Photographic florals.

Floral Dress - AX Paris

Boater Hat - Next

Bow - ASOS

Shoes - New Look

I'm so pleased with this dress from AX Paris, the vivid floral print is so striking and pretty. It's feminine, but more edgy than the typical pastel hued florals. I'm also surprised by how much I love the peplum shape. I wasn't convinced when they first started appearing, but on this kind of silhouette I think it really works. I'm still not sure about peplum tops, but now skirts and dresses get a big thumbs up.

I went to the doctor today, and they stole my blood! Well, maybe they didn't steal it, but I'm still being precious about my little wound. They ran some tests and are going to get back to me if they find anything. If it gets worse they'll sort me out with some kind of scan... It's nice that things are in motion, but I wish we had some idea what it was.

On the bright side, I stopped off at a lovely little vintage and antiques store on the way back and picked up these gorgeous brooches. One is missing a gemstone, but I don't mind. I still think it's beautiful and I'm hoping to use it on some kind of hair accessory. Time to get crafty!

Products for April.

 

I  recently received an email asking me to do another products post, so here we go...

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Waterproof Mascara (£20) - I bought this full size product after getting the sample in last months Glossybox. I fell in love with the effortless length and definition it gave my lashes. It was in a different league to mascaras I have used in the past, giving you the most wonderful doll-like lashes with just a couple of coats. I opted for the waterproof version, simply because my lifestyle suits a more hardy mascara and removing waterproof make up has never really bothered me. This is my favourite make up product I have discovered this year. The formula is great, it goes on extremely well and overall it has changed the way I see mascara - my new make up bag essential! 
 

Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in 'macaroon' (£7.99) - I had been hearing about this product everywhere, and at a fairly friendly price it seemed rude not to give it a try. I am addicted to lip balm, and often skip on lipstick since I find most dry and uncomfortable. The name 'butter' instantly drew me in, and whilst it's not quite so moisturising as I'd hoped, it is still far more wearable than lipsticks I've used in the past and the colour is just the right intensity. It feels lovely going on, but does need topping up throughout the day. I love the 'macaroon' shade, but I might treat myself to 'candy apple' as well once I get back to Bath.

 
Shu Uemura – Cleansing beauty oil (£21 for 150ml) - Unfortunately I only had a sample of this product, however what I did use really excited me. The product lathers up so satisfyingly on your skin and really does melt away make up - even stubborn waterproof stuff! It left my skin feeling so soft and hydrated that I didn't feel like I need moisturiser - two jobs in one! I may well be investing in this one, a very nifty little product.

Jean Paul Gaultier - Classique (£36 for 50ml) - This has been my signature scent for over a year. I simply love it; it's feminine, floral, classic and understated. Not only is the scent itself lovely, but I've always adored JPG's perfume bottles, and this one especially looks so pretty beside my mirror. It's the finishing touch to all of my outfits and I don't feel properly dressed until I'm wearing it.

Aussie Mega Shampoo (£3 for 300ml) - This is my bargain product of the month. Aussie have been on of my favourite hair brands for a while now - they just smell so good! I often get stuck in a rut of using the same shampoo, and this is generally the one I switch to when my hair is starting to feel weighed down. It leaves my hair feeling clean, but still full and soft with a wonderful scent that stays with me all day. It's a great value hair product with a real pay off - more than worth the money!

Today is also my fiancé, Grant's, birthday. I've been pretty much house-bound with incapacitating stomach pains (hence no outfit post... I'm going to the doctor's tomorrow - I promise!), but he's still had a good day of DVDs, cake, Indian food and eggy bread. I bought him a new pair of shoes which he opened this morning, he's so hard to buy gifts for...

But regardless - happy birthday, Grant. Thank you for all of the lovely photos you take for this blog!

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Little bow peep.

Blouse - New Look

Skirt - River Island

Wedges - New Look

Bow - ASOS

Temp Tattoo - Inkwear

I am feeling absolutely terrible today. I've been feeling unwell for a while now, this afternoon it's just got worse and worse. Tomorrow is Grant's birthday, so we're going to have a day of coconut and chocolate cake (which I made today - it looks AMAZING) and Indian food, however I will be going to the doctors on Tuesday... It's somewhat against my will, but Grant and my mum are not above dragging me if I refuse.

Despite all this, I made the effort to put on some make up, style my hair (all done from the comfort of my bed - who needs a mirror?) and actually piece together an outfit. Nothing too colourful, since I'm not feeling all that colourful, but I think the bow makes it a bit more fun. I also used my temporary tattoo I was sent by the people at Inkwear, and I think I may be a tattoo convert. I'm far too fickle to get a proper tattoo, but with their delicate, pretty designs I can see myself using Inkwear tattoos for photo shoots or special events. Supposedly it'll last for a few days so I may photograph it again tomorrow, if I get out of bed at all.

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Aquatic fanatic.

Shell Print Play Suit - AX Paris

Mermaid Top - River Island

Pearl Bracelt (worn in hair) - Thrifted

Socks - TopShop

Shoes - New Look

Perhaps it's due to the amount of time I've been spending at my parent's house in Cornwall, but I am besotted with the aquatic trend going on at the moment. The ocean-inspired prints, sea-green hues and pearl details are all right up my street. I picked up this shirt from River Island with some of my Company vouchers whilst we were in London, and my new shell print play suit arrived yesterday from AX Paris. I am so pleased with the play suit - the fabric is so light and easy to move in, it's definitely something I can see myself throwing on over my bikini this summer.

I wanted to do something different with my hair for this look, so I dressed up a side ponytail with an old faux pearl bracelet I had lying around. I tried the outfit with a pair of white lace tights, but it was looking a little too much. Maybe it was just me... I need to start being more adventurous with my accessorizing.

Curious about what else was around, I dug up a few more aquatic goodies...

 

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Becky B's Wardrobe giveaway.

Hat - Becky B's Wardrobe

Scarf - Becky B's Wardrobe

Socks - Becky B's Wardrobe

Blouse - F&F at Tesco

Dress (worn as skirt) - Primark

Shoes - New Look

  

I've had so much fun working with Becky Bloomwood's Wardrobe recently, and now it's my readers' turn to get a piece of BBW magic! BBW have a wonderful variety of fun clothes and accessories, and their collection simply spills over with pretty lace, pearls and embellishments. It's chock full of thoughtful details, innovative designs and soft fabrics.

I'm offering one lucky reader this lovely pair of print shorts, courtesy of BBW. To be in with a chance of winning, here's what you have to do.

1. Be following my blog with Google Friend Connect.

2. Like Briar Rose and BBW on Facebook.

3. Leave your email address below.

For an extra chance to win, share this giveaway on Twitter and comment with the link!

Unfortunately, this giveaway is only open to UK residents. The shorts are one size and fit up to a UK size 10/12.

The giveaway is open until Friday 27th April

On a slight tangent, since I have been recently inundated with hair related questions I have decided to do a post dedicated to all things hair. If you have anything in particular you'd like to ask, send me an email at thebriarroseblog@gmail.com.

Head candy, with Company magazine.

photos courtesy of Company and Cameron James Wilson photography

Today I finally bought my copy of Company's May issue, and so I've finally seen my beauty spread! I'm so pleased with the final result - the styling and photography are gorgeous, I just can't believe it's actually me in the photos. I knew that one of my local papers was covering the story, however a little Googling discovered that there were actually two featuring the photos, and both within the first few pages! Needless to say we bought a couple of keepsakes copies of all three publications, and I even bought an extra copy of Company to send to my Nan (can I get an 'awww'?).

If you can get your hands on a copy I'd definitely recommend it. The other Casting Call girls; Katharine, Rebecca, Natasha and Sarah-Jane all look wonderful in their shoots, and of course there are the usual insightful articles alongside lots of blogger-friendly material.

We celebrated with some champagne and my favourite meal - Thai green curry! I'm now enjoying a pina colada and there's Ben & Jerry's in the freezer. Celebrating with excessive calories is the way to go.

My favourite look has the one with the scarves knotted in the my hair and the orange lips - which do you like?

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Cornish cream tea, with BBW.

 

 

Dress - H&M

Floral Belt - Primark

Shoes - New Look

Scarf - Becky B's Wardrobe 

Flower Socks - DIY

Sunglasses - Ebay

Boater Hat - Next

I loved shooting this look, it was so much fun! My new scarf from Becky B's Wardrobe is very playful and I couldn't resist running and jumping with it trailing behind me. This is my favourite kind of outfit; simple, but with plenty of quirky accessories. Instead of my usual braided belt, I used this floral Primark one which has been floating around my wardrobe for a month or so just waiting to be paired with spring pastels. The socks were a quick DIY job this morning, done with a handful of wire-stemmed flowers in shades that matched the scarf.

It's two days until Company magazine officially comes out with my hair and beauty spread, however I know that some people already have their copies. It's so frustrating, but I've yet to get one! If anyone has seen the May issue yet, let me know what you think - I haven't even seen the photos yet!

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Blooming delightful.

Mermaid Print Top - River Island

Scalloped Lace Skirt - New Look

Boater Hat - Next

Retro Sunglasses - Ebay

Heels - New Look

Socks - TopShop

I've had this skirt ferreted away since last year's January sales when I picked it up for a very satisfactory £4, however it was one of those things that never quite seemed to pair quite right with the rest of my clothes. Finally, I have found it's soul mate; my new mermaid print top. The outfit felt pretty, but quite pared down, so I dressed it up with plenty of accessories; boater, sunglasses, socks - done!

Beneath the blossom bough.

Bralet - River Island

Skirt - Dahlia Fashion

Braided Belt - Primark

Headband - Poppy Daisy

Sunglasses - Ebay

Two of my favourite things in one look; retro sunglasses and blossom! I love this time of year - you can bet that all my looks over the next week or so will all be draped in blossom. Easter weekend is set out to be lovely and laid back, then next week the May issue of Company will finally come out. It's should be a great Easter break.

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Cherries and licorice.

Bralet - River Island

Skirt - River Island

Braided Belt - Primark

Lace Up Heels - New Look

Floral Headband - Poppy Daisy

My new River Island bralet in action. I really love this outfit; even though it's pretty much all-black it feels very summery and light. I originally hoped to wear it with my black wedges, however eventually decided to break up the black with brown leather accessories. I finished it off with the floral headband just to put my own stamp on the look.

I can't wait to get back to Cornwall later this week; apparently I have a few packages waiting for me (eee!). I've been in a few interesting PR discussions this afternoon, it's set to be an interesting month!

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Spring and summer with RedRock Fashion.

photos courtesy of RedRock Fashion and Talia White Photography

Only just recently I came into contact with a very interesting brand, RedRock Fashion. I've always been one to embrace all things vintage, and I'm an advocate of alternative, eccentric personal style, so I was instantly infatuated with RedRock. Their mantra is to breath new life into vintage clothing, and they are right on the ball.

As a brand, they are going from strength to strength, receiving national press and interest from the likes of Peaches Geldoff and Paloma Faith. However the brand is still, grounded, likable, and doesn't take itself too seriously. When I received these photos from their recent S/S shoot, I was overwhelmed by how fun and energetic the collection was.

photos courtesy of RedRock Fashion and Talia White Photography

As someone who covets whimsical prints and retro cuts, I was pretty excited by these photos. Styling any one of the pieces featured in this shoot would certainly be fun; in particular I have my eye on the over-sized shirt in the first three photos, and the printed skirt in the final photo. Show me anything with a peacock-colour palette and no doubt I will fall head over heels - these photos are no exception.

I also have some serious envy for the accessorizing in this shoot. Those tortoiseshell sunglasses and two tone over-the-knee socks? They add the perfect dose of cutesy retro charm. It's definitely a look I could see myself channeling on heady summer days. I'd just add a boater hat and some beaten up brogues and be on my way!

photos courtesy of RedRock Fashion and Talia White Photography

Their site offers an electric collection of vintage and retro pieces, with everything in between. If I had to chose my favorites, it would be this punchy 70s blouse, this quirky 80s blouse, or this vibrant summer skirt.

What do you think of RedRock Fashion? Are you as smitten as I am?

photos courtesy of RedRock Fashion and Talia White Photography

RedRock on Twitter

RedRock on ASOS Marketplace

RedRock on Facebook

Docklands light railway.

Denim Jacket - Thrifted

Blouse - New Look

Skirt - Gentle Fawn

Belt - Primark

Floral Socks - H&M

Floral Bag - Urban Outfitters

Lace Up Heels - New Look

What I wore today whilst out and about in London. After lunch in Covent Garden, Grant and I went shopping on Oxford Street. I had another £30 to spend in River Island as a prize for winning 'entry of the day' early on in the Company Casting Call, so I was anxious to get rail-hunting. I ended up spending a little more than £30, but I definitely think my finds were worth it.

- Black bustier top (£20)

I've been after a bustier top like this for a while, but finally I found one which is just modest enough and looks really flattering. I'm hoping to wear it with high-waisted maxi skirts on hot days.

- Sheer Mermaid Shirt (£25)

I've been fascinated by the aquatic trend, and I fell in love with this shirt in an instant. Everything about it is lovely; the print, the fabric, the cut... it even secures with two little pearl buttons at the back. So pretty and the little details are all really thoughtful.

The everyday doll look.

This afternoon I made my first tutorial video! I don't have a decent camera at the moment, so I used photos instead, however Grant and I are planning on buying a half-decent camera at some point, so hopefully I'll be posting proper videos soon.

Products used -

- L'Oreal True Match foundation in Rose Ivory
- Rimmel Stay Matte pressed powder in Transparent
- Bourjois blush in Cendre De Rose Brune
- White eyeliner pencil (brand unknown)
- Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Liner
- Lancome Hypose Drama mascara
- Blistex Lip Brilliance in Blushing
- Revlon Lip Butter in Macaroon

The look is fairly basic, but it's one I've been wearing a lot recently. The newest development is the Revlon Lip Butter, which I bought after reading a post on Gembear's blog. It's such a lovely product to use, really moisturising and it keeps my lips hydrated. Not to mention the colour (Macaroon) is gorgeous. I couldn't decide whether to pick up this one or 'Candy Apple', but I'm so impressed that I might go and buy that one as well using some of my Boots Advantage Card points.