Pixie: Putting things into perspective

To follow on from my previous post regarding examination stress, I thought it would be worthwhile to share thoughts on perspective. Personally, such words remind me that the things getting me down, upset and stressed are really not worth it and completely ridiculous in comparison to actual struggles around the world. Sometimes I think we all lose perspective and forget what is actually important in life. We forget how important it is to take a moment each day to focus on being grateful and fail to transform our so called ‘stress’ into something happier and selfless.

“Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.” Charles Dickens

“If you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden.”
Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Secret Garden

“If you want to turn your life around, try thankfulness. It will change your life mightily.” Gerald Good

Pixie x

 

Pixie: A message to fellow students

Whether you call them exams, tests or finals, this time of year is a major struggle for all students.

You feel like you’re doing the 400m and have been steadily going round the track trying your best, with a few hurdles along the way, and now you’re on the last straight and it’s all just starting to get a bit too much and you’ve ran out of energy to reach the finish line. At least, that’s how I’m feeling at the moment. The best thing to do when you reach that point where you feel like you have come so far but really doubting whether you can make it, is to focus on what you want to achieve and how disappointed you will be if you don’t reach it. It’s the hardest time of year, but the reward is so great when you have the freedom of summer, something to cherish before you face the real working world!

A huge good luck to everyone out there, hopefully together we can plough through and achieve our goals!!

Pixie x

Pixie: Which Game of Thrones character are your housemates?

Believe it or not, there are strong comparisons between the characters in Game of Thrones and the people that you live with. Minus the dragons, direwolves, white walkers etc, the show actually mirrors a lot of real life and the people we will meet along the way.

Samwell Tarly- The ultimate friend. This housemate is at your right hand and will stand up for you and support you when others may not. Beyond their unending kindness, they are brilliant and intelligent. This is the person you can rely on to give you words of wisdom, based on just something they have read, and speak a lot of sense. Do not underrate them or take this person for granted, because before you know it they’ve killed a white walker and are talk of the Night’s Watch!

Cersei Lannister- That one who absolutely loves drama and stirring gossip. If there’s anything worthy of note, she knows about it. This person enjoys being the one in control and is not afraid to manipulate people to get what she wants and make sure her voice is heard, even if she is not even Queen of Westeros. She is often seen grasping a glass of red wine and judging people with a raised eyebrow. Though, behind the somewhat malicious plotting this person can occasionally show a fragile side. She has suffered hardship and tries her best to remain strong despite it, although perhaps showing an incestuous streak is not the best way to do this.

Daenerys Targaryen- She can survive in desert wasteland and sit through fire yet still looking radiant and beautiful. This is the real-life equivalent of that housemate looking fresh the morning after a messy night out or an overnight library session, much to your jealous annoyance. Perhaps due to this undeniable beauty, she has men at her command, she is self-confident and knows what she wants. She values loyalty highly and if this trust is broken she will happily exile you… or more realistically tell you where you can go.

Reek (Theon Greyjoy)- The housemate that is a major pushover. Okay, perhaps they have not undergone torture and had their private parts chopped off, but nonetheless if you were to ask them to do something you know they would.

Tyrion Lannister- The person that is up for a good time, all the time! As long as there is wine and a crowd of people (preferably topless) they are there. To them, the best way to get over a stressful situation, such as a future execution, is to arrive fashionably drunk. To say the least, they take break-ups rather bitterly yet they are resilient and are happy to move on to better things. Their charm undoubtedly helps this person get out of sticky situations and at the end of the day, they will try to do what they believe is morally correct.

So, which character are your housemates? Or which one do you think you are most like?

Hope you enjoyed reading,

Pixie x

Pixie: Ultimate tips for your University Ball

No matter what course or level of study, the end of year ball is a stand-out event of everyone’s time at university. It’s effectively your Uni-Cinderella moment where you have an opportunity to transform from that hungover girl rocking up to a 9am in last night’s make-up into an elegant and glamorous red-carpet beauty. However, it is important to note the distinction between your secondary school prom and your university ball.

Tip #1 Do not overdo the prinks

Just like prom, it is likely a friend will offer their abode for photos and celebratory drinks before the event. The difference for your university ball is that you will probably be planning to go to a club afterwards, so there is the temptation to pre-drink to avoid bar prices. You need to be careful of stepping over that boundary from a classy glass of champagne into a trashy mixer, especially as there is usually wine provided at your ball. Don’t be that person that everyone remembers as the ‘really drunk one’ striking embarrassing poses and photo-bombing strangers on your course, as funny as you find it at the time it will most likely lose its appeal the following morning.

Tip #2 Stay away from the poufy diamante studded dresses

University balls are far more laid-back than prom. There isn’t a facebook group for posting your dress so nobody else buys it and there is no need to organise fancy transportation; it is a lot more relaxed. You’ll find that most people wear plain long dresses, perhaps with a cheeky side slit, but nothing marshmallow-like and not ridiculously glitzy. As mentioned, most people go out after, so girls wear dresses they wouldn’t throw a fit at if a bit of drink was spilt.

Tip #3 Sisters before misters
Similarly, university balls are relaxed in the way there is no pressure to have a date. Most people will go with their group of friends, it is rare for even an established couple to arrive together, therefore there is no reason to worry about it. The seating plan for the meal is arranged in advance as well so you can sit with whoever you want and won’t be confronted with a sudden panic that you’ll be forced to sit with strangers.

Tip #4 Remember your serviette

University balls usually include a three course dinner so please remember to cover your dress whilst eating. After going to so much effort getting ready you really do not want to spoil your outfit with a bright red tomato soup stain splodged in a suspicious area. Use your serviette!

Tip #5 Enjoy your night

Your course society will have put in a lot of time and effort into organising your end of year ball and will ensure there are lots of fun things planned. Photo booths with props are now popular so make sure you make the most of it and get some great snaps with your friends that you can treasure forever. Some events may be themed which is a fun added bonus, this year societies seem to be favouring ‘masquerade’ and ‘Great Gatsby’ so make sure you are prepared. Fire-breathers, gymnasts, magicians, bands and dancers are all forms of entertainment seen in the past, the end of year ball is an event not to be missed!

Hopefully these tips have helped you gain more of an idea on what to expect for the end of year ball. Societies should have posted their save-the-date via facebook or email so it is officially time to start budgeting for your ticket and begin the dress search … and you shall go to the ball!

Pixie: Welcome 2015

Happy New Year!

Apologies for my recent absence, haven’t posted in a while, the Christmas period has been somewhat of a blur… a hectic, stressful blur! However, I am planning to begin 2015 in a more optimistic way and be positive about what is to come. I am really focussed on my education even more so this year than ever before. I have worked out I am exactly half way through my degree and I am really determined to do well. Not necessarily new years resolutions, but my personal goals for 2015 are:

– To achieve a First this year at Uni

– Get an internship either over Summer or for next year

– Write more blog posts and make more connections with bloggers across the world

– Generally be healthier/ tone my stomach… crunches crunches crunches

– Visit my grandparents more

– Complete my holiday scrapbook

– Keep working on my children’s book

(Also, if you are a student like me and are in search of a motivational kick to do some revision/work, here’s a playlist I made which is good to have in the background! http://8tracks.com/alexwallin/let-your-study-juices-flow)

Wishing you a joyous and prosperous 2015!

Pixie x

Pixie: Blondes do it better

Pixie: Blondes do it better by acewallin on Polyvore

In need of blonde hair inspiration? Here’s a collage of the greats. Amanda Seyfried, Mary-Kate Olsen, Candice Swanepoel, Emma Watson, Taylor Swift, Blake Lively, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Cara Delevingne. Who are your blonde-haired icons?

Cara Delevingne Goes Water Goddess By Sebastian Faena For John Hardy… / Rosie Huntington-Whiteley By Simon Upton For ModelCo Beauty Brand / Blonde Ambition: POP Fall Winter 2010 (NSFW) > photo 7751 > fashion… / VOGUE THAILAND Carolyn Murphy in “Golden Girl” by Photographer Lincoln… / Candice Swanepoel by Paul de Luna (NSFW) / Amanda Seyfried / Tumblr / Blake Lively â Glamour Magazine Photoshoot (5 photos) / Candice Swanepoel By Vivanco, Nunes Dequeker For Vogue Brazil January… / Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen / Emma Watson Stars in Elle UK, Talks Feminism

Pixie: Mockingjay Part 1 Review

*ATTENTION SPOILER ALERT*

As an avid fan of the Hunger Games novels, I feel rather protective of the series and consequently care a great deal about the quality of the films. Overall I perceived the film to be mildly entertaining and stuck to the book fairly well, but in my opinion the best film in the series so far remains to be Catching Fire. Unfortunately, as not a lot happens in the first half of Mockingjay, the film felt deprived of action, and (ironically) the audience left hungry for more.

The running time is 123 minutes, a reasonable time for a blockbuster film however it can be said that it felt as though it was a film that merely set the scene for the finale. Those of you who have also read the book will understand that the action picks up the pace as soon as Katniss and co. attack ‘The Nut’ in District 2. I have to admit it was disappointing that they did not include this action within part 1, though at least that means the last film will be action-packed and will have more to it than a few ‘propos’ and Katniss being portrayed as weak without Peter.

The film severely lacked Katniss’s inner-strength and leadership which is described in the book. For me, it was a shame that her identity was diluted into a skilled archer rather than the resilient, iconic heroine she grows to be throughout the story; perhaps the director is saving this transition until the final film.

The majority of the film is understandably spent in District 13, which was an accurate and impressive depiction of this underground setting. Therefore the film is mostly dark with little lighting. It is plausible that many people have complained about this as it is one of those films where your eyes adjust to the dark and then the next scene burns your eyes because you aren’t accustomed to the light. Though, it can be said that the physical darkness represents the increased seriousness and emotional darkness that is soon to come.

The film mostly stuck to the book, which had its good and bad points. On one hand it means there is more action saved for the next film and many readers will be happy that no new material had been added, yet it did mean that this film was a stepping stone and fans may feel rather exploited for financial gain. Similarly, they could have made one amazing film rather than scraping the barrel to create two films, one being rather mediocre. Just because Harry Potter and Twilight did it, doesn’t mean the Hunger Games has to follow suit.

There are two main things that I picked up which were different from the book. The first being Effie in District 13! She is barely mentioned in the final book, and is seen near the end after being kept hostage in the Capitol, yet in this film she takes on Venia’s role and assists Katniss in her appearance in the propos. I guess as Elizabeth Banks (Effie) is a fairly accredited actress, the director wanted to use her as much as possible as well as the fact she adds a light-hearted and comedic undertone to the otherwise dark film. The second alteration I noticed was that Katniss does not include the wish that she wants to be the one to kill President Snow when she gives President Coin her demands at the start of the film. Rescuing Peter and the other tributes were there, even Buttercup was kept on the list, but not her killing President Snow which I thought was an integral part of the book.

Generally, the film was underwhelming. It had a lot more to give and, as mentioned, it felt as a mere stepping stone onto the finale. However, the last film should be filled to the brim with action and is sure to be an emotional battle. If Part 1 is the queue, we are sure to be in for a ride with Part 2.

Pixie: Wrap your winter with style

There are so many ways to customise your Christmas wrapping which allow you to embrace your creativity and originality in the process. Although there are some really cute wrapping paper rolls around, your presents are sure to stand out more with a handmade touch. Below are a few ideas you could do to add a personalised feel to your Christmas gift wrapping!

1. Wrap some ribbon or string around your present to form a bow, then slot in a small branch of mistletoe. This provides your gift with a really festive touch and creates a gorgeous scent too!

2. Instead of buying tags, make your own! You can do this cheaply with white paper doilies which look similar to snowflakes, and then you can either write the name and message neatly with a black fountain pen or you could use letter stamps.

3. Similarly, if you have tags/wish to make a cardboard tag you can secure a small candy cane onto the label. This is a nice added touch for the gift recipient as they are getting an extra treat!

4. Instead of using ordinary wrapping paper you can purchase a Christmas carol music book and use the pages to wrap your presents. (Or you could print off carols/music sheets.) This is a really unique idea which is likely to be admired by your gift recipient.

5. One for the artists! Purchase completely plain brown wrapping paper and use a sharpie to draw Christmas artwork, such as Olaf from Frozen, a big Christmas bow with a snowy background, a Christmas tree etc… so many possibilities!

If you have any ideas to customise your wrapping go ahead and drop a comment, I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Love Pixie x

Pixie: Femininity in Winter

Femininity in Winter 

A beautiful faux fur lined coat matched with black accessories create a highly feminine and sophisticated look. A touch of make up colour in red or plum shades adds a festive feel and brings out classic feminine features such as the lips and cheek bones.

Let me know if you have any winter fashion tips and if you like the look I have created!

Love Pixie x

Rabbit coat / Patterned legging, $24 / UGG Australia black high heel boots, $250 / Hermès black leather handbag / Topshop wool hat, $59 / Forever 21 lip gloss makeup

Pixie: Celebrity Style Crush

Everyone has that one celebrity/character they cannot help but obsess over. Their style captures your attention and you wish you could swap wardrobes with them. Blair Waldorf (played by Leighton Meester), Mary-Kate Olsen and Taylor Swift are my style heroines. Quite a varied bunch I agree, I tend to adapt my style depending on my mood and the occasion, yet I love all 3 as inspiration. Below I have summarised each of their styles and matched them to high-street garments so that you too can recreate their looks! (Links are listed at the end of the post)

Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl.

Style: Preppy, classic, feminine.

Trademark garment: Hairband

Blair Waldorf epitomises the quintessential upper-east-sider. Her whole style is so polished it is clear she has had a large number of professional stylists getting her ready every day.  Perfect hair styles, freshly pressed elbow pads and neat pleated skirts embody her sophisticated grace.

Blair on a budget:

Pearl Hairband- £12.99 from Zara

Embellished Jacquard Skater Dress- £75 from Oasis

Patterned Black Clutch- £12 from ASOS

Mary-Kate Olsen

Style: Bohemian, simple, vintage.

Trademark garment: Designer Sunglasses

Co-owner of ‘The Row’ label, Mary-Kate’s grunge chic is rather revolutionary. She is the prime example that less is more and simplicity is cool. She wears very little colour and her style seems effortless, yet it always works. Her signature day-look is slouchy tees and oversized jumpers with ripped vintage denim shorts/jeans paired with grunge Chelsea boots/brogues. She opts for a bohemian style evening look which is embodied with long wavy hair, glittery smokey-eye and long (occasionally Grecian) gowns.

 Mary-Kate on a budget:

Sunglasses- £13 River Island

Oversized Jumper- £15 from Boohoo

Ripped Denim Shorts- £28 River Island

Taylor Swift

Style: Cute, feminine, sweet

Trademark garment: Skater dress

Taylor’s style is typically girly, she tends to dress innocently and reserved, she wears clothes which flatter her long legs and tiny waist. She is prone to styling sweet dresses with skater skirts, peter pan collars and pastel shades which creates a princess-like reputation. Her style is classic and exemplifies being young, fun and care-free.

Taylor on a budget:

Skater Dress- £21 Forever 21

White Watch- £75 by Olivia Burton

Nude Heels- £39 by Miss KG (Kurt Geiger) from House of Fraser

Hope you enjoyed reading, here are all the links to the items selected!

Love Pixie x

BLAIR CLUTCH: http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Punchout-Clutch-Bag/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=4550539&cid=8730&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black&totalstyles=1500&gridsize=3

BLAIR DRESS: http://www.oasis-stores.com/embellished-jacquard-skater-dress/dresses/oasis/fcp-product/5550088818

BLAIR HAIRBAND: http://www.zara.com/uk/en/woman/accessories/accessories/pearl-hairband-c271008p2015002.html

MARY-KATE SUNGLASSES: http://www.riverisland.com/women/sunglasses/retro-sunglasses/Black-oversized-sunglasses-647992

MARY-KATE JUMPER: http://www.boohoo.com/winter-knitwear/annie-oversized-vintage-jumper/invt/azz58885

MARY-KATE SHORTS: http://www.riverisland.com/women/shorts/denim-shorts/Mid-wash-ripped-denim-shorts-651744

TAYLOR DRESS: http://www.forever21.com/UK/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=dress&ProductID=2000122523&VariantID=

TAYLOR HEELS: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Miss+KG+Anika+high+heel+court+shoes/200253037,default,pd.html

TAYLOR WATCH: http://www.oliviaburton.com/white-dial-c15/large-white-face-mink-p57