I don't often spoil myself when I'm out shopping, but whenever we come on holiday to the US I usually hit the shops to revamp my wardrobe. Me and my Mum had the day to ourselves, so we decided to see what bargains we could find in stores we don't have back home. Both of us came away really happy with what we got and it was nice to have a girly shopping day. They're the best!

I really was on a budget and managed to get everything for about $100. Considering some of the brands are Guess and Kat Von D, I think that's pretty good! Proves that you don't have to spend a fortune to spoil yourself. We all deserve it every once in a while, right? Here's what I picked up: 

Forever 21

Hustle Active Tank $9.90

Red Ballet Flats $10.99

 F21 has a really great range of affordable fitness wear and there were quite a few tanks I could have happily bought along side this one. I say the word "hustle" a lot to myself at the gym to stay motivated, so this one called out to me as soon as I spotted it. It's made of a light material and has big open sides that will be great for keeping me cool during my workouts. 

I couldn't resist these flats either. Red is such a great color to add to a plain outfit. I really needed some new shoes for spring, and these will be perfect! It's awesome that I got them on sale too.

T.J. Maxx

Jockey Sports Bra $14.99

Bozzolo Tanks (Grey & Black) $4.99 Each

 Essie Nail Polish Cabana Boy $3.99

Milani Brow + Eye Liner in Dark Brown $2.99

Milani Ultrafine Liquid Eye Liner in Black $2.99

Kat Von D Shade + Light Blush, "Bonnie + Clyde" $6.99

Kat Von D Blush Shade + Light, "Hansel + Gretel" $6.99

 The Kat Von D makeup was my first find and I got so excited about it. I don't have the budget for Sephora this year, so to find high-quality made so cheap is awesome. The pigmentation on them is phenomenal. I'm in need of new liquid eyeliner, and Milani is one of my favorite brands so I had to give these a go. Essie nail polish is $20 back home and I've been wanting a nice nude color too (score!) I'm trying to revamp my wardrobe and I thought these cute/simple tanks were perfect. Such a great haul!

Ross Dress For Less
Guess Navy High Tops $29.99

Mum and I had our doubts about this store, but it was amazing! I was ready to spend all my money on Betsy Johnson handbags. We hit the shoe section first, which was full of so many amazing brands. I spotted these ones by Guess and fell in love straight away. I knew I just had to have them, especially since I wouldn't even know where I could get them at home. At first I couldn't find my size, but then spotted these in another section and I didn't let go of them until I got to the counter!

So, that's my shopping haul from Seattle! I'm pretty happy with my bargain finds and I'm sure it will all help in having a bit more fun with fashion this spring. 

What are some of your favorite places to shop? 

Steph x.

How To Pick The Right Active Gear

Hello everyone! Shopping for new active gear has become something of a hobby for me, so I thought  would share my advice on how to pick the right clothes for your workout. With so many sports brands out there, it's hard to know what to go for sometimes. I've had my fair share of purchases that I've only worn once or twice because it didn't fit me right. It also takes time to develop your own style and what makes you feel confident while working out. Having the right gear can make such a difference to how you perform, so it's important to know what to go for. It's also a lot of fun!

 My Staples: 

2 x black 3/4 leggings

2 x shorts 

3 x tanks 

3 x sports bras
1 x running vest
1 x wind-proof jacket
An infinite amount of socks 

Mix up expensive basics with other brands 

With having so many brands of sports-wear to choose from, it's easy to think that you have to go for what's most popular or most expensive. Brands like Lululemon are usually out of my price range, but you can't deny their quality. I think it's a really great idea to mix up your gym wardrobe with quality basics that will last you a long time (investing in a good pair of leggings is a good idea) and with some fun tops/shorts from more budget friendly brands. I don't actually wear a lot of top brands, but what I do have has been a reward for myself, or I got it on sale. Some of these brands have materials that make working out a lot more enjoyable, so they are worth investing in every once in a while.

High-waistbands are your best-friend

If you're like me and feel a bit insecure with your tummy area, any leggings or shorts are a lifesaver when you're working out! They're the main thing I look for in a new pair of leggings/shorts and the ones I already own are what I wear most. That nice thick band just flattens you out nicely, and suddenly that tight tank top will look great on you too! Plus, they are just so much more comfortable to wear since the band hugs your body better than some elastic.

Be critical of materials  

Letting your skin breathe properly is so important when you're getting a sweat going. I've found that I don't buy leggings from certain brands anymore, because it stops me from feeling comfortable. For example, be very careful with cotton leggings as any sweat marks will show up (I learned that the hard way!) Also be careful of any active gear made out of thick polyester. Personally, I've found them really uncomfortable to wear and my skin just feels like it can't breathe.It can make or break how you perform during your workout sometimes, so be picky when you buy new gear. 

Find what makes you feel confident

This is super-important for working out, especially to help you get in the right mood to be awesome that day. There are some outfits that I wear to the gym and feel amazing before I've even started. I tend to go for a lot of black items that hug my figure perfectly, yet I'm still comfortable. My 3/4 Puma leggings are amazing for making my legs look toned, and I have some sports bras that make me sexier than normal ones! Don't settle for old t-shirts, find something that makes you want to show your outfit off at the gym and use that confidence in your workout. Look great, feel great!

Have fun personalizing your style

For me, this usually means wearing a superhero t-shirt to the gym (Captain America on arm-day, of course.) This is where you can have fun with your style and maybe feel inspired at the same time. The lovely Lottie from Happiest Fitness co. sent me this amazing tank top that describes me perfectly! I'm a total Belle in a lot of ways (I LOVE reading and am really independent) but at the same time I get into total beast mode at the gym. Beauty and a beast, folks! Whatever your style, have fun making your active gear wardrobe unique to you.



I could honestly spend all day looking for the perfect workout clothes! And when you find them it's money well-spent for how great you feel.

What's your favorite outfit to wear when you workout?
Steph x.

Gym OOTD : Boxing

Top: Nike Dri-FIT 

 This range of tanks by Nike are my absolute favorite to work out in. I find them really breathable and super comfortable during any kind of exercise. I bought it a while a go and it's now too big for me, so I've taken to knotting it at the front, which actually makes it hug my body nicely!

Leggings: New Balance 3/4s

  

These are the most amazing pair of tights I have ever owned in my life. They could not be more comfortable, or be easier to work out in. I love wearing them for boxing because I never know what my trainer is going to throw at me that day, so with these I'm ready for anything. They have a high-waistband which makes my stomach look nice and flat too. They're too hot for me to run in at the moment, but for the gym they are absolutely perfect.

 

Crop Top: Cotton On Body

I love being able to jazz-up my gym outfits with a cute top underneath. I don't need a lot of support (it's a blessing and a curse) and I find the smaller sizes at Cotton On hug me perfectly. I actually got this one for Christmas last year and I still wear it every week. I find the v-neck front quite flattering and the straps across the back just make the whole outfit for me.

Trainers: Under Armor Micro 

For my gym training, I find flatter shoes are always better when I'm doing lots of lifting etc. I originally bought these for running in, but in the end they became my go-to gym shoes. These are really fun to bounce around in for boxing and are still supportive enough for cardio work. Plus, I'm still in love with the design of them. You can't beat Under Armor quality!

For some reason I always go for an all-black outfit for boxing. It makes me feel like I'm training to be a bad-ass superhero! I know it's a little boring, but it's still one of my favorite outfits to wear. You want to be comfortable, yet stylish whilst working out. Nike, New Balance, and Under Armor are some of my all-time favorite brands that I always go back to. 

How do you guys like this style of post? Should I do more? 

Steph x.

Affordable ASOS Picks to Update Your Look!

Hello Everybody!

Updating my look has been something that I have been meaning to do for a while now, especially since it's a new season. I also love online shopping (who doesn't?) since I struggle to find clothes that I like in the limited stores we have here in New Zealand. As well as being on a budget (I've got an exciting trip to LA/Seattle/Hawaii next year!), I needed to find some staple items that I could mix and match as I please. I went on ASOS with a mission to find items under $50 that would help me update my wardrobe. Here are my favorite picks:

ASOS Asymmetric Bodycon Dress NZD $48.24

ASOS Cold Shoulder Cami Top NZD $39.47

Boohoo Floral Embroidered Playsuit NZD $43.86

ASOS Maple Pointed Cut Out Lace Up Shoes NZD$39.47

New Look 3D Flower Box Bag NZD $43.83

 

ASOS Cami Top with Scallop Neckline NZD $30.70

 ASOS Crop Top in Turtle Neck NZD $30.70

ASOS LYRIC Lace Up Ballet Flats NZD $39.47

 ASOS Sleeveless Swing Dress NZD $43.86

ASOS Stone Multirow Necklace NZD $17.54

Oasis Ombre Shimmer Flower Stud Earrings  NZD $21.93

ASOS Vintage Spinning Long Necklace NZD $13.16

Reclaimed Vintage Feather Print Watch NZD $43.86

Where are your favorite places to shop? 

'til next time x. 

Bloglovin' - MarvelSteph

Twitter - @MarvelSteph91

Instagram - @marvelsteph
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Fashion: Spring Style Inspiration

Hello, Everyone!

I've been seeing a lot of awesome styles lately that I'm excited to try out. The weather is finally heating up so what better time to have a bit of fun with my style, right? 

Naturally, I took to Pinterest for some inspiration and settled on seven styles I'm excited about most:

Denim Skirts

These were popular when I was younger, and I have to admit that I'm loving them again! So simple and fun; just in time for Spring!

Overalls

Another childhood favorite, although I initially hesitated on this trend. Now I think they are perfect for any season, and look so fun to experiment with different patterns.

Off the Shoulder Tops

How cute is this? I'm excited to try this look since it's so fresh and fun. I've also seen so many amazing dresses in this style as well. This would make a great date night outfit!

Strappy Ballet Flats

I've seen these a lot lately and I have absolutely fallen in love! I'm also someone who loves statement pieces so these would be perfect. If you're not a fan of wearing heels (like me) these are a great alternative for nights out or special events. 

Casual in all-black

You know those days where you feel the need to be a bit edgy? Nothing over the top of course, but there's a lot of fun and something slightly epic in wearing all-black. Give me some ripped jeans and a black tee and I am ready to take on anything! 

Hats

I purchased a hat similar to this one at Forever 21 during a recent vacation, and it was something I should have done a long time ago! I suit hats quite well and absolutely love wearing them. Although hat-hair is an ever-present evil I battle with.

White on Denim

This is possibly the look I am looking forward to trying most. I do love a classic style, and this matches perfectly with the warmer weather.

So that's my inspiration for Spring fashion! What do you guys think?
Are there any other trends I should try? Let me know in the comments.
Don't forget to leave your blog links for me to check out too!


Until next time x.

 
Photo Credit:
Denim Skirts: afamily
Overalls:  mlovesmblog
Off the Shoulder: LivvyLand
Strappy Ballet Flats: Slufoot
Casual in all-black: Pinterest
Hats: refinery29 
White on Denim: remainsimple , brooklynblonde

Defining My Personal Style #LoveMyself

 Hello, everyone!

After coming across a few blog posts and spending far too long pinning outfit inspiration on Pinterest, I decided to do some thinking about what actually defines my own personal style. Also after having an off-week with my self-confidence, this was just the boost I needed!

I am generally quite a confident person, although still very introverted. But we all have our bad days, right? I've also never been one for trends or going out and buying something everyone has. Something else that inspired me to write this post is the song Love Myself  by Hailee Steinfeld, which I am currently obsessed with. It's such an uplifting and fun song that can't help but make you feel good about yourself.

With that in mind, here are the things that celebrate my own personal style and what I love most about it: 

Blue Nails

It's just one of those colors that I'm immediately attracted too, and since my skin is olive-toned blue suits me well. Plus, I feel more like myself when I have my nails painted. Electric blue, Caribbean blue, pastel blue, no matter what tone I pretty much wear them all!

Photo Credit: omghow.com

Stripes

I know I'm not the only one who enters a clothing store and your eyes are immediately drawn to whatever striped top they're selling? Every time! I find it so classic and elegant and I love pairing striped tops or skirts with other colors or other patterns. 

Zara Perfume

 I picked this up in Washington D.C last year when my Mum and Me had a girls shopping day. I found this in Zara for $30 and it has since become my favorite perfume that I wear all the time. It's a gorgeous vanilla scent, which is a nice change from fruity and floral ones that I usually go for. Plus, it's the only perfume I've ever been complimented on. Need I say more?

High Tops

I think my obsession for these started with the movie A Cinderella Story that came out when I was about twelve. Hilary Duff wore a pink pair of converse, so of course I begged my parents for a pair. Even at 23 they're still my go-to style of shoes. 

 Snow Flake Necklace

It's a tradition in my family to receive a piece of jewellery when you turn 18, and I picked this one since I love snow and everything winter. Unfortunately this is actually my second one as the first broke. I don't actually wear a lot of jewellery, but this is one is a staple for me.

My Glasses

I've had to wear glasses since I was about fifteen, and as I've grown older they have become my best accessory. I have to have quite thick lenses so my frames are always quite bold and thick, which I love! I call these my "Superman" glasses, and the best part is the electric blue on the inside.

 Pandora Bracelet

This is another special item for me. It was a birthday gift from my family and I've collected different charms over the years. I went for leather instead of the usual silver Pandora bracelet since it's a lot more understated and something a little different. I'm quite a sentimental person too, so I love wearing things like this!

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Printed Tees

Another favorite of mine from my early years. Although nowadays I usually pair them with denim shorts or a leather jacket. Don't ask me how many Marvel shirts I own.

Tattoos 

I've loved tattoos since I was a kid and I think I was always going to end up with a bunch of them. I used to get bored in Maths class and would draw lyrics and cartoons on my arms. I've always been quite artistic too, so I love the design part of tattoos as well.

Who else loves having fun with their style? This about sums me up, but what about you guys? What defines your personal style and what do you love about it?  
Let me know in the comments!
Don't forget your blog links for me to check out too. 
'Till next time x.

#LoveMyself 

Bloglovin' - MarvelSteph

Twitter - @MarvelSteph91

Instagram - @marvelsteph
 Pinterest - marvelsteph

 

Current looks I'm loving!

 

Wrap a-rounds

I love taking a basic outfit and adding to it with a striped or checkered top. I usually wear black tights, plain top and wrap my red tartan shirt round my waist.

Crop top + Midi skirt

This is just such a classic look and you don't have to show too much skin. You can Audrey Hepburn inspired with a black and white combo, or play with colors. 

 Leather Jackets

Nothing makes you instantly cooler than a well-fitting leather jacket. It can take a basic outfit to a whole new level. Definitely an item to go for on those days where you just don't know what to wear. 

 Bold Boots

Sometimes the shoes you wear can make up an entire outfit. Especially in the colder months when we are all living out of our favorite jackets. I have leopard print boots just like these and I LOVE them. Bold high-tops also work!

Casual Nike's and comfy hoodies!

 Let's face it, this look isn't just for long journeys. Perfect for when you want to be both comfortable and stylish. 

Ripped White Jeans

I'll admit I am hesitant to wear white jeans, as I typically manage to drop food on nice clothing. But this is just such a fresh look and is perfect for the warmer or colder months.

I love experimenting with trends, especially as the seasons change. I keep a board on Pinterest that I update regularly if you are interested in seeing more of my favorite fashion looks.

Let me know in the comments what looks you have been loving, and I will talk to you again soon! x.

(Photo credit: all links found on my Pinterest page).

Twitter - @MarvelSteph91

Instagram - @marvelsteph

Pinterest - marvelsteph