Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate

It wasn't until i used this product that i realised i needed to completely switch up my skincare routine. For as long as i can remember, i've struggled with acne, scarring and oily but dehydrated skin. I was always targeting this with acne-specific products that dried out my skin and actually seemed to make my skin far worse before it could even think about getting better. This little beauty changed all of that.

Like many others, i'm sure, the thought of slathering my, already oily face, with an oil was very daunting, but after doing a little research i was convinced.

"A replenishing nighttime facial oil with distilled botanicals that visibly restores the appearance of skin by morning."

The Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate honestly does do just that. I'm not sure how it works, but i press this product into my face as the last step in my nighttime skincare regime and by morning any blemishes have halved in size, my skin looks plump, it feels soft and it tackles any scarring, redness or dark spots. I love that it attacks not only any issues my skin is having but it also replenishes any moisture lost, in my skin, during the day.

I could praise this little bottle all day, but honestly you just need to go and try it for yourself.

K|xo
ps. Happy Halloween!

Why I Blog (Happy 5th Birthday Legs Eleven!)

I was inspired after reading Lily Melrose's blog post about 'Why I Blog', and i thought considering today is Legs Eleven's 5th birthday it was quite apt that i share my 'Why' with you too.

I completely agree with Lily, people start blogs for all sorts of reasons from necessity for careers or sometimes even purely for pleasure. Blogs are an amazing platform to voice your views in this, sometimes, closed minded society, and what i find truly amazing is that you can share you voice about almost anything. I have been blogging since October 2010, just about a year before i went to University. I was actually inspired to start my blog after visiting my eventual university's open day and hearing my soon-to-be lecturers talk about the importance of blogs, online publications and social media. In the five years that i have been blogging the online world has taken the media industry by storm and we're seeing Youtubers on the cover of prestigious, long running magazines and i love that the worlds are, finally, meshing. In five years Twitter and Instagram have become a whole new phenomenon in which you can voice your opinions or share your day with thousands of people in seconds. I honestly think i'm growing up in quite an amazing generation and i can't wait to see what the next steps are.

So, i'm here to share with you my list of why i love to blog:

      - Being able to share my thoughts freely, and easily.
      - To be part of an amazing, beautiful, creative community.
      - Being a part of and growing up in this constantly changing digital age.
      - Sharing that you can share your voice, no matter who you are.
      - Gaining self-confidence.
      - To challenge myself to commit to something and keep up with interesting,
        new content to reflect who i am.
      - Meeting like-minded people.
      - Having an online diary because Lord knows i can't remember to keep a
        physical one.
      - To share my excitement about beauty and fashion, about where my life is
        going and, well, anything actually.
      - To give my brain something different to work on.
      - To help me keep one foot in the world of journalism and media while i
        decide my next step.
      - Because it's actually really interesting.
      - Because it's very satisfying knowing that people read, and enjoy, your
        content.
      - To realise there are people out there, just like you.

So there are just a few reasons as to why i love to blog. Blogging really did change not only my outlook on life, but also my personality and who i have grown into. I have changed so much in the last five years, as has my content, but you can see every step of my growth in my blog which i find fascinating. For example, as looked for images to use in this blog post, i could see the dramatic change in my skin and that's probably, a lot, down to the skincare i use which has all been documented, here, on Legs Eleven. I have sometimes struggled with blogging, as i've shared with you, but i've always come back and continued on. It's grown from a hobby into not only a passion but another part of me.

K|xo

A Day in the Life: London

I love spending time in London; so much so that i go through phases of wanting live there or work there, but realistically i'm not sure that will ever work out for me. However, i'm more than happy to spend as much time there as i can in my spare time. Recently, i took a trip into central London to spend some time with a  close friend who has just moved there for university. Unfortunately she wasn't free until the afternoon, due to lectures, so i thought i'd make a day of it and travel down earlier in the morning.

I caught the 9:30 train from my local station, that takes about an hour to get into Kings Cross. Over the past five years i have spent my fair share of time travelling by train, especially while i was at university. I was always heading into London, or travelling back to Cambridge from Southampton, and i don't know what it is but i really enjoy train travel. It's an hour of my time where i don't have to think about work, or anything else for that matter if i don't want to. This time i really enjoyed catching up on the Metro newspaper; it's a great way of seeing what's on in and around London, and there was a great article on the Bake Off which i was addicted to this season. It's usually a pretty peaceful journey, especially at that time in the morning and when it's sunny, the ride from my hometown into London is beautiful. Field after field, quaint country villages and the closer you get into London you can see the shining, alluring skyline looming ahead. As soon as i spot the familiar shapes of the Gherkin and the Shard, a now recognisable figure in the ever-growing capital's horizon.

I honestly love spending time in London, i've travelled all over the city and enjoy finding new places but there's nothing like wandering down Oxford Street, in the morning, popping in and out of shops. I like going fairly early as it's just that little bit quieter and there's a bit more space to move. Oxford Street has pretty much everything you need, and it's sister Regent Street, following down to Carnaby Street is there for all your slightly more niche needs. I love the hustle and bustle, watching people dart from one side of the street to the other, ladened down with bags, clutching briefcases, teetering in higher than high heels. Obviously i made a stop in the mothership, John lewis Oxford St, to have a wander round and see the difference between the flagship and my own branch. It's quite a cool feeling knowing that you work for such a prestigious company, with a flagship one of the most famous shopping streets in the world. Well, they had their Christmas decorations up already, which i was very excited about, as the festive season is just around the corner. I also made a stop at Liberty, as it's not a trip to London without perusing the seasonal blooms at the Wild at Heart florists, opening onto Great Marlborough Street.

I also can't help but visit Fortnum and Mason while in the capital, there is just something so classic and nostalgic about it. I can remember my parents taking me there as a child, and begin in awe of the beautifully displayed chocolates and shelf after shelf of elegantly boxed teas. So after walking down Regent Street and enjoying the sights, and sounds, i popped inside to have a look at their seasonal goods. I couldn't help but snap this amazing Halloween display, people were flocking to it and it had everything from skull shaped vodka to skull chocolates, toffee apples and trick or treat sweets.

I stopped off for a delicious hot chocolate, and a sit down, in a Costa just off Piccadilly Circus just to have some chill time and do some people watching. I wasn't supposed to be meeting my friend for another hour, or so, but luckily she called me and said she was finished early so i took a stroll through Piccadilly Circus, through Leicester Square and up to Covent Garden where i met her. Covent Garden is another of my favourite spots in London, as there is always something going on. If you've never been to London before and you're not sure where to start, go to Covent Garden. It has everything, from quaint, niche shops to little streets of your more conventional stores plus rows and rows of lovely places to eat. It was a lovely evening, so we sat down and decided what we wanted to do. We were too early for our reservation but decided to head to the restaurant early to see if we could get a table, as we were both hungry.

Sure enough, they fit us in so we were sat in the corner to have a good natter. It was called Joe Allen and, honestly, when Lizzie took me there it looked like the strangest, roughest part of Covent Garden, down a back alley and it's underground. However, despite all those appearances it was actually a really cool place. I had chicken with shoestring fries and green beans, and it was really delicious. It was also very well priced for London, and especially for Covent Garden. It had an industrial feel to the inside, with exposed beams and pipes on the ceiling, but the table settings were very elegant and everyone was friendly. The food was quick, and we enjoyed some delicious mocktails too.

All in all, i had a lovely day in London and i really wish i did it more often.

K|xo

OOTD: Knitted Kimono

Kimono: H&M | Necklace: M&S | Belt: Topshop | Jeans: Topshop | Boots: River Island

Ever since two Summers ago, when i bought my first kimono, i've been quite enamoured with them. They just seem to really make an outfit. All you need is a pair of jeans, a plain white t-shirt and a kimono, and you're good to go. So, when i went shopping right at the beginning of the season, i spotted this in H&M and couldn't help but try it on. It's my first knitted kimono and it's definitely larger than anything i already own but i just love it. Kimonos and capes seem to be a huge trend for the coming Autumn/Winter season, and i'm eyeing up plenty in M&S at the moment. What i love most is that you can wear it belted, like i am here, or you can wear it free flowing; plus it can be worn with anything from a t-shirt to a chunky knit underneath - there are just so many options.

K|xo

Alex & Ani

Probably three, or so, years ago when i visited Disney World i came across a jewellery brand that i had never heard of, called Alex & Ani. At the time, i only knew them through Walt Disney World as they were doing a range of Disney inspired 'bangles'. I fell in love with them as especially, at the time, in my younger, less confident self; i was slightly embarrassed of my adoration of Disney, (don't worry, that's all changed now!), and it seemed a nice way to wear a touch of Disney without it being too in-your-face. Anyway, they were - to me - fairly pricey, especially as i was still a student, with no form of income. So, i forgot about them and went on with my life, bangle-less.

Fast-forward to this, past Summer on my latest Disney World trip, i was excited to see that Alex & Ani were still selling their range in the Disney parks and this time it had expanded. This time i was in  my full-time job, and i had saved hard to be able to freely spend on my trip. So, with that in mind i decided to treat myself.

"We create meaningful, eco-conscious jewellery and accessories to empower the light in you. We share a passion for the well-being of our planet, our communities, and our individual paths."

Not only do i love the jewellery, but i also simply love the brand's ethos and everything that has brought Alex & Ani to be. I love all the positivity, the creativity and that everything it so eco-friendly, and 'made with love'. I could go on forever about the background of the brand, but i highly recommend you go and read more.

Anyway so, as i said, i decided to treat myself and buy a little piece of Disney to wear in my day-to-day life and i honestly love it.

Although there was plenty to choose from, i went for the obvious choice - for me. I picked the 'Cinderella Bangle' in the silver finish, which has Cinderella's Castle engraved on the charm with the Walt Disney World logo beneath. I honestly just love it, it really is like having a little piece of Disney with all the time and it means so much to me because i saved up for it, from the money i earned through my first full time job to pay for it.

Aside form the cute charm, i love that this bangles have a very vintage look to them. They not completely silver the whole way around and have a few an almost tarnished finish to them which looks really cute. I also love the stretch fastening, as it makes for a great fit which is something i really struggle with as i seem to have child-sized wrists.

So, when i got home i loved my new purchase so much i needed something to wear it with, as they're made perfectly for stacking, and that's when my little Bee friend came into my life.

I found a great website online, called Fabulous, that stocks Alex & Ani and can ship it to the UK, and that's where my latest addition came from. The Bumblebee Charm Bracelet is the same design as my previous one but this time with a little bumblebee hanging from it. 

"The bumblebee is hardworking and extraordinarily loyal to the Queen Bee and the entire community. A symbol of nature's perfect balance, the bee reminds us to slow down, smell the flowers, and taste the sweet honey of life. Wear the Bumblebee Charm to channel the bees' meticulous energy, work diligently towards a goal, and ultimately appreciate the sweetness of life."

And, honestly, that's why i decided upon this one. I think we all need to remember to 'slow down and smell the roses' in life, i know i do.

They're beautifully made, and very sturdy. I wear mine everyday with no problems and they look great alone or stacked together. I saw a lady on the train last week wearing about 15 at one time. Each bangle also comes with a ''Infused With Positive Energy,'' ''Made in America With Love,'' and ''Recycle,'' charm, which all goes back to the brand's ethos and what they're all about.

I highly recommend checking the brand out, wherever you as these are just a tiny look into their vast collections. They do everything from gold and silver, to rose gold, plus they have a monopoly collection, they have affinities with american sporting clubs and much, much more.

K|xo

All opinions are my own and all products were bought with my own money.

Dealing with Cystitis

For as long as i can remember, i have suffered with chronic cystitis. In fact, i've dubbed myself as the Queen of cystitis. Ever since i was really little, my mum reminds me that i suffered from it terribly, and i can remember being in so much pain i was bent over on the floor, unable to walk. For a few years i was pretty clear, but then i went to university and it all came flooding back.

For me, there are three main causes for me to be plagued; Stress, Lack of Sleep & Dehydration. It's different for everyone, but those are the main causes that bring it on. Recently, i've been seriously under the weather, therefore not getting enough sleep and needing more water than usual so what happened to rear it's ugly head? Cystitis. Once it comes, i've gotten pretty good at dealing with it and nipping it in the bud, however when i'm under the whether, continually stressed, or not drinking enough it does tend to linger. So, today i thought i'd share with you a few ways i've learnt to make things that bit more comfortable.

1. Drink plenty of fluids, and that doesn't mean something spiked(!). It's suggested that you drink a pint of water every 20-30 minutes to help flush out your system, but that can be pretty tough. As long as you're drinking plenty, probably more than usual and more than feels natural. Cranberry Juice is also amazing for the urinary tract, and is full of antioxidants. I'd also suggest keeping away from anything too acidic, such as caffeinated fizzy drinks or fruit juices, like orange and apple juice.

2. Cystitis 'sachets' are honestly one of the most important things for me to keep around. You're supposed to take 6 sachets in 48 hours, but usually if things haven't gotten too bad then all it takes is one and it neutralises everything. These are amazing for helping flush everything out, plus it helps you to drink extra. However, i think they taste disgusting.

3. Cranberry Extract is something that you can take on the regular. Honestly, it won't stop it coming but it can help with keeping things as clear as you can, and again it's great for your urinary tract. They don't work for everyone, but it's something else to try.

4. Last, but not least, is heat. For me, it's my trusty heat pad but it could also be a hot water bottle, and my electric blanket also comes in handy. It is different for everyone; some find it comforting to heat the stomach, but some girls prefer to keep the heat between their thighs - TMI - which is where an electric blanket also can come in handy. It really comforts me putting my electric blanket on high, lying in bed and almost heating my entire bottom half.

For everyone, it's different, but these are just a few ways i make myself more comfortable. It may be as simple as a urinary tract infection but, trust me that i know, it can be unbearably painful and throw you completely under the bus.

Keep healthy ladies, and gents!

K|xo

Chanel Hydra Beauty Micro Serum

Chanel Hydra Beauty Micro Serum

I honestly can't believe i haven't spoken about this product sooner, as i've been in love with since last Autumn. Although this is probably the most expensive skincare item i own, it's also one of the only items that i can really notice a difference with if i stop using it. This is one of the first serums i ever bought last Autumn, when my skin was beginning to freak out and i just could not get enough moisture into it, but now it's probably one of my holy grails.

"The first serum composed of camellia micro-droplets is based on an exclusive patented technology derived from Microfluidics. Continuously hydrated for 24 hours and perfectly protected, the skin is infused with moisture. Smooth and replenished, it is glowing with youth. After one month of daily use, the cutaneous hydration level increases until 33%.* The epidermis is deeply impregnated. After only 4 applications, the stratum corneum is plumped. The skin significantly recovers bounce: +32% plumping effect."

This is a product that when you're using it, you do think to yourself 'What is it actually doing?', 'Is it really worth spending all this money?' but if you take it out of your routine, you see exactly what it was doing for you. It gives me so much hydration without being heavy or oily, as it feels so light on the skin. It massages in easily and absorbs quickly. I use this mainly at night, but sometimes under my make up, and in the morning it makes my skin look really hydrated and plump. It makes my skin feel renewed and awake, ready to put my make up on the next day. I feel like it makes a great canvas even the night before. Now, it is pricey and i'm not sure if you can get samples of this but i really recommend you get down to your nearest Chanel counter and at least test it on the back of your hand. It's supposed to give you 24hr hydration, and i'm not quite sure about that claim but it definitely makes a huge difference to my skin.

K|xo

Washing my Make Up Brushes

There are plenty of fancy make up brush cleaners out there, and i begun buying the ELF Brush Shampoo before i heard about using good old Johnson's Baby Shampoo. During my time in the blogosphere and watching Youtube videos, i've seen a multitude of ways to clean your brushes. I'm sure there's better techniques than others but frankly, i like to keep it simple.

Honestly, Johnson's Baby Shampoo is super cheap and, as you can see, it comes in huge bottles which will really keep you going.

I don't think i'm the only one that puts off washing their brushes until they really have to do. It's one of those jobs that i don't really enjoy and actually it's just a bit of a pain in the booty. However, when i do finally wash them, i keep things simple. I simply add a touch of the Johnson's Shampoo onto the palm of my hand, swoosh my brush around through it and then rinse until all the bubbles disappear. I have to say, i have wanted to get my hands on the Sigma Spa Brush Cleaning Glove as it just looks like it would make brush cleaning extra quick, but also very thorough.

So, how do you clean your brushes? Any tips or suggestions are very welcome,

K|xo

OOTD: Faux Fur

Jumper: H&M | Necklace: M&S | Jeans: Topshop | Faux Fur Gilet: Zara | Shoes: Office

I haven't done an outfit of the day for a long time, honestly because i find it really hard to get images that i'm happy with. I find it really hard when i haven't got someone to take pictures for me. I'm not completely happy with these images, but they'll do the job. If anyone has any tips for taking outfit pictures when all you've got is a camera and a tripod.

I thought i'd document an outfit i've been wearing over and over again, during this strange season we're having that's not quite Summer but not quite Autumn. I have this jumper in about four different colours, it's super comfortable and fairly light which is great for layering. My stomach and torso is the area i'm most self-concious of so i love that it skims all of that. I wear mine with a simple H&M cami underneath but if it was really chilly you could layer it with a long sleeve top, maybe even a roll neck underneath.

I've chosen to pair mine with my beloved Zara faux fur gilet, that i picked up last Winter. I've never really wanted one until i saw my friend wearing a different one from Zara, so i went to have a look myself and i just feel so chic. It's, again, a great layering piece and i even like to layer it over a leather jacket. I also chose my new pair of ripped Topshop Joni Jeans. I've never owned a pair of ripped jeans because i can only wear them from the Tall section which really limits you as to what you can buy. However, these have become my favourite Autumn staple. I love that they can make anything look a little bit edgy.

I also love these shoes, i bought them at the beginning of the summer mainly because all of my shoes are black and i think it's nice to have something different. What i also love is that they're closed toe so they'll see me through Autumn too.

K|xo