Words : Self worth

Realising your own worth is probably easier said than done. I would know. Having battled with depression up until I gave birth to my son, I was always one to sell myself short.

Looking on the bright side must have been alot easier before social media became such a prominent part of our lives. On my worst days: it seemed like everyone was doing better than I was. Instagram, Facebook and Twitter taunted me with perfect relationships, luxe holidays and to-die-for wardrobes.Yes, nowadays it is easy to get caught up in your own pity party.

This is why I actively look for ways to inject a little positivity, not only into my own life, but into the lives of others. We may not all lead perfect lives but, I strongly feel that we all have a purpose. God did not create any rejects and, while doubting ourselves might be the easy route to take, let's not.

Let us force ourselves to seek out the positive things. To be honest, no one else will help you achieve it. Waiting around for validation from others is a futile pursuit.  Trust me, I used to be the queen of seeking validation from others. And even when you do get it; it's a hole that doesn't stay filled up for long.

To make a long story short, I wrote this post with one purpose in mind. To make sure we all realise that there are always going to be difficult times. Shit is always going to happen but, wallowing in your sorrows is not going to get you anywhere. Pull yourself together and soldier on while you still have the opportunity. And while you are at it: sprinkle a little positivity wherever you go.

*I do not take credit for the images in this post

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Black out!

When you think of summer attire, black is not necessarily the first colour that comes to mind. However, over the last few seasons summer fashion has become less about bright colours and prints; and more about simple black ensembles.

Picture slimming shapes and lightweight fabrics. There is a black piece to suite your personality and the weather simultaneously. The perfect black summer outfit is meant to be striking yet, effortless. So avoid bulky layers and moody accessories.

As always, I have rounded up some of  my favourite all black summer looks to serve as inspiration to all of us. Are you wearing black this summer? I'd love to hear from you

*I do not take credit for the images in this post. 

TILL LATER, LAUREN! 

Life lately : Hello 2017

2016 has been an interesting year for me. It's been made up by some of the worst times as well as the most amazing times. That being said: I feel like the whole year has been a learning curve for me. From being cheated on (yes bohoo) to watching my beautiful boy graduating grade R and getting ready for grade 1. Yes, last year has been a cocktail of emotions.

However, it is a year that I shall be eternally grateful for. Regardless of the moments I spent riddled in self doubt, the year has taught me one valuable lesson: I can overcome anything. So with that in mind, I say bring on 2017!

I haven't made any solid resolutions other than being and even better mom. A mom that is constantly present (not just physically ). I look forward to the laughter and lessons this year has to offer. For me; the new year signifies hope. Hope that, even when things look utterly impossible, there's bound to be light at the end of the tunnel.

Welcome to my first post for 2017. A collection of my favourite moments so far. I hope you enjoy it; and that your year is off to a brilliant start.

My favourite dress.

Awesome nights out with awesome people.

He loves dressing up just like mom.

Graduation !!!!!!

I love working on new posts 

#throwback thursday to the kid's fro!

First selfie for 2017

TILL LATER, LAUREN! 

Review : African Extracts Rooibos Products

My skin has never been overly problematic but, every now and then I would suffer the odd break out. And it is usually at the worst possible time. Needless to say I am extra conscious of how I look after my skin. The African Extracts products have caught my attention a few times this year but, it was until recently that I started using the products.

While I haven't been using the products long enough to do a thorough review I thought I would just share a little bit about the products and my experience with it. I have purchased 3 products so far and I have been using it for a little over 6 weeks.

Let me tell you about the Spot Control face wash. I am very picky when it comes to my face because I always end up with red patches after washing. This face wash however is super gentle because of the Rooibos and Boabab extract it contains. The packaging states that its perfect for cleaning deep down in your pores to assist with problem free skin. So far I have been using this face wash twice a day for the last few weeks and I see a major difference. My skin is smoother and definitely in much better shape.

And then there is the toner. Ever since I have discovered what toner is for, I have been trying to find the perfect toner. I don't consider my skin to be super sensitive but, some of the toners I have used have burnt my skin a bit. I am happy to report that this toner is the exact opposite. It leaves my skin refreshed and my pores tightened.

Lastly there is the Dual-Action moisturiser. I usually apply this before foundation. I love that it absorbs easily and the non greasy formula prevents me from ending up shiny during the day. This one is a keeper.

Have you used any of these products? I would love to hear from you.

TILL LATER, LAUREN! 

Review: Revlon Highlighting Palette & L.A girl Matte lipstick

I like to buy things that won't make me feel guilty in the long run. Meaning, the quality has to be great, it has to make my life easier and it has to last me a while. Which is why I am beyond excited to share this next review.

This Revlon Highlighting Palette and L.A girl Matte lipstick are my two go to products at the moment. They both  brighten up my face and make me feel really amazing.

Let's talk about this stunning palette. It's a highlighter, blush and bronzing palette all in one and I love that it saves me a ton of time in the morning. I dust it on my cheek bones, forehead and bridge of my nose and I have got a healthy glow in a matter seconds. This is definitely on my repurchase list! ( PS. It was purchased as part of a set).

Then there's this gem from L.A girl. While it might seem like a moody winter colour, I think its an amazing update to your face even in summer. The colour is called Va Voom and is a matte texture. The staying power is great too and when the colour does fade , its a beautiful berry stain. But, if matte is not your thing, you can still use the lipstick. The end of this lipstick screws off to reveal a little tub of gloss to go over the matte lipstick. I have to admit, this is what really won me over. Ofcourse I'm going to repurchase this one too. It retails for about R59,99.

Have you used either of these products. I would love to hear from you. 

Disclaimer : This is not a sponsored post.  

TILL LATER, LAUREN! 

Trend post: Oversized denim jackets

Relaxed. Effortless. Unbothered. These are only some of the words that come to mind when I think of oversized denim jackets. It's a trend that's loved by both A-list starlets and fashion insiders. I enjoy keeping an eye on trends that are both locally and internationally worn and this is definitely one of those.

What I adore about the oversized denim jacket is that it just screams uncomplicated style. It says " yes I love fashion, but I'm not trying too hard." As with all my trend posts I've scoured the internet to find looks that will inspire both my readers and myself. These are some of my favourite looks.

How would you style your oversized denim jacket?

*I do not take credit for the images in this post

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Framed

A visit to the traffic department the other day confirmed a truth I was both completely aware of and also actively trying to deny: I desperately need my glasses. All day, every day and especially at night times.

I have never been too thrilled at the idea of wearing glasses partly because I couldn't possibly imagine how I would do my make up. To make a long story short, I enlisted the help of Twitter to figure out  how to make wearing glasses work for me. Two lovely ladies shared some tips that really stood out for me.

@AnneDolli - "bold lips. It makes all the difference ".

@LadyZaa - "LOTS of mascara. I love it. Also, if you have dark circles conceal them slightly because glasses magnify everything"

So taking this advice to heart, I went out and spoilt myself a bit.

I can't do flat lays to save my life lol.

Revlon Ultra HD lipstick in 815 Sweet Pea

L.A. girl Pro Concealer in medium beige.

Revlon Colorburst Matte Balms in 210 Unapologetic  (left ) and 260 Passionate  (right)

And then there is this beauty.  Revlon Highlighting Palette in 020 Rose Glow. 

What is your ultimate make up tip? Please feel free to share them to me. I'd love to hear from you.

Disclaimer : This is not a sponsored post.

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Denim+ Suede

I love look posts. I absolutely enjoy seeing what other bloggers wear on a day to day basis. If you read my blog on the regular you would have noticed that I don't do too many lookposts. Firstly, its because I have always thought that you needed a photographer following you around. And, secondly, I only like about every 200th picture I take of myself. Nevertheless, I have decided to get over it and just take some damn pictures.

Now of course these are not the professional fashion blogger pictures you are used to but, its a step in the right  direction. I wore this the other day when I was out to run some errands. This versatile stretch denim dress is a favourite of mine simply because it easily transitions from season to season. I paired it with stockings and my favourite suede boots to accommodate the chilly breeze.

Mind you, this was the one day I decided to use public transport. They ended up striking that same day and I had to walk home from the mall.Atleast I was wearing flats during my long walk home. Glass half full I guess.

Dress: Mr Price 

Grey top: Mr Price 

Boots: Miladys

Stockings : Dischem

Choker : Mr Price  (again)

Watch: gifted 

I plan on wearing this dress so many different ways this summer and hopefully I will get to share those looks as well. Any look posts you would like me to have a look at? I'd love to hear from you.

                TILL LATER, LAUREN!