure you try the Kombucha green tea while you're at it!

Oh hey there!You guessed it, after Silo we headed along to get our craft on at the Lick Warehouse, where Claire Knill had set up this amazing temporary workspace filled with mini-studios and workshops for the Etsy sellers for the day. And then? Then we got our craft awwwwn.

Sidenote: Lick also run Lick yoga, band nights and Lick School here so keep an eye our for those if you live in Brighton!

And there's the lovely Etsy bunch there! (I do apologise to poor Toby for only having a snap where his head is blurred)

As you can see in the first photo, we made dresses out of petals with Georgie St Clair (such a nice thing to do when you want to switch off and take some time out from the stresses and joys of adulthood) and then got crafty with Karli from Designosaur (check them out for some seriously cool dino-inspired jewelz) and got down to making some dinosaur necklaces and bracelets. I had on the most ridiculous false nails so it took me ten times longer than everybody else to make mine.. I'm not going to ask outright for a medal but if you want to send me one then that's fine. After that we had time to wander and watch each of the sellers at work; from Toby at I Like Cats, whose shop is filled with - you guessed it - cats cats and more cats, and features some of the most amazing hand-painted cards and prints you'll ever see (check out his desk above with the furby and Spice Girls pics, nostalgia in a photo), to Sarah at Rock Cakes with her beautiful precious metal jewellery (and some really sweet badges), to Jam and Ali at Hello Dodo, who do some really lovely hand-pulled prints and stationary (me and Hannah had a pop at making our own and, I have to say, so much fun), to Kate at OhSomeday, who makes really unique silver and brass jewellery - check out this constellation necklace, to Claire and her wonderful world of laser-cut jewellery at Cat-a-Cake Creations, to Ellen at B Millinery who makes some freakin' fab retro inspired hats and headpieces.

After that we got stuck into some delicious fro-yo; it'd be rude not to, being in the Lick Warehouses and all. I unfortunately got carried away and forgot that it wasn't an all you can eat competition and left with a very swollen belly. It really was such a lovely, inspiring afternoon getting to see each individual seller do their thing. Please do make sure and check out the sellers linked above, every one of them stocks the most amazingly sassy and unique products that you wouldn't find anywhere on the high street, maybe even keep a couple tucked away in your bookmarks for Christmas (sorry to mention the C-word, I'll go now).

After an afternoon of eatin' and craftin', we headed back to The Artist Residence which is, in a word, uh-mazin'. It's all recently been done up; each and every room is different, with many being hand-painted by local artists. Mine is the colourful, psychedelic one at the top (Jimi Hendrix not included).

After admiring each others rooms, we headed back to our rooms for some chill time before cocktails and tea, where I may or may not have gotten carried away watched The Simpsons. I definitely did.

After a cocktail in the cosy cocktail shack (top photo), we headed along the beach front - look how NICE it is at night, Brighton I love you - to The New Club for dinner, which has the most amazing Brooklyn-esque interiors and the FOOD, oh the food. Tom, the chef, was very understanding of my, um, disability (fine, gluten allergy) and made me an off-menu starter and main, both of which were b-e-a-utiful. Anything with pistachio and fish in gets a thumbs up from me. If you're planning on heading their yourself (which I'd recommend you do fo' sho) and can digest gluten like a normal person then I'd try their Dirty Burger, which has been cooking up a storm in reviews.

The next morning we got up bright and early (ish) and headed down for breakfast. Again, Artist's Residence served up some major interior inspo. Once we were washed and dressed and had downed sufficient amounts of tea (me), we headed along Brighton beach towards Dowse, a little boutique which stocks a whole lot of Etsy goodies.

No, I don't know these people. Yes, I took a photo of them anyway. Does this make me a pervert? A pervert for a good photo opportunity, maybe.

Dowse in all its finest!

After that we just had a little wander through Brighton, admiring the bunting and graffiti in equal measures (the graffiti above is actually some of my favourite I've ever seen, so good) and then headed along to Eat Naked where the most amazing packed lunch was waiting for us. Can you believe those beautiful sons of bitches above are all vegan and gluten/dairy free? Madness. It's the perfect place to pick up lunch on the go if you have intolerances or just like good old healthy munch! Seriously, seriously tasty stuff.

And sadly that brings us to the end of our Brighton trip! I hope you guys enjoyed it and picked up some recommendations (and didn't run out of tea halfway through), and thank you so much again to Etsy for organising such an inspiring, sea-front fun fest with all my favourite ladies.

Amy

Lookbook | 3 Looks in 3 Minutes

September 6, 2015, 11:25 am

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Happy Sundayyyy! I hope your day's been spent slobbing out on the sofa surrounded by nachos and chocolate. Last week me and Rob filmed a little lookbook down in Glasgow which - you MAY have guessed by the title - is 3 different looks in 3 minutes. Well, 3 looks in 3.01 minutes if you want to split hairs. I've linked everything I'm wearing in the description box below the video so if you see something you like it's alll in there.

I'm off to get my nacho on.

Amy

Meet the Newbies

September 7, 2015, 12:59 am

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ZARA dress (old, similar& similar) | ALL SAINTS leather jacket | ASOS suede ankle boots (also in black) | RAY BAN sunglasses | ASPINAL OF LONDON Marylebone mini bag

Well, I did it. I noticed it was on sale, so I took the plunge and bought the 1.8mm lens for my Olympus and I'm so freakin' happy I did. I've always used my little Olympus baby for travel and lifestyle and my Canon for outfits, but, with the Canon being an absolute beast to lug about, this little guy's made life a whole lot easier for when I'm on the go. Plus the quality actually seems to be on par with my Canon (or maybe.. better? But don't tell it I said that). 

Another newbie is this little tote from Aspinal, which is so beautiful that I still don't know whether to love it or be jealous of it. The size was the real winner for me though; I carry about everything and anything in my handbag - from emergency snacks to 5 variations of nude lipstick to doggy treats - and this was actually big enough to fit all my shit in and more, Mary Poppins style. In all honesty, I did have two glasses cases, a purse, a spare lens and other bits and bobs in there and it all fit very snugly indeed. 

Well, that's us off to Malta this evening so I shall bid thee adieu. It's not really adieu though because I've got lots of content scheduled for when I'm away (but if you could pretend that you missed me when I get back for real that'd be great). I've actually ventured off the beaten track for a few posts to try out something new (it's not nudes) so lemme me know if you likey!

Amy

3 Healthy (& Gluten Free!) Sweet Treats

September 9, 2015, 2:02 am

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Soooo, today I’ve got something a little bit different for you, something that’s been in the making for a while (you’ll find out why that’s punny soon. Ok, it’s because I’ve been MAKING cakes. Ok, no, it’s not funny at all).

 Welcome to sweetaholics anonymous. My name’s Amy and unfortunately I have a massive, massive sweet tooth. Even more unfortunate is the fact that, because I’m so short, I put on weight quicker than you can say, ‘doughball’. Seriously, a couple of brownies down and I’ll be looking like a circle by the end of the week. So I took it upon myself a couple of months ago to find some healthy but tasty alternatives for those nights when my sweet tooth’s a-craving some badness (every night). Since the start of the year I’ve been baking a couple of times a week, but only recently - after a couple of you asked in tweets and comments - did I think to share what I’d been making. I’ve made a pact with myself to share a new recipe with you every Wednesday, so today I thought I’d start with three healthy sweet treats. 

The best part is that, as with pretty much all the recipes I’ll be sharing - they’re all gluten free (and often dairy free and vegan too!) so everyone can enjoy! A lot of people groan when they hear that, imagining being served up a cold carrot on a plate, and I can see why, with how bladdy awful some of the ready-made GF treats are, but I’ve spent a long, long time trying to find recipes that are as tasty as the real thing, so I can promise you only goodness lies ahead. The only thing I would say with GF goodies is that they do get dry much quicker, so will generally only last a few days. The ingredients can be a little more expensive initially as well, so I’d recommend buying on Amazon (or even in Holland & Barratt so you can pick up points and vouchers as you shop), but once they’re in your cupboard you’ll find they last quite a while.

 Date & Hazelnut balls
I make different variations on bounce balls All. The. Time. They’re the perfect on the go snack and are packed full of nutrients too. I’ll share more along the way, but for today I thought I’d go for these cacoa and coconut badboys. (Makes 10 balls)

200g pitted dates
100g ground almonds
8 tbsp cacoa powder
1 tsp maca
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp cinnamon
Pinch of sea salt
10 hazelnuts
Dessicated coconut to sprinkle

1) Place dates in a bowl of boiling water, cover and leave for 20 minutes until dates have softened
2) Drain the dates and pop them in a blender/food processor along with your almonds, cacoa powder, maca, honey, cinnamon and sea salt. Blend until the ingredients are fully mixed and form a soft dough.
3) Remove your mixture and divide it into 10 (things are about to get messy, prepare for some sticky hands). Flatten each piece with your hand and pop a hazelnut in the middle, then roll the mixture back around it.
4) Pour some dessicated coconut on a plate and roll your balls around in it until they're covered in a fine layer of coconut.
5) Pop in the fridge for half an hour to set and then, hey presto, they're ready to eat!

 Date & Oat bars So these ones aren’t quite as exciting, but they’re an amazing alternative to the cereal bars you find in supermarkets which are often pumped full of sugar. They’re perfect as a snack or for breakfast on the go! (makes around 12 slices)

200g pitted dates
125g gluten free oats
2 tbsp coconut oil
 2 tbsp maple syrup
1/3 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
2 tsp cinnamon
Pinch of sea salt
Handful banana chips

1) Preheat your oven to 180c and line your baking tray/grease with coconut oil
2) Add your dates to a pan filled with 250ml water and bring to a steady simmer. Leave to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until a thick paste forms.
3) Add the rest of your ingredients (bar the banana chips) to the paste and stir until completely combined.
4) Pop your mixture into the baking tray and spread it evenly across. Put in the oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
5) Once cool (around 15 minutes), remove them from the tin and cut into slices. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature and you're good to go!

 Pistachio Fudge

I've saved the best till last, inspired by a recipe I found over on The Naturalista. This is honestly one of the tastiest treats I’ve ever eaten, and that’s including all the unhealthy gluten-y goodness I’ve eaten in my life. Big claim, eh? The best way I can describe the taste is like the shell of a Magnum Alemendrada ice cream. Excited? Me too. Let’s go. An amazing snack for a cosy night in with a film, plus they’re quite rich so you’ll be satisfied after one or two chunks. That's what I tell myself, anyway. 

40g Cashew butter (I like Meridian)

2 tbsp almond butter
1/2 cup cacoa powder

80g shelled pistachio nuts, roughly chopped

45g maple syrup

70ml coconut oil

1 tsp vanilla essence

Pinch of himalayan salt

1) Pop your nut butter and coconut oil in a blender/food processor and blend well. Once mixed, add in your vanilla essence and blend again.
2) Transfer to a mixing bowl and slowly sieve in the cacoa powder and mix. Once you've got rid of all the lumps, stir in your maple syrup and, lastly, your pistachio chunks and salt.
3) Line a small baking tin with cling-film, spoon your mix in and flatten with the back of a spoon. Pop it in the fridge for half an hour to let it set, then remove from the dish and cut into chunks.
4) Eat! Make sure and keep them in the fridge as they have a very low melting point (I learned this the hard way).

I hope you enjoyed this post! I've got lots more recipes up my sleeve so will have another one ready for you next Wednesday. Unless, of course, you hated this post.. in which case this is really awkward.

Amy

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The Love (jumpsuit) of my Life

September 6, 2015, 12:13 pm

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ASOS jumpsuit

IT'S HERE, IT'S FINALLY HERE. I waited SO long for this jumpsuit so come back in stock in my size, spending many a morning looking misty-eyed at my 'saved items' basket, willing it to appear, so when it finally did I wasn't quite sure if it was a mirage or not. Ok, I got carried away with my story-telling there, but I was very happy when it finally appeared in my life. I put it on literally as soon as it arrived, so the beady eyed among you might actually have spotted it in my latest lookbook. It's supposed to be mid-shin length - small people problems - but it sits nearer ankle length on me. I quite like it that way though. Means I don't have to shave my legs.

Amy

6 Books You Need to Add to Your Reading List

September 7, 2015, 3:58 pm

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As we’re off to Malta next week (have I mentioned that yet? Oh, only a million times?), and the first thing I think of when it comes to holiday is which books to take with me, I decided to share some of my favourite reads this year with you. It actually started off as three books, then five, before I had to control myself and draw the line at six. What can I say, I love my books. I fly quite often and made a pact with myself at the beginning of the year to stop buying shitty magazines and to start buying more books, so most of these were picked up at the airport based entirely on the cover art. That’s right, generally I buy my books based on the way they look and 97% of the time I’m right; sometimes you CAN judge a book by its cover, kids. There’s a mix of genres in there so hopefully there’s something for everyone! 

 The Girl on The Train 
by S J Watson

This one was actually given to me as a gift from my old flatmate who knows all too well how much I love a good thriller. So, basic plotline: it’s about a girl on a train – what do you MEAN you saw that one coming? – who takes the same journey back and forward every day. Each day she passes a couple who she begins to give names, personalities and lives to from afar, but on one fateful journey, sees something from the train that will change her life forever. DUN DUN DUUUUN. And that’s all I'm telling you because I don't want to risk giving anything away. It kind of reminded me of Before I go to Sleep (Best. Book. Ever. If you haven’t you haven’t read it then get on it but don’t, whatever you do, make the mistake of watching the film) with all its twists and turns. It’s not quite as well written and I did guess the ending about halfway through – not that I like to brag – but it is as suspense-filled and will have you shouting, ’NO!’ more than once throughout. The perfect page turner!

 Elizabeth is Missing 
by Emma Healey

Um, again a title that gives you a bit of a clue as to what’s going on in the book. It's another gripping one as well that’ll have you pointing fingers at everyone and anyone as the story unfolds. I managed to guess the ending about halfway through again, but my middle name is Sherlock so that can only be expected*. It's one of the rare books I've ever read that has a pensioner as the protagonist which made for a pleasant change too. Basically Maud is an elderly lady whose memory isn't what is used to be, but every morning she wakes up and knows one thing: her friend Elizabeth is missing. Follow Maud as she tries to solve the disappearance of her friend, whilst dredging up a long lost mystery from the past along the way.

 A Man Called Ove 
by Frederik Backman

One of my greatest finds this year, if not ever. Frederik Backman is a seriously, seriously talented writer, which begs me to ask: what are they putting in the water in Sweden and where can I get some? It actually took me a while to get into, for the first couple of chapters I was completely confused as to how I felt about it, but soon fell in love with his style of writing and his weird but perfect metaphors, 'Ove looks at him a little as if Mirsad has stopped him in a pedestrianised arcade, dressed up as a pirate and asked him to guess under which of the three teacups he's hidden the silver cin'. It’s witty, straight to the point - thanks to Ove's bluntness - laugh out loud funny (you’ll be that nutter on the train making everyone unconfortable, ‘oh god, are they laughing because their book’s funny or because they’re just mental’) with spot-on critiques of modern society woven throughout. It’s nailed that perfect balance between humour and sadness that’s so friggin' hard to achieve; towards the end I was crying to hard that Lilo had to come over and give me a nudge to make sure I wasn’t dying. Bravo Backman, you wonderful man.

 My Grandmother Sends her Regards and Apologies 
by Frederik Backman

 Oh what’s that? Yes, another Frederick Backman… who saw that coming? Heh. This one follows Elsa on a treasure hunt, set by her Granny, that will change the life of her, and those around her, forever. Elsa, by the way, is seriously the most rockin’ 7 year old ever and one of my favourite protagonists in any novel I've read. It’s so well written and imaginative, and will leave you wanting a Granny like Elsa's - and an Uncle like Alf - by the end of it. Again, it’s very, very witty, funny and sad at times too (more tears were shed, more mascara had to be bought). Entirely lovely and magical.

 Yes Please
by Amy Poehler

 I was so excited to read this after LOL’ing my way through Tina Fey’s 'Bossypants' (another important recommendation there. Seriously, read it) and, although completely different to what I was expecting, I still loved it all the same. It’s not so much a light, funny read as an unofficial self-help book, filled with life lessons from the wise owl that is Madame Poehler. It’s honest, heartfelt and a little bit scandalous at times (Amy P reminiscing about being on E, guhhh) but focuses mainly on what she's learned in life so far, dropping little nuggets of wisdom on us throughout, rather than focusing on her life in the limelight; 'saying “yes” doesn’t mean I don’t know how to say no, and saying “please” doesn’t mean I am waiting for permission'. I can guarantee it'll leave you inspired by her mindset and wanting her to either be your best friend or to adopt you.

 Spoiled Brats 
by Simon Rich

Now this one is seriously weird, and not like anything I’ve ever read before. One of the reasons being that it’s a collection of short stories, which isn’t normally my kind of thing. Like I say, it really is very, very odd so leave your sensible brain at the door and it’ll have you laughing out loud a LOT. Each short story – some weirder than others (I'm looking at you, Gifted) – comments on an aspect of modern society and are always so spot on that, once you’ve stopped laughing, will stay with you for a long time. I still think now about the guy from the pickle story months on from reading it.

Does anyone have any shamazing recommendations of their own? I need me some new reads!

Amy

* It's not really. It's not even close to Sherlock

4 Healthy (and gluten free!) Breakfast Ideas

September 16, 2015, 9:36 pm

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Well, it's a Wednesday. Which - after my promise last week - means one thing. It's recipe time. 

It’s easy to get into a routine with breakfast; you wake up, you’re in a rush and you just want some coco pops and a mug of cwaffee the size of your head. However, being the first meal of the day and the one that’s going to kick-start your metabolism, it’s important to mix thangs up and get some good old nutrients in your belly. So, today I thought I’d share my findings with you for those days when you’re lacking inspiration. The best part? They can all be made in less than 10 minutes! Schwing. If you wanna be really good, I’d recommend drinking a cup of hot water with lemon when you wake up in the morning (about 15-20 minutes before you eat) to detoxify and get that metabolism going. Don't I sound like Gillian McKieth? Next thing you know I'll be examining your poo. 

 Banana Pancakes Pancakes are amazing; you love 'um, I love 'um, we all freakin love ‘um, but sadly they’re not the healthiest option to be opting for daily (or the most gluten free, sob). Here we have the perfect low-calorie, gluten & dairy free alternative to when that pancake cravin’ kicks in AND they’re super easy to make. I don’t want to trick you into thinking they taste exactly like pancakes, because that would be a lie and my Mum always told me not to lie, but they should hit the spot - and if you drizzle them with honey/a little bit of Nutella you’d never know the difference. So, here we go (this recipe'll get you about 8 small pancakes):

• 1 Ripe Banana
• 2 Eggs
• 1/8 teaspoon baking soda (optional but will make them a little fluffier)

1) Chop your banana into chunks and pop it in a bowl. Give it a good mash with a fork until there are no large lumps left and it looks kind of like custard. At this point, mix in any light extras that tickle your pickle (such as the baking soda, a little salt, cocoa powder, vanilla essence, etc)
2) Crack your eggs in a separate mug and give them a good whisk before pouring into your mashed banana mix. Give it a good stir until the two have combined to form a runny, yellow liquid.
3) Heat your frying pan/griddle on a medium heat with a little oil (I use coconut oil, if you're feeling naughty you could use a little butter) and, once it's hot, pop your batter on. I'd recommend 2-3 tablespoons per pancake.
4) Cook the first side for around a minute and, once the bottom has started to go golden (check by carefully lifting an edge), you can flip them using a thin spatula. It's worth noting that they'll still be quite liquid-y on top so turn them carefully, and with a thin spatula you an easily slip in underneath. If you'd like chocolate chips in your pancakes, then sprinkle those over the batter as the first side is cooking so they'll set a before you flip.
5) Cook for a further 30 seconds to a minute, but keep a close eye on them as they burn fast and they burn good. Once they're done, pop them on a plate and continue with the process! They do get cold quite quickly, so if you're making more than one batch then keep them hot on a plate in the oven.
6) Now for the fun part; the toppings. I like a handful of strawberries and blueberries, a drizzle of honey and a tiiiiiny sprinkle of coconut sugar, but you can really add whatever you want (such is the beauty of pancakes). These badboys are also lovely with chopped walnuts!
7) Eat aaaand enjoy.

Smoothie Smoothies are a great one if you've had a heavy meal the night before and don't feel too hungry, as they’re packed full of nutrients whilst still being nice and light. The joy of smoothies: you can literally pop ANYTHING in a blender, so get experimenting. I’ve popped one of my favourite recipes below for now, which tastes like peanut butter jelly and will let you to re-live all your childhood dreams. Whilst getting some protein in you too, of course. In the future I'll loop back and do a green smoothie recipe because, although not as tasty (sorry, kids) it's good try and squeeze one in once a week. If you don’t fancy it for breakfast then pop it in somewhere as a snack, as they're filled to the brim with nutrition and good for - here comes the d word again - detoxifying and cleansing. If you’re someone who’s short of time in the morning then make your smoothie the night before and pop it in the fridge in a takeaway cup!

•    1 Kiwi
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1/4 cup 0% Greek yoghurt
• 1 tbsp GF oats
• Handful of blueberries
• 6 strawberries
• Handful of raspberries
• 1 heaped tbsp natural crunchy peanut butter (I like Meridian)
• 1 medium banana
• Squeeze of honey

1) Chop up your banana and mix in the blender/food processor with the milk, oats and fruit.
2) Add in the honey and greek yoghurt and blend until completely mixed.
2) Pop it in a cup and sprinkle a little flaxseed/macha on top for extra brownie points. You're good to go!

 Yoghurt with Pine Nuts & Berries This is actually one of my favourite breakfasts, it’s tasty and light but will keep you nice and full thanks to our little friend pine nut. So simple it doesn't really need a recipe, but I'll talk you through my yoghurt procedure anyway:

• 3-4 heaped tbsp 0% Greek Yoghurt
• Handful of berries/chopped fruit (I like raspberries, blueberries & strawberries)
• Squeeze of Honey
• Small handful of pinenuts
• Sprinkle of flaxseed (optional)

1) Simply pop your yoghurt in a bowl and drizzle some honey on top before giving it a good stir through.
2) Pop your pine nuts in and give it a good mix (that way they disappear into the yoghurt and you’ll get crunchy little surprises throughout)
3) Sprinkle on a handful of blueberries, raspberries and sliced strawberries (it’s also really nice with grapes, too) and top with a little dusting of flaxseed – great for getting some Omega-3 in you – and you’re good to go! Another tasty option is using a tablespoonful of crunchy almond or peanut butter in place of the pine nuts and honey. 

 Poached Eggs and spinach 

 This is my go-to choice when I’m out for breakfast but I’d never really considered making it at home until recently, always dismissing poached eggs as being ‘difficult to make’. Oh how wrong I was. They’re a great way to start the day because a) they keep you full right up until lunch time because they're chock full of protein (no need to make that mid-morning dive for a Kit Kat) and b) they’re one of the healthiest of the egg family because there's no need to cook them in oil/add any butter etc. I like to pair mine with fish (normally salmon or tuna, but they’re also really nice with mackerel) but you can mix it up and pop the eggs on toast with mashed avocado and chilli flakes. Yum alert.

• 2 Eggs
• 2-3 tsp vinegar
• Handful of spinach
• Sprinkle of pumpkin seeds

1) Fill a pan with water (about 3/4 full) and bring to the boil before pouring in your vinegar and reducing a steady simmer.
2) Crack your eggs individually into a mug and give them a slight swirl with a fork until the white wraps around the yolk. Slowwwwly pour your egg into the pan and leave to cook for 3-4 minutes (depending on how runny you like them).
3) Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and dab dry with some kitchen roll. Then sit your eggs on a bed of spinach, season with salt & pepper and sprinkle some pumpkin seeds over. Add your chosen side (fish, avocado, etc) and enjoy!

So that's today's recipe post for you, I hope you liked it! Next week's is another sweet treat, so get your tastebuds at the ready..

Amy

August Photo Diary

September 18, 2015, 2:26 pm

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Bonjour, bonjour! At the end of each month I always find myself with a bunch of photos that I never really do anything with (I won't lie, I really do take photos of everything, there’s one of a pile of leaves in there... I don’t know either), so I thought I’d share a couple! I’m not going to lie, most of them revolve around food.

 

My brother came up to stay with us for a few weeks and it was so warm that we actually got to sit outside. IN SCOTLAND. Crazy, I know. If anyone would like the movie rights to this story then please do get in touch.

As you may know by my gushing tweets on Twitter, me and Rob popped down to Glasgow to see Paolo Nutini play at Bellahouston Park at the end of last month. I thought it was going to be awkward what with Rob being my boyfriend and Paolo Nutini being my husband, but thankfully there were no fisticuffs over me. Disappointing, really. The next day we went to Hanoi Bike Shop (which I've been meaning to go to forever) for some Lychee cocktails and grub with Rob's sista sista.

I had a couple of days down in London for meetings/projects and what not mid-month, so I squeezed in another few food stops with my bruv (for two people who live at opposite ends of the country we sure have managed to see an awful lot of one another as of late). First up was Nama, which is in Notting Hill and serves up a whole host of raw, gluten free food. Quite pricey for a lunch but well worth it! Next up was Pont St restaurant over at Pont St hotel which was seriously, seriously amazing. They had a kick-ass menu and even managed to make a GF crispy squid for me. Definitely one to check out!

Amy

My Furry Leopard Dream

September 21, 2015, 3:03 am

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TOPSHOP furry leopard skirt | URBAN OUTFITTERS stripe top (similar) | SENSO glitter ankle boots | ASPINAL OF LONDON Marylebone mini 

I've been long overdue a successful Topshop trip; the past couple of times I've been in I haven't really seen anything I've absolutely loved and - you know what they say - you wait for a bus and then fifty come all at once. Yes, I went in last week once we'd got back from Malta (amazing btw, will blog alllll about it soon) and basically just bought everything. My card was like 'NO', I was like 'YES'. It's happening. One of my favourite things I picked up was this little leopard number as I can't resist a) a good a-line mini or b) anything that involves leopard print. I picked up a few other bits and bobs which I've linked below, coming soon to an outfit post near you.

Amy

Here's what else was in my horribly bulging bag...

A Quick Daily Make-up Routine

September 22, 2015, 10:31 am

≫ Next: 1 Jacket, 3 Ways

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BENEFIT Roller lash mascara

BENEFIT Dandelion blush

BENEFIT Porefessional balm

BENEFIT Dandelion lipgloss / MAC Glam V

BENEFIT instant brow pencil / TOM FORD brow sculpting kit in medium

TOPSHOP chameleon highlighter

ESTEE LAUDER Double Wear foundation in 1W2

A few of you were asking which products I used when I shared this photo over on my Instaschmam last night so I thought I'd list 'um here for ease! Almost errthang on my face is from Benefit, with a little bit of Tom Ford and Estee Lauder thrown in. Oh, and the new Topshop chameleon highlighter which is a big glittery pot of shamazingness. I'm putting together a proper post on my daily make up routine soon, but I hope this is a little helpful for now!

Amy

1 Jacket, 3 Ways

September 29, 2015, 10:47 am

≫ Next: Healthy, gluten-free banana bread slices

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Styling three ways is always a tough cookie because I am, unashamedly, a creature of habit and tend to inch slowly towards my black jeans every time, hoping that no one will notice. However, this H&M badboy turned out to be quite easy to do three ways because it's so versatile. Ha-lle-Lu-jah. It's nice and tailored which, being at the petitest end of the petite scale (a depressing admission), I always look for because I find it stops you looking like you're drowning under a mountain of material. Grey was a good colour for me too because it goes with everything, including my favourite 'colour', um, black. So, without further  ado, here are the three looks (if you want to insert your own drumroll here you're very welcome to).

LOOK 1
For the first look, yes, ok, I went for jeans but it's the ONLY TIME, OK. I popped a faux fur collar on over the jacket, which I always find is an easy way to transform a jacket or coat/make it instantly warmer - and dug my good old thigh high boots out the wardrobe to finish the outfit off with because, let's face it, Autumn is well and truly here.

LOOK 2

The second look I'm trying hard not to title 'Fifty Shades of Grey' but the urge is there and it's very, very strong. I picked up this dress in H&M a few months back in both grey and black - if it ain't broke, buy it twice.. I think that's how that phrase goes, anyway -  and although I'd normally wear it quite dressed up I thought I'd go for a more casual look this time, pairing it and the jacket with my favourite Senso glittery boots and a slouchy bag.

LOOK 3

The thigh high boots make a return for look number three but the jeans don't ('thank god!', I hear you sigh). There's always a risk of looking a bit Pretty Woman-esque when pairing thigh highs with a leather mini, so I went to the entire opposite end of the scale on my top half with a prim and proper polo neck and, of course, the jacket layered over the top.

H&M grey tailored jacket, £39.99 | Photos by B.J. Leibovitz

 So there we have it, three different looks, one jacket (and only one involving jeans - a cause for celebration if I ever heard one). Let me know which one's your favourite if there's a particular one that tickles your pickle, but try and do it out of earshot of the other outfits because I don't want them to get offended. If you're on the lookout for a new coat or jacket before Jack Frost hits I couldn't recommend H&M more; I've had a little preview of some of the A/W goodies coming in and there's some absolute bangers in there.

Yes I said bangers. 

Amy

Introducing the new outerwear collection from H&M. From weather-proof tailored coats to classic biker jackets, make sure your outerwear makes a style statement this AW15. 

Shop the new collection now: http://hm.info/10ll2
  #HMJackets

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by H&M via Mode Media.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of H&M

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Healthy, gluten-free banana bread slices

October 4, 2015, 3:13 am

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Roll up, roll up for another baking post! I know I said I'd have one for you every Wednesday, and the more eagle eyed of the lot of you may have noticed that a) there wasn't one last week and b) it is in fact a Sunday, but life got in the way a bit recently and I've been a little shit - shall we say - so I do apologise for its lateness. I've got a corker to make up for it though; I ruddy love a good banana bread, and what we have here is just that. A healthy, gluten free one, more to the point. Howdya like them apples (...bananas)?

Makes about 15 mini slices

2 Ripe Bananas (mashed)

2 Large Eggs

2 cups Ground Almond

1/2 cup coconut oil

1/4 cup chopped walnuts

2tsp Baking Powder

1 tsp Cinnamon
1/2 tsp Vanilla Essence

Pinch of Salt
Handful of Banana Chips

Maple Syrup to drizzle

1) Grease a baking tray and set the over to 180 degrees (fan oven).

2) Pop your dry ingredients - ground almonds, baking powder, walnuts, salt and cinnamon - together in a bowl and mix until combined.
3) In a separate bowl, mix your bananas, eggs, vanilla essence and coconut oil until combined in a thick custard-like paste. Slowly add in the dry ingredients, stirring slowly and evenly.
4) Once combined, pop your mix in the baking tray, smooth over with the back of a spoon and place some banana chips on top before baking for 25 minutes. At the 25 minute mark, remove from the oven and drizzle with maple syrup before baking for a further 5-8 minutes until golden brown

And there we have it! Slice as you like; I normally choose to go for 15 mini slices because it feels like you have more (Bruce Bogtrotter reporting for duty). For being so healthy, they truly are delicious...

.... Just ask Lilo.

Amy

New Hair! Linton & Mac Review

October 6, 2015, 9:17 am

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Linton & Mac

As you may have noticed if you follow me over on Instagram, I recently went for the chop! A haircut I mean, not a vasectomy. I actually went in with the intention of getting a trim but Jaye (who was doing my hair) had the most bangin' bob and I, being the impressionable thing that I am, was like, 'CUT ALL MY HAIR OFF'. It's not quite as short as hers because I wasn't feeling brave enough, but it's a really lovely longer bob that's much easier to maintain than my longer locks. Colour-wise I went a bit darker for Autumn (nothing like a good cliche) and am really happy with the overall result.  The salon itself is absolutely beautiful; from the copper mirrors to the cacti dotted everywhere to the bathroom floor made of copper coins, it feels like your dream Pinterest board come to life. They also have a styling bar set up and for £25 you can pop in to get dolled up for a night out (heads up, they'll be doing a Halloween special so if you're not so good at Halloween costumes/do's then it's one to keep in mind!) as well as a nail salon. Oh, and the biggest selection of Windle & Moodie products ever.. Not so good for the bank balance.

Amy

ASOS A/W Wishlistin'

October 10, 2015, 1:42 am

≫ Next: 3 of the Best Healthy Brownie Recipes

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It's been a while since my last ASOS wishlist (ish) and my 'saved items' is growing daily, so I thought it was about time for another. I really do love 'em all (there's nothing I love more than A/W shopping, it's just so satisfying and cosy) but my particular favourites are the star studded boots, the black denim shirt and the suede gilet (actual heaven). Oh, and that metal trim dress is more adorable than a bunny in a sailor's costume. Let me know what yours are!

Amy

3 of the Best Healthy Brownie Recipes

October 11, 2015, 1:39 am

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So. After last week I've decided to shift my recipe posts to a Sunday instead of a Wednesday. I figured people are more likely to bake on a Sunday (especially now that Bake Off's finished, hold me) and that way you can keep some sweet treats aside for snacks throughout the week too. That's the plan anyway, but if you eat them all on the Sunday in one sitting that's ok too. I, um, I have a... friend who does that. Today's post is one that's been in the making for a while and one that I've been VERY excited about. Ever since I found out I was gluten intolerant, brownies are one of the things I've missed most so, over the past few weeks I've been trying out lots of healthy brownies recipes with the aim of finding the perfect one to report back with. And, what would you know, I found three! All very different in their own way. Like I've said before, some of the ingredients are a little more expensive than your usual cake-making go-to's but, once you get into healthy baking, you'll realise you use them time and time again so they're well worth it (especially if you buy in bulk on Amazon and save yourself some dolla). So, here's what happened when I went on a brownie making spree..

Deliciously Ella's Sweet Potato Brownies

I've heard really mixed things about these badboys but wanted to try them for myself and, I have to say, was so, so surprised at how good they were. Sweet potato just doesn't seem like it should belong in a brownie but, mixed with dates, it makes this lovely creamy mix that could almost trick your palette into believing they're naughty. I added some dark chocolate chips just before I popped them in the oven (I got scared about how healthy they were, ok) which really was a tasty addition but I'm now confident they'd be lovely without. These are also lovely with a little almond butter spread on top!

Makes 10 brownies

•  2 medium to large sweet potatoes (600g)
• 2/3 of a cup of ground almonds (80g)
• 1/2 a cup of buckwheat or brown rice flour (100g)
• 14 medjool dates
• 4 tablespoons of raw cacao
• 3 tablespoons of pure maple syrup
• A pinch of salt

1. Start by pre-heating the oven to 180C, then peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into chunks and place into a steamer for about  twenty minutes, until they become really soft.
2. Once they are perfectly soft and beginning to fall apart remove them and add them to a food processor with the pitted dates – this will form one of the sweetest, creamiest, most delicious mixes ever!
3. Put the remaining ingredients into a bowl, before mixing in the sweet potato date combination. Stir well.
4. Place into a lined baking dish and cook for about twenty minutes, until you can pierce the brownie cake with a fork bringing it out dry. Remove the tray and allow it to cool for about ten minutes – this is really important as it needs this time to stick together! Remove the brownies from the tray, leaving it another few minutes before cutting them into squares – then dig in and enjoy!

The Detox Kitchen's Beetroot Brownies

Beetroot!? BEETROOT? I hear you ask. But, I tell you, it works. The mix is heavenly so this is definitely a healthy recipe that'll leave you licking the bowl clean (sorry for that horrible mental image). These do come out a little dry compared to the other two so I'd either make some of the icing from the below recipe for them OR get your nutella/almond butter at the ready. 

Makes about 12 brownies

• 150g peeled raw beetroot
• 2 eggs
• 150g runny honey
• Pinch of salt
• 100g gluten free flour
• 50g pure cacao powder
• 1 tsp baking powder

1. Cut the beetroot in half and put it in a glass bowl and cover with cling film. Put it in the microwave for 10 minutes.
2. Meanwhile put eggs, honey and salt in a food mixer and mix for 5 minutes.
3. Weigh out all dry ingredients and sieve. Combine well in a bowl.
4. Once the beetroot has cooked, blitz in a magimix and add to the food mixer with dry ingredients. Mix well and pour into a lined baking tray. Bake for 30 minutes at 170C. Cool and cut.
5.  Enjoy without a guilty conscience! 

The Naturalista's Chickpea and Almond Blondies

My absolute favourite of the lot, I can't actually put into words how good these are. The mixture actually tastes like proper blondie batter (I had to make more because I ate so much of it, and I am NOT ashamed) and the icing just finishes it off perfectly. Avocado and chickpea, eh? Who'da thunk it. If you make one of these recipes, make it this one.

Makes about 28 blondies

Base:

• 1 cup soaked and boiled chickpeas (equivalent to 1 store-bought can, drained and rinsed)
• 1/2 cup almond butter
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tsp organic vanilla extract or seeds from 1 vanilla pod, pulverised
• 1 tsp cinnamon (or more to taste)
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp bicarbonate of soda

Icing:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 3 tbsp coconut oil
• 1/2 cup deglet noir or medjool dates
• 3 tbsp raw cacao powder
• Sea salt to season
• Cinnamon to sprinkle

1. Preheat the oven to 170 degrees and grease or line a baking tray with parchment.
2. If you’re using canned chickpeas, be sure to rinse them thoroughly first. Place the chickpeas in a blender or food processor along with the rest of the ingredients and pulse until the mixture is a thick doughy consistency. Have a taste and see if you want a little more maple, cinnamon or salt. Remember the flavours will mellow with cooking so don’t be afraid to add more.
3. Pour the mixture into the baking dish and place in the oven for 15-20 minutes (depending on the thickness of your tray). They are ready when they are a little golden on top and you can stick a knife in and bring it out clean, but if you overdo it they will dry out and softer is always better. Leave them to cool while you prepare the icing.
4. In a blender, whizz all the ingredients except the cinnamon until smooth and creamy. Once the base has cooled, spread it thickly over the top and dust with cinnamon. Cut into squares and keep in the fridge until serving (Keeps for one day).

Amy

Little Page Boy

October 12, 2015, 11:10 am

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JAEGER pea coat | ASOS frill sleeve shirt& distressed jeans | PRIMARK stripe top | DUNE leopard ankle boots | ASPINAL black Marylebone mini bag

Today's look is a strange fusion of Alexa Chung and a little posh boy (think Liz Hurley's son Damian). In my head I looked like the former, in reality I look like the latter. Well, a posh little boy with an exquisite taste in footwear. I saw this shirt on my main girl crush Megan a few weeks ago and knew my life wouldn't be the same until the shirt was in my possession. Not the exact shirt that was on her back, I'm not quite at that level of fangirl before anybody calls the police. I thought it was going to have a whopper of a price tag thanks to those luxe looking sleeves, so was excited to see it was only £32. What lark! I also treated myself to these jeans that I'd had my eye on for a while and oh boy am I glad I did, it's SO hard to find a good pair of high-waisted mom jeans when you're petite so I actually can't believe how much I've hit the jackpot with these badboys. The search is finally over boys! I paired it with my Jaeger pea coat - one of the best sites out these for a good, sturdy, classically British coat - which I feel especially fond of because it makes me feel like Harry Styles and my leopard boots (which also happen to be a fool-proof conversation starter). 

Anyway, as you may have guessed, that's me back from London after an exciting couple of days. I've got a few fun projects coming up this month (including one with a brand I love so much it hurts) as well as the task of deciding what to go as for Halloween.. I'm trying to convince Rob that there's no more perfect a choice for us than to go as Arnie and Danny DeVito in Twins (me being Danny D of course. Let's face it, I've got the height and I'm sure a bald patch is only a few more stress-filled days away) but it's taking some work. What's everyone else going as? Don't tell me you're not dressing up or I'll vomit.

Amy

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