August Favourites

I know that I start every monthly favourites with this phrase, but I really can't believe how quickly this month has gone!! In terms of what I've achieved this month, it's been pretty similar to last month; exercising, hanging with friends, eating and seeing a few theatre shows. However, I have still managed to gather together a few of my favourite things over the past 31 days for you all...

The Weekend: I've never really listened to The Weekend, but after falling in love with his newest track; 'Can't Feel My Face', I have found myself listening to him more and more. I will admit that most of my favourite songs of his are still listed on the 'popular' section of Spotify, but that doesn't take away from the fact that he is definitely my favourite artist of the month.

Nike Running Leggings: I've always loved Nike's running leggings and they are a staple in my workout wardrobe. However, I have actually found myself incorporating them into my daily outfit choices as they are comfy, light, easy to move in and keep me at the perfect temperature. I can see them easily being a staple in my outfits at uni, especially in those early morning lectures. 

Tim Harford: Even though I've been off uni for almost three months, I have been trying to stay interested in my course and forcing myself to carry on learning new things. My absolute favourite way to do this is by reading and my favourite author of economics based books is the wonderful. Tim Harford. His books are easy to read, as the incorporate complex ideas and economic theory, whilst still being relatively light-hearted and witty. I've just finished 'The Undercover Economist' and am looking forward to starting 'The Logic of Life'. I strongly recommend this book and author to both economic students and people who work in the industry, as well as people who just want to know a little bit more about how the world economy works, without having to read an 800 page textbook. 

Denim: Denim has always been a staple in my wardrobe, but I have recently been branching out past just my favourite Topshop jeans. I've recently purchased a few denim pieces, including shirts, jackets and skirts. Although, I haven't quite found the confidence to rock the double-denim look, like Gigi does so effortlessly below, I have been loving adding more denim to my outfits and look forward to carrying on the trend into AW15. 

Suits: Since Pretty Little Liars ended, I have needed a new show to watch whilst in the gym. My requirements were; on Netflix, around 45 minute long episodes and dramatic, without losing all comedic value. Enter, the incredible series, Suits. I chose to watch suits based on a couple of friends recommendations and I absolutely adore it! It is very similar to Mad Men, but set in modern day and obviously set in a different industry. It ticks all the boxes of my requirements listed above and I can see myself becoming very addicted, very quickly. 

So, there are my ultimate favourites for the month., tune in next month to see what my favourites are for September! Also, make sure to keep checking back and keeping up with all of my social networking tabs (found in the tab bar and sidebar) so you don't miss any of my upcoming posts, which will include; my summer holiday, loads of 'day in the life' and OOTD posts, and my return to university for second year! 

Speak to you soon, 

The Teenage Procrastinator

(Disclaimer: All pictures found on Google images, credit to whoever owns)

M.A.C Lipstick Love

When I first discovered the world of beauty bloggers back in 2008, everyone was talking about M.A.C. As I was only 12 years old at the time, the thought of owning such a high end makeup product was a myth to me (hell, my parents allowing me to use any kind of makeup at 12 years old was a myth!). However, when I turned 16 and makeup became more of an everyday thing, I started investing more money and research time into finding out what makeup brands to use, instead of the usual drugstore products. For face makeup, I have always used Clinque and Benefit, as I have found that they are the kindest to my skin, but for more 'adventurous' products, M.A.C is my go to.

Over the past three years I have gone through quite a few tubes of their lipstick, starting from the easy to wear, 'Angel', to more recently experimenting with darker colours, such as 'Media'. After these years of experimenting, I have finally got together a collection of my absolute favourite colours. I'm not saying that these are going to be my favourite lipsticks forever and that I'm never going to buy a new M.A.C lipstick colour again, but just that these are a few that I can rely on and know work for me. So, here they are;

Creme D'Nude: This lipstick is the ultimate, wearable nude. Unlike some nudes it doesn't look drying on the lips, thanks to its cremesheen formula. Although buildable, It's not the most opaque colour, so if you want something that completely takes all colour from your lips, this isn't for you. However, for an everyday nude, it's perfect!

Angel: This was my first ever MAC purchase and for good reason! It's the most perfect everyday lipstick, especially for me as it is very similar to my natural lip colour. No matter what my makeup or outfit look for the day, I know that Angel will match wonderfully. This is very rarely the lipstick I apply in the morning, but I always carry it around with me, since I can apply it without much thought. 

Velvet Teddy: When I received this lipstick as a 19th birthday present, I was very unsure of it, but it has quickly become one of my favourites. I don't wear it all the time, as I find the matte formulation can be slightly drying. However, whenever I want to differ from my usual pink tones and look a bit more sophisticated, Velvet Teddy is what I use. 

Coral Bliss: I bought this lipstick when I was looking for something to wear during the Summer, that was different from a classic bubblegum pink. MAC have a lot of coral based tones to chose from, but Coral Bliss was the one that suited my skintone the most. Like Creme D'Nude, it's a cremesheen formulation, meaning it has the look of lipgloss, but without the stickiness. A must for Summer!

Media: This is probably one of MACs highest selling lipsticks and it's obvious why. It is a beautiful shade, that is easily buildable and suits pretty much every skin tone. Although more suited for Autumn and Winter looks, I find myself using it throughout Summer, but instead of building a strong, pigmented colour, I just dab it on over a clear balm to give a simple wash of colour. This is definitely the lipstick I recommend the most. 

Dark Side: Dark Side is my go to red lipstick. I personally don't think the traditional, bright, Taylor Swift red suits me very well, but this lipstick is far darker than that and I think it looks fab on my pale skin. Although it may look similar to Media, this formulation is far more glossy and has a lot more red pigments in it, where as Media is more of your classic plum colour. I wouldn't ever where this lipstick casually, but for a night out, I adore it! 

So, there we have it, my favourite MAC lipsticks! If you have any recommendations of you must-have colours that I need to add to my collection, then make sure you put them in the comments below. Also, don't forget to follow me on Instagram, Bloglovin' and Google.

Lots of Love
The Teenage Procrastinator

(Disclaimer: All pictures are my own) 

Summer Style: Kendall Jenner

I've never been much of a fan of the Kardashian family, I have nothing against them, but I've just never understood the hype around them. However, what I do understand is the unbelievable beauty, style and modelling talent of the stunning, Kendall Jenner.

                                     

                                       

                                       

Kendall has an effortless sense of style, which she showcases daily around LA; whilst shopping, going to the gym, even just heading to the airport. When she's not going to an event or working, Kendall seems to keep her style very casual, usually opting for jeans and neutral colours. Recently, she was spotted heading out for some frozen yogurt in an outfit that fits just that description.

This outfit screams autumn transition, whilst still being 100% appropriate for summer. The light colours keep the outfit fresh, whilst the actual components of the outfit (jeans, boots and and a shirt) are actually more suited for autumn. 

Kendall wears high waisted jeans paired with a double buckled belt, highlighting her small waistline. I'm in love with the belt and it's a piece I've seen Kendall wear a lot recently. I found similar styles in Topshop, but nothing quite as stylish as Kendalls. The bottom half of the outfit is very tight fitting, so I think the choice to wear a baggier shirt offsets this perfectly. Kendall keeps the summery and casual vibe with her hair and make up choices, going for extremely natural, or possibly even no, makeup and an effortless top knot.

As this outfit is pretty simple, it can be easily recreated with clothes that you probably already own, or you can find in common high street shops. However, if you wanted to alter the outfit, I would either change the shoes or the colour of the jeans. By changing the boots to a pair of sneakers or trainers, the outfit becomes immediately more casual, something I would wear to lectures or a lowkey shopping trip. The other way I would switch up the outfit is by changing to the colour of the jeans to a dark blue or black. This would be prefect for an Autumn/Winter outfit, and can also make the outfit look more dressy, especially if then combined a pair of black, heeled boots, red lips and a clutch bag. 

I absolutely adore this outfit and Kendalls overall style, so expect to see a lot more of her in my new 'Style Series: Autumn Style'.

Thanks for reading

The Teenage Procrastinator 

(Disclaimer: All pictures found on Google images, credit to whoever owns.) 

Procrastibaking: Post Workout Fuel

I'm very aware that my 'procrastibaking' series has yet to actually include any baking. That fact was meant to change today as I made a batch of delicious, healthy blueberry pancakes, which I eat for breakfast quite a lot. However, when I went to take some pictures of said pancakes this morning, I found that my brother had polished them off before heading to work. So, instead I have decided to show you one of my other favourite things to eat for breakfast...

If you read my last post you will be aware that I have been strengthening my workout game over summer and I've found that my usual cereal bar and coffee just doesn't give me the fuel and nutrients I need to be able to recover from these early morning gym sessions. Therefore, I have been trying out a few new breakfast recipes and this one is my absolute favourite:

I will admit that the pictures don't make it look too appealing, (good cameras aren't student budget friendly, people!) but this is honestly the most delicious breakfast and I am completely obsessed with it. I make it by heating up some rapeseed oil in a pan and then throwing in some chopped mushrooms and tomatoes. After they have softened up a bit, I add a HUGE helping of spinach and start frying my egg in a separate pan. I then plate it up, and ta da! This breakfast literally takes 5 minutes to prepare and cook, but tastes like you've slaved over the stove for hours. It contains three of your five a day, including two servings of vegetables and the fried egg supplies some much needed protein after a hard workout and the whole thing is just a perfect combination. I find myself cooking this at least three times a week, normally having to make more than one serving since my family just stare at it salivating, before finally admitting that they would also like some. The recipe can easily be altered, by switching the fried egg for scrambled or poached, depending on preference. It also tastes amazing sandwiched between two slices of brown bread, for a more filling breakfast, or as a quick lunch/dinner. 

Breakfast is my absolute favourite meal of the day, so expect many more 'procrastibaking' posts on some scrumptious recipes for your most important meal of the day. Hopefully the next will be blueberry pancakes! 

Thanks for reading,

The Teenage Procrastinator

(Disclaimer: All pictures are my own) 

Also, as a quick update, I am now on both Instagram and Bloglovin'. Links are on the top of the page and in the side bar, so make sure you're following me on those two platforms to make sure you never miss a post. 

Just Do It, Fashionably

As I have the best part of four months at home this summer and this blog being the closest thing I have to a 'job', I've naturally had a lot of time to kill. So, to contradict my usual 'stay in bed and watch Netflix all day' style of living, I've actually been going to the gym! (*audience gasp*) However, I'm not the kind of girl who can just rock up to the gym in joggers and a stained shirt that hasn't been washed in three years. I actually have to make an effort to look somewhat fashionable and put together, whilst still wearing clothes I feel comfortable and can stay cool in. Don't get me wrong, I don't apply a full face of makeup and wear a push up bra just to do some running, but I do like to put an outfit together. I find, as many others do too, that it motivates me to get up in the morning and workout if I have a planned, colour coordinated and flattering outfit to put on. So, here are some of my favourite workout outfits and brands.

Celebrity Inspiration:

Vanessa, Karlie, Shay, Kendall, Candice and Rosie (L-R)

Like most of my fashion choices, my choice in workout clothes is largely dictated by trends I see in magazines and looks worn by celebrities. It's a great source of inspiration, which can then be built upon until you find your own style. The girls pictured above all inspire me not just in fashion, but also by how dedicated they are to working out. Four out of the six are established supermodels, who are literally paid to look good and keep their bodies in shape (dream job, right?), whereas the other two beautiful ladies are actresses who both talk a lot about staying fit and healthy. What more inspiration could you need to get your butt in the gym?!

A Very Girly Workout: Any girls out there who love the colour purple and live for floral print, well this is the perfect workout outfit for you! It's cute and girly, but still ideal for squating it out for hours on end.

Look At That Neon Booty: This is my personal favourite trend for working out. It's so bright and fun, but still looks so badass when working out. I own a few pieces from Nike's neon collection and it's safe to say they're some of my most worn clothes, gym or otherwise. 

Monochrome Runner: Probably the most accessible look out of the three; a simple monochrome outfit always looks super stylish and everyone knows that wearing black leggings does more for your legs than any combination of lunges ever could. You can also mix and match this trend very easily by picking one brightly coloured item, take blue trainers as an example, and then restricting the rest of the outfit to the monochrome trend.

Brands Featured: (direct link to product if only one listed, otherwise link is to main website)

• Nike - Girly (leggings, shorts, bra, trainers), Neon (bra x2, shorts x2, trainers x2), Monochrome (trainers, leggings)
• Etsy - Girly (top), Monochrome (top)
• Nordstrom - Girly (bag)
• Nixon - Neon (watch)
• Rebecca Minkoff - Neon (bag)
• Under Armour - Monochrome (bra, shorts, headband)
• Adidas - Monochrome (bag)

Of course, as much as I love workout clothes and playing with my outfit choices, the most important thing is to just get off the computer and get moving. Whether it's just a simple half an hour jog around the park three times a week, or you're following a strict workout plan, just lace up the trainers and go for it. At least that's what I'm aiming to do.

On your marks, get set, go!
The Teenage Procrastinator

(Disclaimer: all pictures from google images or the clothing brands website, all credit to whoever owns. Stitched together by yours truly.)

Dinner and a Show II

Day in the life blog posts, magazine articles and YouTube videos have always been a favourite of mine. I like to think it's because I'm actually interested in the world and want to see how other live there life so that I can learn from it, but in actual fact it's probably more to do with the fact that I'm always bored af at home, so therefore need to live my life through other people's daily adventures. However, I actually have my own little day out to share with you all today, so I hope you enjoy.

My mum and I have always bonded over our love of the theatre, so whenever we want to bank some quality time together, it normally involves; theatre, food and pimms. And last weeks bonding session was no exception. We went down to London Town and went for a scenic walk to the stunning Regents Park. It was a beautiful, sunny and warm day, so I actually managed to get some decent pictures, which you can judge for yourself below.

Snapchat screenshot lovin'

What a park can possibly have to do with the theatre, you may ask. Well, my lovely readers, Regents Park is home to the beautiful Open Air Theatre. As suggested by the name, this theatre is completely outdoors, making it a very different experience for both the audience and the actors. It allows for more interaction between both parties, as the audience are so close to the stage and the actors can actually run into the audience. At the moment, the theatre is showing Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, which is a play I am familiar with after seeing both an amateur performance of it and a touring company's portrayal at my local theatre. It was an absolutely faultless performance by the company, with mind-blowing dancing and excellent comedic timing. Although I had seen the play before, being outdoors made it a very different experience and I highly recommend getting down to Regents Park and buying tickets if you get the chance.

The theatre also has a picturesque bar and BBQ area just outside the actual seating area, which serves the best vegetarian burger I have ever eaten! Since I don't like beef and they weren't offering chicken or sausages, I reluctantly ordered a vegetarian burger to fuel me after the long walk to the Regents Park, but oh my lord, it was ridiculously tasty. I was expecting a horrid, mashed up and squished veggie burger, but instead was presented with a beautiful stack of perfectly barbecued vegetables, served with gloriously salty fries and homemade sauce. Even if you are not a theatre fan, I recommend going to see the show just for the BBQ! My mum and I also treated ourselves to a couple of jugs of pimms, which was an excellent and refreshing choice on the warm, sunny day.

Picture doesn't do it justice

Although tiring, it was a fab day, filled with perfect food and a highly entertaining performance. One I would 100% recommend to anyone and everyone, theatre fan or not. Going to an indoor theatre performance will always be slightly disappointing after going to the Open Air Theatre, definitely my new favourite destination in London Town.

To book tickets to see the show and experience the beautiful food for yourself, visit this website.

Hope you enjoyed and speak to you soon,
The Teenage Procrastinator

(Disclaimer: All pictures are my own)

My First Year at Univeristy

If you read my 'Dear, Freshers' post, you will know that I have successfully completed my first year of university and am getting ready to start my second. So, to celebrate this fact, I thought I would write a little post reflecting on my first year...

Like most people going to university a decent distance away from home, I didn't know a soul there. Now, for most people this would probably make them feel ridiculously nervous, but I actually felt very calm when my moving day came around. It probably had a lot to do with the fact that I was rushing around trying to pack and prepare myself for this huge change in my life, but I was always very excited and ready to go to uni, straight after the moment I got my acceptance email (which is still the happiest moment of my life, so far).

I enjoyed meeting new people, making friends, going to lectures, getting far to drunk during the many nights out over the course of the year and just being away from home in general. Don't get me wrong, I have a great home life, but the independence you get from uni suited me so well, maybe too well.. I will admit my time keeping was never the best and I went out a lot more than I should've, but I achieved my goal of getting into second year, so I guess I wasn't too bad! Don't worry, I have big plans to get my first overall. 

My social life at university was great and I definitely took advantage of first year not counting. However, it was not the only great part of my year away from home. My accommodation was perfect; great showers, comfy bed, incredible flatmates and a really easy place to get down and study when the time came. Also, my course was perfect. I study Economics BA and it was exactly what I wanted from a course, it fulfilled my love for economics, which came about when I studied it at A Level, whilst still challenging me in new topics, such as advanced statistics and economic math.

Many of my friends have had a great year without going to university; getting jobs, travelling or gaining education outside of uni. However, I can't imagine my life without having chosen to go to university. It has honestly been the best year of my life for so many reasons and I'm unbelievably excited about going back in September.

Can't wait to share the adventures of second year with you all,
The Teenage Procrastinator

(Disclaimer: Picture found on google images, credit to whoever owns)