Cancer Research UK #nomakeupselfies

I'm completely uncertain about the origin of the no make up selfie, but whoever thought of it is a total gem! Women across the world posing bare-faced, along with a donation, has helped Cancer Research UK to raise a staggering £8m in just six days. *Que round of applause*

Whilst the majority of us have been more than happy to jump on the bandwagon, many Internet users have taken to social media to express their confusion on the relevance of the new craze. But do you know what, who cares?! If it is raising money for a totally worthy cause AND spreading vital awareness, then it is absolutely more than okay with me.

I mean, how relevant is growing a ridiculous looking moustache in November?! But the relevancy isn't the issue! Its all about identifying what is really important, finding a cure. And if that means all of the fellas growing a mo and the ladies removing their beauty products then so be it. I think it is fab!

Here is my no make up selfie. (My dog Ben decided to do his bit and get involved to!)

The phenomenon has even entered the likes of the celeb world, with some of our fave A-Lister's taking part.

AnnaLynne Mccord is undoubtedly an extremely natural beauty!

Kym Marsh looks stunning in this selfie that she posted to Twitter.

Holly Willoughby looks gorgeous as always!

If you are yet to take your selfie and donate then please please Text BEAT to 70007 to make a donation! It is for such a wonderful and deserving cause and remember, "Alone we can do so little but together we can do so much!"

Lots of love,

Kenzie xxx 

Eyelash Extensions Review

Like most girls, I feel totally naked without mascara on. I have always had long lashes and it is for this reason that I've never considered extensions or even falsies. However, recently after a friend urged me to give them a go I decided... why the hell not?!

I was extremely apprehensive to say the least. I'd heard an array of negative comments regarding eyelash extensions and was unsure how I would take to them. But after trying them for myself I can confirm that they are completely and utterly fabulous.

I had mine done by the extremely lovely Michelle Hausen (Lashes to Lashes.) The process was quick, (just over an hour) and actually very relaxing as it mostly involved me lying down on a treatment bed with my eyes closed.

Here is a shot of me with the lashes!

Surprisingly they did not feel heavy as I had initially suspected, nor where they irritating in anyway. In fact, it was quite the opposite, I was completely unaware of them. For the first few hours after having them done, I found myself accidentally wiping my eyes, which quickly reminded me of their presence but you soon know not to touch them.

The following night, I did my make up and I couldn't believe how much time it saved me. I didn't need any eyeliner and I definitely didn't need any mascara, apart from on my bottom lashes.

The next morning, as I was frantically getting ready for my 9AM lecture, I realised that I really didn't need to put any make up on. The lashes looked fab and I didn't have to do a thing!

I would 100% recommend these to anyone, particularly if you have a big occasion coming up. So go ahead and treat yourself!

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx

BAFTAS 2014 - Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt

Talk about the epitome of cool as Angelina Jolie effortlessly strolled down the red carpet in a suit last night. I mean what woman can successfully pull off a loosely worn bow tie around her neck... Is there no end to Ange's amazingness?!

The American actress and her hubbie, Brad Pitt, sported matching outfits to the event  which caused quite a stir amongst dazzled onlookers.

And it seems that they are amongst the minority of celeb royalty that have been able to do so. Take the Beckham's, not so great, attempt at the dynamic duo look for example...

Now I'm all for brand Beckham but need I say more?

Its official, Brangelina really are the coolest couple in the world.

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx

Missguided Sweet Deal Midi Dress

As anyone that reads my blog routinely will already know, I am a sucker for a midi dress! I have a small waist and a big bottom so this style particularly suites my shape. If you too have an hour glass figure, then this dress is perfect for you.

This gorgeous burgundy dress is from one of my fave online shopping websites, Missguided and was quite literally the bargain of the century, costing an absolutely incredible £5.99. (Yes, you read that correctly!!)

What I love most about this high neck piece, is that it can be worn in one of two ways. It can be dressed up as I have done in the pictures, with a pair of killer heels and some statement jewellery or alternatively teamed with a chic leather jacket and some black ankle boots for a more laid back approach.

Click HERE to view this product. Also available in a variety of colours, this dress is simply a must have!

Wishing you all a very Happy Valentines day! Lots of love, Kenzie xxx

Adidas Women's Training Outfit

Regardless of whether you train regularly... or whether you just hit the gym after feeling guilty about last nights take away, looking good always makes you feel better.

Its important to wear appropriate, breathable clothing that is fitting for the type of exercise that you are taking part in! (No one wants to see you strip down to your undies because your joggers are too hot!) So be sensible and try to co-ordinate.

I've put together a little ensemble from the Adidas women's range that is super cute and perfect for training. 

Response Cup Tank Top (£30.00) Click HERE to view.

Techfit Long Tights (£28.00) Click HERE to view.

Response Icon Hoodie (£36.00) Click HERE to view.

Adipure 360.2 Shoes (£75.00) Click HERE to view.

Linear Essentials Duffel Bag (£18.00) Click HERE to view.

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx

Barry M Black Varnish NOTD

Long are the days that subtle nail designs were the norm. Today, with the extensive colour choices available to us we are able to experiment with various combinations and techniques to create unusual and unique styles.

For some time, black nail varnish has been a leading trend in the fashion industry and I've been excited to try this trend out for myself.

White and black is one of my favourite colour combinations!

I achieved this look by using a black Barry M varnish on all of my nails except the ring finger. The shade of this varnish is NP 47. As you can see from the picture above I decided to add a feature nail in white, this was also a Barry M polish in NP 66. I finalised this look by adding two jewels to my middle fingers.

Click HERE to view this product. (£2.99)

Click HERE to view this product. (£2.99)

This NOTD look goes amazingly with any outfit and is so chic right now!

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx

Grammys 2014: Best Dressed

Talk about metallic madness! The stars were totally killing it at this years Grammy Awards, with the metallic look taking a spotlight on the red carpet.

Here are some of my fave looks sporting this unique design.

Taylor Swift's Champagne coloured Gucci gown was absolute perfection.

The 24 year old also hit it out of the park with her smokey eyed make up. A* from me!

Selena Gomez in a 'wow' metallic J. Mendel gown.

Ciara (and her perfectly rounded baby bump) looked stunning in this metallic bronze Emilio Pucci Gown.

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx

Topshop January Sale OOTD

Its nearing that time when the Winter sales are coming to an end. *Cry* So I have put together a selection of gorgeous items, all from the Topshop sale, to make those January blues well and truly disappear. I love this outfit, its very basic but its this effortless simplicity that makes it so chic!

Knitted Bobble Jumper. Click HERE to view. Was £50.00 Now £25.00

Vintage Jamie High Waisted Skinny Jeans. Click HERE to view. Was £60.00 Now £35.00

POLLY Premium Chelsea Boots. Click HERE to view. Was £130.00 Now £40.00

If you'd prefer to add a pop of colour to this ensemble, then try replacing the bobble jumper for the following items to team with the jeans and boots shown above.

Strappy V-Neck Cami. Click HERE to view. Was £18.00 Now £10.00

Quilted Leather Look Biker Jacket. Click HERE to view. Was £58.00 Now £45.00

How could you possibly refuse a Topshop sale?!

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx

River Island New Arrivals 2014

With each new year, much to my excitement, comes new collections! In today's blog I will be showing you my best-loved items from River Island's latest arrivals. Here are just a few that I have picked out and added to the shopping basket...

Coral Geometric Print Pointed Court Shoes

Click HERE to view. (£50.00)

Pink Floral Print Smart Skort

Click HERE to view. (£30.00)

Orange Floral Print Sleeveless Maxi Dress (Limited Edition!)

Click HERE to view. (£35.00) 

Light Yellow Asymmetric Peplum Skirt

Click HERE to view. (£30.00)

Can you tell that I'm feeling colourful tonight?! I am absolutely loving River Islands new stock, it is definitely making me extremely excited for Summer!

What do you think of the bold floral patterns and bold colours?

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx

Golden Globes 2014: Best Dressed

Every fashionista loves award season because as well as recognising Hollywoods finest, we are also desperate to see what our fave celebs are wearing!  

Here's my list of celebs who totally pulled it out of the bag at the Golden Globes this year.

Margo Robbie hit the nail on the head with this stunning look. The Australian actress had to be my best dressed, with her killer sleek bun and chic Gucci gown combo.

Olivia Wilde proved that pregnancy really does make you sparkle in this beautiful emerald gown at the GG's. The tight fitting ensemble really showed off her growing baby bump and she looked fantastic!

Red was also a major statement amongst the gorgeous celebs that graced the carpet! Here are a few of my fave's.

                                    Lupita Nyong'o looked the part in this Ralph Lauren gown.

Emma Watson wowed the paps with this AMAZING outfit! Will we perhaps be seeing more of this unusual ensemble throughout the coming year? If it looks this good on everyone else... then I sure hope so.

Amy Adams also dazzled onlookers with this simple colour blocked Valentino dress.

Do you agree or disagree with my chosen best dressed celebs? 

Lots of love as always, Kenzie xxx

Golden Globes 2014: Worst Dressed

Sigh. Much like every year, award season brings the absolute crème de la crèmes of the fashion world and alternatively just the downright ugly. 

This years Golden Globe Awards is living proof that even our fave celebs can fail to hit the fashion mark, making the red carpet a more...um...intriguing place.

It seemed that Paula Patton and her hubbie, Robin Thicke may have had blurred lines about her elaborate choice of outfit for this years awards.

The actress opted for a Stephane Rolland Couture dress which can only be described as a giant meringue making it's way down the red carpet... Definitely unsavoury Paula.

I'm still baffled that the cast of Breaking Bad were able to fit on stage with those epic ruffles! 

So, let this disaster be a lesson to you, if your outfit is easily mistaken for a dessert or a Kleenex tissue, then you've probably missed the mark. Really missed it.

The 38 year old's flamboyant embellishment had her at the centre of attention throughout the event, with critics slamming her choice of clothing as 'hideous,' and I'm sorry to say Paula but I have to agree.

Also making headlines for her interesting style selection, is (I hate to say it,) Jennifer Lawrence. Much unlike her absolutely knock out dress that she wore to last years GG's, this unusual gown really doesn't do anything for the beautiful 23 year old.

But as always Jen stole our hearts with her acceptance speech after winning Best Supporting Actress and her crazy photo bombing antics... Can that women do no wrong?! Well minus the strange wedding dress thing with what looked like duct tape around it.

So because you did us all proud last night, we'll let you off this time Jen.

Do you love or hate these looks?

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx

What to Wear to a Concert

Last night I was preparing to unleash my inner rock chick as I headed to London to watch one of my all time favourite bands, Maroon 5. *Squeals with excitement*

Deciding what to wear to a concert can be a complicated task, because it is never one look fits all when going to a gig. It really depends on the genre of the concert it is that you are seeing. (Maroon 5 are a pop rock band!)

Being surrounded by thousands of exhilarated, dancing fans is certainly enough to send your temperature soaring. So I tend to go for shorts or a skirt to avoid the potentiality of becoming that one person who always seems to faint at gigs.

I teamed these black high waisted shorts with this white cropped top from Topshop. Just to add a little bit of a rock edge I completed this look with a red checkered shirt. I accessorised with some gold bangles and a cross ring.

As well as this, an over the shoulder bag is always a must when going to a concert. You can keep all of your things with you without fear of losing them or accidentally putting them down. Plus you have nothing to carry, so you can boogie to your hearts content and show off those moves like Jagger!

Unfortunately, all that I am wearing in this picture are clothes that are no longer in stock! So, I have put together a similar outfit just for you that would be perfect for any rock gig!

This embroidered bralet from Topshop, screams rock chick! (£32.00) Click HERE to view.

These black lazercut shorts from Topshop are practical and super cute. (£40.00) Click HERE to view.

Finish your look with this red chiffon shirt from New Look. (£19.99) Click HERE to view.

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx

NOTD OPI Over The Taupe

Sometimes, it is easy to get into the habit of having the same coloured nails time and time again. You avoid the ever so strenuous task of selecting a new colour and bypass the possibility that you may not actually like the shade you have chosen after what feels like hours of trying to perfect them. Maybe I'm exaggerating a little... but you know what I mean!

So, to avoid the likelihood of this happening again in the future, today's NOTD (Nails Of The Day) are a little random! I thought I would play around with some colours to make an unusual combination for a fun and quirky look to try and inspire you to do the same. Never be afraid to try new things!

I used the OPI Over The Taupe polish which is a stunning mushroom colour. I opted for this because it is not a colour I would choose to wear in warmer weather, so I thought that I would experiment with this whilst we are still in the midst of winter.

Click HERE to view this product.

Just to add a little spice to my nails, I used a Sinful polish called Porn Star, on my ring fingers. This is a super cute purple glitter varnish which really gave my nails some character and a cute edge.

So, next time you go to paint your nails, don't be predictable, have some fun!

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx

MAC Pro Longwear Foundation

Finding a foundation that suites you can be tricky business, especially when there are so many to choose from. I recently tried the MAC Pro Longwear Foundation and I can really see why it has been so popular.

Click HERE to view this product. (£25.00)

It is often a laborious task finding your perfect colour match, but one that is most definitely worth investing your time in. Fortunately, all of my encounters with MAC have been so easy thanks to their lovely staff. Pop into your nearest MAC counter and simply explain that you are looking for a new foundation and they will be very quick to sit you down and find the absolute best match for you. Click HERE to locate your nearest store.

I have a yellow tone to my skin and find it very difficult to find a match for my natural colouring, however MAC seems to cater for all skin types! Their colour system is divided into two tones, NC and NW. NC products are for people with yellow undertones, like myself, and the NW products are for people with slightly pinky undertones. So if you have a warmer tone, then I suggest you going for the NC shades. (I use the NC42)

Despite having a medium coverage, the foundation still hid blemishes extremely well whilst keeping a very natural looking face. As well as this, it didn't feel heavy on the skin due to its lightweight creamy texture.

The foundation works by controlling the oil levels in the skin to ensure that a flawless look is maintained for longer which seems extremely accurate as I really didn't notice any obvious shine until the end of the day.

I definitely recommend you trying this gorgeous foundation. Its long lasting capabilities promises to provide up to 15 hours of wear, a major bonus if you are constantly on the go! 

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx   

How to Bake a Victoria Sponge

It's apparent from my blog that I love chatting about all things fashion and beauty, from the latest trends to my favourite make up products. However, it wasn't until I actually researched the definition of beauty that I realised why limit myself to just make up?

According to the Oxford dictionary, beauty can be defined as, 'a combination of qualities, such as shape, colour, or form, that pleases the aesthetic senses, especially sight.' 

So I thought, you know what, I'm going to blog about my cakes too! I love baking and half of the fun is making the cake look beautiful after you've cooked it.

Here's my recipe to my Victoria Sponge! (Be warned...it's masssssive!)

Ingredients:

12oz butter/margerine

12oz caster sugar

6 eggs 

12oz self raising flour

Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas 4
2. Cream together the butter and the sugar in a large mixing bowl. You can use either a wooden spoon or an electric whisk to do this. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
3. Sieve in the flour and mix briefly.
4. Grease your cake tins and distribute the mixture evenly between them both.
5. Bake in the oven for about 25 minutes.
6. Leave to cool and finish by filling with strawberry jam, cream and sliced strawberries. Dust the service with icing sugar and enjoy!

Yummy!!

Lots of love, Kenzie xxx