London Bound ¦ April 16

London Bound ¦ April 16

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London is one of my happy places. It honestly excites me so much when I have day trips there, whether is be sightseeing, visiting one of their attractions or my favourite - shopping. This time, my family were travelling to Angle Islington to watch my friends in 'In - Nocentes' by the National Youth Dance Company. Going to watch my friend perform was very important for me as I'm auditioning for a place in the company this year...super exciting! 

However, before stopping at Angel, we had a couple hours to spare. This is where I struggled to restrain myself from the beautiful shops on Oxford Circus and Regent Street; my bank account is honestly crying at the minute so I wasn't able to go crazy. I did buy a couple makeup items in Boots, with the help of a good ol' voucher and my mum kindly treated me to a gorgeous playsuit from Forever 21. 

Selfridges is always my favourite place to shop/look in London. I literally want to buy all the designer bags and shoes; there were so many Kurt Geiger clutches I was lusting over it was ridiculous! The beauty floor is obviously my primary place to go - the Charlotte Tilbury stand always looks incredible with their spotlight display. 

My rust-orange, patterned playsuit was from Forever 21. The material is super lightweight so will be perfect in the summer (maybe not in England but..) and the style is super flattering because of the ruched-detailing at the stomach. Additionally, the deep V neck allows you to glam-up the outfit with a statement necklace if you were to wear it out in the evening. 

In Boots, I had two gift cards to utilise; I decided to go to the drugstore side of Boots as I hadn't purchased anything from there in a while. L'Oreal have always been one of my favourite drugstore brands so I decided to purchase some needed products from the stand - the Lumi Magique highlighting concealer and the Superstar Super Liner. Fortunately, there was a '3 for 2' offer on the counter so I managed to pick up one of their new matte lip products in 'Oops I Pink It Again'. After swatching it on my lips last night I am already impressed - the sponge end allows precise and smooth application to the lips. 

For my evening makeup, I ventured for a purple/grey smoky eye look with a nude lip.

Products used : 

~ Nars Sheer Glow ~ Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer ~ Rimmel Stay Matte Powder ~ Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess ~ Benefit Rockateur ~ The Balm Mary Lou Manizer ~ Anastasia Dipbrow Pomade in Chocolate ~ Urban Decay Smoky Palette & Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette ~ Maybelline Gel Liner ~ Revlon Lash Potion ~ Model's Own Liner (waterline) ~ Charlotte Tilbury Bond Girl ~

The performance was honestly breath-taking - I love contemporary dance and it has been my passion for the last couple of years. I cannot wait to audition for the company in the Summer! My evening was successfully completed with a Mango & Passionfruit cooler from Costa alongside a triple chocolate muffin. Mmmmmm.....

Where is your favourite place to travel to?

Lots of love

My Top 10 : Revision Tips & Tricks

My Top 10 : Revision Tips & Tricks

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A Levels are probably one of the most hardest and most challenging things I've ever done in my life. Throughout my years of education, I have absolutely loved, and hated school; I still find it extremely difficult to balance my social life, and other hobbies of mine, with revision. However, I've been able to explore ways which work and which don't to help me achieve the best grades possible. Thus I will be sharing my tips and tricks on studying with you in today's post to hopefully stop biology revision from driving me to insanity!

1. First and foremost, I always begin the exam season by creating a realistic timetable. I say realistic because my GCSE timetable included about 5 different subjects a night, which as you could imagine, didn't go down well. Before planning your revision hours/sessions, make sure you have pinpointed time for your weekly hobbies (e.g. sport, dance, music lesson etc), time for relaxation (I recommend you stop studying at least 1 hour before bed) and also time to socialize with family and friends.

You can colour code your timetable, like mine, for each of your subjects. As I am only taking four subjects, I've decided to split mine into sections so that I can focus on specific areas of my course. You can also use apps, like SQA My Study Plan or Skedule, to formulate a digital version of a study timetable.

2. A huge influencer of my procrastination would definitely be my phone. Therefore, as much as it may hurt, I advise that you ask a family member to hide it somewhere until your revision session is over. I believe that mobile devices can be a large distraction when trying to study so it is best to steer clear of too much mobile use over the exam season. However, I'm not saying to avoid technology as it can be a key helping point for finding unanswered questions and exam papers.

3. A personal favourite technique of mine is making flash cards, These are my predominant go-to when revising; the colours make it more fun to work with and concise, relevant notes ensure you are not overloading yourself with unnecessary information! If you're making revision cards, find your course's mark scheme, print it off and only write information it asks you to know. This way you are being efficient and not wasting valuable study time learning regarding something in a text book that you don't even need to know! Moreover, to utilise my finished flash cards, I put them in a pile on a my bedside table - this way I am reminded to read and remember them. I do this as I wake up and an hour before I go to bed. 

4. This may seem like a more obvious tip but using the correct stationery is crucial. When you see everyone around you using fancy paper, colours and flash cards, you can feel obliged to copy them. Nevertheless, you must do what is right for you. You can find this out by doing timed practice exams at home - revise in different ways to see what style of revision suits you. Not everyone will remember information through colours/visuals; for instance, my boyfriend likes everything to be in black and white when studying.

5. The classic - revision posters. Whether these be the standard mindmap or intricate diagram, posters seem to be a popular and effective method of revision. Make sure to be inventive so they catch your attention - stick them around your house in places you regularly visit (the fridge, your wardrobe or even the toilet). If you are consistently seeing the information, you are more likely to retain it. 

6. Printing off a TONNE of past papers has really aided my progression. As soon as I began working with previous exam questions, my knowledge expanded. This is technically the best way to retrieve the knowledge needed, in my opinion, as you are able to compare your answers to the mark scheme and see exactly what your exam board want from you. 

7. This next technique usually works if you have an eidetic memory, like myself. Eidetic memory is where visuals can help relate or denote an image vividly, enabling you to mentally see the photos/writing on a page. Therefore, I tend to purchase text books or create diagrams so that I can relate the images to writing on the page. Using colours also helps me a lot.

8. Remember to break down your subject into ordered section. This will stop your stress levels exceeding to maximum as you will have a focal point to work on that day. Once you've broken a subject into a section, make sure to create, or do, something that will help your remember the information and then answer some past questions on the topic. 

9. This is a good one of those who travel a lot or have a busy lifestyle - download apps that relate to your subjects/courses! By downloading releveant apps, you are able to revise on-the-go. This is convenient as you are studying and not wasting any time. My favourite revision app has to be Gojimo; this has an extensive array of subjects which can be specific for different exam boards.

10. Finally, you MUST have regular breaks. I am seriously guilty of not following this one and it results in insanity, for sure. It is proven that working consistently for over 3+ hours will completely demotivate a studient. Make sure to relax every hour or two, even if it is for 15 minutes to watch a couple of youtube videos, reading a book or having a meal.

Share in the comments below any methods you use to revise...

Lots of love

Coconut Lane Goodies

Coconut Lane Goodies

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Coconut Lane are a wonderful brand that offer an array of qwerky phone cases, wall art, jewellery, home accessories and much more. Fortunately, I was able to work with them and review some of their beautiful products from their range of insanely popular items. 

Prior to receiving my goodies, I was overwhelmed with excitement; I fell in love with everything I chose before I purchased them. When I say excited...I mean EXCITED! This is why....

Wall Art and Prints are probably one of my favourite products Coconut Lane sell. They look super qwerky and fit perfectly in my room. The shabby-chic frame was already mine, as I waiting for a quote like this to put inside. However, you can order a pre-framed print for a small added cost. 

Beyonce is literally my goddess - she is my favourite pop artist! I am in love with her voice, her songs, her style, her figure & life. Hence, I could pick no other quote than this for my wall. Saying that, I am now looking forward to building a collection of Coconut Lane quotes for my wall. I think they have picked a fabulous variety of wall art - including confidence pick-ups, sassy one-liners, famous movie quotes and phrases that simply make you laugh. 

~ What Would Beyonce Do? ~

Next on my list are jewellery pieces. Jewellery, in my opinion, is something that can complete an outfit - from a small pair of studs to a large chunky statement necklace. When browsing the jewellery section on the Coconut Lane site, I was immediately enticed by the anchor bracelet and adorable elephant studs. 

For certain, the anchor bracelet will be my Summer go-to accessory - I chose a white band as I feel that it would compliment tanned/sun-kissed skin. Also, the white and gold colours are extremely  versatile, enabling you to wear the bracelet with almost every outfit. This is something handy for me as I always seem to be in a rush.

Additionally, I am also loving these cute little elephant earrings. I cannot stop seeing elephant-themed jewellery all of my Twitter and Instagram so it was about time I purchased something of my own. Silver-coated earrings are my favourite to wear so this was an added bonus - I know I will be getting lots of use out of them! Next on my wishlist...the ELEPHANT RING!!!

Coconut Lane are well-known for their flashy, vibrant and fun phone cases. Being a follower, I know, I had to try out one of the crazy all-over-glitter covers. This looks incredible in sunlight - it was so difficult to capture the beauty of this case as my camera just couldn't quite pick up the stunning reflections of the glitter particles. Phone cases are an accessory for me, just like jewellery, so I love to match them with my outfits. This means I will probably become a hoarder of their phone cases - just like my friend Abi Hunter from Lady Hunter blog.

Recently, Coconut Lane have released a stunning range of product - the LUXE collection. I am in awe at their new classy phone cases and sunglasses; my hands will definitely be on those in the next few weeks! 

USE MY DISCOUNT CODE FOR 20% OF  COCONUT LANE : SCARLETSLIPPERS20

Lots of love

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This post is in collaboration with Coconut Lane - all opinions are honest and my own.

Personalise your Phone Case ¦ CaseApp

Personalise your Phone Case ¦ CaseApp

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Personalisation is something that can make someone's day. I think personalised gifts are the key to a loved one's heart - whether is be something sentimental like a necklace or framed photograph, something creative like a scrapbook or something practical like a phonecase or mug. 

CaseApp are a brand that specialises in personalised phone/laptop cases; you are able to chose from a pre-made design, like my 'Perfect White Marble' one, or insert your own image. After seeing marble-print invading all my social media, I just had to go for this design!

Rather than overloading my masterpiece with tons of emojis, photos and text, I decided to keep it basic - simplicity is key for me. I thought bombarding the case with excess material would take away from the beautiful marble design. Thus, in pretty, elegant font I typed 'Char Emily' (my Instagram name) along with a cute black love heart, to the bottom of my design. 

On arrival, I was delighted to receive an immaculate-printed, good quality case that has already withstood a few falls. Being clumsy I always drop my phone and end up damaging ever single case I purchase; however, there is not a single mark after a couple of weeks! Also, I am in love with the smooth, matte finish - this is very aesthetically pleasing and sets aside from my other phone covers that hold 21940832487 sequins and gems.

If you are struggling for a gift idea, I highly recommend personalised ones. With swift delivery and phenomenal quality, you cannot go wrong with CaseApp. Don't forget to check out their designs!

GET 20% off your own custom phone case with this code : FHMPZT

Lots of love

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This post was in collaboration with CaseApp, however all opinions are honest and my own.

Happy Easter! ¦ Mini Egg Chocolate Tiffin Recipe

Happy Easter! ¦ Mini Egg Chocolate Tiffin Recipe

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Happy Easter!

Without further ado, I present to you one of my favourite recipes - with a twist! I absolutely love making chocolate tiffin (malteser being my absolute fave) so since it is Easter Sunday, I thought I would bring you a delicious, easy-to-make dessert, mini egg style. 

I hope you like the recipe and don't forget to send me photos on Instagram/Twitter if you try it out!

Ingredients

225g Digestive biscuits, crushed

2 tbsp Caster Sugar

2 tbsp Golden Syrup

110g Margarine

4 tsp Cocoa Powder

225g Milk Chocolate

150g Mini Eggs

Method 

1. Crush all the digestive biscuits up and place in a mixing bowl. I recommend crushing them in a bag and using a rolling pin.

2. Melt the margarine, syrup, sugar and cocoa powder over a saucepan. Once melted, add 3/4 of the mini eggs to the mixture.

3. Pour the melted mixture into the bowl holding the crushed biscuits. Mix thoroughly and pour into a baking tin.

4. Melt the milk chocolate in a separate saucepan and pour over the mixture in the baking tin.

5. Decorate the top with the remaining mini eggs (or any other easter treats) and leave in the fridge for 15+ minutes.

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This Easter, I kindly asked my family NOT to buy me any Easter eggs - I am reaaaaally trying to eat better and hundreds of choccie calories were not going to do my belly any favours! Instead, I was fortunate enough to receive some vouchers, cuddly toys and money (with a couple of chocolate presents here and there). 

I hope you are all having a wonderful Easter, whether you are spending it with friends, family or for some, working. Have a fabulous day! Now...off to my Nan's for a lovely family dinner.

Lots of love

Creme Egg Brownies ¦ Easter Recipe

Creme Egg Brownies ¦ Easter Recipe

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My last recipe (Oreo-Filled Cookies) post received lots of positive comments, views and general feedback so I thought it would be a good idea to post another. Even better...an Easter-themed dessert!

Enjoy these chocolate-y treats, maybe even make them in the Easter holidays if you are still at school like me? Don't forget to tweet or email me your version if you decide to make a batch for yourself :)

Ingredients : 

85g Plain Flour

180g Margarine

270g Caster Sugar

180g Dark Chocolate

3 Large Eggs

40g Cocoa Powder

6+ Cadbury Creme Eggs

Method :

1 ~ Grease your chosen baking tin (I baked mine is a circular tin) and preheat the oven to 180 degrees celcius/Gas Mark 4/350 Fahrenheit.

2 ~ Melt the chocolate and butter in a bowl over hot water. 

3 ~ In a separate bowl, break all the eggs and thoroughly mix in the caster sugar. I would recommend using an electric whisk for this stage - it really quickens the process!

4 ~ When the melted chocolate and butter is cooled, pour it onto the egg-mixture and fold together.

5 ~ Next, sift the cocoa powder and plain flour, making sure to fold the mixture again.

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6 ~ Carefully cut your desired amount of Cadbury's Creme Eggs into halves. 

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7 ~ Pour the mixture into the baking tin and cook for roughly 20 minutes. Remove the tin from the oven and place the Creme Egg halves into the mixture. 

8 ~ Finally, put the mixture back in the oven for a further 10-15 minutes. Allow 10 minutes cooling time after the brownies have been removed from the oven.

Voilà!

What is your favourite dessert? 

Lots of love