1980's, 1990's, 2007 and now 10 years later, having come and gone in and out of fashion, the famous full fringe is well and truly back with a bang. Coming in a variety of styles, celebrities such as Ariana Grande, Bella Hadid, Dakota Johnson and even Kylie Jenner are bringing the once forgotten trend back to life.

Having had a fringe myself for a while now, here are my top tips on how to rock what I believe to be the next big thing coming into 2018.

To begin, there is a good chance your first fringe will not turn out exactly how you wish, mine certainly didn't! Don't let this put you off though, do your research, find a style that you really love and allow the fringe to grow and fit your face. I promise you that with a little trial and error, you will eventually be left with the fringe of your dreams.

August 2016

August 2017

Should you commit to this hairstyle, I do warn you, it can be quite a nuisance depending on the style and how fussy you are. Unfortunately, Irish weather and bangs are not what you would call best friends. For me, having a full, block fringe, I find the wind completely destroys the look as it splits and blows it everywhere. Should you find yourself in this situation, my top tip for you is to carry a comb in your purse or bag. A quick brush through and you will be back to normal. For those of you who opt for a more chopped fringe, this should not be of much bother to you.



Ok so here's the downside to having a fringe, even the best hairdressers mess up. Not every time thankfully but once in a blue moon you will be left less than impressed. Whether it be a crooked fringe or you end up looking like Haku from Spirited Away, just go with it, hair grows back in no time.

 Speaking of hair growth, tired of the fringe already? Decided its just not for you? Well then, the side swoop is your new best friend. You always have the option to turn your fringe into a side fringe be it three days or three weeks old. I do this a lot when I'm out or in the gym as a fringe against your forehead can be quite uncomfortable when you sweat. No matter how good it looks, there is no better feeling than sweeping a fringe off your face for that extra breath of fresh air. Change up your look or simply grow it out into side bangs, you decide.

Still not sure if you want to make the chop? Do what I did and give it a trial run. Here are some links to tutorials on how to DIY your bangs.

Stay gorgeous,

Katie x

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Autumn. The season of hot chocolate, wooly jumpers and fallen leaves. What is it about this time of year that warms our hearts? Is it the almost winter weather? The cheeky sun peeping through the dull grey sky? Is it simply the beautiful colours of fall?

Transitional shades signalling a change in time. The bright green grass faded, bare brown trees swaying in the lazy breeze, the golden glow of candles glistening inside windows. Everywhere you turn there's orange; leaves, pumpkins and even the odd fluffy hat.

Gone are the long, balmy summer's evenings and in with the cold, Halloweeny nights. Torrential rain beats down off the windows, wind swirls through the trees and dark grey sky as it descends on life. 

All is still.

It's the small things... Coming home to put on our favourite fluffy pyjamas. Open fires, warm blankets, rubbish tv, hot chocolate or maybe even a hot port. Cuddles, be it with partners, children or pets make the thoughts of what is on the outside disappear. 

Life slows down...

For behind closed doors, 

we are safe. 

Autumn for me is by far my favourite season. Sure, it’s cold and miserable out but that’s what’s most enjoyable about this time of year. It goes without saying that the fashion is to die for. I swear nothing makes me happier than seeing all the fabulous knitted clothes lined up in shops. I mean, who doesn’t love to just hide away under a huge woolly jumper every now and again?
As if the fashion wasn’t good enough, the food... oh my god the food! Piping hot homemade stews, freshly baked brack and creamy vegetable soup, what's not to love!

Who else lives for when the cafe's start introducing speciality hot chocolate? My absolute favourite that I've come across so far has to be the "Terry's Chocolate Orange Hot Chocolate," from a quint little coffee shop known as The Stormy Teacupin Limerick City. The smell of it alone will have you dreaming of Christmas.



Speaking of Christmas, is it just me or has the buzz begun even earlier this year? It's as if Halloween doesn't exist anymore. I don't know about you but, as much as I love Christmas, I find it very hard to enjoy Autumn with everyday there being new ornaments added to shop windows. Fall is a season of enjoying time before the winter hits, not who can get their decorations up the quickest.
I am going to write more on this soon but for now, sit back, enjoy the hot chocolate and beautiful colours before the snow comes. 


Katie x

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With Longitude done and dusted and festival season in full swing, I’ve decided to round up what I believe to be this year’s festival fashion must haves. Whether you’ve your entire weekends wardrobe planned to perfection or you’re totally lost as to what you should wear, keep on reading for that extra spark of inspiration.

Shorts

It goes without saying that a pair of shorts are an absolute essential for any festival goer. Wind, rain or shine, nothing will look better in the middle of that field than a funky pair of shorts. With so many options out there, you really can’t go wrong. A personal favourite of mine are high waisted denims like this pair from Boohoo for €20

Jenna High Rise Distressed Denim Mom Shorts

Pair your shorts with 2017’s must have accessory, chunky fishnet tights if you really want to make a statement.

Black Oversized Fishnet Tights

Bardot Tops
One of the most flattering forms of clothing a person can wear, I cannot recommend these tops enough. Suited to every body type, a good off the shoulder can be worn all year round, not just for festivals. These tops are literally everywhere at the minute so you should have no problem finding one you like. Be sure to hit up Penneys/Primark where you’re bound to find absolute steals like these for €11 and €13.

Playsuits

Who doesn’t love a playsuit? Top and bottom all in one, all you need worry about is a comfortable pair of shoes to match. Why not try out the gorgeous playsuits from the Lucy Fitz collection which are currently on sale at Glowing Girlies for €30. 

Strappy Frill Hem Rose Print Playsuit 1

Strappy Frill Hem Rose Print Playsuit

Bralettes
Not for the faint hearted but I promise you, these bad boys are the best way of taking your festival outfits from drab to fab. There is literally no end to the amount of ways you can style a bralette… Pair it with a shirt, low cut tops, oversized denim jackets, you name it. Have some fun with this stunning Forever 21 piece for only €13

Sheer Lace Bralette

Why not push the boat out and go for something a little more daring and fun with this option from Penneys/Primark for €4

Crochet Tops

Another absolute must, these tops are perfect for if you want to be a bit different and stand out from the crowd. Sure, you may freeze but it’s totally worth it for that to die for Instagram. Vintage shops are great to pick these up at relatively cheap prices but if you can’t get yourself to one, PrettyLittleThing have plenty of choice, including this absolute beauty for €25

Crochet Ladder Detail Crop Top

Floral Trousers
Festivals are the perfect opportunity to step out of your clothing comfort zone. Swap the plain skinny jeans for a pair of floaty floral pants and you won’t know yourself. I absolutely love these €26 Boohoo culottes as well as these quirky €22 ruffle hem trousers.

Madeline Oriental Floral Dipped Ruffle Hem Trousers

Gemma Flora Crop Culotte Co-ord

Accessories

No outfit is complete without its accessories. Out with the flowercrowns and in with bandanas. Sunglasses and bum bags are also key pieces. Wellies are a must have, especially here in Ireland. Oh and you can’t go wrong with glitter, lots and lots of glitter.

South Beach Flat Lens Cat Eye Sunglasses with Gold Brow Bar €18.92

White Contrast Zip Mesh Bumbag €12.99

Body Sparkles €15

Festivals are your one opportunity to go mad and express yourself however you like through your clothing. Have some fun and don’t give a notion as to what others think of you… Chances are, their outfits will be just as crazy as yours. 

Stay Gorgeous,

Katie x

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Following a year of inactivity, the guitar playing ginger that is Ed Sheeran has finally broken his silence. To the delight of millions, as of 5am this morning, the award winning artist released not one but two brand new singles. I don't know about you but I for one am overjoyed by this.

The two singles, totally different from one another are "Shape of You" and "Castle on the Hill."

Initially breaking his social silence December 13th, exactly 1 year since his last post, social platform photos were changed to the same sky blue background that appears on the artwork for the brand new singles. This was soon followed by a cheeky video New Years Day of the man himself holding a hand written sign reading, "New Music Coming Friday!!"

There were teasers all over the place, sneak peaks of lyrics but no sound earlier in the week, followed by short clips of the songs appearing on Thursday. Sheeran was even given a Snapchat filter dedicated to the first verse of "Shape of You." 

As for the songs, both are definitely very good and more than fitting for the pop charts of today. "Castle on the Hill" has stuck a bit more to Ed's roots however, "Shape of You," in my opinion is completely different to the artist's usual guitar based style. This is not necessarily a bad thing, every artist needs to spice things up every once in a while, It goes without saying the charts have changed significantly since Sheeran's last appearance in 2014. I just hope Ed doesn't sell himself out for the sake of remaining popular.

"Castle on the Hill," more upbeat than the likes of "Photograph" and "Thinking out Loud," still maintains Ed's beautiful storytelling quality just created for a pop genre rather than his typical ballad. This song for me is a powerful portrayal of Sheeran's past and his memories, something in which every listener can relate to. 

The simple yet memorable track is a perfect match for the lyrics, working together with the possibility of a No.1 hit.

"Shape of You," on the other hand, vaguely similar to previous hits "Don't" and "You Need Me, I Don't Need You," is significantly different to the majority of Ed's previous work. The extremely catchy beat and chorus are sure to be a winner. Having heard it on the radio multiple times since its release today, the track is bound to be huge for Sheeran. What a way to kick off 2017. Unlike the other, this single tells the story of finding love at the bar and ultimately falling in love with their body. A fun and upbeat track, this is an interesting change from Ed's usual ways.

It is clear form these two singles that Ed Sheeran is taking his music in a new direction. Will he stray too far from his roots? Will it be the step he needs in order to further his career? All will be revealed come the release of his album, "÷" in the imminent future.

Katie x

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Hello again!

I hope you guys are enjoying the balmy September weather as much as I am. As of this week, I along with thousands of students across Ireland have been catapulted into the terrifying world that is college. For those of you who have yet to sit the dreaded Leaving, trust me when I say, all that pain and torture is totally worth it! 

For today's post, I'm going to give you guys an idea of what I truly believe to be a first years guide to college attire as I'm sure, just like I, your transition from scratchy school uniform to complete clothing freedom has not only been tricky but confusing! So sit back, relax and get your check list ready!

10. Jeans

However warm or cold the weather is, a comfortable pair of jeans will breeze you over from daytime lectures to nighttime sessions.

9. Raincoat

Both you and I know the Irish weather is not one to be gambled with. Take my advice and carry a raincoat EVERYWHERE you go! College requires a lot of walking and there's no point missing out on the freshers madness because of a silly cold. God forbid you'd ruin the hair you spent all morning perfecting either!

8. Comfortable Shoes

Just like the jeans, comfortable shoes are mandatory to live a happy college life. I'm afraid to say that meas no high heels or flipflops/fancy sandals. Unless you're a fan of blisters that is...

 

7. Interesting Tees

Feeling a little lost and alone? Left your friends behind to venture off into the world of third level? Not sure how to get a conversation going? Sound familiar...? My number one tip for you... Get yourself a cool graphic/band tee! Nothing starts a conversation like it! 

Stuck for a tee? Try repin your county jersey, now that's a sure conversation starter!

6. Umbrella

Looking for popularity or just someone to talk to? Grab yourself an umbrella and you'll be pick of the crop when it comes to walking home in the rain!

5. Skinny Pants

Whether you're a fan or not, these tracksuits are the holy grail of college life! Sporty or not, these tracksuits will guarantee you four years as snug as a bug in a rug!

 Pair with Nike Roshes for added effect.

4. Schoolbag

I'm pretty sure it goes without saying but when it comes to college, nothing is more important than a schoolbag. With multiple uses, a schoolbag can easily go from carrying books and copies around campus to transporting evening refreshments to the gaff down the road.

3. Hoodies

Hoodies are essential to surviving life as a fresher. If it be cold out, raining or even a hangover, nothing will get you by like the reliable old hoodie.

2. Hats and Scarves

You may not need them now but come winter, when you're broke as hell and its between food or warmth... You'll thank me later!

1. Underwear

Lads, I'm not even going to go there with this one... Just make sure they're clean! 

And on that note, peace out!

Katie x

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Hey guys.

For today's post I'm going to write the first of a new series, "Think Tank". This will be a series of blog posts in which I talk about topics/issues that have been niggling away at me and as a result, feel the need to express my opinion on.

I by no means mean any hate towards anyone as I write these posts and all opinions expressed are 100% mine. I hope you guys like this concept and I sincerely apologise if I trigger anybody as a result of  what I have to say. Enjoy!

What is all this you ask? This my friends, is my opinion on a topic that I hold very close to my heart... Beauty standards and the impact they have had on me and I'm sure, some of you. I'm not necessarily speaking to just that of the female gender as I write this post. I would like to think that no matter what gender, you will take into account what I have to say as I feel this topic goes far deeper than our society lets on.

Tell me I'm not the only one who gets completely and utterly drawn into modern society and its unnatural obsession with bikini bodies and six packs? I mean, its hard not to when we're practically surrounded by it 24/7. No matter where we go or what we do, there's always a magazine headline or Facebook link telling us who and what we should aspire to look like... It's become part of our world. However, both you and I know, this form of media can have very negative effects. Why is it that the media of today leads us to believe that in order to be happy, you must have the body of a goddess or the abs of Hercules? I strongly believe that by bombarding us with headlines of "then and now, see how much they've lost" or "do this and you'll be irresistible" we are slowly but surely knocking the confidence of every single human being, even the most self-assured of us!

I for one believe that our society drastically needs more role modes whom we can look up to and aspire to be like, not for their looks but for who they are and what they believe in. Two personal inspirations of mine would be "plus size model" (I hate that term), Tess Holliday and Youtube star, Trisha Paytas. I don't know about you but I believe these are two incredibly beautiful women who really do #effyourbeautystandards!



I will say however, just because I am "pro curves" if you must, I by no means am skinny shaming! People who partake in skinny shaming are just as bad as those of you who fat shame and I for one have no time for that craic... I hope you guys are with me on this.
As for now, I'm signing off with one cheesy piece of advice... Just be yourself :)
To be continued...

Stay gorgeous,
Katie x

Side note: Fair play to Alicia Keys braving a bare face at last night's VMA's... Proving once again that the beauty standards of today's world are there to be broken!

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Konnichiwa!

I hope you are all having a splendid day.

For today's post, I'm going to fill you guys in on an incredible new experience I had two days ago in Dublin. It is something that has always been on my bucket list to do and now that I have, I'm more than hooked! What is it you ask...? Why it's Comic Con of course!

For all of you out there who don't know what Comic Con is, it's basically a huge convention that takes place annually across the world, showcasing anime, films, games and popular TV shows. It's a place where fans go to celebrate their love of what they spend their lives watching (in my case Game of Thrones) whilst meeting others who share their passion at the same time. There are also stalls selling merch and handmade art as well as meet and greets with celebrities of all kinds of status. (Luke Pasqualino for example!). There are many different branches of Comic Con, the one in which I attended being the MCM Comic Con on the 2nd of July. 

A major aspect of Comic Con is what's known as "cosplay". This is where you dress up as a character you love and embrace their personality and traits for the day, as well as a few well known quotes. My friend Aimee and I decided to go as Monica and Rachel from the 90's American sitcom, "Friends" however, it was more of a failure than we were anticipating! Aimee sported Monica's typical mom jeans and white t-shirt along with a bottle of spray cleaner and a cloth (quite accurate if you ask me) whilst I threw on a pair of knee high white socks and a plaid skirt in an attempt to become Rachel. Not bad for a last minute decision I suppose... My friend Sarah made a better attempt at it, dressing up as Misa from the anime, "Death Note" but the best of all by far was my friend/senpai's cosplay of Disney princess Mulan.

Having made her costume entirely by hand along with accessories such as Mushu, Mulan's cricket and cage, even her sword, I was blown away by how accurate everything was! She even got up on stage and performed as Mulan for the cosplay masquerade... Now that's what I call dedication! Marta (senpai) was the one who came up with the idea of going to the con and I can't wait to see what she decides to cosplay as next time... I'll definitely have to up my game!

I'll link Marta's Instagram below for anyone that's interested in seeing how she made her costume or photos from the con. She has great content!

Despite having great craic walking around meeting people and quoting random Rachel quotes, my favourite part of the entire con was without a doubt the Game of Thrones experience! This involved sitting on the Iron Throne for a photo as the theme song played in the background. I love the photo more than anything in the world and it makes me laugh every time I look at it!

Such a great memory to have of a fantastic day!

It goes without saying we were all wrecked after a very long day of adventure (three hours sleep the night before didn't help the situation... We love to chat!). Overall, it was a brilliant day and an unforgeable experience! That's one more thing I can tick off the bucket list... Roll on the next convention!

Thanks for stopping by!

Sayonara, Katie x

Marta's Instagram - @martachancosplay
MCM Comic Con website - 
http://www.mcmcomiccon.com/ireland/

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