I've come to learning that we are always learning - life is a lesson in itself. I can easily say I make mistakes every day, but I've come to a point where I accept that and I'm just grateful for each lesson I learn along the way. I'm constantly taking words of simple advice from others and although it's fine to be wrong, sometimes it's better to learn from someone who's already made the mistakes and save yourself some time! I thought I'd share a few things that are so simple but sometimes I find we need to hear things from someone else before we actually recognize the importance of implementing them into our lives on a daily basis. Slow Down I was chatting to a friend he other day about how we used to always be in some sort of race. I remember I'd be constantly walking around like I was going to miss the train or something! I was rushing through things and thus making bad decisions and missing out on all the finer details. Now, I think about everything in probably way too much detail and I really take my time on things. Even if something seems like a good idea, I take a step back and ask myself is it a long term correct decision or only short term? I always go with my gut. Educate Yourself I don't mean college degrees or PHDs, just take in as much knowledge as you can. Knowledge is power and I really believe that. Read books, listen to podcasts, learn about life through those who've seen it all. Even if it's just sitting down for a coffee with someone you know and look up to - it's all valuable and you're never wasting your time. I've been working in marketing/pr now for over two years and a lot of people ask me about what I learned in college and my honest answer is that all of my knowledge comes from hours and hours of my own research and the rest I put down to solid and invaluable life experience. Look after your health I'd always been very good at this up until about six months ago. Life got stressful, I let work take priority over things like getting enough veg and and I'm now paying the price by having to work my way through a whole lot of stomach issues(not ideal!) I know you've heard it a million times but I can honestly say that you don't realise it until your own isn't 100% that - your health truly is your wealth. Be Kind I know you're thininkg "I am kind, I don't need to put it on my to-do list!" But the reality is that we all get so caught up in the "busy" of life these days that we sometimes forget that life really isn't about us, but what we can do for others.Kindness isn't about making grand gestures - it's the small things that make the biggest difference. Listen to someone who needs an ear, be a good friend, take the time out of your day to give a few words of wisdom to someone you can tell needs them - For no reason other than you can. You have that power. Be Vulnerable This is something that's taken me such a long time to get to. I've spoken about this in previous posts and I'll say it again, because I really believe that there is power in vulnerablilty. Being able to vocalize your fears, your flaws, really just being yourself. Be an open book - Be Real! You'll attract the right people into your life, and you'll be a lot more at peace with life if that makes sense! I love writing little posts like this that I feel might help someone - I try to keep them quite short and to the point so I don't bore anyone! _________________________________________________________________________________________ In the look below I'm wearing a high-shine co-ord set from Dresses.ie in the most gorgrous deep Emerald Green which was perfect timing this weekend! It's the perfect balance of being so easy to wear and casual, but at the same time being totally stand out and on-trend. It's also available in black which I think would make a very cool, different look for a night out or an event. I paired it with a simple black fine knit jumper from H&M and a paired back make up look. Enjoy your short week! Chat soon, Yasmin xx Green Co-Ord - Dresses.ie
Photos by Daragh O Neill
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Having worked in bars all the way through college, being in them now brings back all the feels. I find myself almost wanting to get in behind the bar and make my signature espresso martini, but on the other hand memories of all the downsides of working all night and dealing with drunks also come into play! I have nothing but absolute respect for people in that industry because it's not easy! I have to say though, having worked in bars on the ground and also from working with clients in the bar/restaurant trade on their marketing , I really appreciate a nice venue. In the last few years there's been a lot of London inspired venues pop up around Dublin and I love to see what's new on the scene. It sounds absolutely crazy( (and ever so slightly over-ambitious haha!) but I'd really love to own a bar some day, or even play a part in one - I genuinely find the whole thing interesting! You can check out one or two of my favourites here: yasminlaura.weebly.com/blog/top-six-barsrestaurantscafes-in-dublin Last week I headed to Nolita on George's Street for the last of the Winter nights before Spring kicks in(finally), and although it seems to have had mixed reviews, I think it's an incredible venue - so perfect for an event as it's massive! Also, the staff couldn't be nicer - they even invited us to join in their cocktail class after this shoot! I'm wearing an entire look from on of Ireland's up and coming online fashion brands OnTrend.eu. The bag is part of their pre-spring collection which I've had a peek of, and I think their new stuff is going to take them to a whole new level. There's some gorgeous 'designer-esque' bags that are so stand-out and classy but so affordable. I'd even pair the one below with some blue jeans and a white shirt in the summer for a really understated look. Make sure to keep an eye out on their Instagram stories while they're shooting the whole new collection :) Until the Next One, Yasmin xx Look - OnTrend.eu
Photos by Adam Sitsen Location - Nolita, Georges Street, D2 Believe it or not, if there's one thing I've struggled with for as long as I can remember it's confidence, and I'm pretty sure I'm not alone in saying that. Sitting here writing this, I've been trying to thinkwhere that came from, and if I'm being totally ho9nest ( and this might sound a bit tragic but sure look), I suppose I just never really felt "good enough". As I've grown as a person over the years, thankfully so has my confidence, so much so that if you've only known me in the last year you'd probably laugh if I told you confidence was an issue for me! But trust me when I say its taken a long time to get here and I still have a long way to go. I often recognize the same lack of self-esteem in others and its like looking in a mirror - I recognize it straight away! I've had a think about whats really helped me, and it pains me to think about if I hadn't taken the steps to overcome it, because unfortunately the world we live in can be tough and people can be ruthless.There just isn't much room for shyness ..you'l only get trampled on!(talking from experience on that one) If you're reading this and thinking that this is you, here are a few things that will slowly but surely take you out of your shyness. Get to know Yourself Spend time in your own company. Go for walks away from everyone and everything, read books, cook, write. Spend time just thinking. Enjoy getting to know what you enjoy and what your true values are. You'll almost start to value your own thoughts and the small things that make you you. Surround Yourself with Positive People Have you ever met someone for a coffee and been absolutely high on life afterwards? There are people who will make you feel like you can do anything - spend time with them! I need to do more of that myself. On the other hand, get rid of anyone who brings you down. Whether its a friend, colleague, a family member - even if it's temporarily, distance yourself - for you. Keep your Head Up I used to walk around with my head down all the time and only stopped when a friend said it to me one day. It's such a small thing but make such a difference. One of the best pieces of advice I've ever been given for when you're not feeling super confident is to simply "Be Beyonce". I mean it can't fail can it! Be Proud Be able to say 'Yes, I'm good at that', or 'I did this and I was really happy with the results' Also when you've worked hard for something, treat yourself! Laugh at Yourself My final piece of advice is to not take yourself so seriously. What's the point? Be yourself, embrace all your flaws, be an open book - there's power in being truly yourself. Realize that life is a learning process and that nobody has it all figured out! Until the next one, Yasmin xx Jacket - Zara
Jeans - Pull & Bear Boots - River Island Photos by Adam Sitsen Hair by David Marshall Salon My favourite thing about this little blogging journey I've started, is that you feel like you have a little online family it's so nice! I do it simply for the love of creating and it makes me happy so to get little messages and comments to say you like anything I'm doing is like Really?!! Its amazing to me.
I love when people I follow online share more about themselves outside of fashion and beauty as you really get to know the person behind the pictures. I've been thinking about documenting a lot more on Instagram stories but I'm still a little lacking confidence there - I think it's on of those things you just have to keep doing and not care what people think! For today though, I've put together a short list of a few things you mightn't know about me :) I'm a twin - I have a twin brother who I absolutely love to shreds. It's actually funny, it was my brother who inspired me to start this little journey! I spent some time back home with my family last summer and one day we decided to take some random 'ootd' photos on a camera I'd bought, and I loved the creative process so much I haven't stopped since! I'm Half Egyptian - My Dad is from Egypt but moved to Ireland in his early twenties when he met my mum. She's a natural red- head and is and when we're together people are always surprised when we tell them we're mother and daughter! This month we're going to Egypt for the first time since I was about 13 so I'm SO excited!! I love the culture and the people there - I think the middle-east gets a bad rap because of everything we hear in the news which is sad. I suppose like everything, a minority causing bad news will outweigh all the good. I love Porridge! - I could live on the stuff!! I Have Anxiety - I know everyone and their mother seems to have it these days, but it's a real thing and it's not fun. Someone told me recently that stresses and anxiety happens for a reason, and not necessarily a bad one. That was like a breath of fresh air, because it's easy to just see it as such a negative. I think the biggest thing for me is learning to manage it which I'm slowly but surely getting better at, and also knowing that it's not something that you can allow to hold you back from doing all the things you want. I Love People! - I absolutely love meeting new people! I have a genuine interest in people and their stories. When I was working in bars around Dublin I met so many interesting people I think you should always show an interest in others. Whether its the guy collecting glasses in your local or the old lady who says hello every day - they all have a story to tell. I Love Business - I'm honestly a huge nerd. My idea of relaxing is watching podcasts by Tony Robbins and Gary Vee - I get excited at the idea that I can continuously learn from others and become better. I'm one of those crazy people who will get an idea for something at about 3am and start calling everyone to hear what they think! I Cry A Lot - I don't quite know what happened to me - I was always someone who would NEVER let a tear slip out no matter how devastated I was. These days, it's a different scenario! I will NEVER understand women who compete with eachother - it makes no sense! We should be lifting eachother up! I Believe that Everything Happens for a Reason - My faith in this has definitely been tested the past few weeks but it really is so true. No matter what you're going though, I think you have to keep in mind the bigger picture and the way I look at it - the more crap you go through the stronger you will ultimately become! I'm a Massive Tomboy - I love fashion and it's become a huge passion of mine, but I'm still at my happiest in leggings and oversized hoodies! _____________________________________________________________________________ In this look I'm wearing Teddy Biker Jacket from H&M - as far as I know this is sold out but there are similar style available online and in - store. My bag is from a market in the Liberties in Dublin 8 and I love it! That's all for now. Until the next one, Yasmin xx I wear a lot of black in Winter, but when it’s dark and miserable out it’s really nice to wear brighter colours. Grey is simple, yet packs a lot in one punch – It’s elegant, chic and suits pretty much every skin and hair colour. In this look, I’m wearing a really simple grey coat from Zara which is so casual but the tailored style of it makes you look really put together. I picked this up in a medium so I can easily fit this heavy knit from H&M underneath and I’m wearing my baby pink ripped jeans(also from Zara). And because casual always wins, I’ve finished the look with a Zara beanie and some kicks. This week I was so delighted to be featured on Shemazing.ie chatting all things business - a major passion of mine! I chat all about my thoughts on college, the realities of starting out on your own and following your own path in life. Life is so short - do what makes you happy! I'll leave the link to the article below for anyone interested :) http://www.shemazing.net/the-road-less-travelled-what-its-like-to-become-your-own-boss/ Coat - Zara
Jeans - Zara Jumper - H&M Beanie - Zara Kicks - Adidas Photos by Greg Dalleau I used to think that because I'm such a tomboy, that I couldn't be seen as "stylish" or "fashionable". I'm the type of girl who feels most happy dressed down in an over-sized hoody and some gym leggings. I have no problem showing up to business meetings in some ripped jeans and a biker-jacket (probably one reason why I'll never suit a regular 9-5!) It's only recently that I've really embraced my own individual style and have found a real passion and love for clothes in the process, and I really never thought I'd say that! Coco Chanel infamously said that "Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself", and she was dead right. we all have insecurities and if you know mw, you'll know that I'm no exception. But by really embracing every aspect of who are, you'll see that people love you for simply being yourself. In this look, I'm wearing one of my favourite jackets at the moment which I found in Zara menswear(worth the trip downstairs girls). It's quite over-sized which I love, and has a Borge lining making it really warm. This is really great quality piece that will wear really well and is just so effortless. this November is going to be one of those crazy months so items like this are key. I've paired it with some leather-look leggings and my Nike trainers which are perfect for running around the city. I've finished this go-to laid Winter back with my favourite vintage hat which I picked up in France back in Summer. Until the next one, Yasmin xxxx Jacket - Zara
Leggings - H&M Trainers - Nike Hat - Vintage Photos by Greg Dalleau It’s been a crazy few weeks with work but to be honest I’m really just enjoying getting stuck into it all at the moment! I’m a big believer in hustling hard but enjoying every new experience and making the most of it. I’m always more grateful than I am tired! Some of you may know that I’m at the beginning of starting my own marketing consultancy business which is something I’d always thought about doing but I suppose I never really had to confidence to just go for it until now. I studied marketing in college but I can’t say I enjoyed it! All of my knowledge I put solidly down to life experience. I know some disagree with me when i say this but I really believe that that’s so much more important than a list of qualifications. I think when you're young he best thing you can do is just work, no matter what it is - get out of your comfort zone, do jobs you hate, do things that most people won't– it will all stand to you in the long run. As much as I enjoy it all, it is definitely challenging. I am my own worst critic – i suppose when it’s all on you, you tend to put a lot of pressure on yourself. Any free moment i have is spent my passion for fashion and being creative and I couldn’t love it more! There's so many cool things in the pipeline that I can't wait to share! I’ve met some incredible people through doing this who have become solid friends and I definitely feel like I’m finally finding my tribe.:) In this look I'm wearing one of my favourite trends of the season the Borge Jacket. This one from H&M is a long-line biker style and is perfect for the cold months ahead. This is the type of thing I'll throw on and still feel put together enough for meetings etc - It's so warm too - literally like a wearing a big hug if that makes any sense at all. :) This jacket is available now at H&M - all links below. Until next time, Chat soon,, Yasmin Jacket -H&M
www2.hm.com/en_ie/productpage.0540954003.html Leather-look leggings - H&M Boots - River Island Photos by Greg Dalleau If there's one brand that never lets me down it's H&M - Always on trend but with an edge.
There's nothing worse than looking like a copycat of everyone on the street and H&M really allows you to be creative with your looks and find pieces that are true to your own style and personality, whether that's laid-back, streetstyle, boss-girl, sporty or if you're like me a mix of them all! Being my most bought high street brand, I was SO excited to collaborate with H&M on this shoot(understatement) featuring some of their latest Street Style looks from their AW collection. Each look is stand-out but casual and effortlessly cool and will take you all the way through the cold season - I for one will be living in this coat! All the looks are available at H&M now - link below. Happy Shopping, Yasmin x My favourite fashion season is here and with the shops brimming with all things black, leather, puffas, shearling, hats and boots - I'm excited! Today I'm wearing one of the key pieces this AW - the lined biker jacket. I don't know about you but for me when life is hectic, the last thing I want to be doing in the morning is wondering what I'm going to wear! This is one of them 'throw-on' pieces that you will live in and will keep you looking stylish and on-trend with minimal effort. This AW essential is available to shop now at www.ontrend.eu/ Jacket - OnTrend.eu
Leather look trousers - H&M Sweater - H&M Boots - H&M Photos by Greg Dalleau I wrote this on the first night of my holidays and as amazing as my week away in the gorgeous South of France, it’s wasn't totally free of worries and anxious thoughts. If you've been following for a while you'll know I do deal with a bit of anxiety as so many people do. I've learned that it generally means something is coming - and even though it's actually probably something amazing, your body isn't quite sure and basically goes into fight or flight mode to protect you. I’d been so excited about taking a week off for ages – I literally didn’t sleep for two days before! I’d been rushing around all week cramming in meetings, tying up many loose ends, getting ready and making sure I could see my family before I go as it was my Dads birthday. I suppose I’m just taking a second to tell myself and you, if happen to struggle with the same thing – that although it’s not pleasant it always happens for a reason. Since I’ve been back in Dublin things have been nothing short of nuts. It’s really been the first time that I’ve taken control of my life and decided to do what makes me happy – and it’s been amazing. More than amazing. Building my own life for myself has given me so much absolute joy and happiness. I think that that’s something that those who choose to build their lives around others will never understand. I love everything I’m doing and sometimes I pinch myself at what I’ve realized for myself. Trust me, if you want to do something – just do it! The power is always in your hands. In saying all of that though, it’s not easy, as nothing worth having ever is. Starting my own marketing consultancy business from scratch is something that sometimes I don’t even believe that I’m doing! I spent a long time very unsure of which direction to take working all the random jobs of the day(best thing I ever did by the way) So I really am mega-proud of it. But of course it brings with it all the stresses and pressures that come hand in hand with any business. Also, a quick note for any young person thinking about being their own boss – In the beginning, you will really have to push to be taken seriously in whichever industry it is. I’ve definitely learned that you need to have 100% belief in what you have to offer and have a really “don’t take no shit” attitude if you want to develop a reputation as a business person. At the end of the day it doesn’t matter what age you are – it’s your experience and know-how that counts. As well as that, I’ve also found a new love in the form of this blog, and I want to try and spend as much time on it as I can. My housemates think I’m bonkers when I’m loving life on my laptop at about 3am! But I love it and it makes me happy, so lack of sleep seems to me like a worthy sacrifice (although my body tends to disagree when my alarm goes off haha!) I know this post is a little bit all over the place from anxiety to business to passions but I feel like they sort of go hand in hand. Working on building your best life will inevitably bring with it stresses, sacrifice and sometimes that feeling of being all too much …. But it will also be the greatest gift you will ever give yourself. Building the life of your dreams will be the most incredible journey you will ever take. As for the anxiety, if you are experiencing it like I have and still am - it is your body's reaction to a period of transition and uncertainty and it will pass. This is for you and for me ... "Sometimes it's about risking everything for a dream that no one can see but you ..Safe in the knowledge that everything will be ok in the end. Much better that ok in fact. Until then, enjoy the madness, soak up the experience, and enjoy it for exactly what it is- the greatest adventure of your life. Until the next one, Chat soon, Yasmin xx Top - Primark
Jeans - Pull and Bear Runners - Nike Photography -David Gannon |
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