Joanie Clothing

June 12, 2020June 12, 2020 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

One day, about a year ago now I was mindlessly scrolling through Instagram (as you do, what’s with it being 2pm and then all of a sudden it’s 5pm?) and honestly I was getting fed up seeing the same kind of posts, showcasing the same kind of clothing from the same kind of brands. All of a sudden something super quirky and colourful caught my eye. Joanie Clothing’s Instagram had me hooked from the get go! I had seen some fellow bloggers posting about their clothing but honestly hadn’t paid too much attention but now I was in love. I spent ages looking through the website and was in love with how inclusive the brand seemed to be. When I say that I mean it’s not just another brand who caters to slim, fun loving Size 8’s.

The opportunity to be sent some items from them was given to me and I honestly squealed, I was so excited. I knew my following would respond well to this style of clothing, I was a little bigger than I am now at this point and I was always getting asked the best places to shop for clothes for plus size girls that weren’t fugly, basically. While I have been gifted as a PR Product the following items I am going to show you, it by no means my review is tainted. All views are my own and truly wouldn’t be sharing if I didn’t believe in the brand.

I think that it’s so important for brands to cater to all sizes – or at least more sizes than 8 – 12. Joanie Clothing’s sizes range from an 8 to 22, which for a brand that’s online is incredible and they have a comprehensive size guide for anyone who is unsure of what size to get!

I want to showcase some of the items that I have been very lucky to receive, they are constantly being worn and the quality of their clothes is insane.

(All links used are Affiliate Links, which mean I make a small % of money from the sale. AD/PR PRODUCT)

Ringo Abbey Road Jumper, £45

Obsessed with this jumper! It’s light enough that it can be worn tucked into jeans, etc without looking too bulky! Joanie’s jumpers are definitely my favourite thing on the website!

Milicent Polka Dot Shirt Dress, £15 (SALE)

You know what I loved about this dress? Length! Can we have a standing ovation for a super cute dress that has an appropriate length for daytime?! Plus, it’s cute.

May I Want To Ride My Bicycle Tee, £25

I am a Queen obsessive so anything that remotely relates to the band, I gotta own so I was thrilled to receive this tee! It’s so soft to wear and I haven’t had it off me since I got it!

Linda Cable Knit Cardigan, £40

A nude cardigan might sound like a really boring thing to get excited about but honestly, I have been on the hunt for one for AGES. I was so psyched to see this one and it comes in a variety of colours! I may just have to get the yellow and pink one too…

January Frill Neck Polka Dot Tea Dress, £40

Although it looks like I have no waist here – I swear, it’s the way I am sitting – this dress is super flattering! Accentuates in all the right places and again, is a perfect length!

Claudia Cat Embroidered Frill Neck Jumper, £45

SO, cats. I love cats. I want cats. I don’t have cats. So I got this jumper. I am not a crazy cat lady – maybe a wannabe crazy cat lady but either way, this jumper similar to the Abbey Road jumper is so soft and comfortable to wear! Not at all scratchy or itchy and I love it!

Now, here are some items on my wish list! Clothes I can’t stop thinking about that are destined to be in my wardrobe!

Better French Fries Breton Stripe Top, £32

What’s better than a Breton stripe than a Breton stripe with French Fries on it? Want.

Bronte Readers Club Sweatshirt, £38

I’m on a sweater hype right now and I just have visions of me sitting in an idyllic park, reading a book wearing this jumper. Maybe I should expand my fantasies but it sounds like the perfect day!

Didi Beauty School Slogan Baseball Tee, £28

Lucid Space Print Midi Dress, £48

I mean, I love the dresses that I already have and I am OBSESSED with this pattern so that’s reason enough to want it, right?

Barb Sage Green Polka Dot Tea Dress, £45

Alright, so I already have a fair few polka dot dresses BUT this colour is a must for me and it would look super cute hanging next to the others!

I hope you enjoyed looking at my favourite items from Joanie Clothing and you too like me are bored with the same old clothes scrolling through social media then I highly recommend checking them out.

You can find Joanie Clothing on Instagram @joanieclothing and myself over on @cosmetics.junkiee

Speak soon & happy shopping

A x

Must Have Wardrobe Staples – Basics

January 21, 2020January 21, 2020 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

Who else looks at their wardrobe and mutters under their breath (or shouts) ‘I have nothing to wear’? I was the exact same. I used to be very quick to purchase new ‘in fashion’ items that I would have worn once and cast aside almost as quick as I bought it. About a year ago I made a conscious decision to be a smarter shopper when it comes to fashion. I wanted to be able to create something capsule wardrobe like where I can mix and match a lot of my outfits so that I have endless clothing options to wear.

One thing I focused on creating was a colour scheme. I always opt for neutrals and so I have a lot of whites, browns and greys in my wardrobe. I also wear all black everyday for work so this alongside the other colours creates easily combined outfits. That’s not to say that I stop wearing bright colours when I want to but the colourful items I pick are more carefully thought out.

Below I have listed my go to wardrobe items that hopefully will give you some help when it comes to being a smarter shopper!

T Shirts

Topshop Weekend T Shirt White, £10

I honestly have about 6 of these as I wear them so so often. I have them in white, black and charcoal grey. I love to layer necklaces on top of them too to jazz them up a bit.

Shop HERE

Blouses

I am a sucker for a shirt with a collar. It’s a disgrace how many I have that are the same style, honestly! I find them so easy to wear and so it makes them the perfect wardrobe staple. A nice blouse will be one of the only things I will buy each season for example, this season the puff sleeve trend is full steam ahead and so I have bought a few. When this trend dies down I’ll still be able to wear the blouses/shirts layered underneath blazers, etc.

Polonecks

Similarly to blouses, I am addicted to polo necks but I genuinely think this is because if I have a dodgy tan I can always reach for a polo neck. They always look classy and my love for them started when I seen Cameron Diaz rock a white polo in The Holiday with a pair of skinny jeans, heels and an oh so fabulous coat. They are super sophisticated and even though I have a large chest, I can’t help but reach for them on a near daily basis.

Stradivarius Roll Neck Top, £7.99

Shop HERE

Pretty much every store out there has a range of polo necks, I always head to Stradivarius or New Look for the ones I would wear all the time and again, sticking with my colour theme I have them in nude, black and white/cream. I do however have my eye on the Marks & Spencer Pure Cashmere Roll Neck Jumper, £89 – they just feel so so soft and it would be such an investment considering how much I wear them.

New Look Black Ribbed Frill High Neck Top, £7.99

I feel like I wear everything with blazers these days, but these styles of high neck tops are great for under them so that you don’t get too stuffy or sweaty and your blazers are still comfortable to wear!

Shop HERE

Blazers

I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times – blazers are the way forward. A versatile blazer will be your wardrobe’s secret weapon, it will match everything and my favourite thing about them is you can layer over outfits you have already worn to create new outfits. Wear them open, wear them closed with a belt, wear them draped over your shoulders, wear them any way you want and they will always look classy. Speaking from experience you are better buying block colours for your blazers ie. just black, camel, white, etc as you’ll get far more wear out of them. I have made mistakes the past and bought patterned blazers that got no more than 2/3 wears.

Topshop Black Double Breasted Blazer, £49

Shop HERE

Blog post dedicated solely to blazers pending.

Jeans

I feel like there’s been a lot of Topshop spam so far but I like it and that’s where my little short legs can shop easily. As someone with a short leg (28 inch) Topshop is the easiest place for me to purchase jeans to suit. My friend Maria Macfarlane is the Personal Shopper in Topshop, Victoria Square Belfast and she sorted me RIGHT out with a jeans dilemma. For any of you that are local to Belfast, I highly recommend hitting her up – it’s completely free for an appointment and she will help you create a perfect wardrobe while picking things that are perfect for your style and shape!

Topshop Blue Jamie Jeans, £42

Shop HERE

Topshop Pure Black Jamie Jeans, £49

Shop HERE

I had never been one for jeans when I was younger, I always preferred skirts and dresses but since Alexa Chung came floating across the pages of Heat Magazine with her cool and collected style, I had been trying to find THE pair of jeans. Enter Jamie Jeans. I have these in blue and black and with jeans I find I have an endless array of interchangeable outfits. Jeans are one of the only items that it’s deemed socially acceptable to wear on repeat over and over again and these Topshop ones wash and wear so well that it’s well worth the price.

Trousers

When I am not wearing jeans you can find me 90% of the time in cigarette trousers usually paired with a cute pair of boots. Again, I find you’re better opting for block colour or a timeless pattern to see you through endless combinations. Shocker – I usually am wearing black or nude.

H&M Cigarette Trousers, £17.99

I always try and opt for trousers with belt loops as it adds a little something to the garment and a belt ca change up the appearance of an outfit. H&M have a great selection of trousers especially in their workwear area, so comfy and again they wear really well.

New Look High Waist Tapered Trousers, £19.99

I actually have last year’s version of these trousers but they have held up so well they’re still going! It’s hard not to buy them in every colour…

Topshop Black Faux Leather Skinny Trousers, £36

I honestly don’t know how I would get through last minute nights out, dinner dates with the girls, daytime drinking sessions and work without a pair of leather leggings. If you have not yet purchased a pair I highly recommend these as they will change your life. I recently bought these ones after seeing them on India Moon and I have never looked back.

Boots

Two words – Dr Martens. The closest you can get to slippers while looking like a shoe. Once you make it through the fluffy sock wearing stage these shoes will take you anywhere. I swear, I have had all my Dr Martens for years and they look as good as the first day I got them – except my Oxblood Chelsea Boots as honestly, they just about made it back from a Saturday night Limelight excursion.

Dr Martens Jadon Flatform Chunky Boots, £169

These are without a doubt my favourite pair, you can wear them with any outfit I have listed earlier and will always look good. Whether you are opting for a daytime look or evening look – Dr Martens are awesome.

That’s all for now, trying to keep to the basics. Thanks for reading and you can follow me on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.

*some of the links in the post are Affiliate Links which mean if you purchase anything using the link I may make a small commission*

Walk in Wardrobe, Banbridge

October 23, 2019 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

Wow, it has been a hot minute since I sat down. to write something for you all but today I had the most wonderful experience that I just had to write about it.
For those of you who don’t know I am from Northern Ireland and I used to live in a town called Banbridge. Banbridge is home to a stunning little boutique store called Walk in Wardrobe. Owned by a stunning girl called Laura, she and fabulous team are there and have the most amazing array of clothing I have probably ever seen.

I was kindly invited down to have a nosy at what they have to offer in store and I was not expecting to fall in love with so many pieces. I am definitely made for Autumn, especially when it comes to selecting an Autumnal wardrobe so today, I was in my element.

Before I get into anything I wanted to share that the lovely gals over at Walk In Wardrobe gave me a discount code for you guys to use, you can enter ‘CJ15’ at checkout for a limited time only to get 15% off!

Let’s talk about experience first before I get into the stunning clothing, from the second I walked in I was greeted with friendly and inviting hellos. This just sets the tone for the rest of the day as I was waited on hand and foot, I’ve honestly never experienced the depth of interest from someone in a store but Walk in Wardrobe is so much more than a store as I came to realise.

Everything in the store is expertly merchandised and laid out so it’s easy for you to see. On the ground floor lies the majority of the occasion wear so if you’re looking for something for a wedding, christening, etc then it’s perfect! The top floor then is where I fell in love with everything I touched and it’s home to the majority of the casual wear.

I picked a few of my favourite items and placed them on a rail and proceeded to act like a kid in a candy store while trying on such amazing pieces. If you follow me on Instagram then you will probably have seen these already on my stories but I wanted to have somewhere that you can revisit if you want to see them again, plus everything will be linked below the outfit. You can view them below –

Outfit 1

Before I even came into the store I knew I wanted to try out the Black Biker Leather Jacket, £74 as I had heard so many great things about it. I built this outfit based on the leather jacket but the truth is, with a leather jacket you can wear ANYTHING. FYI, this jacket is faux leather.
I picked up the Penny Tan Paperbag Waist Trousers, £59 and they were an instant hit for me, beautiful fabric and really comfy. They were a little snug round the hips and stomach for me, but that was to be expected as I have wide hips! The Heidi White Blouse, £56 was a natural addition to this outfit as honestly, nothing beats a smart crisp white shirt and to liven everything up a bit I couldn’t not try the Leopard Print Heels, £39 – a perfect daytime shoe. The heels are Goldilocksish as they are not too big and not too small.

I jazzed it up with the stunning Savannah Teddy Coat, £219 which I instantly fell in love with, such a soft material and it just screams luxury. This is definitely a piece that you will wear time and time again which makes it worth the money! When buying your items you should always try and remember what your cost per wear will be, and with this it is timeless and your cost minimal per wear.

Just showcasing another way to wear these trousers then, this time opting for the Rachelle Red Polo Neck, £54. This item comes in several shades so if you aren’t rave enough to rock the red there are plenty of options for you. At first when I looked at the price tag I did think to myself, ‘Gosh, £54 for a polo’ but the second that I put it over my head I felt instantly comforted and honestly would have paid more for the polo. This polo is delightfully light so it can be easily tucked in to shorts, skirts, jeans and trousers alike without making you look too bulky on top. I have a larger chest and a thin knit like this is perfect for me.

I had seen the Tina Tan & Red Coat, £179 on the Walk in Wardrobe’s Instagram recently and knew I had to try it out, I though it would be perfect for over these trousers. I was immediately attracted to the colours in the coat as I knew it would go with so much of my wardrobe. Literally any colour of jeans, countless trousers and considering 98% of my wardrobe is camel and black it would have been a good fit for me. I paired this outfit with the cutest White Trainers With Star Detail, £59 for a more dressed down look.

This Cara Mustard Paisley Print Shirt, £49 was one of the first things I spotted when I was in the store and I was hooked. I knew I wanted to pair it with something equally as loud just to make a real impact and so when Roisin showed me this Savannah Mustard Pleated Skirt, £78 I knew it had to combine it with the shirt! You could wear this skirt so many ways however, and with more colour than you think! It would be beautiful carried into Spring/Summer as well with beautiful white jeans, so another key investment piece! I’m a firm believer that you can wear bright pattern shirts for any occasion, whether it’s day drinking with the gals, out for a romantic dinner and you could even dress it down for the office.

The blazer. Let’s discuss this stunning ‘Arabella Green Velvet Blazer’, £89. This is on my Santa List. From the second I put it on OMG I felt so cool! I was with my Dad when he found a green velvet blazer and bought it and I remember thinking ‘oh my God I want my own blazer’ and this is it! It’s such a flattering shape, nipping in perfectly at the waist and has enough detail on it to make it look more expensive that it actually is! For £89 you might want to invest in a classic colour like black but truthfully, this green colour is a statement piece and would be easily worn to jazz up any daytime outfit. The long and short of it is – I want it.
Teamed with another pair of stunning trousers, the ‘Cara Green Paperbag Trousers’, £69 fit perfectly and hugged in just the right way. Again, worn with trainers for a dressed down look but these ‘Cosmopolitan Black & White Trainers’, £49 were my fave! I thought they were so edgy and cool! To keep it light and on the more casual side Roisin grabbed me a super cute cami, the ‘Cherie Stone Animal Print Cami’, £32 but I also wanted to demo how to dress up the trousers as well so I paired with a stunning blouse which you can see below.

You can really see the details in these trousers now and it nips in at the waist. The ‘Savannah Emerald Tie Neck Animal Print Blouse’, £64 is another perfect item for me as someone with a large chest as it has a pussybow detail, which means that you don’t have to deal with buttons popping open. Any chesty ladies out there, definitely get investing in a blouse like this! It’ll change your life!

Another one of my favourite pieces I tried was definitely this ‘Arabella Trench Coat’, £98. I feel like I have said this about every item but this is truly a statement piece, that will last season to season never mind year to year. If I hadn’t already bought a short trench coat recently then this would’ve been going home with me on the bus. A trench coat can be thrown over anything, and I do mean anything. It’s that perfect jacket for when you want something light but don’t want to be too cold, want something dressy without being too dressy, want a casual ‘throw it on ‘ jacket. There is nothing that a trench coat can’t do. This is probably one of my favourite trench coats I have seen for a long time, close second was one from Zara but the length was absurdly long, this is perfect length!
I teamed this up with a beautiful ‘You Are Lovely Scarf’, £29. A lovely camel and reddish tone scarf which is perfect for adding a little pop of colour to your outfit and sits perfectly over the trench coat adding a little something extra. Underneath is the same red polo and Walk in Wardrobe’s ‘Leah Black Bum Lift Skinny Jeans’, £54.

#obsessed with the dress. Roisin, who works in Walk in Wardrobe helped me out so much when I was in store and I asked her to pick out something that she loved that she thought would suit me. As I am a shortie she lifted this stunning dress out, explaining that the slit in the leg will make for a taller slimmer appearance and the faint animal pattern on the dress makes it a little more interesting than just another LBD. Not to mention the puff sleeve, which is pretty cool. Check out the ‘Carla Black Puff Sleeve Dress,’ £259.

Don’t forget discount code that you guys can use, you can enter ‘CJ15’ at checkout for a limited time only to get 15% off!

Thanks so much for reading, I hope you liked the clothes – I am obsessed with them!

Happy Shopping xo

Back to Basics

May 12, 2019May 15, 2019 cosmeticsjunkiee3 Comments

Having a well edited wardrobe gives me some serious joy and today I was sitting looking at my clothing (is it just me that does that?) and I love the wardrobe that I have created over the last few months.

I am used to walking through stores and paying out for exuberant and unique items that are stand out pieces. These are great at the time however they are items that do not last and can’t be worn season to season. Essentially what I decided to do was create a kind of capsule wardrobe for myself. What is a capsule wardrobe you might ask? It is a phrase coined by Susie Faux in the 70s and describes key pieces that you can wear time and time again without them ageing. She describes it as having “2 pairs of trousers, a dress or a skirt, a jacket, a coat, a knit, two pairs of shoes and two bags” that co ordinate in colour and you can mix and match easily. No disrespect to Faux but I probably have at least triple that amount right now with no intention of changing, but the point is that’s how many items it takes to completely transform your wardrobe.

My favourite place to shop for a new wardrobe on a relatively minor budget is H&M. I’m a sucker for earthy and neutral tones as they work so well together and I am trying to stay away from buying so many prints. Each season I have decided I am going to purchase a few statement pieces and maintain my colour neutral wardrobe. I have picked my top faves from H&M that will easily transform your wardrobe too.

Tops

Top With Ties, £17.99

Having a classic white top that you can wear tucked into trousers, jeans, skirt or shorts will take you a long way in your wardrobe. If in doubt pair your items with a fresh, crisp white shirt.

Cotton Shirt, £12.99

If you have followed me for awhile, or even take a glance down my most recent instagram posts it’s clear that I have a love for white shirts, but I love having crisp shirts and tops like the previous post and then casual shirts like this. I especially love the button details on this shirt to make it a little more interesting. Plus, this is from the Sustainability range!

Draped Wrapover Cross Body, £12.99

A classy body that comes in both black and white can be easily interchangeable from outfit to outfit. Worn under a blazer or worn along tucked into a skirt or trousers these styles of tops make a nice change to shirts.

Long Sleeved Blouse, Khaki Green, £17.99

I have a ridiculous love for wearing khaki green. There’s something about so nice about khaki and for someone like me who’s day to day wear doesn’t extend too far past black and white, the khaki is nice for something different.

Basic Tops, Price Varies

You know all those little tops that you have lying around that you can’t find a home for? The stringy tops, the basic cotton blends and the tops that go ‘under things.’ I get all mine religiously from H&M. Sure, the likes of Primark, New Look, M&S etc do all the same types however, I know and trust that my H&M ones last for years. Years. That’s why I keep going back.

Trousers

Slim Mom Jeans, £19.99

So, Mom jeans. I am a very curvy gal and had sworn off Mom jeans after I had a break down in the Topshop changing rooms trying to squeeze my thicc thighs in. Until now. I decided to give these guys a try considering the price as well I almost thought it was too good to be true. Ahh they are amazing and so so comfortable. I was stuck in the skinny jeans rut for ages and I am so happy to have these as alternative. Plus, there are belt loops. This is very important to me.

Embrace High Ankle Jeans, £34.99

I don’t know why, but it had never occurred to me that I could have a pair of tan colour jeans. Do you ever be in a jeans mood and the standard blue or black pair just aren’t cutting it for you? Enter these. They are a great alternative when you’re in the mood for jeans but not jeans.

Ankle Length Tie Belt Trousers, £19.99

I have the black ones but my mission is to own all three colours. I am in love with this style of trouser as I love things that can be dressed up or down. Wear a pair of brogues and a blazer with this and you’ve got a work outfit, slap on a pair of heels and a bodysuit and you’ve got yourself a ‘drinks with the girls’ outfit.

Cigarette Trousers, £12.99

After a Rimmel Sun Shimmer incident in 2008 I swore I would never wear white trousers again. Fast forward 11 years and I gasped at not only these trousers and the fact that they come in every colour under the sun, but the fact that they are £12.99. I am still reluctant to wear white trousers at times however, at this price I couldn’t not pick them up. White trousers are so classy and look amazing!

Skirts & Shorts

A-Line Skirt, £14.99

I’m not hugely into skirts only for the reason being that I am short with a larger hip area so they tend not to be the most flattering thing on me. With that being said, I like to have a few skirts on reserve as wearing trousers and jeans can get very boring very quickly.

Short Skirt, £17.99

Even though I don’t wear a lot of skirts, I just have to have this skirt in my wardrobe. Not only do I wear it in work a lot as we have to wear black, it’s easily worn with a pair of tights and boots and is another great staple to carry from season to season.

Lyocell – Blend Shorts, £19.99

Not typically a plain go to item but I like to have the odd thing that’s different in among the wardrobe. I would love to wear these with a plain white shirt (duh, do I wear anything else?) and cute little boots and a jacket.

Dresses

Jersey Maxi Dress, £14.99

I used to walk past these styles of dresses and not give them second thought. Now? I live for them. I have a few of these in different colours and while I find them a little on the basic side they are so easy to jazz up with some simple styling tips. Slip a basic white tee underneath, wrap a black belt around the middle – otherwise my curvy ass would look like a sack of spuds – some booties and even a hat if I was feeling adventurous.

A lot of the dresses that I have are louder in prints as I don’t wear them just as often. The ones I wear all the time are black for work and if I am honest, all look the same. I am enjoying the mindset of having items that I can mix and match and so am trying to stay away from dresses as they always look the same!

Jackets & Coats

Modal Blend Trench Coat, £29.99

I have an addiction to buying jackets and coats and Joel really is going to throw me out of the house if I come back with any more. That being said, I wear the same 3 jackets on rotation. I just can’t part with the jackets I have collected. Why? Anyway, I do have last years version of this jacket but this year’s is nicer. Can guarantee I’ll come home with this and then be homeless.

Utility Jacket, £29.99

Any kind of jacket that has multiple pockets for all my lipsticks and packs of gum gets my vote. This jacket is firmly on my wishlist for my wardrobe, I have sworn that I’ll get rid of all my other jackets if I get this one. Khaki in a jacket will go with all my trousers and other outfits which is amazing! Will I stick to my word and get rid of them though, that’s the thing…

Biker Jacket, £34.99

If you do not have a biker jacket or leather jacket in your wardrobe I am telling you now, you need one. I have had my leather jacket for years. It’s my go to for running to work, when you need a light jacket, throwing over a dress for a night out and just to match general outfits. Obviously there are many colours that you can get, but to me a classic black biker jacket is where it’s at.

Accessories

Wool Hat, £14.99

I love wearing a hat. Not only does it hide your hair when it’s greasy but it adds sophistication and edge to your outfits. Be careful not to over accessorise however!

Belt, £6.99 Each

As I mentioned, sticking a little belt around a dress makes all the different and accessories add dimensions and layers to the most basic of outfits creating chic and stylish looks. I have so many belts it’s insane, but all you really need is a black one and a brown one. Maybe a nice gold one too…

Bags

Crocodile Patterned Shopper, £34.99

Love, love, love this bag. I am not one for small and dainty little bags. I carry a lot of crap – mainly tissues and lipsticks – and this is such a good looking bag. I also like it – I am in fact purchasing as we speak… anyway, I like it because it’ll match the entire wardrobe. It is such a melt having to change your bag depending on what outfit you’re wearing and so this way, you’re always prepared.

And there you have it! My favourite items to turn your wardrobe around, all from H&M. What way do you shop for your clothes and what are you statement items in your collection? I’d love to know!

You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube!

If I Was A Rich Girl… na na na na na na

April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkiee2 Comments

If you didn’t read the title of this post to Gwen Stefani’s Rich Girl you have to exit now. Seriously.

This is a list of things that if I were a rich girl, I would certainly be popping out and buying. These are things that are on my Wishlist and at some point I will own. Some people like saving for holidays or saving for like, life and stuff but me? I enjoy designer things that are pretty and are expensive. Let me live. I will also direct everyone who ever needs to buy me a present to this post.

Gucci Jordaan Loafer, £540

At the rate I go through shoes this would probably not be a wise investment however, I don’t care. I have bought enough of the H&M dupes of these shoes that I probably would have been able to afford the real deal. I love a brogue, they can be styled so easily and worn with any and every outfit. I will have these, with fur and without. One day…

Gucci GG Marmont Matelassé Shoulder Bag, £1690

I legit just want this because it’s a cute, black, leather bag that is a good size. Do you know how hard it is to find a black bag that can fit all your makeup, phone and purse and still goes over your shoulder? Yeah, it’s probably easier than I think but I still want this bag. Plus, Gucci Gang Gucci Gang Gucci Gang.

Vivienne Westwood Star Orb Pendant Gold, £245

So, I am not one for jewellery. I am Joel’s worst nightmare when it comes to Christmas and Birthday presents because any piece of jewellery just isn’t going to excite me. I wear the same rings and rarely wear necklaces because they aren’t dainty enough. However, I just adore Vivienne Westwood’s jewellery, the pieces are both understated and eccentric and I love it! I love the earrings too, I have a pair of studs that I wore to death but this necklace is next on my list!

Valentino Garavani Patent Rockstud Caged Pump 100mm, £650

When I worked with Estee Lauder, I went with them to New York and of course, I went to Saks Fifth Avenue. I was walking around and all of a sudden, a glimmer caught my eye and I was drawn towards these shoes. These beautiful Valentinos, so gorgeous and shiny and I wanted them so bad! I couldn’t afford them and I genuinely think about them all the time. Nude are of course, my favourite but I would settle for any colour!

Chanel Long Necklace – Metal, Glass Pearls & Diamantés, £1260

Remember when I said I liked understated jewellery? Well, that was clearly a lie. There may not be anything understated about this Chanel piece but I am dying to live out my Andy Sachs Devil Were Prada fantasy with a Chanel necklace. The point is, if I had the money I would 100% buy this. I would buy two.

That’s all for now, but there are plenty of other things that I would love… I will no doubt constantly update this wishlist. What goodies are on your wishlist, I would love to know!

Top Topshop Picks

February 19, 2019February 19, 2019 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

Topshop is one of those shops that I have always loved and seem to never be able to afford but still end up spending half my wage every month. I actually ended up getting a job in Topshop years ago and when asked why I wanted to work there my answer was to pay off my Topshop credit card. Amazingly, I was hired. Spring/Summer is one of my favourite times of year in terms of fashion because you can still get away with wearing your gorgeous Winter finds and pair them with what’s coming out next. I love being in between seasons!

Anyway, Topshop have some beautiful pieces in at the minute and I thought I would share my favourite bits.

Coats

Relaxed Coat, £59

I have been dying for the coat for ages but my size isn’t online and not in stores. Topshop sort it OUT! Anyway, this just looks super comfy and I am lacking in ‘throw it on’ coats. You know those coats that go with everything that you throw on? Yeah, it’s one of them.

Belted Trench Coat, £69

I love trench coats and the colour of this coat is just stunning! I have a wooden orange coat from Topshop years ago and I wore it all the time, it just added something to each outfit and I was so wary of it when I bought because I thought I would never wear the colour. I was so shocked at how many outfits it went with! So I may just have to purchase this beauty!

Tops

Satin Shirt, £32

I love my Topshop shirts, they are the most amazing quality and last for so long. I still have Topshop shirts that I got years ago and they still look as good as new. I have my eye on this one as it will go with lots of little trousers I have picked up recently. Plus, I want a salmon shirt so I can be like Ross in Friends.

Suits/Co-Ords

Wide Pinstrip Suit, £111

If you know me at all you’ll know that I am an absolute sucker for a co ord. I don’t know what it is, but when I don a co order I immediately feel like the ultimate boss lady. I spotted this suit recently on Melissa Elliott and I just have to have it. At some point. If I bring home any more suits I think my boyfriend might make me move out.

Asymmetric Blue Suit, £79

Not only do I want this suit, I want the hair and the red lip to match. I am living for the pastel colours recently and they look so good, especially this time of the year.

Jumpsuits

Jacquard Jumpsuit, £55

Gimmie it. I want it. Gimmie it. I want it. I would have bought this by now only for I seem to have bought a lot of green items recently… but I want it.

Dresses

Geo Border Tie Neck Dress, £49

I absolutely love this dress! I am all for a clashing of prints this season, and this dress is the perfect Segway in to the trend. As soon as I seen this online I just had to order it. I love the front of it as for chesty, booby people like myself it sits really comfortably and not too tight. This will be coming with me next week for a trip to Liverpool!

Teal Animal Print Shirt Dress, £49

Another recent purchase, similar style dress to the previous one but I just love the subtle play on animal print. Animal print is here to stay but I am living for the understated hints rather than the loud prints at the minute. When I put it on, I lost my waist in the dress a little so I put a belt around it and it just nips you in in all the right places. I have paired this dress with these gorgeous Topshop Boots – see below. Also available in a shirt if you didn’t want a whole dress!

Boots

Babe Block Heel Ankle Boots, £29

Comfiest. Boots. Ever. Every other pair of Topshop boots I have had have been a nightmare to break in, these were just automatically super comfy. I love the colour of them, and they are on offer too! So that helps!

MARIO Western Boots, £89

So, I have yet to buy a pair of western boots. This trend has been around for awhile now and I don’t know why I have been sleeping on this but these boots caught my eye as soon as they came out. There’s just something about spending £89 on a pair of black boots when I own at least 15 pairs of black boots already. That being said, I am sure I will crack soon and end up buying them.

Have you bought any of the items in my Topshop Top Picks/Wishlist, or are they on your wishlist too? I would love to hear! You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube!

What It’s Like Being The Biggest Girl At The Party

November 15, 2018November 15, 2018 cosmeticsjunkiee2 Comments

Before you jump straight to the comments section to compliment me about something, that is not why I am writing this post. I am not fishing for you to tell me that I’m pretty or that I look good for my size or anything like that. I am simply here to talk about why sometimes I can feel down on my size and why it’s hard knowing you’re the biggest girl at the party.

When I say party, I don’t literally mean a party. I don’t think I’ve been to a ‘party’ since I was 11. I’m talking about being in work, on a night out with friends or even just meeting someone for a coffee (I actually don’t drink coffee, but Hot Chocolate doesn’t have the same ring to it). I am so comfortable with the size I am, for those of you that don’t know me or have never seen me before I am a size 16, give or take a size.

Now, size 16. I know that that’s perhaps not very big and that there are women who are larger and there are women who are smaller. I’m just talking about this from my perspective.. I am confident and comfortable knowing that I am that size and have no immediate plans to change the size I am.

That being said, that’s my thought process right up until I am standing beside someone who is considerably skinnier than I am or is wearing a top I like but couldn’t wear because of my boobs or anything like that. It’s so easy for me to get myself down about how I look and I work so hard at building my confidence up so that it doesn’t get to me but every so often those thoughts creep in. It gets to the point where I will look around and I know I’m the biggest person there, which I’ll admit is a horrible mindset to have. I’ll sometimes decide not to go somewhere with a group of people because I know that I’ll be the biggest out of that group. I have toyed with the idea of not going on a night out this weekend because of the same thing. That same thought process of ‘oh my God, there are going to be photos of us together’ or ‘I don’t look as good in night out clothes as them.’ It’s not a nice way to feel – and yes, before any haters come and say ‘well of you don’t like feeling that way then go lose weight.’ I don’t want to lose weight. I am happy the way that I am. Usually I have the mindset of that ‘everyone is beautiful no matter what shape or size they are’ and do truly believe in that. Sometimes that mindset shifts when you’re standing in front of the mirror.

I want anyone reading this that has ever had a worry about their appearance, or thought they are bigger than they should be or are bigger or smaller than their friends that it is okay to have these thoughts. Just know, that it is true that everyone is beautiful no matter their size or shape, it’s okay to have the odd thought about your appearance but trust in yourself and wear your confidence with pride. Your confidence is the best thing that you could ever wear, no matter the size.

Do any of you ever feel this way or go through that mindset? I’d love to hear how you deal with it.

Belfast Fashion Week | What I Wore

October 24, 2018 cosmeticsjunkiee1 Comment

Belfast Fashion Week… a fashion week that’s right on my doorstep that I can see what all the local designers and stores have to offer this season. I have always been an advocate of supporting local and this is why Belfast Fashion Week is one of my favourite events to attend. Any of you that are local or at least follow me on Instagram you can’t have missed that I attended this glorious weekend of fashion.

Friday Night

I have received an overwhelming amount of love for this outfit I wore to the first night of Fashion Week, considering I really only put an idea for it together the night before and got the shoes and shirt a matter of hours before the show. Normally I spend days and sometimes weeks planning out what I’ll wear for events such this, but in an outfit I threw together I’ve never felt more comfortable. Plus, it’s a suit. I always feel BOSS in a suit.

Topshop Petite Double Breasted Check Jacket, £65

As someone on the curvier side I am a massive fan of Topshop and their tailoring as they seem to get it right with every garment I try on, which is so important especially when you are looking at getting a suit. Yes, their items are a little on the pricier side but it’s worth it to know that it will fit your body well.

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Topshop Petite Belted Trousers, £42

The petite range in Topshop is spot on for me however the items are available in Regular and Tall as well, for those of you in the world that aren’t 4 foot 11. The trousers sat perfectly around my ankles and weren’t too flappy, which is common in larger sizes (I’m a size 16). I am obsessed with this suit right down to the colours that run through it because I know I’ll be able to wear it with different colours and accessories.

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Dunnes Stores Savida Ruffle Bow Blouse, £25

Bought a few hours before the show this little blouse was not only a perfect addition to the suit but a perfect addition to my wardrobe. If you do not own a classic, white blouse then trust me my friends, go out and treat yourself to one. You will thank me.
Anyway, I spotted this shirt just as I was leaving and as I walked towards it, not only was I praying that they had my size but that the bow was detachable. I was in luck. This little bow comes off allowing more versatility with it. I was sold! I have actually bought another one since I bought mine for Fashion Week. No, I’m not crazy but I will wear this shirt to death!

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Belfast Bow Company Harris Tweed Bow Tie, £22.50

The reason I hoped that the navy bow was removable was so that I could slot this little guy in. Belfast Bow Company is home to the most amazing selection of homemade bow ties and pocket squares that I have ever seen. Displayed so delicately they are sure to add a pop of colour to any outfit. I am obsessed, I think it’s the cutest thing I’ve ever worn and I have a few other designs on my wish list. Questions about this bow tie filled my Instagram DMs so fast, so here you go!

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New Look Dark Red Suedette Ankle Strap Pointed Courts, £19.99

I have a confession… these aren’t the shoes I wore however, they are basically the same. I can’t find mine online, the only difference is mine were black at the back and had snakeskin pattern along the side. For £3 less, these ones are pretty great though and are by the way, the most comfortable heels I have ever worn.

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Saturday Brunch

On Saturday morning we witnessed a stunning collection brought to us by Max Mara Weekend all while enjoying a fabulous brunch in Café Parisien. I was again, very last minute in my wardrobe choices having only bought my ticket the previous evening! Lucky me, I knew I had a few Boohoo items that hadn’t seen the light of day yet and even better, they were on sale!

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Boohoo Wrap Balloon Sleeve Dogtooth Culotte Jumpsuit, £18

I’ll be honest, I had a laugh when I first put it on when it arrived. I thought, nahhh I can never wear this. Once I got over the loudness of it, I actually really liked it and Dogtooth is always eye catching! I removed the belt that it came with however and wore my fake *GASP* Gucci belt from Ros Oir Boutqiue (£36, barg!) which instantly gave the jumpsuit a new lease of life.

Boohoo Velvet Flat Heel Sock Boots, £17

I could have worn regular black boots, but I thought I would inject a little colour to this outfit to perk it up a little. Enter my new green boots. I’m going to go ahead and be honest with you, these are probably the most uncomfortable boots I have ever worn and I only wore them for few hours. That being said, they were in the sale, they were a barg and I’ll probably wear them again and suffer because I love them. They would look great with Friday night’s suit too…

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Debenhams Red Herring Green Faux Fur Coat

I’m not going to spend a whole lot of time mentioning this coat as it was last years, it’s out of stock and I bought it two sizes too big because I convinced myself it looked good oversized. It didn’t.

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And there you have it, the clothes I wore for this seasons Belfast Fashion Week. I love Fashion Week, I love how it brings everyone together and we celebrate each others outfits, bounce fashion ideas off each other and view the top designer and high street picks on the catwalk. Already looking forward to next season!

Amy xo

My Boux Avenue Experience

October 24, 2018 cosmeticsjunkiee2 Comments

A few weeks ago I was invited to go into my local Boux Avenue store to check out everything that they have to offer. Now, I am no stranger when it comes to Boux Avenue as I have always been pretty vocal about the fact that it’s my favourite store. There is something sensual about buying underwear, I love the feeling of leaving a store knowing that I have just bought new undies. Maybe it’s just me, but having nice new underwear makes me feel powerful, like I can take on the world.

My first job was actually as a bra fitter in Wonderbra, when it was at The Boulevard, well back then it was The Outlet. Since then I have always had an interest in having the right bra and why it’s important to have the right fit. I’ll be honest, as of late I have gotten really lazy when it came to my bras as I wasn’t getting them checked when I was buying them. I just assumed that I would be the same size as usual but fast forward to me standing in Boux Avenue and man, was I wrong. Did you know that approximately 80 per cent of women are wearing the wrong size bra? That’s so many of us, c’mon women let’s sort it out.

Upon entering Boux Avenue my heart always flutters a little because it’s always so well laid out and cared for that it makes for very easy shopping, I couldn’t wait to get shopping. I met with Sophie who would be my fitter and would later help me pick out my new underwear. Such a bubbily, easy to talk to person which immediately made me feel at ease. I’ll admit, I was nervous before I went into the changing room because I didn’t want to feel embarrassed standing there in my beat up old tan stained ‘white’ Boux bra from 4 years ago but Sophie made me feel so relaxed and not nervous at all.

I stood there in my own bra while Sophie and I chatted away while she measured me and asked me questions to find out what kind of style I liked, then she left me in the most fabulous room (with excellent lighting might I add) with a glass of prosecco. I sat happy as larry while Sophie ran around picking the best bras for me and she came back with the most amazing selection. I must have tried on about 15 bras and she was so honest about what suited me and what looked good which made me feel amazing, knowing that I was getting something that looked right. As someone who has bigger boobs I can find it quite difficult to know what suits and what doesn’t, so having a second opinion really made all the difference.

Even though I had been measured, the size that I was measured to didn’t apply to all bras which is why it’s so important to try them on when you are in store. For example, I had been wearing a 34G, Sophie then matched me to a 34G and so for a quick second I was smug that I was wearing the right bra. However, I tried on the 34Gs in store and it turns out they were too small, so upgraded to a 36G. That’s pretty much just a guide size as yes the majority of bras I tried on fitted in a 36G but it a few I needed to go up in the back size. I can’t stress how important it is to try them on, as even if you have your size you might need it tweaked slightly.

Having the right fitting bra does wonders for your shape and I swear, instantly makes you feel more confident. Not only does does your bra provide support to your breasts and flatter you it also, let’s be honest, enhances your sex appeal. You know that feeling of taking your bra off at the end of the day? Yeah, you’re probably wearing the wrong size. Your bra should never feel too tight or constrict you in any way. I gotta admit, it’s nice not having my bra feel like a cheese wire, cutting my body to bits during the day. My new underwear is so comfortable and even though I am happy knowing that I am around a 36G, I will definitely get my next bras fitted too.

I was kindly gifted 3 sets from Boux Avenue and grabbed two other sets while I was there, while leaving with a wish list as long as my arm. Keep scrolling to see what I picked up!

Chloe Lace Plunge Bra, £26 | Chloe Lace Shorts, £12

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Harper Non Padded Full Support Bra, £32 | Harper Brazilian Briefs, £14

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Priscilla Full Support Balconette Bra, £32 | Priscilla Briefs, £15

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I also picked up these beauties in the sale! I am thrilled with the experience I had and if you are lucky to be near a Boux Avenue store then definitely called in. For those of you who live near me in Belfast, then I couldn’t recommend Sophie enough.

Have you been fitted for a bra recently? How did you find your experience? Send me a message, I would love to hear!

Amy xo

PS. Boux Avenue have buy one bra get one half price right now – go go go!

New Look – Best of the Sale

October 2, 2018October 2, 2018 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

New Look is one of those stores that I go through phases of loving and seeing everything in and then seeing absolutely nothing. This season however, New Look has totally been on my side and the majority of clothes I have purchased for myself have come from New Look. They currently have up to 70% off and there are some amazing things in the sale that I just have to share with you, some of them I have purchased for myself too.

Black Spot Print Button Front Jumpsuit, ~~£27.99~~ £14

I recently wore this jumpsuit for my little trip to The Junction (you can read about the trip here) but I received so many compliments on it and noone could believe I only paid £14 for it. It comes with a matching polka dot belt however I removed it and use my faux Gucci belt from Ros Oir Boutique to cinch in my waist to make it a little more flattering.

Khaki Button Front Tapered Leg Jumpsuit, ~~£24.99~~ £11

This jumpsuit will always be what I wore to Shania Twain. The day I saw SHANIA TWAIN I wore this jumpsuit. Such a comfortable outfit and very easy to dress up or down and I don’t know what it is about khaki colour, but when i’m not feeling an outfit I add khaki and it’s instantly better. Similar with the above jumpsuit it comes with a matching belt however I find that the belts that come with the outfits are never great quality so I swapped out the belt for a leopard print belt, matching bag and heels – all New Look of course.

Tall Pale Blue Paperbag Waist Trousers, ~~£19.99~~ £8

Okay, yes you may be thinking – tall? Really Amy? I honestly didn’t realise I was buying tall when I purchased them however, they fit perfectly so it was all meant to be. They really shouldn’t have fit considering I am not even 5 foot…

Blue Rinse Wash Double Breasted Denim Midi Dress, ~~£25.99~~ £12

I am so in love with this dress and I love it paired with these white boots!

Orange Round Buckle Cross Hatch Pinafore Dress, ~~£19.99~~ £10

Team this cute rust orange pinafore with a polo neck to transition this pinafore into an outfit perfect for Autumn!

Rust Polka Dot Scuba Crop Trousers , ~~£19.99~~ £10

Continuing on with the rust theme, these culottes are perfect for brightening up a Winter wardrobe and will be easily taken into your Spring/Summer wardrobe too as polka dots never go out of style!

Black & White Stripe Duster, ~~£34.99~~ £10

I’m in love with this duster jacket and have ordered this for myself. Wear it like the model, styled down or dial it up for a night out this duster will become a staple in my wardrobe. Would be gorgeous worn closed with a skinny belt! Plus, for £10 it’s such a bargain!

White Spot Print Double Breasted Midi Dress, ~~£29.99~~ £10

I’m sorry, but I can’t stop with the polka dots. I just picture this outfit all glammed up like Julia Roberts, would be gorgeous with a big hat! In reality I would wear it with vans and hair shoved up in a bun – still cute though!

Mela Cream Lace Trim Tie Neck Blouse, ~~£28~~ £18

You can never have enough white blouses. They simply go with everything, whether you’ve got trousers, skirts or culottes a white shirt or blouse should be your safety net and I love the detailing on the sleeves. I’m tempted to buy two…

Black Faux Snakeskin Baker Boy Hat ~~£9.99~~ £3

Black Prince of Wales Check Baker Boy Hat, ~~£9.99~~ £3