Zara A/W 2014 Wishlist

Zara A/W 2014 Wishlist by whatlaradidnext featuring zara shoes

Zara loose dress / Long sleeve dress / Zara purple sweater / Zara top / Zara brown t shirt / Zara jacket / Zara shoes

Morning guys...so I don't know if you've all noticed, but the days are starting to getting a little bit colder and evenings are a little bit darker - meaning that Autumn is fast approaching, yay! I love this time of year for lots of reasons, the fashion, the holidays and the bitter cold weather.

In a couple of weeks I'm off to London for a day of shopping on Oxford Street. My first point of call will most definitely be Zara. I am in love with their September Look Book and intend of getting quite a few lovely treats from there. Although I want pretty much everything, in reality this isn't going to happen, so above I have created a little wish list of the key pieces I'm hoping to purchase from there on my little spree. I'm mainly aiming to add to the mini monochrome wardrobe I've made over summer by adding berry/khaki/oxblood shades to the mix. Layering is big for A/w 2014 so I am hoping to get dainty oversized garments that I can mix things up a bit with. I also absolutely love this grey faux fur oversized coat with a hood, it kinda reminds me of the Ragged Priest one Kyle got me for Christmas last year! I am definitely going to purchase this and upon purchasing I intend on turning into full Eskimo mode. Structured shoes that I can wear with sweater dresses and tights are also at the top of my little list!

What are you loving from Zara at the minute??

All White Everything

All White Everything by whatlaradidnext featuring a black iphone case

Monki woven top / Asos coat / River Island white evening shoes, $47 / ALDO white open toe shoes / Yves Saint Laurent black leather handbag / Zara white handbag / Yves saint laurent bag / Stuhrling Original bracelet jewelry / AIAIAI black earbud / Karl Lagerfeld black iphone case / Tiffany & Co. tiffany & co sunglasses

Soooo the title is a little bit misleading because there are some black items thrown in there as well but oh well. Anyways, is anyone else absolutely loving this white out trend at the minute? White is a dangerous yet wonderful colour, dangerous if you're anything like me (clumsy) and spill everything.

However, in a bid to prep together a summer capsule wardrobe that mainly consists of monochrome - a little collage inspo is never a bad thing. I'm just totally into this whole look, I think it's really timeless and very classy.  This collage is a mixture of things I've bought recently and some of the items on my never ending wishlist (the Saint Laurent Clutch & Coin Purse obvs). I've always loved black and will always end up opting for something black. I normally shy away from white, mainly due to my clumsiness and also probably because I'm a little self conscious - white doesn't exactly help a figure like mine, well so I thought anyway until recently. I think if the combo are teamed in a correct manor they can look soooo hot and effortless.

Will you be following the White Out trend this summer? What is on your wishlist?

Stockholm Travel Essentials

Stockholm Travel Essentials by whatlaradidnext featuring an ear bud headphone

Morning Everyone!

In just over 2 weeks I am jetting off to Stockholm for a short city break with my boyfriend and I cannot wait! As a way to get me in holiday mode and well to make me even more excited than I already I am - I thought I would put together a little travel essentials list. Now I know there are loads more items you need than just what I have put on the collage but these are my must haves!

1. Handbag - A good sturdy Mary-Poppins-esque bag will do just the trick. On city breaks you're bobbing around the city all day long and there is nothing worse than carrying tonnes of carrier bags about. You need a bag to put in all your essentials remember!

2. BB Cream - My flight is at 7:45am from Heathrow which means I will be travelling in the middle of the night to get to the Airport. Although I will be super excited for my little city break, at that hour of the day, wearing a heavy/fantastic coverage Foundation is not on the top of my list. BB Cream - a light glowing alternative however does seem very appealing. It promises to hide blemishes and imperfections and does the trick of a foundation and concealer but without the cakeyness = perfect for an overnight flight.

3. Trainers - On a city break in a place like Stockholm there are so many places to discover and explore, being on-foot for the majority of the day means you need a good pair of shoes. Heels is not an option for me unless its evening so I'm going to invest in a good old pair of Nikes before my mini break.

4. Scrunchies - Again, you'll be doing a lot of walking, a lot of lugging around suitcases and a lot of rushing around. With the air probably being windy, having pristine slick hair wouldn't be awfully advisable as it will just blow all over the shop. A good old scrunchie has many uses - you can wear it in the day, put it in a bun for bed or even use it as a bracelet - my boyfriend has a habit of pinching mine and doing this!

5 & 6. Headphones & Ipad -  I've combined 5 & 6 because they work together generally. My Ipad mini and a pair of headphones are must have for a flight. It means I can listen to my music, do a bit of blogging and just generally forget about the world for a little while.

7. Sunglasses - Regardless of whether it is hot or not sunnies are always on my list. They shield your eyes from the sun on hot days, they're your best friend on no make up and dress down days and they keep them pesky insects out of your way...what would we do without them ey?

8. Snacks - A supply of snacks is a must have, always. No matter where you are, sometimes you just get that feeling where you need food and you need it now. I chose Reeses mini's because well they're like little bites of heaven. I literally praise the person who founded Reeses, what a clever chap.

9. Camera - Travelling is all about exploring and capturing them once in a lifetime moments and having a camera is always pretty useful. I mean, the camera I will be using wont be as fancy as the one in my collage unfortunately but I will certainly be taking one.

What are your travel essentials and must haves? :) 

City Glam*

I don't where my obsession for luxury brands was born - it may have been early December time when I was Christmas shopping for the gifts. I was surrounded by the hand crafted structured leathers and glimmering jewellery, whilst getting lost in Fenwicks. In places like that where you're surrounded by gorgeous items,  it's almost impossible to resist.

Maybe my love for YSL, Tom Ford, Celine & Chanel  sprouted from scrolling endless on my Instagram news feed - we all follow those dolls that live and breath designer garments. You'll have come across those insta posts that just purely consist of someones lipstick collections or what they've bought on their shopping trip to Harrods.

Now obviously these brands are all great but not all of us are fortunate enough to afford the extortionate price tag that goes along with them. So think of the collage above as your inspo. Don't try and kid yourself into thinking you can afford to dress head to toe in Burberry but don't try and knock yourself neither. Luxury brands are aspirational, they're technically what we aspire to be able to dress like and are not necessarily realistic.

I've managed to team some key hight street pieces & boutique style jewellery in the mix to accompany the luxury brands. The slouch vest is Topshop; the statement jewel encrusted necklace and dagger anchor earrings are both from Love Thy Accessory - an upcoming urban online jewellery and fashion accessories boutique based in the cool city of London. These high street essentials blend in perfectly with YSL and you wouldn't even know the difference.

What I'm getting at is - you can fool others into thinking you're wearing Chanel when really it could be a steal of a bargain. So long as you team your outfits accordingly so they look tasteful, people will believe that is what you are.

Don't be afraid to mix designer and high street is the moral of the story ladies - trick passers-by by drowning yourself in YSL Manifesto perfume and wearing a good quality volupte lipstick on your smackers and it'll be a winner - promise!

city shimmer glam by whatlaradidnext featuring Topshop

My Internship at Heat Magazine

Evening to my lovely readers!

I've been so busy the past couple of months that I never got chance to tell you about what I did in November...that's right I bagged my self a short internship at Heat Mag! Having worked at Closer earlier in the year, I must say I did find my experience this time round A LOT less daunting. The thing is Closer and Heat are literally next door to one another, on the same floor and in the same building. Since I was pretty used to the building and people there...I wasn't as nervous. In fact, I was more excited than anything.

It was a lot of fun! As most of you probably know - I absolutely love the buzz of visiting big cities and what better city to visit than London?!

So I should probably start telling you what I actually got up to whilst I was 'daaan saaaf' rather than babbling, here it goes...

On my first day , it involved getting up at 5:30am and leaving the house by 6:20am (a traumatic experience for me to say the least). Next thing was to avoid dosing off at the train station and make it to Kings Cross in one piece - again a troublesome experience. Once I got to Kings Cross I had to take the tube to Covent Gardens and then simply take a short walk to Heat Towers.

Once I arrived in reception, I just had to wait for the editorial assistant to come and fetch me - she shortly appeared and called out my name. I was pleasantly surprised when 3 other interns' names were called also. Maria (the editorial assistant) gave us a brief tour of the old building and then led us to our desk. We all got our own desks which was pretty good!

This time round I chose to do Editorial rather than Fashion - and in all honesty, I actually enjoyed the Editorial side more as it involved more writing rather than being locked in the Fashion Cupboard. I don't mind the Fashion Cupboard but writing is definitely where my true passion lies.

Throughout the week I...

• Was introduced to various members of staff 
• I wrote a whole lotta web content
• Briefly bumped into Holly from Geordie Shore
• Did an online Twitter chat with some X Factor Contestants
• Went to visit the girls on the Closer Fashion Desk and helped them out with some fashion samples
• Put together some goody bags and sent out subscription issues to the lovely ladies at Mother & Baby Mag
• Got given some lovely books on the last day as a thank you for my efforts

AND I got the chance to sit in the Coco-Cola truck! 

All in all it was an amazzzing experience - Heat yet again confirmed to me that I do want to work in the magazine/fashion/publishing industry when I'm a little bit older. 

Have you interned at any magazines or PR companies recently? If so, comment below -  I would love to hear all about it :) 

My face off with Nadine Mendess

Hello lovelies!

If any of you have been following 'The Face' on Sky Living over the past couple of months then you will no doubt already have heard of the amazingly beautiful - Nadine Mendes! After a heated final face off last night Nadine came out in 4th place after making it to the final. Throughout the competition she walked til the death in catwalks and posed elegantly in photo shoots, proving her to be one of the strongest girls in the competition that is The Face. Teamed alongside her mentor Caroline Winberg, Nadine did an amazing job in the comp and will no doubt have an outstanding modelling career ahead of her. Luckily, I managed to grab her for a quick 5 minute interview with the girl herself and found out a little more about her experience on The Face.

Are you glad you're in team Caroline? 
Initially, I wanted to be in team Naomi, but I'm so thankful to be in team Caroline. I get along with all the girls and that makes the experience more enjoyable.

2. Had you done any modelling before The Face? I've been modelling part-time for 4 years, whenever I get time off from education really.

3. What is your dream campaign? (Beauty, high fashion, Marc Jacobs, vogue etc??) 
My dream campaigns would be Burberry and Victoria Secrets, both brands portray a luxurious style of living; and it would be a dream come true to live it, even just for a day.

4. What's Caroline like as a person? 
Caroline is such a lovely person, she's humble and very easy to talk to. The majority of the time it feels like she is one of the girls :)

5. What was it like to be in the presence of 3 hugely successful models? 
It's was such an honour, but at the same time scary! Their presence was so strong, and they were great at whatever modelling skills we had to learn. There was quite a lot of pressure on us as upcoming models!

6. If you could do The Face again what team would you like to be in? 
CAROLINE!!! I really loved being a part of Caroline's team and the girls were very easy to work with. I managed to learn so much with my mentor, and I was always encouraged to do better in a positive and constructive way.

7. How's life since The Face? I'm currently living abroad, as part of my university course so I been experiencing something new, travelling and having fun. I do miss the crew from The Face!

8. What top tips would you give to other aspiring models? 
Don't give up, practise a lot and don't ever forget you’re fabulous. 

9. Who was your best friend on the show? 
I got along with almost every girl in the competition but I would say Eleanor and Elaine.

10. Have you met any Celebs since appearing on the show? Yes, I met a few people from the A list :)

11. You have such flawless skin, what is your secret? 
All I do is wash, cleanse and moisturise. When I'm not modelling I don't wear a lot of make-up and I think that leaves your skin looking fresh.

12. How do you keep in shape? I always attempt to go gym or do some sort of exercise but never stick to it. I would say I'm naturally skinny.

13. Name 3 items you couldn't live without. Lip-gloss, my phone, and body lotion!

14. What was the atmosphere like in the house? We didn't spend much time at the house; it was early mornings and late nights. However the atmosphere was quite relaxed and chilled apart from elimination days when the losing teams were moody... and when most of the arguments happened.

I'm an ASOS Fashion Insider

Hey everyone! So...I've got some really exciting news for you all that I am really pleased to share with you! I am now an ASOS Fashion Insider. Woohoo! I applied for this a while back and never expected to be accepted. I didn't think I stood a chance and to be honest completely forgot about it until they emailed me with the great news. 

I am really excited  about all this. You're probably all wondering what this actually entails - well let me explain...As an ASOS Insider I will occasionally get invited to events, get all the ASOS inside goss i.e. collection previews and behind the scene shazazz. I will also get opportunities to apply for exclusive interviews and competitions along with other insiders. As well as the occasional freebies. Exciting eh? I can't really go into too much detail right now as it's kinda top secret but do know that I will be shortly be your main source of info for all things ASOS and will be getting involved in some really exciting fun things very soon :) 

Check out the video below:

Aside from receiving an email informing me of my acceptance as an ASOS Insider I also rceived the cutest parcel from them. I waited a little longer than the other insiders to receive my gift in the post as I stupidly kept missing my delivery, so in the end I just got it redelivered! It was really lovely to receive a little something in the post from such a well known company. In the box I received the following: 

• Barry M Nail Polish in 'Berry Cosmo' 
• 2 teeny finger rings, one plated and one chained
• A note from ASOS
• A Fortune Cookie

Everyone who was accepted as an insider received a gift that was especially hand picked for them. The note I received says ' Hi Lara, welcome to #AccessAllASOS! We know you like to embrace your inner goth in the colder months so here's a couple of gifts that should hit the mark'. How lovely that they went to the trouble of choosing a present so individually tailored. 

I am pleased to say that I am currently wearing my Berry Cosmo polish as I type and the rings have been clued to my fingers for the last few days. Of course the Fortune Cookie was gone within about 20 seconds of me opening my parcel (oops) and the words of wisdom inside the Cookie said 'New friends are in your new future' - I'm hoping by this they mean I'm going to make lots of new blogger friends in the coming months!  

What do you think to my gifts? :)

GoThinkBig celebrate their 1st Birthday!!

This week GoThinkBig had their 1st birthday! If you're sitting here reading this wondering what on earth 'GoThinkBig' is - is it a person? a product? Well for all of you who aren't aware - GoThinkBig is an organisation that focuses on helping young ambitious people get their foot in the door in the media industry and several other industries in fact.

GoThinkBig has an opportunities website where you can apply for work experience, internships, apprenticeships and entry level positions. If you're anything like me, when I stumbled upon this website I was beyond excited. I did my first fashion internship at Bliss Magazine back in early 2012 which I gained off of my own back. I sent them my CV, registered my interest, wrote a cover letter and then wrote a further letter explaining why I think I'd be pefect to be a Blisslet & luckily I nailed the deal. It wasn't easy to obtain the work experience but well worth it in the end. The point I'm making is - for me to land that work experience I emailed every magazine possible begging for an internship but didn't hear back from the majority of them. Who wants a girl who has no experience in the industry?

GoThinkBig take out all of this hassle for you and actually advertise real opportunities which, if you apply for - whether you're successful or not in gaining the opportunity you are still notified rather than sitting and waiting. Waiting upon an email telling you that Vogue wants to employ you and thinks you're fantastic (a girl can dream eh!).

Anyway, the whole point of me writing this post is because I'd like to give a big thank you to GoThinkBig for all that they've done for me this year, it's changed everything for me!! Back in January this year I found GTB and thought hey ho lets give it ago and think I applied for every opportunity going. A month later I had completely forgot about applying for all these applications when I received a phone call from the Style Assistant at Closer magazine (midway through drying my hair and rushing around getting ready for sixth form) asking if I'd like to do a fashion internship next month. Me being the stupidly excited/panicky person I am just literally didn't know what to say! I was just astounded that a big magazine would take any interest in me! Anyways, I accepted and so a couple of weeks later, off I went to Shaftesbury Avenue...

However the luck didn't stop there! On my second day of interning at Closer I was in the lift and the other girl in the lift began talking to me and stated she was really impressed with me - turns out she was the editorial assistant at Heat magazine! Maria gave me her contact details and told me I'm more than welcome to do some work experience at Heat whenever I like. So, once I got home from London I emailed her and  sorted it. In a week I'll be off to Covent Gardens for a week to Heat Towers but this time in the editorial department. Hooray! GoThinkBig is definitely worth giving a try, it does prove that one opportunity can lead to another. Thank you so much GTB :)

Check out the video below to see even further details on how GoThinkBig can help you!
Follow them on Twitter: @GoThinkBig
Or if you think you're ready to get your foot in the door, check out their website for opportunities: www.gothinkbig.co.uk 

Boux Avenue support Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

I'd like to say a 'Happy October' to y'all! For me,  October is one of the best months of the year for loads of reasons. The nights are drawing in, Christmas is creeping upon us and the smell of bonfire is a familiar and reassuring smell this time of year. October means Halloween - the one day of the year where it is acceptable to:

• wear minimal clothing
• look really ugly and no one can say anything
• dress up as a ghost/ghoul
• have the cheek to go to people's houses begging for sweets (in a polite manner of course)
• have a scary movie marathon
• drink potions!

October is also the month where summer officially ends in Britain - so don't forget to turn your clocks back 1 hour on the 27th ladies. However, what is really great about October is that there are loads of events on which are for a good cause - we've got 'Sober October' & 'Stoptober' which is where we are supposedly meant to refrain from smoking like a chimney and drinking like a fish. Luckily for me, I don't smoke and I'm not really a massive fan of alcohol so this wont be an issue for me, unless somebody offers me a Disaronno and coke obviously - who could be possibly resist that.

However the thing that I really wanted to get at is that this month is Breast Cancer Awareness Month - something that is close to a lot of people's hearts. Breast Cancer Care is a charity that provides emotional and practical support for those affected by the tragic illness and campaigns for support and care. Breast Cancer care aims to promote early detection in Breast Cancer - to ensure people are able to catch this nasty disease as soon as possible and prevent it from getting any worse.

Last year...

• 1.5 Million people sought information and support from the Breast Cancer Care website
• Breast Cancer care answered more than 12,000 calls to their help line 
• & reached over 3,375 people with their breast cancer awareness talks

Boux Avenue  are giving amazing support to this cause and are donating £1 from every PINK set of underwear bought this month - view the pink collection here! Due to this special campaign month Boux Avenue are also doing a deal on their super cute tradish' PJs - on offer for buy one get one free - you can buy them here. So with Boux Avenue supporting this amazing campaign - why not buy something pink this month and get some Christmas presents in the process and help out this wonderful charity. 

Check out the Breast Cancer website - lets conquer this illness now and detect any symptoms as early as possible! 

  

Winter Playlist

Since the winter playlist post I did last year was such a big hit (view it here), I thought I'd make it an annual thing. Unfortunately since I was a massive slacker over summer I never did a summer playlist - when really I should have. Buuuuut anyways, below I've listed some songs I'll probably be overplaying over the next couple of months and ending up hating this time next year.

The music I tend to listen to really does vary massively. One moment I'll be jamming to Azealia Banks imagining I'm an urban gal from NYC and other times I will be shamefully listening to One Direction.

1. Kanye West - New Slaves
2. Iggy Azalea - Work
3. Macklemore - Same Love
4. The Black Lips - Bad Kids
5. Lady Gaga - Sex Dreams
6. Lady Gaga - Scheisse Instrumental
7. Flux Pavilion - Blow The Roof
8. Jay-Z - Tom Ford
9. London Grammar - Strong
10. Tinie Tempah ft John Martin - Children Of The Sun

What do you think? What songs will you be overplaying this A/W?

Midnight Madness Velvet Crush

Summer has gone for another year and the Autumn/Winter season is now sneaking upon us. This means - bright colours swapped for moody palettes. Think blacks, deep red and purple tones, crushed velvet and as always - leather.

Not sure about you guys but during the colder months I turn into a gothic princess/member of the addams family. (even more so than usual). I really think winter is my time to shine clothes wise, moodiness and gloominess is how I do!!

In this collage I've featured two items that are velvet, now normally this would completely freak me out as the feel of velvet goes through me! It's not quite as bad as the feel of cotton wool but it's definitely up there with the worst. Eeeek! This year however I've had a change of heart. The velvety textured garments that are slowly creeping into Topshop are beautiful - I'm seriously crushing on them right now. I feel the material in itself adds a dose of nostalgia to the mix. When I think velvet, I always think of moth bitten curtains in a haunted house and with Halloween not so far away, this is definitely the look I wanna go for. The deep purple-black lipstick, nail lacquer and smokey eye palette just really finishes this grungey looking outfit perfectly for me. Whilst the silver crystal headdress just adds a smidge of girliness.

Winter fashion is my favourite by a mile, probably due to the fact my wardrobe is rammed full of black items of clothing.

Will you be wearing crushed velvet, berry red lips and leather this A/W?



Midnight Madness Velvet Crush by whatlaradidnext featuring a purple lipstick

River Island retro top, $24 / River Island shearling lined jacket, $145 / River Island pants, $48 / Topshop shorts / River Island ankle booties, $72 / River Island hair accessory, $13 / Topshop purple lipstick / Topshop metallic eyeshadow / Topshop nail care, $9.56 / River Island Black velvet scrunchy, $7.96

Winter Wardrobe Haul

The last couple of months I have been saving for upcoming events in October and November so haven't really been able to spend any money but last week was the last straw. I just felt really fed up and felt like my wardrobe needed sprucing up a bit. Since I'd been saving for the last couple of months, I thought that I deserved to treat my self to a few new bits and bobs. So guess what?! I went and did exactly that!

Above I have displayed some of the items I purchased in various cities. The other weekend I went up to Newcastle to help my boyfriend move into his new house and since we were already in the city we thought - why not go browse the shops! The Clementine shade Ralph Lauren Shirt-Dress was purchased from the newly opened Best Newcastle. I was really happy with this dress because I think its just so versatile. I can use it as office wear for work as it looks smart - whether it be as a dress with leggings or underneath a woolly jumper. I just know I'll get a lot of wear out of it. This dress was also my first ralphy purchase ever (shocking I know!). 

 With the 12th September being the release launch date of the Rihanna for River Island collection, I was determined from the day the collection was revealed that I needed to get something from her A/W set. Everything in the collection is just so me, it's tomboyish, fierce and has an urban gangster feel to it. I pre-ordered the G4 life bralet and then bought the baseball top from the Leeds RI store on Saturday (as seen on Cara Delevingne!!). In Leeds I also picked up this vintage oversized Levis denim jacket. All the denim jackets I ever wear are normally stolen from my boyfriend and I thought it was about time I invested in my own. At a not so hefty £30 from Best Leeds, I was more than happy with the jacket. It will be a wardrobe staple for sure! I also grabbed this oversized flannel tartan shirt which will also get tonnes of wear this winter - especially with Tartan being a hit A/W trend this season.

Purchase these items for yourself!:

BEST Leeds

Rihanna for River Island

Wha

Margot's World

Margot's World is the new Topshop collection inspired by a character called Margot from a 2001 Wes Anderson film called 'The Royal Tenenbaum'. I'm so in love with this collection, every piece in this A/W trend is so dainty and pretty. Topshop describes the collection as 'stepping into a sherbet coloured world where dainty dressing reigns.'

In the collage shown above I have created a set that you would be able to mix and match whilst still achieving this preppy vintage look. The character that inspired this trend - Margot, was best known for her oversized fur coats and dark smudged kohl eyeliner. I feel some shiny popping pink lipgloss would finish this look perfectly. I would never normally wear lip gloss, lipstick is where my true love lies. However I feel this collection really focuses on dainty styling with catwalk ready make up - i.e. the typical smudged eyeliner model look with textured lips that give you edge.

The pieces I have picked out in this collection are very princess'esque and prim but also incorporate the Tartan trend that is gonna take the world by storm this winter. Fur, primness and baby pastels will be the 'IT' items to wear in this wintery season. View the LFW stream/highlights here to see Margot reigning the catwalk.

You can shop the rest of the collection by Clicking here.

What do you think to this trend? Will you be wearing sherbet pastels this season?

Margot's World by whatlaradidnext featuring Topshop

Topshop sweater / Topshop crop shirt / Topshop blue camisole / Topshop pea coat / Topshop chiffon knee length skirt / Topshop high waisted shorts / Topshop socks / Topshop shoes / Topshop ring / Topshop clear glasses / Topshop lip gloss / TOPSHOP Kohl Pencil , Bolt, $6.33

London Fashion Week

With LFW events all kicking off today, I thought I would give you a timetable of all the events going off over the next few days. Exciting stuff!

5 Minutes with Lindsey Kelk!

I've always dreamed of living the NYC/ Carrie Bradshaw-esque lifestyle. Even more so after I read the wonderful works of 'I Heart NY' by the very lovely Lindsey Kelk. 'I Heart NY' still stands as my favourite book to date, probably because it mirrors my dream lifestyle. I was very lucky to catch the best selling author for a whirlwind interview...

Hi Lindsey! First of all - How did you get into writing?

I’ve always been a writer. I used to write stories in school and at home, even from when I was in infant school – I grew up with a lot of books, it didn’t occur to me that it was weird. When I got older, it was something I did to relax and for my own enjoyment, it seems crazy to me now that the books are out there in shops and that people are reading them.

Do you feel you're living the dream?

Ha, that’s such a difficult question. I love my life and I wouldn’t change it for anything but there’s plenty of non-glam nonsense going on in the background all the time that I’m pretty sure isn’t officially part of ‘the dream’.

Where about's in New York are you based?

I live in Park Slope, Brooklyn and I love it. It’s very chill and friendly and there are lots and lots of very yummy restaurants and fun bars. Vital.

Do you think you'll live in the big apple for the rest of your life?

My friends are here, my life is here. I just can’t imagine being anywhere else right now but I guess never say never? I love London and I spend a lot of time in LA, who knows?

Out of all the books you've written, which book do you think best mirrors the antics that have happened in your life?

It’s hard to say. Obviously I live in New York, just like Angela, but I wrote that book before I moved here. As much as I wish they were based entirely on real life, the books are fictional. Sniff.

Would you say Angela Clark is somewhat a spin off of Carrie Bradshaw?

I’m a big Sex and the City fan but Angela wasn’t based on anyone. She and Carrie both live in NYC, they both like a nice pair of shoes and they’re both writers but I think that’s really where the similarities end.

When you were at school, what was your dream job? 

Definitely a writer. I flirted with the idea of being an actress for ten minutes but I’m a storyteller at heart.

Who is your favourite fashion designer?

I love lots of different designers and I’m always finding new ones to fall for. I’m definitely a big Marc Jacobs fan though, just like Angie. Shoe-wise, I am constantly crushing on YSL and with bags, I would take my arm off for anything YSL, Alexander Wang or Mulberry.

Who is your style icon?

There isn’t one person in particular, I don’t think. I often find myself in similar styles to ZooeyDeschanel and Alexa Chung but I think that’s maybe because we all have a real love of vintage shapes and styles. 90% of my clothes have stripes, polka dots and Peter Pan collars – too many of my clothes look like they belong to a four year old or a nana. It’s a curse.

If you could take 3 items of clothing on a dessert island what would they be?

Striped t-shirt, polka dot shorts, t-shirt with a cute collar dress. Done and done.

What is in your make up bag at this very minute?

I don’t have a make up bag so much as a revolving handbag full of crap that comes out of three drawers full of slap. I’m disgusting. I have so much make up. Because it’s SO hot right now, I’m just wearing the same stuff every day – Pore-Fessional Primer from Benefit, La Mer SPF colour tint, Maybelline The Eraser concealer, Estee Lauder Cello Shots cheek stain, Dior Lip Glow balm and MAC pressed powder. On the eyes, if it’s a daytime, I’m just wearing MAC Shroom with Benefit They’re Real mascara and in the evening, I love Chanel Fresh Effects cream shadow in cool gold with Nars liquid liner in Koala and Chanel Style Yeux Waterproof in Espresso all blended together. If I’m smoking it out, I’ll add the sparkly dark brown from the Nars ‘And God Created Woman’ palette. I know that all looks like pretty high end stuff but when the weather is sticky and humid, I find the better brands last that bit longer and I don’t like to wear too much bright make up in the summer. When it cools down, I’ll be back playing with my drugstore haul!

What is your favourite food?

Oh god, there’s no way I could choose one thing. Living in New York is so hard, everything is delicious. I love pizza, tapas, Chinese, BBQ… it’s impossible. Sorry.

What drink do you have on a night out?

I’m a cocktail gal, preferably gin, preferably something tart and lemony. Yum.

What would your ultimate summer playlist?

I love Desire Lines, the new Camera Obscura album. It’s gorgeous.

What inspires your books?

Everything really. Mostly I look at what’s going on in my life and how that might affect someone like me, then build a story around that.About A Girl came out of a lot of my friends losing their jobs and going through huge life changes – obviously none of them nicked their flatmate’s lives and took off to Hawaii but going to Office Angels and getting a new job wouldn’t have made a very good book…

What beauty product do you swear by?

Hydraluron is AMAZING and really helps my skin when I’m travelling, plus I love Elemis Pro-Collagen cleansing balm and Pro-Collagen Marine Cream. After that, I can’t be without Benefit They’re Real mascara or Dior Lip Glow balm and shed loads of Jergens moisturiser.

What would your ideal day consist of?

Sleep. Lots of sleep. And probably a couple of chilled out hours on the sofa vegging out to Law & Order: SVU and then lunch with a friend, a bit of shopping in the afternoon, maybe get my hair did or pop into a spa and then dinner and drinks with one of my favourite people. Bliss.

How did you go about getting your first book published?

Same way as everyone else with a twist. I actually just a made a video explaining it all on my website which you can see HERE.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers? 

The best advice anyone can give you is to just write. When I wrote I Heart New York, I was writing a blog, a diary and the book, just to get used to putting words on a page. Read as much as you can, write as much as you can and just keep going – don’t edit or second guess yourself until your first draft is done.

In a nutshell, how did you get where you are today? 

Perseverance and taking chances. Life’s too short not to try.

Lindsey is launching her new book 'I Heart Christmas' very shortly. You can pre-order it by clicking here. 

Follow Lindsey on twitter: @LindseyKelk

What is your dream lifestyle? Do you love I Heart NY?

OPI brings you their new A/W 13 Collection: San Francisco

 OPI have just launched their new collection for this A/W. It is set to be the IT nail lacquer of the season. The collection entitled 'San Francisco' brings a street style come urban coast flair to the nails and toes. With a beautiful palette ranging from moody greys and blues to gorgeous jewel ruby tones, the collection is inspired by the cities most iconic elements.

San Francisco by Lena White (The UK Distributor of OPI) has a mixture of shiny finish polishes and urban textured matte finishes called the Liquid Sand Collection.

Lena White has changed the face of the nail industry over the past 30 years by bringing her expertise and knowledge of what women want to the table. Lena knows that women want:  Instant gratification and  the effortless style that beautifully manicured hands. Lena started as a rookie nail tech back in 1976 but has since used her motto to transform the nail industry and so the finished product of this hard work is the San Francisco A/W 13 collection. Click Here to buy San Francisco shades for yourself!

A few of my favourites from the collection are shown above(from left to right):

• Muir Muir On The Wall
• Embaraca Dare Ya
• Peace & Love & OPI
• Haven't The Foggiest
• First Date At Golden Gate
• It's All San Andreas Fault

Which of these shades are you going to be flaunting this season and why?!

Urban Outfitters Wish List

I don't know about anyone else but when I'm in Urban Outfitters I spend ages looking at all the home-ware items in store. Everything is so perfect! I just want it all, so I've compiled a little list of all my faves at the minute. 

1. Scented Gel Pens - These just take me back to my childhood. In Primary School, if you owned scented gel pens you were the bomb. I never thought I'd see them again, I was so happy when I came across this cute set, I'm deffo going to purchase these in the near future, I feel very much deprived of the gorgeous strawberry smelling glitter pens right now.
2. Cara Delevingne Colouring Book - Why you ask? Why on earth not you mean, anything with Cara's face on is worth having!
3. Volunteer Book - This book really caught my eye because in a couple of years I'd like to travel the world and do some volunteer work so I feel this book would become very useful. It shows you all the hints and tips, different conservation work you can take part in and a whole host of home made herbal remedies for allergies and injuries.
4. The Label Maker - Because I am a freak when it comes to organization, ooops!
5. Macaroon Mug - Well I've never actually tried a Macaroon but they look almost too delicious to eat and look ridiculously tasty in their pastel coloured state. Pretty little Macaroons on a mug, what's wrong with that?
6. Thirsty Drink Cup - This hilarious drinks cup is too funny not to own, I'm always thirsty and so the phrase fits me well. I'm also a lover of Starbucks and this cup looks almost like an upgrade to a frappucino holder and...its PINK!
7. Pharrell book  - Pharrell is pretty much the hype of the moment with blurred lines and get lucky being massive summer hits. He is also featured in this months Vogue with Cara, therefore I must know everything about the man.
8. Doormat - This mat is so welcoming and I'd like this in my own house when I'm older.
9. Map - I've always wanted a big map of the world so that I can pin places in the world that I have visited. Hopefully when I'm older there will be no place unexplored!

Which of these items do you like best and why?!

Lara x

CELINE Winter Campaign Video

Without a doubt, Celine is most definitely one of my favourite designers, I've followed this brand for years. After having just watched the Winter 2013 Campaign video I am almost speechless, what an exquisite collection. 

When I think of Celine I think power business and seriously high fashion. I was blown away with the Campaign video, for me the collection was on another level. The oversized coats were out of this world, the clean white pieces are always an all time favourite of mine anyway and certainly did not disapoint. I LOVED the grey palette used throughout the show, it reminded me of the colours of an elephant and the tartan was just beautiful. 

Whilst we're on the subject of Tartan. I was choosing some fabric earlier to make some clothes and was debating for ages whether to go for paisley or tartan. I opted for paisley as its a safer option but after watching this video I am bitterly disappointed I chose not to purchase the tartan as the Celine collection has just gave me inspiration I didn't realise I even had! 

The thing I love best about all designers is that their collections have the ability to take your thoughts to different places. One minute you're looking at an outfit and in your mind you're walking down the bustling streets of Fifth Avenue in NY on a cold day in December. Next minute you're parading through an African Safari in a 4x4. 

Check out the video above or look at the official Celine video   HERE

Coral Lovin'

Coral Lovin' by whatlaradidnext featuring Topshop

This Coral-come-Clementine colour is all over the catwalk this season - whether it be high street or luxury! Personally, I think this cute colour popping trend looks amazing with a dash of black - whether it be patent or matte. Black looks good with everything but looks seriously hot when teamed with this shade of orange. This look perceives a feminine yet empowering image, except of course the super cute PJs featured on the collage which are just the sweetest little set. P.S. Is anybody else in love with this Celine bag? The royal blue version is another personal fave!

Lady Gaga makes a scandalous return: ARTPOP

Little Monsters were bursting with excitement the other week when Lady Gaga finally announced the release of the first single off her new album. The track APPLAUSE is set to storm its way through the charts and the expectations for the soon to be released album ARTPOP are even higher. With nearly 40 million followers on Twitter, I just know that Gaga is going to be a sell  out!

ARTPOP is completely different to anything she has ever done before - rather than just being an album, Gaga states ARTPOP is a 'multimedia experience', meaning there will be an app that is compatible with pretty much every device and you will be able to see videos to accompany every song, engage in live chats and discussions, as well as receiving fashion updates!

As a huge Gaga fan myself, I was so happy to finally hear of a release date for Applause which is on the 19th of August. Hooraaaayyy! However, my only worry is that Born This Way was such a huge success and is still to date my fave album I'm just worried mother monster wont be able to convert me to an ARTPOP fan. As ever though, Gaga has entered a new era in a musical career so everyone can expect a complete change in the artists' style. The transformation from a black studded and leather hooker boots kinda girl to a painting canvas wonder has already begun.