Cute messy boho hair!!

Hi guys!

I'm so lucky to have an awesome friend who also happens to be an amazing hairdresser. This is a quick look she did for me recently for a dinner out. Super cute and non-fussy! Sometimes I just like to have my hair up off my back, this look is perfect for those days…

End of a Chapter

Hi guys!

I just wanted to share a quick post with you today. This past Wednesday was a very special day for me, after four and a half long years of study I finally graduated from Uni! It was an amazing day full of special people and lots of love and support. 

For those of you with a friend or family member at Uni, it may seem like you've been put last on the list of priorities. Try and remember, they are working towards something very special. With a lot of hard work and support from the people around them (like you!) they will make it there in the end :)

Stay smart my lovelies!! Xx

Casual Friday

Just a quick work OOTD!! TGIF to all you Monday to Friday workers :)

Pants:Target//Top:Valleygirl//Cardi:Forcast//Jacket:Portmans//Scarf:Cotton On//Shoes:Vans//Bag:DKNY

Ecriture De Chanel Automatic Liquid Liner Review

Who here is an eyeliner junkie? I defiantly am. A good winged liner can complete any makeup look, or used on its own, can make it seem like you've put in way more effort than you actually have. Who could say no to that!?

Recently my beloved Dollywink liquid liner came to the end of its tenure in my makeup drawer, and I spent a while looking around to try something new. After trolling strawberrynet.com for a few days, I came across the Ecriture De Chanel Liquid Liner. I recalled actually swatching it at a Chanel counter a few months ago when my sister was looking for a new liner, and was quite impressed.

Now this defiantly isn't the cheapest option for liner. I got mine on strawberrynet.com for around $50 - which is a lot compared to my $12 Dollywink one! I decided to spoil myself after my exams, so I took the plunge and ordered away.

I have to say… I'm glad I made the investment! I purchased the Nior (black) one, which is super inky black and gorgeous. It uses a brush tip (rather than a felt one - the tester looking kind), which allows you to create both a gorgeous thick cat eye, or a nice thin line if you just want to make your lashes look thicker. I also love that it is mechanical, so you only wind up the product you want to use, leaving no room for wastage. This is ideal when your buying a higher end, pricier liner. There's nothing worse than spending a heap of money on something that drys up in a couple of weeks!!

Here's a few snaps…

To wrap up, this is an amazing liner, I definitely recommend having a play next time your walking past a Chanel counter! For anyone in Australia, it's still available on the Website if you want to check it out!

Where have I been?

Hi guys!!

I'll be the first to admit, it has been too long since I blogged! I do, however, return with very exciting news. This past Thursday I completed my last University exam. After 4 and a half year all the hard work has paid off!

I have many memories from my years at uni but am definitely glad that its over haha. Being that I now have much more spare time on my hands, I'm excited to get back to blogging!! I have a few fun posts lined up which will be released over the next week, so make sure you check back :)

For those of you considering a University degree I will say, from personal experience while it takes a lot of hard work and dedication, it is so rewarding to have followed through. The only thing advice I can give is study what you are passionate about! 

I'll leave you with a couple of celebration snaps from the last few days! Xx

Instagram pic I snapped after my last exam!

Flower from a very proud and supportive boyfriend

Cute card from my friend Sarah! 

Congrats balloon from the girlies at work! 

(had to crop out the bottom for privacy reasons but it was tied to a cute little glass with a fresh yellow Gerbera, so cute!)

Liebster Award

Jacqueline from The Pretty Little Things has nominated me for a Liebster Award. Thank you for the nomination!

Here are the rules: 

1. 11 facts about yourself.
2. Answers to the 11 questions the person who nominated you has provided.
3. Provide new questions for bloggers you nominate the award to.
4. Choose 11 bloggers with 200 or less followers to nominate the award, and link their blogs.
5. Contact each blogger via whatever network you like and let them know you have nominated them.
6. Thank the person who nominated you and link their blog.

First 11 Facts about me:

1. I speak Japanese after living in Tokyo for a year to attend a year of high school, my partner is also Japanese.

2. I am in my final semester of a Bachelor of Laws at Griffith University, which is something I've spent 4 years working extremely hard at and made many sacrifices for but which I'm so proud to have accomplished. I can't wait to graduate in July and begin my career.

3. I have a dog named Molly (but everyone calls her Momo which means Peach in Japanese).

4. I have pretty big feet for a girl haha. Size 9/10!!

5. I have been with my boyfriend for 5 years and I love him more and more everyday <3 He has supported me through everything I've faced or attempted and helps me build my confidence everyday.

6. Jacqueline from The Pretty Little Things is my little sister!! haha hopefully I don't embarrass her too much ;)

7. I'm a bit of a hermit haha, I like spending time with my family and close friends.

8. I enjoy learning about health and nutrition and taking care of the body I have to live in. This is something that runs in the family, my grandma, mum and sister share this trait with me.

9. I'm obsessed with organisation! I can't work in mess!

10. I'm also obsessed with candles, my favourite brand is Dusk <3

11. I love how high heels look, but I hardly ever wear them! I hate being uncomfortable! 

My answers to Jacqueline's questions:

1. Where have you traveled? 

Within Australia I have been to Queensland (where I live), NSW and Melbourne. Outside of Australia I've been to Japan 4 times, and Vanuatu once. I am yet to do a lot of travel but I want to go everywhere! My top 3 places I want to go to are Europe, the Americas (including Mexico, Canada and South America) and Africa!

2. What is your favorite flower? 

I love Peonies!

3. What is your favourite past-time? 

I love talking Momo for walks to our favourite park with Roki.

4. Your favorite perfume is? 

Chanel Mademoiselle!

5. Are you a student? If so what are you studying? 

Yes, study a Bachelor of Laws.

6. Do you have a passion for anything in particular? And if so what? 

Obviously I have a passion for beauty and fashion, but I also love photography and am a huge animal lover. 

7. What is on your bucket list? 

I want to travel to as many places as I can, build a successful career, and make a family :)

8. Why did you start blogging? 

The same reason most people do I guess, to share my passions with like-minded people.

9. What is your dream holiday destination? 

As I am Italian I really want to visit the country! However I also really want to visit Spain, Greece and do an African safari!

10. Winter or Summer? 

Winter!! Only because summer here is disgustingly hot! I do like Spring which is more mild but Winter is my favourite Season :)

11. What is your favorite food? 

Anything salty-sweet!! Chocolate covered pretzels, salty sweet popcorn, salted caramel ice-cream etc.

My eleven questions for my nominated bloggers:

1. Where have you travelled and where would you like to travel?

2. If you could be anything you wanted, what would you be?

3. What is something you are very passionate about?

4. Your favourite fashion brand?

5. Your favourite movie?

6. What is your favourite food?

7. What is your go-to nail polish colour?

8. Do you have any pets? 

9. If you could only use one makeup brand for the rest of your life, what would you choose?

10. Your favourite flower?

11. A night in or a night out?

The Bloggers I nominate:

I'm a little late in posting this so most of the blogs I read with under 200 followers have already been nominated and I don't see much point in nominating them again haha. I'll add gooroobeauty, Pink, and MadelineKate.

XX

HRH Collection Giveaway!!

I have loved the HRH Collection pieces since I first started watching Alex on youtube a few years ago. It has taken me a while to purchase one for myself as the shipping to Australia is always expensive, but I finally decided to make the investment in a classic Gold L'OR bracelet after hearing great testimonials from Glamour Creations by Kat (subscribe to her blog HERE, she's gorgeous!). While I was there I decided to grab one for you guys as well!! The quality of this piece is amazing and I can't wait to make my next purchase!

This is a thank you to all of you who read my blog, I've had over 10,000 views so far and appreciate every single one of them!

The bracelet worn in the pictures is my personal one, the winners bracelet will stay in its packaging until they receive it :) If you want to have a look at the description or more pictures you can visit the HRH Collection website.

Conditions of Entry

a Rafflecopter giveaway This give-away is open internationally, however you must be over 18 years or have your parents permission. 

Entries close on the 14th March 2013 and the winner will be published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. 

Friday Night Dinner OOTD

Hi guys!!

Today's post is part 2 of my birthday, my ootd from my birthday dinner. We went out to Bazaar restaurant in Surfers Paradise, my final post will be a review of the restaurant, but for today I wanted to share a quick outfit post :)

So here is what I wore!!

Dress from ValleyGirl / Necklace from Forever New / Shoes from Novo

For makeup I went for a smokey eye and nude lip 

Me & my beautiful friend Sarah (she did my hair for me too!!)

…..And Roki wanted to show his ootn too haha! What a poser :P

Sorry the photos aren't the best quality, I got ready at my friends place and didn't have much time for picture taking. The dress is actually a gorgeous purple colour but you can't really tell!! :( haha.

Don't forget you can follow me on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram if you want to see more daily pictures! The links and info up the top! Also, if your interested in travel and lifestyle blogs follow my friend Maddy's blog HERE. She just came back from Europe and has some great posts from her trip!

Xx

Birthday Adventures & OOTD

Hey lovelies! It was an eventful weekend, which is why I haven't blogged in a little while… So I thought I'd post about my birthday last Friday. It was a huge day so I've decided to split it into three parts. Today's post will be my day time ootd and some pics of what we did for the day.

 So onto the ootd!

Shirt from Temt / Faux leather leggings from Temt / Shoes from Portmans 

Bag by Kate Hill / Sunglasses by Calvin Klein 

Necklace from Diva / Revlon Lipstain in Passion 

In the morning we went to visit my mum for a while, before heading over to the Harbour Town Farmers Market.

looking for some yummy pasta sauce

Fresh pasta made daily <3

Cheese, cheese and more cheese!!

Yummy! <3

Our farmers market purchases :)

After the farmers markets we headed to harbour town to have some lunch and do some casual shopping….

My bag looks ridiculously big here haha!! 

I picked up a cute pair of heels at Novo that went with my dress for the night, but mainly I wanted them for upcoming grad job interviews!! It's scary thinking how close it all is!! 

These were so comfy and I think they will be perfect for work, they have a heel with the perfect height.

How did you spend your weekend?? Part 2 should be up in a few days so check back soon!! 

Xx

LoveClothing.com Review

Hi beauties! I had intended on writing a different post today, but I woke up to the arrival of my LoveClothing order and was so excited that I decided to do a review instead. These are the Pieces Funky Fox Jeggings in Bermuda Green and Dark Coral. They are still available (and on sale!!) on the LoveClothing.com site: in Green HERE; and in Dark Coral HERE. I got both of them for $50.55 Australian Dollars, including shipping which is a steal!

 I placed my order for these on the 11th of January and they arrived today (23rd January), so they took around 2 weeks to arrive. However, in saying that I had actually originally ordered a navy pair which were unfortunately discontinued. LoveClothing emailed me to let me know and I asked for the dark coral ones in place of the navy. They were so helpful and quick… 2 weeks to ship to Australia including having to make changes to my order is pretty amazing!! Shipping to here usually takes foreverrrrr. I've placed orders on eBay that have taken up to 2 months before!

The quality on these are amazing, they look like your wearing jeans with all the comfort of leggings, including an elastic waist. I found the green to be very true to size, however the coral ran a little smaller. I got the M/L in the coral (which is the only size left at the moment) and it fit quite well.

I can't wait until the weather gets a bit cooler so I can style them, I think the green would look great with a white chunky knit sweater or a printed sweater like THIS one. For now I put them on this morning just to grab a quick snap for you guys…

They also have grey, red and yellow ones available on the website, honestly I'm considering buying the red ones as well!! haha!

All in all, I'm very impressed with the store and will definitely be shopping there again soon :)

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

Xx



Disclaimer: These products were bought by me with my own money, all opinions are my own.

Back to School: Motivation & Organisation

With the holidays slowly coming to a close and a new year of school and work ahead, I thought I would share with you how I stay motivated and organised when it comes to a hectic lifestyle. Between University studies, work, errands and chores, and finding time to relax a little, my life can very crazy at times. I have had 4 years to adjust to life being this way for me, and am finally to begin to feel as if I have found a good mindset and a work/life balance. For me, staying organised is the key to finding time to do the things you love.

It all starts with my diary….

I got this diary from a store called Kiki.K (you can find it HERE), I love that it has cute little pictures all through, and extra stickers so you can add your own touches. This is a weekly diary but also has a month to month section in the front which I love, I can easily see the major events I have coming up for the given month. I keep all appointments, work hours, uni classes birthdays, bills due - pretty much everything except my to do list - in here. Everything is organised by colour, blue for work, green for birthdays, purple for social things… and so on.

Next up - my monthly planner…

This, again, I got at Kiki.K (you can find it HERE). I love this because I can leave it out on my desk so its in easy view as a constant reminder of things I need to get done, or important deadlines which mustn't be forgotten! For example, I will mainly use this for blogs to be posted and grad program application closes (I graduate in July and am going through the gruelling process of grad job applications and interviews this semester). I may also add my cleaning schedule to this to help stay on top of things!

Daily "to-do" lists….

I like to use a pad like this for my daily to-do lists as i can tear the page off and carry it with me for the day, ticking off things as I complete them. This was actually a gift from a friend last year, I think she got it from a shop called Typo, but you can get these pretty much anywhere.

Planning & Inspiration…

To organise my thoughts and planning out things that inspire me I use an A5 tabbed notebook like this one. Writing things down helps keep me motivated and reaching my goals.

Lastly, these are the pens I picked up to use this year…

These are all medium point felt tip pens, the ones to the left are from Kiki.K (available HERE), and on the right are just some ones from Paper Mate. Keeping the stationary I use fun and colourful helps to make me want to stay motivated, its so much prettier!! Ha ha!

So those are the tools I use to keep myself organised. I try to get everything done as early in the day as possible, giving me the rest of the day to relax and enjoy! I'm also quite big on motivational quotes, I've been considering starting a once a week post with my quote of the week.

In line with today's post, I finally got my butt into gear and started a Facebook page! I know not everyone has blogger accounts to keep up to date… so here are my social media bits:

Facebook: Rachel Michelle (click HERE)
Instagram: rachelmichelle25
Twitter: @Rachy2589

I hope to see you there!