Saturday 4 March 2023

10 TIPS ON HOW TO FEEL CONFIDENT IN THE GYM

gym girl wearing gym outfit in the gym during workout

 

Confidence issues in the gym is something that affects most people, especially beginners. Whether you're an experienced gym goer joining a new gym, or a beginner just venturing in to their fitness journey, here's my honest 10 tips on how to feel confident in the gym.


Wear a gym outfit that makes you feel confident AND comfortable

When it comes to picking an outfit for your first day in the gym, opt for something that you feel comfortable and fab in! There's nothing worse than feeling too comfortable that you feel a bit slobbish or equally choosing an outfit that looks amazing but digs into your skin or keeps falling down. When looking for gym outfits, I usually shop at Gymshark, Adanola, Women's Best or Lulu Lemon.


Have a plan and stick to it

It's always a good idea to go in with a plan of exercises that you'd like to do in your gym session. This will prevent you from wandering around feeling a bit lost as to what to do. If you're new to the gym and don't know what equipment they have or if you don't know any exercises, I'd recommend doing a bit of research prior to going so that you can have a few exercises in mind as options. You could try and remember 3-4 bodyweight exercises for the worst case scenario where you can't get on any equipment; a few basic equipment movements such as leg extensions or chest flies; and some compound exercises such as squats and deadlifts.


Watch tutorials and do your research

Don't forget to take your phone in with you, that way if you're not sure on what to do and there's no one to ask, you can quickly google or YouTube it for a tutorial. There's so much brilliant fitness content out there now. Alternatively, I'd always suggest speaking to the gym team for help, they're literally employed to help and support you on your journey to meet your fitness goals. They'll always be happy that you asked!


Don't worry about everyone else

When I first joined the gym, I remember thinking EVERYONE was looking at me but guess what? They weren't. They were too busy getting on with their own workouts to be staring at me the whole time. Remember this when you next go in! 

If you do catch someone looking, take it as a compliment or remember that (if they're anything like me) they're probably zoned out in between sets thinking about what they're doing next.


Listen to music, always!

Don't rely on the gym's music - always have your headphones with you so that you can listen to your favourite songs. I always think what an absolute blessing having music on the go is. It really allows me to focus, zone out and get on with the task in hand (and enjoy it too!). There's nothing better than matching your music with your mood and enjoying your workout to the full.

female with abdominal muscles

Comparison is the thief of joy

You don't know everybody's story or how hard they've had to work to get to where they are now, so don't judge your day 1 against somebody else's day 1,024. Investing in your health and fitness is for you and you only. Exercise isn't always about aesthetics. It's about how you feel, what it teaches you, and being able to surprise and challenge yourself so remember that next time you're feeling insecure.

Avoid peak times if you can

There's definitely times where the gym will be at its busiest and it's usually just outside of typical work hours (between 5-7pm in the evening and before 9am in the morning). If you're worried about the amount of people in the gym, then I'd suggest going outside of peak times to start with. If you're not too worried about anyone else, go for it! It's key to remember that YOU have every right to be there as much as anyone else. Don't use the gym being busy as an excuse not to go.

Go with a friend

If you and your friend are both new to gym and feeling nervous, why not go together? You can support each other and have fun with it too. After all, exercise should be fun and the gym can be such a sociable place to meet new and like-minded people.

Never be too shy to ask for help

One thing I've learned from all my years going to the gym is that 99% of people absolutely LOVE to help and support others on their fitness journey. Honestly, some of the most kind, down to earth, amazing people, I've met in the gym. Sure, some of us may look a little grumpy at times, usually from getting fired up before or after lifting heavy weights, but most people will be overjoyed that you asked them for help. 

Invest in a personal trainer if you can

I'd always recommend investing in a good personal trainer that aligns with your fitness goals to help get you started and build your confidence for those first few weeks or months (depending on your budget). Speak to the gym manager about what you're hoping to get from the gym, what exercise style you'd like and respond to, and they should be able to match you up with the best personal trainer for you. 

Not sure what to wear to your next gym session? Check out some of my favourite gym outfits below:


Thursday 5 May 2022

Staycation Outfits for a Luxury English Hotel Break

floral dress

A few weeks ago, we were lucky enough to enjoy a beautiful overnight stay at a stately Victorian mansion turned hotel in Wokingham, Berkshire. During our stay at Easthampstead Park, we indulged in a romantic dinner for two, a couples gym session at their on-site EastPark gym, a delightful afternoon tea and a traditional English breakfast. Scroll down to see my outfits from the weekend and find out where you can shop them for yourself.

#AD Some items in this post were gifted as PR products. Through every purchase made via this post, I earn a few pennies back. This doesn't cost you any extra but allows me to put some funds back into improving my website.

staycation outfits for luxury hotel break

oasis fashion dress

An Elegant Gown for A Romantic Dinner for Two

This stunning organza floral dress in sage green is part of the Oasis x Laura Whitmore collection at Oasis. Its intricate detail and elegant look makes it the ideal dress for a special dining experience. It would also be the perfect wedding guest outfit for a Summer wedding.

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oasis fashion argyle knit jumper

argyle knit jumper

A Cosy Argyle Look For A Traditional English Breakfast

Opting for comfort and practicality at breakfast time, I handpicked a cosy argyle jumper in pastel tones. Partnered with black skinny jeans and comfortable footwear, this outfit was ideal for breakfast and a stroll in the countryside after we'd eaten.

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floral rose dress at easthampstead park

luxury hotel break

A Pretty Floral Dress for A Delightful Afternoon Tea

No matter how much I resist (which isn't much by the way), I can never not sport florals in the warmer seasons. This beautiful dainty floral print made me feel feminine, elegant and full of confidence. A dress like this deserves to be seen and worn with love. 

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Friday 15 April 2022

Pastel Outfit Favourites for Spring 2022

outfits for spring

pastel blue spring fashion

pastel outfit favourites for spring


Just like that, Spring is back in business and I must admit that it's always a relief to see the lighter days come back in, with the sun shining and blossoms blooming. 

One of my favourite colours to wear during the Spring months is this delicate powder blue tone. I've always been a fan of softer colours and this is no exception. From pastel pinks to baby blues, I've rounded up some of my top high street styles to kick off the season.

Best of Blue

Swipe through to find my top pastel blue picks this month. 
Through every purchase made via this post, I earn a few pennies back. This doesn't cost you any extra but allows me to put some funds back into improving my website.

Pastel Perfection

Swipe through for my favourite pastel picks this month, including pretty pinks and lovely yellow hues.

Monday 18 October 2021

How to Create a Pumpkin Flower Arrangement for Halloween

pumpkin flower arrangement

floral pumpkin arrangement

 If like me, you'd prefer to opt for a prettier take on pumpkins at Halloween rather than frightening ghosts and ghouls, you've come to the right place. In this post I'll guide you through how to create a pumpkin flower arrangement like the one I've made below.


What you'll need

  • A large pumpkin
  • A knife for carving
  • A pencil
  • A bowl
  • Autumnal flowers
  • Floristry scissors
  • Floristry oasis

How to create your floral pumpkin arrangement

  1. First you'll need to prep your pumpkin. Ensure your flowers are kept in cool water while you're doing this so that they stay hydrated. You'll need to carve the top off of your pumpkin, you could choose to do this in a curved line or in a zig-zag fashion. I've chosen a curved line for this particular pumpkin. To get a precise line, turn a bowl upside down over the top end of your pumpkin, draw around the edge of the bowl with a pencil, then remove the bowl. Now you have a nice neat line to use as a guide. Stick your knife in and out of the pumpkin to make the first cut, and repeat this process until you've cut all the way around. You should now be able to pull the top off so it becomes the lid.
  2. Using your hands or a utensil, empty out the contents of the pumpkin as best you can. Put the seeds and flesh to one side in a bowl so that you can make the most out of them later in recipes. Meanwhile, measure out the size of your floristry oasis. This will be sitting inside your pumpkin, so it needs to be able to fit comfortably. Soak your floristry oasis in cool water in the sink so that it absorbs all the moisture. 
  3. Once it's fully absorbed, put your oasis block into the inside of your pumpkin. This will be holding your flowers in place and providing them with the water they'll need to keep them looking good.
  4. Prepare your flowers by splitting them into types. For example, put all your red roses into one section, pink in another, and foliage in another. Strip off any leaves that will not be visible or will get in the way of your arrangement. I like to keep a few of the top leaves to bulk out the arrangement and keep it more natural but this is entirely up to you.
  5. Measure your first flower stem down to size by carefully snipping at the bottom of the stem a few cm at a time. Gently insert the stem into the oasis until it stands alone, is secure and sits at the desired height above your pumpkin. 
  6. Build out your arrangement around the first stem by considering colours, textures and varying heights. You can also try inserting the stems at a diagonal angle so that some of the flowers elegantly hang over the edge of the pumpkin, disguising the raw edge from sight.
  7. Once you're happy with how it looks, pop it on display on your side table or even as a centre piece at the dinner table while you enjoy a comforting autumnal feast.

pumpkin flower arranging

floral pumpkin

Friday 17 September 2021

How to look confident on camera

look more confident on camera
 
how to look confident on camera
confident on camera

The professionals definitely make it look easy but if you're somebody who hates being on camera and struggles to feel confident, you are not alone! Many people feel uncomfortable being in front of the lens but there are ways to appear more confident on camera even when you're not feeling it.

Being a blogger, I'm generally used to having my photo taken but there have been times when I'm shooting out in public and I feel awkward. The last thing I'd want is for that to translate on film so in order to appear more confident in the photos, I'll follow a few steps to combat the shyness.

Keep a natural gaze

My favourite tip is to imagine you're smiling at a loved one or your celebrity crush instead of down the barrel of a lens. This will (hopefully) make you feel more at ease, and keep your smile feeling more natural rather than forced. Try to avoid fixating your eyes on the lens by keeping your eye movements relaxed. If you need to, take a brief moment to look away or look down before looking back at the camera.

Fix your posture

Fixing my posture and standing tall always makes me feel more confident, whether on camera or just in real life! Keep your core tight, pull your shoulders back and neck tall, but do so without tensing. Tensing will make you look more rigid which is what we're trying to avoid.

If in doubt, smile

It's no secret that your facial expression will be a big part of how you'll translate on camera. Try to relax your facial muscles. Don't be afraid to try a few funny faces if it'll make you feel more at ease and if in doubt, just smile!

Consider your body language

Personally, I like to experiment with poses. I'll create movement by positioning my arms, hands and legs in specific positions. One of my go-to stances is to stand tall with one leg in front of the other, clutching or gently swinging a handbag. If you follow me on Instagram, you may be already familiar with this one!

Dress for the occasion

Wear an outfit that you feel most confident in. Do you see those black heeled boots in the pictures above? Those boots make me feel like I could take on the world. It's important you feel happy in what you're wearing so dress with comfort and confidence in mind.

Stay cool under pressure

When we're the subject of a photographer, it's easy to be extra hard on yourself in that moment. Before the image has even been taken, you may find yourself already thinking "oh, I'll look awful". Don't! Give yourself a chance by remembering it's only a photo - a photo that can be ripped up and deleted if needed. You never know, if you're happy with it, it could be a photo that you cherish for years to come and use to remember a fond memory.

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Monday 17 May 2021

Why the H&M wildflower collection is just what we need right now

h&m wildflower dress

h&m wildflowers

close up of wildflower collection

wildflower meadow dress
h&m wildflower collection dress


 If a clothing collection ever had my name written all over it, it's the H&M wildflower collection. Each piece of this collection is adorned by dainty floral designs inspired by the beauty of our natural surroundings. It was born as a result of the uncertain times we're all facing, having been in and out of lockdown multiple times. That feeling of wanting to escape has been common for most. For me, often the only way to do that was to go out for a quiet walk in nature and admire the changing of the seasons. I won't be alone in saying how much nature has helped me carry hope and belief in the beauty of life over the past year. It's even more prominent now than ever before and the wildflower collection truly triumphs that.


The background behind this collection is a beautiful story within itself. The prints were designed and hand painted in house by H&M's print designers Abigail, Holly, Kavita and Florentin. They walked through fields of wildflowers seeking their muse and inspiration then sketched down designs, alive and untamed - just like what they had seen at the meadows. The flowers were hand painted in water colour giving them a soft and subtle look, mimicking that of real delicate petals. 


With sustainability at its heart, the range is made entirely from 100 percent organic cotton and a cotton-linen mix. In a soft colour palette, the clothes are beautifully vintage inspired yet kept in line with contemporary features, such as puffed sleeves and cut out detailing.


For a high street brand to connect with people in this way is refreshing and up-lifting. It feels as though we've got to see the creative process and the people behind the designs.

 The collection launched on April 12 and most pieces sold out within a day. You can still find a few pieces from the wildflower collection online and in store, but here's to hoping they'll be a second drop and extension of this stunning collection coming soon.


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Friday 14 May 2021

5 Easy Sustainable Beauty Swaps You Can Make Every Day

sustainable beauty swaps

Sustainable beauty is a hot topic right now and rightly so. As a beauty product loving human, I am not perfect but I'm certainly trying to make sustainable beauty swaps every day to be more conscious of the products I am using and reduce waste. 


Before you read any further, I must add a disclaimer that if you are looking for a sustainability expert, I hold my hands up that I do not know enough about this topic to be considered an expert.


Swap out single use cotton pads for re-usable pads

I was skeptical at first but honestly, I'm embarrassed that I didn't make this swap sooner. The product is a diamond! Not only are these re-usable pads softer on the skin than disposable cotton pads, they're very easily washable by hand with soap and water or in the washing machine with detergent for a deeper clean. I use the Garnier Reusable Makeup Remover Eco Pads, linked below.

Use refillable containers 

As cute as they look, it's time to ditch the travel sized mini beauty products in favour of refillable bottles. By buying minis, you're wasting additional plastic that didn't need to be wasted. Save yourself a few pennies by investing in refillable travel beauty bottles and top them up with your full size product every time you go away.


Recycle containers

Avoiding plastic where you can is a good idea but it's often difficult to avoid in our current day and age. Opting for glass or aluminium containers is a much better option than plastic because it can be recycled indefinitely, meaning it can be recycled over and over again without ever losing its quality. Once your beauty products are empty, if it's eligible to be recycled, give the bottle a rinse and pop it straight in your recycling bin or bottle bank. Alternatively, certain beauty brands such as MAC will offer you incentives to bring back your empties into the store to be recycled.


Swap liquids for solids

One of the easiest ways to turn your beauty routine either plastic free or less plastic reliant is by switching from liquids to soaps or bars instead. In addition to requiring less packaging, solids such as soaps are more affordable and will last longer than liquids due to their higher concentration.


Wave goodbye to single use face wipes

I gave these up long, long ago! While the convenience of a single use face wipe is undeniable, their cost on our environment is ghastly, especially when they're disposed of in the wrong places and end up blocking drains and littering up our rivers. 

In fact, I've never used a disposable face wipe and found it to cleanse my skin as thoroughly as a hot face cloth and cleanser so you'll be doing your skin a favour. Since removing face wipes from my beauty routine, I've swapped them out for a muslin cloth. The fabric is ever so soft on my skin but gently cleansing too. 


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Wednesday 5 May 2021

The Best Affordable Dior Dupes

dior dupe jewellery

dior dupe necklace

Dior is without a doubt one of my most adored luxury brands but I can't quite afford the bags of my dreams just yet! With that in mind, I'll often come across pieces that remind me of the extraordinary taste of Dior without being the real deal or having the real deal price tag. Of course, they will not have the same quality level or be manufactured in the same way but they will excite my personal style and provide the tiniest hint of Dior I'm craving for. From jewellery to hats and handbags, scroll down to unveil the best affordable Dior dupes and click the photos to shop them.


Dior handbags: the real deal



Dior handbags: the dupes




Dior jewellery: the real deal



Dior jewellery: the dupes




Dior accessories: the real deal




Dior accessories: the dupes


Saturday 1 May 2021

30 of This Season's Best Luxury Gold Jewellery Pieces


Deia Ear Cuff, Monica Vinader 

My love affair with jewellery started long ago. First hunting through second-hand vintage pieces at car boot sales and then making my own beaded jewellery as a young teen. While I occasionally still dabble in both of those things, my eye for jewellery is usually drawn by minimalist metal pieces and those with a little sparkle. I'm talking about the kind of jewels that you can wear every day in comfort and quiet confidence. Find 30 of this season's best luxury gold jewellery pieces below.


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Friday 30 April 2021

How to find your style and stick to it


Believe me when I say I've spent many years wondering who I am, what I like and who I am supposed to be but I don't think I ever really had ALL the answers. I mean, does anyone? 


That being said, as I have grown older I've never felt more comfortable in who I am and what I like than now. When you're younger, it's exciting to try as many fashion styles as possible and experiment but over the years I've developed my taste to know what suits my body and what I like best. I no longer waste money on fads and trends that I'll never wear again. Instead I opt for timeless pieces and before buying, I'll always ask myself: "would Evie in five years time wear this?" If the answer is no absolutely not, then the hanger gently goes back on the shelf. Now I know that thinking far into the future is sometimes a daunting prospect but in this instance, it prevents me from investing in pieces that I simply will not love for years to come. For me, that's worth letting my mind wonder forward for.


houndstooth blazer

How to find your style


Think about your wardrobe. What pieces spark the most joy for you? For me, these are my fluttery floral dresses, my elegant Coach Tabby black handbag and my fierce houndstooth print blazer. Have you got some pieces in mind? Great! Now let's break those pieces down into colour, prints and styles. For me, it's clear from my love of floral dresses that I adore soft pastel tones, nature inspired prints and elegant, flattering fits. From my love of my houndstooth print blazer and black handbag, it's clear I am equally a big fan of power dressing garments, neutral and monochrome colour palettes and pieces that hold a little structure.


coach tabby bag

When I'm stuck for things to wear or buy, I'll keep a mental note in my mind of brands within my typical budget that I always end up looking to for inspiration and newness. That way, when I'm in need of a new outfit, I can almost rely on at least one of those brands pull something out the bag that I'd be interested in wearing. To name drop a few: Zara, H&M, Mango and Oasis have all been sending my bank balance in a spin lately so I'd likely search their new in collections down first before anything else.


When it comes to finding your style, over time it may alter and change - of course it will! But I do believe that we can easily create a little more consistency in our wardrobe just as much as we do in our day-to-day routines with defining our go-to looks. If you're feeling a bit meh, lost or confused about your own fashion style (we've all been there!) try the above to help you define your main style pillars and go from there. 


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