A Different Bite of the Apple – New York Travel Inspo

August 27, 2018August 27, 20181 Comment

I am not really sure where this year has gone, I cant believe I haven’t managed to get one post out in year. I have travelled to some amazing places this year and hopefully will get round to documenting all of my trips. I’m going to start with my first love, NYC.

New York is my favourite place in the world, I would move there in a heartbeat. I am really lucky to have a friend there and get to experience living in the the magical surroundings of NYC. If you’re looking for a more alternative New York than chain restaurants and Time Out’s top listed places you need to head to the other side of the water to Brooklyn.

Good Morning Williamsberg – Egg Shop

Egg Shop is a cute, very instagrammable spot where you can get eggs in every way imaginable. Not just for breakfast they also serve dinner, and most importantly….cocktails!

Betches who Brunch – Reunion

Brunch is practically mandatory when weekending in New York and if you’re into pancakes you need to go to Reunion. I never thought I would be defeated by a pancake but the Reunion pancake was the first to beat me, it is HUGE and beyond delicious! I would also recommend the Shakshooka if a sweet brunch isn’t your thing.

Sweet Treats – Milk Bar

Three words, Birthday Cake Truffles, Crack Pie and Cereal Milk Ice Cream. Go, order it and be happy. Although the store its self may seem understated the taste is far from it. The day I watched Drag Race and and ate Crack Pie for breakfast in bed was one of my all time favourite mornings. If you want to check this place out more before visiting check out Netflix’s Chefs Table Episode 1, Season 4 to see this amazing brand being created.

Battle of the Pizza – Juliana’s

Depending on who you ask you will no doubt get two answers for the best pizza in NYC, some will say Grimaldi’s and others will be correct and say Juliana’s. Next door to each other the rivalry between these two pizza places is fierce. You will queue outside between 30 – 60 minutes for a Juliana’s pizza but it is worth it, just maybe try to plan your trip here on a day when the weather will be nice!

Live Your Best Life – House of Yes

If like me the only thing you love more than food (and fashion) is a themed party complete with aerial, fierce drag kweens and glitter then you need to head to House of Yes. It was their Golden Themed party while I was in New York and i had only 12 hours to pull together a golden lewk, I managed…just but if you are heading to New York and want to attend the party of a life time check the events listing, book a ticket and plan a killer outfit.

To check out more highlights from my last NYC trip check out my Instagram Story Highlight. – @Lottie_Helen

Love Lottie

xoxo

Travel Inspo – Dubrovnik

September 21, 2017August 31, 2017Leave a comment

Dubrovnik has been made hugely popular by Game of Thrones in recent years as it is where a large amount of filming has taken place and is the basis for the royal Kings Landing.

The old town of Dubrovnik is beautiful with stone buildings, red roofs and sea views as far as the eye can see. If you are planning a trip to Dubrovnik you needs to explore the whole of the old town, the narrow streets are filled with restaurants serving the best fresh fish and traditional dishes from both Croatia and the surrounding areas and the various squares are the perfect places to have a local wine or cocktail.
I would also recommend a walk around the city walls, this is a small fee of around 150 Kuna, the views are stunning and it’s a great way to see the city. If you are going in summer I would recommend going early in the morning or in the evening as when the temperatures creep up being stuck in a queue with no shade would dampen the experience.

If you want a truly birds eye view of the city taking the cable car is the best way, I tried buying tickets online but had no luck with the website, I would recommend getting to the cable car early to grab your tickets and avoid the huge queues. I was desperate to go to the Panorama restaurant at the top of the cable car but the queue was just too big and my trip not long enough.

If you want to see more of Croatia I would recommend hiring a boat and heading out to see, prices vary but I used Dubrovnik boats and paid 450Euros for a full day trip. Unfortunately we picked a day where the weather was against us and had to miss parts of he trip due to the weather. During lunch a mini tornado appeared and we had to jump in our boat and race back to the harbour 3 hours early. The parts we got to enjoy were beautiful and if I were to go back I would definitely do it again and hope for better weather.

If you love a day at the beach I would recommend buying a bed at Banje Beach Club. Priced start at 90Kuna for a sunbed and you can order both food and drinks from your bed or you have the choice of the bar area or restaurant if you need a break from the sun. I spent quite a lot of time here and enjoyed it from start to finish, it is definitely work it rather than trying to grab a spot on the free beach, lying of the pebbled shore.

To end our trip we ate at the 360 restaurant which is highly recommended, the restaurant boasts an amazing view of the harbour and the coastline and serves fine dining food. The service, food and view were amazing and it was the perfect end to our trip.

There are of course loads of Game of Thrones trips but it was over 30 degrees while I was there in August so stuck to the beach, just being in the city gives you that Lannister realness.

Check out my style post for what to pack and my Instagram for more outfit and travel inspo.

Love Lottie xoxo

Style Post – Dubrovnik – Outfit Inspo

September 14, 2017August 31, 20171 Comment

Dubrovnik is a magnificent city which boasts majestic buildings in stunning surroundings but with still a very relaxed feel. Most people dress stylish but chilled, as there is so much walking to be done in high temperatures, comfort is key. These were my favourite looks from Dubrovnik, full Travel Inspo to follow!

Mermaid Vibes

I felt like trying something new with this look and dress down these bold mermaid trousers. Although this isn’t something I would normally wear I am loved this look and definitely will try something like this again. Its also always amazing to go out in trainers and not have to worry about uncomfortable shoes

Yellow Mermaid Trousers – Zara – These are no longer available but I grabbed them in the sale for £19.99. These PLT and Topshop are the perfect alternative and under £25.

Black Bardot Crop – River Island – I love this River Island for a more glam look and this Topshop number for a more casual look like mine.

Shoes – Old School Vans – Schuh – £55.00

Bag – Saint Laurent Tassel Bag

Tassels for days

I loved this Zara dress when I saw it online, tassels and pom poms have been every where this summer and I loved the boho feel to this look. I teamed this dress with some bold tassel earrings and lace up sandals.

Dress – Zara – £39.99

Shoes – ON SALE – – H&M – £11.99

Earrings – ASOS – £10.00

Skater Girl

Feeling very early 2000’s Avril Levigne in this look but it was girly with an edge so perfect for me. This dress has been a regular in my suitcase, perfect to dress up or dress down but warning, Marilyn Monroe moments are a regular with a strong breeze in this dress!

Dress – Miss Selfridge – although the red is no longer available this black version is super cute and perfect for this trans seasonal weather

Shoes – Old School Vans – £55.00

Sunglasses – Vans via ASOS – £18.00 – these don’t seem to be available anhy more but I have found these fabulous extra ones that I love!

Khaleesi/ Bend the Knee feels

I love this dress, the mixed floral patterns and the corset back just made me fall in love. I also am in love with this new updo that is so easy to do in your own hair, I added a gold crown like accessory for some Khaleesi realness.

Dress – £59.99 Topshop – This Zara dress is new in for the season and a perfect alternative¬

Shoes – ON SALE – – H&M – £11.99

Rose Hair Accessory – Zara – I bought mine some time ago but this ASOS two pack is perfect.

Travel inspo post to follow! Follow my blog and Instagram for more travel inspo and outfit inspo!

Love Lottie xoxo

Travel Inspo – Lake Como

September 7, 2017August 31, 2017Leave a comment

If you are looking for a relaxing Europe break I would highly recommend Lake Como. This destination is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been and is the perfect place to completely relax. We travelled from Milan via train for just 9 Euros each and it only took approximately 1 hour. Check out my Milan post if you are heading to Lake Como from Milan too.I stayed in one of the smaller villages on the lake in Moltrasio at the Grand Hotel Imperiale hotel. The rooms were a little basic but the restaurants, pool area and view made up for this.

Near by there were a couple of small restaurants/cafes but very minimal amenities compared to the larger towns. As I had planned to mainly relax by the pool this wasn’t an issue and with the below view I was not complaining.

If you visit Lake Como you need to take a trip to Bellagio, there are speed ferry’s that will get you there in 45 minutes to an hour. The slower ferry’s can take up to 2 hours 30 minutes so it is worth paying that little extra and planning ahead to get the speed ferry.

Bellagio is stunning, a small but bustling town with cobbled streets filled with shops, gelato stores and lake side restaurants.

I would recommend getting there in the morning and going into a restaurant to book a table when you arrive. You can request a table overlooking the lake but it is first come first serve so get in quick.

Another attraction in Bellagio are the breath-taking gardens of Villa Melzi, there is a small fee to enter the gardens which is definitely worth it. The views and sights are stunning and it is the perfect place to spend on a sunny afternoon.

You will love every second of Lake Como but make sure you stock up on insect repellent, sunbathing isn’t as fun when you are being bitten! Check out my holiday health and Beauty essential before your next trip.

Love Lottie xoxo

Travel Inspo – Milan

August 31, 2017August 31, 2017Leave a comment

Italy is always one of my favourite places to visit with beautiful weather, stunning sights and delicious food. Recently I took a trip to Milan and then went on to Lake Como which is by far one of the most breath taking places I have been, blog post to follow.

Milan is a short flight from London and the airport is only around 30 minutes from the city so is a really easy place to get to and would be perfect for a short weekend break.

I stayed at Chateau Monfort, a fabulous boutique hotel with and Alice in Wonderland theme. The whole hotel was exquisite with classic ornate detail with a fairy tale twist. Our room was the Hibiscus room and was decorated with flowers through out and would definitely make it onto the list as one of my most favourite rooms I have stayed in. The hotel was also well located, a short walk to the city centre.

The city is filled with shopping and restaurants as you would expect but also features the main attraction, Duomo di Milano, a magnificent cathedral in a large square. The building is stunning from the outside and queues to get inside and huge, if you really must go inside make sure you are prepared to queue for a long time.

I chose to view the cathedral from the comfort of a chair, with an Aperol Spritz in hand from the Aperol Terrazza. I would recommend visiting this bar/restaurant as the views are amazing and there is no better way to take in the sights than with delicious food and a range of cocktails to choose from.

While I was in Milan I also walked through the city to the Sempione Park, this park is also right next to the Sforza Castle and the Arch of Peace so you can spend a day wandering around all of these sights at your leisure.

Although normally I am a huge foodie, as I was here a short period of time I didn’t make any set dinner reservations but always managed to find somewhere serving the Italian classics and enjoyed every meal. The gelato is also some of the best I have had!

Although I am so pleased I saw Milan it is more suited as a stop off on your way to another destination or a short weekend break as 2 – 3 days is more than enough to take everything in.

Love Lottie xoxo

Style Post – Lake Como – Outfit Inspo

August 6, 2017July 30, 2017Leave a comment

Lake Como is the most picturesque place I have ever been. Every where you look is a beautiful view so I wanted tot make the most of the stunning surroundings and packed everything floral and floaty to fit in. My travel guide will follow but if you are heading on a European break and aren’t sure what to pack, here is some inspiration!

Hello Sunshine – My favourite dress of the YEAR!

I saw this lattice front maxi on Louis Thompson’s Instagram and ordered it seconds later. I teamed it with a simple cream bag, large hoops and pulled back hair so nothing took the spot light from this fabulous dress!

Dress – New Look – £39.99

Hoops – ASOS – £8.00

Bag – Saint Laurent – WOC – £1050

Tennis Pro Realness

Bardot dresses are every where but this little H&M dress is really flattering in length and shape but this dress is quite small fitting. I went for a 10 and I’m usually a 8 – 10 and it fit perfectly!

Dress – H&M – £19.99

Pimsolls – H&M – £8.99

Bag – Gucci Marmont – £795

Sunglasses – D&G – details available on my Milan Blog Post

Gypsy Greens

This was my bargain of the trip, I have been desperate for a pleated skirt and found this in Primark. I’m not usually a huge Primark fan and regularly miss the great pieces other people seem to find but i saw this skirt and couldn’t say no! The top i found in the Zara sale with green and pink embroidery that matched my skirt and favourite Gucci perfectly.

Pleated Skirt – Primark – £13

Top – £9.99

Sandles – Mine are Dune from a couple of years ago but this Faith pair are on sale and a perfect alternative. – £23.20

A Classic

Jeans and a white shirt is a staple look all year round, but can become repetitive. I mixed it up in Como with some embroidered mom jeans and this frill detailed balloon sleeved blouse from Topshop tied into a crop. I teamed this with a staple black mule and a black choker.

Jeans – Topshop ON SALE – £30

Blouse – Top Shop I only ever saw this in the Knightsbridge store but this balloon sleeve blouse would also finish this look off nicely.

Black Mules – See my Milan Post

My Italian adventure Travel post will be up next week! Sign up to follow for more Travel and Outfit Inspo!

Love Lottie xoxo

Health and Beauty Holiday Essentials

July 30, 2017July 23, 2017Leave a comment

If you know me or follow my blog you will know I travel a lot! When I spend a huge amount of time planning for trips and packing/un packing. Over the years I have perfected packing and time saving ways to make travelling as easy as possible including knowing exactly what I need to take to make sure I am still looking after myself even when away from home or have a hectic schedule.

I tend to have a toiletries bag always made up and ready to go with all of the essentials. Alongside the regular stuff I have a few key items, these travel essentials are all tried and tested by me and are things I never hop on a plane with out.

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Vera is of course amazing for the skin and is regularly extracted and used in numerous beauty and make up products. In gel form this the most soothing, cooling and moisturising product and is also 100% natural. Aloe Vera Gel works miracles on a range of common holiday problems including sun burn, dry skin, chapped lips and insect bites, regularly taking great affect instantly and seeing a huge improvement in the problem area overnight.

I use this one from Holland & Barrett priced at £4.29 for a cabin friendly 100ml tube. One tube will last a while as you don’t need a great amount per use.

2. Avon Skin So Soft Dry Oil Spray

This dry oil spray wasn’t made for the purpose of being an insect repellent but contains several ingredients that also feature in insect repellents. This spray not only does this product smell much better, its highly moisturising too and in my opinion works better than other products that repel insects.

Priced at £5 for 150ml from Avon, but is regularly on special offer.

3. Eight Hour Cream

I always swear by this at home and also take it away on every trip whether its a hot or cold holiday. This universal product is great for dry skin, healing blitsers, belmishes and is perfect for dry lips. I usually take a mini tube and one of the bright lipsticks to use as a day time lippy for a pop of colour that also keeps your pout moisturised.

The lipsticks are priced at £20 each and there is a huge range of eight hour products available.

4. Percy Reed ,Wonder Overnight Recovery

This is something new I have added to my travel toiletries bag as it recently came to me in my Birch Box and I tried it out on my last trip. I usually would pack a hair mask but this is a much quicker, easier and less messy version that really works. Instead of applying a mask during washing and having to sit while it works its magic, this goes on dry before bed and then you just wash you hair as normal in the morning. My hair was super soft and silky in the morning.

This can be purchased from Marks and Spencers for £20 for a 150ml tube.

5. NYX Shine Killer

It is some times hard to combat shine on holiday, especially when you have been smothered in cream all day or in humid climates. This primer is the best thing for combating shine, allowing you to stay picture perfect all evening. I apply to the centre of my face then apply foundation on top.

Priced at £11 and available from boots this is a must have for your holiday make up bag.

For more travel, beauty and style posts check out my other posts and my Instagram

Love Lottie xoxo

Style Post – Milan – Outfit Inspo

July 23, 2017July 23, 20171 Comment

Milan is one of the most stylish cities in the world, recently I headed to Milan before a relaxing break in Lake Como. Check out my looks from my Milan city break and where to shop them.

Suits you

Gingham has been everywhere this summer and this Gingham co-ord has been my favourite Gingham number so far. Feeling super Gucci with embroidered floral detail and slip off loafers with my nude pink Gucci Marmont.

Top Shop Gingham Suit – ON SALE – £61

Slip on Loafers – mine are Topshop but the best Gucci inspired sip on’s I have seen this season are – Here , at Ego Official.

Gucci Marmont – Medium – £795

Bring the sunshine

Yellow is not just for the beach, these yellow Zara trousers have been a staple for both my work and play wardrobe this summer. Perfect for city strolling I teamed this with a bardot, trumpet sleeved top and some open toe slip on’s.

Zara High Waisted Trousers – ON SALE – £12.99

My top was from Zara too and came in a range of colours but is no longer available. This one is a great alternative. Also on sale and just £12.99 you could get the whole look for under £30!!

Peep Toe Mules – H&M – £12.99 (again!)

Sunglasses – Dolce and Gabbana -£162

Peachy frills

I went on a hunt for these trousers after seeing them online but they had sold out. This full satin feel outfit was the perfect mix between feeling amazing but not looking too over dressed. Will definitely wear these again dressed up with some heels and a crop!

Satin Wide Leg Trousers – £34.99 – these are sold out again in peach but available in Khaki which will be perfect for the end of summer/early Autumn.

Satin Cami – this is also no longer available but I love this lace alternative. £19.99

Saint Laurent – WOC – £1050

Sunset Stripes

This Asymmetric skirt was a great way to add a splash of colour to my evening look. The asymmetric hem is not something i would usually go for but looked great and moved perfectly as a wandered through the streets of Milan.

Skirt – Topshop – the red stripe is no longer in stock but this monochrome version is amazing and currently trending too! – £36

Bardot Body – BooHoo.Com – £15

Mules – these slip on mules were a Primark find at just £12. These shoes are every where at the minute but these Steve Madden are reduced from £80 to just £32 in Selfridges!

My Travel Guide and Outfit Inspo from Lake Como will be up in the next couple of weeks! Follow my Instagram too for current looks and destinations!

Love Lottie xoxo

Travel Inspo – Barcelona

July 12, 2017July 11, 2017Leave a comment

Barcelona is the kind of place you will struggle to see everything in one go, there is so much to do and see! If you are planning a weekend break like me the best advice I can give is be organised. Pick what you really want to see so you don’t try to cram too much in and end up needing a holiday to recover from your holiday! To avoid being exhausted on my trip I had the perfect balance between sight seeing and relaxing by choosing a hotel with a roof top pool. I stayed in the Hotel Jazz which I would highly recommend both for the hotel it self and its location.

Sight Seeing

The whole of Barcelona is one big art gallery thanks to the very famous Antoni Gaudi and the amazing views. The big Gaudi sights are something everyone wants to see these are:

All of these are magnificent from the outside but if you want to see the inside I would recommend booking tickets online at least one day prior to your visit. Not only is this cheaper, if you don’t pre book a time slot you may risk the whole day being sold out and your journey to the destination wasted!

The park in particular is a long way from the centre of Barcelona so getting there and not being able to see the famous sights could be frustrating even though you can wander the beautiful park. Personally I would recommend the Parc Guell and La Pedera, Casa Batllo and La Sagrada are much more impressive on the outside than the inside and in my opinion the price and the queue isn’t worth it unless you plan on going up one of the famous La Sagrada towers.

Other amazing sights are Montjuic and the magic fountains, this impressive palace is now a art gallery which is completely free and worth a visit to escape from the city heat. This area is close to the old Olympic Village and the Las Arenas shopping centre which is an old bull fighting ring converted into a shopping centre and viewing platform for amazing views of the city.

The Montjuic Fountains become their own attraction at night known as the magic fountains, the timings for shows this summer are as below:-

06 January – 16 February: Closed
01 April – 31 May: Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 21:00 – 22:00
01 June – 30 August: Wednesday – Sunday: 21:30 – 22:30
01 September – 31 October: Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 21:00 – 22:00
01 November – 31 March: Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 20:00 – 21:00

Another great thing to see is the impressive cathedral which is also a main attraction of Barcelona, the cathedral is in a large square with buskers and an antiques market.

Food and Drink

As Barcelona is a vibrant city there are so many options for food and drinks. There is of course tapas options every where but some are definitely better than others. The main area’s to eat and drink are Las Ramblas, Plaza Real and the Marina. Las Ramblas is always really busy and the best spots are just off the main streets, you can find a location that works for you, from quiet intimate squares, hidden gems on side streets to the big bussing Plaza Real, there is something for everyone. These are my top recommendations in Barcelona:-

Las Ramblas Tapas – Bar Lobo

Marina Tapas – Restaurante Hispano Barcelona

Fine Dining – Arola Restaurant

Plaza Real Tapas – Les Quinze Nits – The Tapas here was amazing but the main meals were a let down, if you visit here be prepared for delicious but small plates.

Plaza Real Italians – Restaurante Italiano Rossini

Must Do

Other than the main sights listed above there are some things you cannot miss when in this amazing city. These little extra’s might just make your trip.

Cocktails at the W

The W hotel is the best location for sunset cocktails, with views of the city and the beach the W makes for a memorable night and amazing pictures. The cocktails and the food are also great, it’s the perfect place to start your evening.

Salsa in the Old Town

Barcelona’s Old Town comes alive at night with cocktails and music, it’s the best place to let your hair down. I headed to a local Salsa club with no idea what to expect, we headed to Bendita Salsa which was a small bar with a live band. The local’s and the band were amazing, helping to teach novice’s like me but were also amazing to watch when they found a partner that would keep up. I would recommend experiencing this amazing night to anyone!!!

Sant Joan

Although I didn’t know this festival was taking place during my stay in Barcelona I am so pleased i got to see it. The whole city is taken over by this festival at night with fireworks filling the sky! The streets are very busy with people are setting fire works off everywhere and the next day is a national holiday with all shops and some restaurants closed so if you are visiting during the next Sant Joan festival bear that in mind. The whole city is one big party, locals dress as devils and run round squares and the beach with fire crackers and DJ’s play late into the night. This festival was a great bonus to my trip.

Love Lottie xoxo

Barcelona – Style Post – Outfit Inspo

July 4, 20171 Comment

Recently I visited Barcelona for some sight seeing, salsa and sangria! Barcelona is an amazing city with SO much to do which also makes it a hard place to pack for. City breaks in the sun are a constant struggle between being chic in the city and melting in the city! Check out some of my outfits and where to buy them for your sunny city break!

Click the Links to Shop, most of my bags come from Handbag Clinic of course!!!

Wanna be in my gang?

A slogan T and embroidered denim have been key pieces in most peoples wardrobes this summer! This Girl Gang T is one of my favourites!

Slogan T Shirt – BooHoo.com – £8

Embroidered Denim Skirt – Zara – My skirt is no longer available but check this one out in the sale for just £25.99!!

Louis Vuitton Eva in Monogram

Sunset and Cocktails

Blue and White is a classic look for an evening by the sea. These wide legged culottes are so comfortable and flattering and a wrap over top has been another staple for most people this summer! I added a splash of boldness with some bright red sandals and red lippy

Wrap over blouse – Zara – H&M have this cute alternative for just £29.99

White Cullottes – River Island – £38

Red Sandals – Mine are about 4 years old from Zara and still going strong! I Love these lace ups from MissGuided!

Contrasting Pastel

This dress was perfect for a day of sight seeing but as you can see got creased pretty quick! these bardot dresses are perfect for looking city ready and staying cool. I teamed this dress with my pastel pink Gucci Marmont and some Lilac sliders!

Bardot Dress – Mine is H&M and no longer available but this Top Shop version with embroidered detail is amazing!

Handbag – Gucci – My bag is the fabulous Gucci Marmont, my personal favourite new release of the year!

Sunglasses – Dior

Pretty In Pink

I felt like a ballerina all day in this outfit and loved every second! Tulle skirts have made a surprising come back and at first I wasn’t convinced but i took the risk with this pink skirt from H&M and didn’t regret it! Back in London I would team this with a slogan T and some vans for a more edgy look.

Tulle Skirt – H&M – £24.99

Mules – H&M – These are now in the sale for just £6.99!!!

Bardot Body – BooHoo.Com – £15

Sunnies and Bag as above!

For more of my looks from Barcelona visit my Instagram! @Lottie_Helen

Photo 24-06-2017, 19 44 20 (1)