Awards?

Having read blogs for awhile I've come across the Liebster Award A LOT!

What's the Liebster Award I hear you all say? Basically, it's an award that helps new or smaller bloggers get a bit of recognition for what they do. I've had the pleasure of being nominated for one of these awards myself by the fabulously fierce Jessica @ LunaBreaux. Having had my blog for less than a month, I'm flattered!

All you have to do is nominate new/smaller blogs you love and then ask them 11 questions - so you're getting a bit of a Q&A! Here are the questions I've been asked:

1. What was your main reason/inspiration for starting your blog?

I've been reading blogs for years and have always had the idea in the back of my head to start one myself. Being a huge lover of fashion and beauty it seemed like the perfect space to reflect on the things I love and to document the more interesting aspects of my life! The New Year seemed like the perfect time to start.

2. What do you think makes an outfit stand out or look great?

Accessories - In my eyes it's as simple as that. I'm a huge advocate of the idea that accessories can really elevate an outfit. From a hat to a stack of rings, you can't go wrong. Also, a bright or bold lip always vamps up what would be a boring outfit!

3. What are your 3 main staples in your wardrobe?

At the minute...

My black embossed jumper from Zara: It can be dressed up or made casual, perfect for Irish weather   too.

A pair of high heeled ankle boots: whether that's my Jeffrey Campbell's or my new navy suede boots from RI.

Leather look trousers: surprisingly comfortable and can transform any outfit.

4. Favourite fashion magazine?

Cliche... but Vogue - confession, I still pick up copies of Teen Vogue, I think it's great for picking out key trends and the styling in it's fashion spreads are on point!

5. Least favourite item of clothing and why?

That I own? A horrible plaid shirt that I bought too many years ago with a stunning tuxedo ruffle down the front. I don't know why it's still in my possession.

6. Favourite piece of clothing and why?

SUCH A DIFFICULT QUESTION! It's a toss up between my blue and purple floral printed draw string pants from Sandro (I understand they don't sound too appealing without seeing them) and my blue floor length skirt from Pinko featuring 2 thigh high slits - so dope.

7. Favourite perfume?

At the minute Chanel's Coco Mademoiselle - I alternate between it, Elie Saab and Chloe.

8. Any beauty secrets?

Simple, but always remove your make up before bed. It's a life saver for your skin!

9. Tea or Coffee?

Tea.

10. Favourite high-street shop?

Zara.

11. Are you a hoarder with clothes?

I'm terrible! I do force myself to sort through my clothes at least once a year and give away / donate what I know I won't wear anymore!

Nominations?

ilyanaroseblog 

Peacock Glamour

LolaRose

gabsXO

Ordaining Serendipity

makeupbykate

Tea and Topshop

My questions for you:

1. What is your must have accessory?

2. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you choose?

3. Who is your favourite blogger at the moment?

4. Flats or heels?

5. Who is your style crush?

6. What is your go to outfit?

7. Do you speak a language other than your native language fluently?

8. One trend you're lusting over currently? 

9. How would you describe your style?

10. Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?

11. Why did you start your blog?

Not a typical blog post from me, but hopefully you've got to know me a little better!

XO, G.

Radar

Just a few shots of what's been on my radar lately:

You all know I'm a bit of a ring addict - I use these little babies as part of my ring stacks. So simple but they have this sick bent metal design. Just some of my favourites at the minute! [River Island]

Obsessed with these bracelets - Marc by Marc Jacobs. And that little black box in the background? The secret to keeping my eyebrows in shape - Benefit's brow zings!

My latest splurge - Chanel's Vitalumiere Aqua. After watching a tonne of bloggers and vloggers recommend this stuff I thought I'd give it a try! So far.. we're bf's.

My favourite way of dressing up a casual outfit lately - using these statement earrings. It takes a lot to pull me away from my staple pearl studs, but these do!

Seriously, don't get me started on this little gem! I think it's been permanently glued to my arm since I got it at the start of the month! (Thanks B!) - Marc by Marc Jacobs.  

My lifesaver - Benefit's The POREfessional: agent zero shine. Keepin' the shine monster at bay!

If you havn't already sensed my penchant for Marc Jacobs, here's one more of my favourites - how quirky is this little watch? Also featured in this photograph are my number one Mac lipstick of the moment Impassioned, my Links of London Effervescence XS Cord Blue bracelet and Benefit Fake Up concealer.

Chanel's Coco Mademoiselle - I don't think this has ever been off my radar. My perfect scent.

Just a few of the things I've been diggin' lately! 

What's been on your 'go to' list? 

XO, G.

2014 Grammy Awards

If there was a time to throw away sophisticated gowns with classic silhouettes and opt for a look that really makes a statement, there is no better time like the Grammys. This unconventional award show allows us to take a break from the elegant and immerse ourselves in the FIERCE... and I love it!

In saying that, unlike previous years, the attendees seem to have opted for sexy and shimmering dresses rather than attempting to outdo each other with a game of 'who has the most wacky style?'

Even though I was a little disappointed that there was no sign of Rihanna and Lady Gaga on the carpet to shake things up, the rest of the ladies certainly made up for it!

Here are my favourites from last night...

Taylor Swift

Even though the popular songstress played it very safe, staying within her comfort zone for this years Grammys, she still looked every bit as fierce as her peers. Taylor took to the red carpet in this Gucci Première gold lamé fitted dress which featured a crystal mesh overlay (not unlike 'chainmail') and a crystal detailing at the neckline, arms and waist. Keeping it simple, Taylor pulled her hair back into a loose side-parted ponytail with minimalistic make up. Gurl is nailin' the red carpet this awards season!

Giuliana Rancic

I'm a huge fan of Giuliana Rancic's style but so far this awards season her looks weren't making much of an impact on me... until now. The E! News presenter has completely hit it out of the park for me with this Alex Perry Resort 2014 sheer, orange embroidered gown. The pop of colour complements her complexion and the bronze smoked out eye works perfect to create a fresh yet sultry look! She looks smokin'!

Beyonce

Noticeably missing from the red carpet was Beyonce. Why? Because she was opening the show alongside her other half, Jay-Z - Power couple alert! In my eyes, she managed to look sexy without crossing the line to trashy in this La Perla performance look - therefore making it into my favourites of the night. She paired this caged bustier with Saint Laurent fishnets, custom Stuart Weitzman pumps and a wet-look do, a la her 'Drunk In Love' music video. LOVE!

Beyonce

Not only did Bey nail it for her on-stage look, but having dried off her bobbed tresses, she slipped into something equally as stunning. The singer wore this open back, Michael Costello fishnet gown with white embroidery styled with Lorraine Schwartz jewels. Elegant, sexy and edgy - the perfect combination for the Grammys.

- fLAWless.

Zendaya Coleman

Another lady constantly on my radar when it comes to style! The young singer/actress wore this Emanuel Ungaro Spring 2014 skirt and blouse combination. Yet another attendee to add to the list of ' the sheer trend', Zendaya was on point with this sheer black blouse with oversized pockets, wore buttoned up to the collar. In contrast, she paired it with a floating, teal and black polka dotted skirt featuring a thigh high slit. The whole look was brought together with simple black pointed toe heels, a box clutch, slicked back hair, a smokey eye and nude lip. Not typical award show attire, but fun and flirty. Obsessed!

Daft Punk

I couldn't let this post go without mentioning Daft Punk's quirky red carpet look! Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter wore their signature face masks as they worked the red carpet of this years Grammys... but never mind the masks, the boys were decked out in head to toe Saint Laurent - so slick!

Who were your favourites of the night?

XO, G.

Le Weekend | Sunday Baking

One of my favourite things to do at the weekend is bake with mother dearest! This weekend - cupcakes. A great treat before returning to the stresses of College for one more semester... or just to sit down on a chill Sunday and devour. My mom's perfected her recipe for cupcakes - mixing a few things she's gathered from different cookbooks that's she's found to work the best to make the most delicious treats! I LOVE this powder blue Kitchen Aid mixer - that's where its at! Here are a few pictures of the baking process... 

We used vanilla extract in both the sponge and frosting mix for these cupcakes but when we want to shake things up a little, we add some rose water extract to the frosting mix which is SO GOOD! We discovered that little gem whilst chowing down on some rose water cake in Selfridges, London and thought we'd try it out with our cupcakes... Delisshhhh! Also, can I add.. how adorable are these cupcake cases?

Result! These delicious bad boys! We added a little lemon curd to the centre of some of the sponges once they had cooled down for a little added kick. You could also use any type of jam, or just leave them plain (the way I like them).

Do you have a major sweet tooth like me?

What's your favourite thing to bake?

XO, G.

Miley Cyrus and Roberto Cavalli Team Up For Her 'Bangerz World Tour'

With stars such as Beyoncé, Kanye West and Drake teaming up with a flurry of fashion houses from Givenchy to Emilio Pucci for custom wardrobes for their recent tours, it's unsurprising to see Miley Cyrus adding her name to the long list of entertainers on the receiving end of some kick ass looks when it comes time to tour. 

The controversial artist has teamed up with the outspoken, animal-print loving designer Roberto Cavalli to collaborate on costumes for her upcoming 'Bangerz World Tour' - a match made in heaven one might say.

What can we expect? - Well, going on the sketches Cavalli has released, a lot of skin and a lot of sparkle!

Surprised? Me neither. 

The designer, who clearly isn't afraid to conjure up bold, sexy looks from some seriously short shorts to crazy revealing bodysuits, seems to have hit the nail on the head when it comes to reflecting Miley's own personal style in her on-stage looks! I can totally see her rockin' similar crop tops, short shorts and bralets on a daily basis.

Anybody getting a bit of déjà vu when it comes to the nude jumpsuit embroidered with Swarovski crystals - Britney Spears circa her 'Toxic' era? No? 

In comparison to some of the questionable fashion choices Miley has made for previous performances,  I'm really feelin' these looks - not a teddy bear or piece of nude latex in sight!

What do you make of Cavalli's sketches?

Too tame for Miley or just right? 

XO, G.

Photo Credits: redcarpet-fashionawards.com

#FridayFavourites

Happy Friday! Always great to see the beginning of another weekend - I'll be spending mine getting things ready to start my last semester at College/University (whichever applies) on Monday, it's crazy how fast the past 3 years have gone!

But first... here are a few of my favourite things I've come across this week!

Favourite Sunglasses (stumbled across these kick ass beauties in an article on Lauren Conrad's L.A. Pad - Click here for more) 

Favourite Film (re-watched Clueless on a rainy day... highly recommend this throwback - via weheartit.com)

Favourite Manicure (this super cool abstract monochrome manicure - via WhoWhatWear.com)

Favourite Food Find (Red Velvet Cookie Cake - I might not be able to eat it [trying to stick to my healthy eating] but I mean, come on! This looks so good. And just in time for Valentines Day! - Click here for the recipe)

Favourite Phone Cover (via - Tumblr)

Favourite Destination (Paris... partially because I'm reminiscing about my birthday trip - via weheartit.com)

What are your favourite finds from this week?

XO, G.

My Current Style Crush | Sincerely, Jules

Before I started blogging, there were certain bloggers I'd keep my tabs on in terms of style. But most recently I've been introduced to the world of Sincerely, Jules thanks to a recommendation from Claire at Peacock Glamour (Check her blog out at the link).

Julie Sarinana founded her blog Sincerely, Jules in February 2009 when she was a student at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. Here, she chronicles her daily style, travels and life. Apart from attending fashion events, featuring in ad campaigns and blogging from Fashion Week, Jules has also contributed to and has been featured on Glamour.com, Elle.com, E! News and Teen Vogue to name but a few and to top it all off, she designs quirky tees which she sells via her website - I'm obsessed.

In my eyes, it's impossible not to love her style, which epitomises the perfect mix of affordable and designer - pairing pretty skirts with Converse and H&M with Isabel Marant, that's my kinda girl!

A true L.A. girl at heart, I think you can most certainly see a lot of Californian influences in her laid-back chic style! 

Jules has completely mastered the perfect everyday look with such a kick ass wardrobe and shoe / accessory collection to match ...

... not hard when I've a shared love of stacked dainty bracelets, oversized watches and wearing a dozen rings at once!

Who is your style crush of the moment?

XO, G.

Photo Credits: Sincerely, Jules.

My 2014 Style Resolutions

Making regular resolutions for the new year is great but sometimes we can all get stuck in a style rut and need to switch things up a little. This year I've decided to put a little fashion spin on the classic idea of resolutions and list out things I'd like to change or try when it comes to my style this year!

1. Invest In Staples

Last year I got into such a bad habit of buying things that I knew I didn't need, or worse, that I was only going to wear a certain amount of times before I got bored. This year, I plan on investing in staples, like this grey knit - a must have in anyones wardrobe, especially with the weather here in Ireland. I love the fact that this is simple, can be paired with just about anything but still has an edge with the zip detail around the hem.

2. Embrace Print

At the beginning of 2013, I started a small obsession with prints after I purchased a gorgeous pair of printed, draw-string trousers from Sandro, but somehow the obsession didn't quite continue throughout the year. In 2014, I plan on purchasing a few key printed pieces that I can welcome into my wardrobe! I love this printed jacket from Oscar de la Renta - a girl can dream! 

3. Experiment With Colour

Lets face it, we can all get a tiny bit complacent when it comes to colour and I'm a huge culprit of this - black looks good on everyone AND it's slimming! But this year I'm determined to inject a splash of colour into my wardrobe, even if that does mean teaming it with other staple black pieces - it's a start!

4. Accessorise 

Last year was my year for going accessory crazy! This year I intend to keep that up. Ring stacks are my favourite!

5. Organise

Every year, I fall a victim to an unorganised closet. Not so much messy, just unorganised. Most mornings are like a scene from Clueless. This year I'm hoping to keep my closet in shape - that way I can see my clothes more clearly and it will take much less time to get ready in the mornings. To be completely honest, I think this is going to be my hardest style resolution but fingers crossed for success!

What are your style resolutions for 2014?

XO, G.

Photo Credits:

1 | Sincerely Jules

2 - 4 | Atlantic - Pacific

5 | thiserikalife

Golden Globes 2014 | Red Carpet Trends

Every awards season, stars hit the red carpet in hopes of bringing something original to the game... but of course, great minds think alike and Sunday's Golden Globes were no exception to this.

The red carpet produced a crazy amount of trends among celebs when it came to both fashion and beauty.
From statement earrings and plunging necklines to sleek, straight hairstyles and the colour red, here are a few of the dominant trends from this years Golden Globes.

Red

One of the stand out trends of the evening was the colour red. However, the stars far from blended in with the carpet... even if it was in a bad way. The trend even went as far as transferring over to a bold crimson lip sported by everyone from Taylor Swift to Zooey Deschanel.

Statement Earrings

Some of the best bling of the night came in the form of statement earrings, a trend that is huge for this season thanks to the launch of Christian Dior's Mise en Dior collection. Thankfully, they were all paired with glam up-do's (or pixie-cuts in J-Law's case) so we could get a good look.

Hi-Low Hems

Two of my favourite looks of the evening consisted of a hi-low hemline. I have to admit, when transferred over to the high-street in terms of maxi-skirts this isn't one of my favourite trends, but there was just something so elegant about Michelle Dockery and Caitlin FitzGerald's dresses. 

Plunging Necklines

Plunging neckline's were on the cards for many of the stars at Sunday's awards. A deep-v is always a sexy choice and certainly a way to make a statement.

Gold hues 

Whilst red was the colour of choice on the red carpet, there were plenty of celebs sporting gorgeous nude/champagne dresses. Zooey Deschanel stunned in an Oscar de la Renta crop top and tulle skirt - one of my favourites of the evening!

Sleek Strands

Gone are the days of bouncy waves on the red carpet. The stars have been converted to super sleek strands and this was one of the major trends from Sunday's Golden Globes. The more I see Kaley Cuoco's look, the more obsessed I get with it!

Revealing Backs

Sexy and interesting backs seemed to play a huge role on the red carpet. However, it was Emma Watson who dominated in Christian Dior Couture - a polarising look but it certainly makes a statement!

What was your favourite trend from this years Globes?

XO, G.

Photo credits: E! Online