Glossybox – New Icon Edition

source: Glossybox

Don't we all love trying out new products? But sometimes it can be so hard to decide what to buy. Wouldn't it be great if someone else makes the decision for you?
Glossybox is the perfect choice for your ultimate beauty experience. You can easily subscribe to their monthly beauty boxes and you'll receive five beauty products to try. Plus, it comes in a beautiful box and you can cancel your subscription whenever you want.

Talking about nice packaging: This month, the German Glossybox-Team released the New Icon Edition. Three influencers designed their own Glossybox and filled it with their favorite products. You can choose between the boxes designed by blogger Anna Frost, model Stefanie Giesinger and blogger Leonie Hanne. Because these three beauties are so different, it is probably easier to choose between the different types of boxes. And aren't they just a feast for the eyes and great for every girls make up table?

source: Glossybox

Even though the three influencers differ in style and aesthetics, they still agree on one thing: the Secret Flush by Universal Beauty Cosmetics which is available in every single of the influencers boxes. And it is quite obvious why: The Secret Flush is a lip stain and cream blush 2-in-1-product – super handy for the perfect glow on the go! Thanks to it's creamy and light texture, it is perfect for the last warm summer days.

Making a woman happy within a second isn't that hard, is it?

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How To Make Your Oatmeal Super Special

Oatmeal is probably my most eaten breakfast. It is so easy and quick to make in the mornings (even If I'm running late) and I can take it with me and enjoy it at work. My friend recently asked me if I'm not getting tired of eating oatmeal almost every single day. And you know what? – No, I'm not! The best think about oats are the flexibility of serving them in so many different ways.
In today's post I want to show you my favorite ways of eating oatmeal and how you can change the game. Every. Single. Day.

Ingredients

I usually prepare my oats with plant-based milk. Nowadays, supermarkets sell an incredible variety of different kinds of milk which is perfect to vary the flavor of your oatmeal. I often use oat milk, just because I like the smooth taste. But as already mentioned: there is such a great variety – go and get creative with for example

• soy milk (vanilla/chocolate flavor),
• hazelnut milk, 
• almond/cashew/macadamia milk or
• coconut milk.

When preparing, I use the double portion of milk. 

Preparation

Microwave, oven or stove? If you want to prepare your oatmeal super quick, then the microwave is probably the best option for you. I prefer cooking my oatmeal rather on low to medium heat on the stove, stirring it quite regularly. This is the perfect way of getting a smooth and fluffy consistency. 

It is also possible to create baked oatmeal with a firm consistency. Just add the milk to your oats and pour everything in a baking dish. You can already top up the mixture with some fruits, nuts or whatever else you fancy. Put it in the oven for 20 – 30 minutes on 175°.

Toppings

Next stop to create a whole new breakfast-experience (it certainly is!): toppings. Now that you have your base, it is time to get creative. My favorite toppings are

• berries, 
• nuts,
• chia seeds (for extra protein),
• (dried) fruits and
• chocolate drops.

I like to change up my breakfast and to combine different tastes. My favorite is definitely the combination of oat milk, raspberries and cashews – it's so good!

What is your favorite oatmeal recipe? x

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My Go-To-Playlist For A Happy Day

Since we don't have to wait for the sun until 9 am anymore, I am much more motivated to get out of bed a bit earlier and take time to get ready with a cup of tea and some good music. My current playlist is filled with light, catchy songs which never disappoint to put a smile on my face. They even make a whole day at uni better, I promise!

Kygo – Fragile
Filous – How Hard I Try
Ace Wilder – Busy Doin' Nothing
Comet Kid – When I'm Dead
ODESZA, Zyra – Say My Name
Fitz And The Tantrums – HandClap
Alle Farben, Perttu, Michael Schulte – Remember Yesterday
Izzy Bizu – White Tiger (Marcus Layton Remix)
Maejor – Me And You
Major Lazer – Be Together
Tove Lo – Habits
t.A.T.u. – All The Things She Said (Fernando Garibay Remix)
Years & Years – Desire (Gryffin Remix)
TW3LV, Johnny Rain – California Sun
Imagine Dragons – Shots (Broiler Remix)
ODESZA - Without You
Parov Stelar – The Sun
Otto Knows – Next To Me
Moby ft. Damien Jurado – Almost Home
Redondo & Bolier – Every Single Piece (LVNDSCAPE Remix)

What is your favorite song right now? x

Designer Lookalikes – Must-Have Bags On A Budget

Before starting with the actual post, let's seize a famous quote:

 "We must never confuse elegance with snobbery." —Yves Saint Laurent

If we are honest to ourself, we can acknowledge to ourselves that we live in a quite materialistic world. It probably also depends on the people/environment we surround ourself with, who shape us. Be it in our opinions, actions or buying behavior. It does not always have to be a YSL or a Céline bag, because our favorite bloggers got one a week ago and shaped it as THE IT-piece for this season. Let's be real: in the end we just pay for the brand and its magnificent reputation. After all it is just a bag. And bags fulfill one major duty: to put things in it so we don't have to carry them in our hands.

I don't want to be a hypocrite, because my two favorite bags are by Michael Kors and I love them to death. I am a woman with a soft spot for beautiful things. 

After having a look on the new collections of different designers, I realized, that I've seen half of them already on ASOS and such like. I wanted to put all lookalikes together and I am a little bit impressed by how similar they are. A little remark at this point: Let's not talk about quality here. It is obvious that you can't expect a 30€ bay to be the same quality as a 60€ worth Bogner bag. So, if you're just looking for a bag, which looks similar to a designer one: there you go. Save the rest and buy a ticket to Spain. Or the Maledives, when it comes to the Céline bag. 

Nevertheless, designer bags stand for themselves. If you worked hard and you can't live without it, get it. No one is going to judge you for this. (Really!) Some of them are rather an investment (e.g. Chanel) than a unnecessary expense and super timeless as well.

And if you're interested in where to get all those beauties on the collage, click the links below!

Furla Metropolis | ASOS Crossbody 

ASOS Winged Tote Bag | MK Jetset Item

Céline Micro Luggage | New Look Structured Bag

Mi-Pac Weekender | Longchamp The Pliage Néo

Bogner Bucket Bag | New Look Shoulder Bag

Do you have a bag you could never live without? x

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Monthly Favourites: January

1. DAHLIA DIVIN BY GIVENCHY

Surprise, surprise. I am addicted to this perfume since day one and I wear it almost every single day. I already raved about it earlier this month, so if you'd like to read more about it, just click here!

2. Q&A A DAY: 5-YEAR JOURNAL

I received this journal for my 22nd birthday and it's one of the nicest presents I've ever gotten. It's my highlight of the day and I can't wait to answer the daily question before going to bed. Each day you have to answer one question - for five years. I absolutely love this idea and I'm so curious how my answers will change within the next five years (a big thank you to my girls!). If you'd like to get an example as well, you can purchase it here.

3. NIKE DRI-FIT CONTOUR SHIRT

I was looking for a long-sleeved shirt I could wear at the gym but couldn't find anything I really liked. During the sale season I spotted this pretty fuchsia shirt (it really isn't so neon-colored as it might look like, promise!) and it's now a staple for me. It's from the Nike Dri-FIT Collection, super comfortable and great for working out. I may or may not even wear it around the house. Definitely going to purchase another one! Buy it here.

4. STILA EYELINER

I always feel like I have my life together when wearing a good old winged eyeliner. My favorite one is the Stila Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner. Because of its small tip it's super easy to get a nice thin line, just enough to make your eyes pop. Even adding a flick is not too hard - practice makes perfect!

5. LACOSTE ZIANE SNEAKERS

These sneakers were my present to myself (because I don't spoil myself enough...) and even though they're a bit tight - I love them. I wanted an alternative to my white Converse, something a bit nicer looking and when I saw them online I just had to add them to my wish list. I can't wait for the warmer months to finally use them to the full!

What are your monthly favorites? x

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Things To Do On A Cold & Rainy Day

We all know these days: you wake up in the morning and the first thing you hear is a soft drizzle outside. You really don't want to get up and leave the house, but you know what? You don't need to!
Use the rain as a little excuse to stay home and because I don't want you to get bored, here is my Top 10 List of things I like to do on a rainy day.

1. Read this book you always wanted to but you apparently never did.

2. Organize your desk - let's be honest - you haven't done it for a long time.

3. Clear out your wardrobe, put all the clothes you haven't worn for a year in a big bag and ...

4. visit your favourite online shop!

5. Call/text a person you haven't talked to for a long time and catch up.

6. Grab a hot cup of tea or - even better: hot chocolate with little marshmallows, snuggle down in your bed and watch Netflix. ALL DAY LONG!

7. Tired of listening to songs all over again? Browse through Spotify and make a new playlist.

8. Flick through your recipe books or online recipe websites (i.e. BBC Good Food!) and cook/bake something. What about some delicious cookies (click here) or muffins (or here)?

9. Grab one of your thousand cute notebooks and plan out your week or write down all the stuff you really need to do.

10. Have a pampering evening! Put on your face mask, light some candles and lie down in a hot bubble bath. You really deserve this treat.

Take care x 

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Five Things: Party Dresses Which Make You Steal The Show

Some women are addicted to bags, others to shoes or lipsticks - my weakness are dresses. I love browsing through ASOS and getting inspired. I should had been studying last night but well.. I was online shopping and I fell in love with so many great dresses. Here is my top five à la procrastination at its best!

 1. Plunge Neck Sleeveless Dress 

How to make other people speechless: 1. Purchase this dress. 2. Wear it like a badass. This lilac dress with its deep plunge neck is a total eye candy. And the best thing about it: it's just 50€/£.

 2. Mini Dress With Belt 

It doesn't have to be black all the time. What about a nice beige dress which just looks flattering on you? It's simple, sexy and classy at the same time - what else do you want?

 3. Off Shoulder Dress 

Sometimes you have to put a red dress on paired with your favorite heels and rock the dance floor with your squad. This dress might be the perfect one for a great night out.

4. Embellished Waist Maxi Dress

If you want to look like a goddess from Greek mythology - this is your dress! The embellished waist and thigh split are perfect to show off your great body. Go for it!

5. Strappy Mini Dress

Last but not least: the little black dress every woman needs in her wardrobe. I am absolutely in love with the design which is an eye-catcher at every party.

Which one is your favorite? x
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Organisation 101: Time Management And Priorities

Studying, working part-time, spending time with your family, going out with friends - this can be sometimes a bit overwhelming. Besides it is really important to have some me-time, be it in front of Netflix or at the gym. I personally think, that it's all about setting your priorities wisely and time management. To keep you on track, here is a summary of some helpful things.

 Get a cute calendar and notebooks 

It's so much easier to stay organized when you have something to write in. 1. you have another excuse to go crazy in Paperchase (not that you need one) and 2. your notes are not all over the place and you can also take them with you while running errands or being at uni.
I got a new Moleskine Calendar, they work best for me to put all my appointments and little To-Do lists in. When being home I use my sweet "Get It Done"-booklet, which I got at WHSmith, and my personal desk planner. I was looking everywhere for one, who would fit my needs, but in the end I decided to design one by myself. It took a lot of time, but was so much fun and I absolutely love it! If you like, you can download it and use it as well (just click here).

 Plan out your week 

Since I am at uni the whole week and working on Saturdays I just have the Sunday off to get stuff done. This is when I sit down with a cup of tea and a snack and write down all the things that need to be done during the following week. My to-do list consists of different categories for uni, my blog, other matters (like birthdays/events, household stuff, ...). Since uni is my main priority atm, I divide it by each day of the week and write down which text i.e. I need to read and prepare for which course.
In the end I completed a whole to-do list for each day of the week and I have a great overview of the things I need to do. Organization-Addicts like me know how accomplished you feel afterwards!

 Setting priorities 

Some weeks can be pretty boring, there is just not so much stuff to do and you can actually chill. But then there are weeks packed with different events: birthdays, after work drinks, this uni party you really want to go to PLUS you need to finish this bloody essay and analyze a text about objective hermeneutics (yup. that's a thing!).
Setting your priorities goes hand in hand with your (life) goals. If you want a good degree, you have to sit down and work for it. If you're done with all the work, you can go out. That's how it is.
What are your short-term goals? What would you like to achieve in a long-run? Sit down and think about it. It's okay to ditch your desk and have fun with your friends, everyone is doing it sometimes. Just keep in mind what's important to you and you know how to set your personal priorities.

What are your tips concerning time management? x
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Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving Out

(source: pinterest)

When I was a kid I was excited to grow up. Being a grown-up meant freedom to me. The freedom to travel wherever I wanted to, to do anything without asking for permission and to finally live by myself. Moving out was supposed to be the highlight of my late teenage years and I was really looking forward to it since I wanted to study in a different city.
So, here I was, packing up my stuff in boxes, not really knowing how everything was going to turn out. These are the things I learned in the past year, and let me tell you: I moved three times and I am still not an expert, but if you are moving out soon, here is what you need to know:

Don't move in with strangers

When you move out for the first time you probably look for a flat-sharing community. It has quite a few advantages i.e. it's much more cheaper since you share all the bills and purchases for the flat (like a hover and other supplies). But one big negative point is, that you will move in with people you don't know. I made really bad experiences with it and I will definitely never move in with strangers again.
At the end of the day you need to live there for a couple of years and it's quite hard to make sure you all have the same ideals, ideas and beliefs.

You won't find your dream flat

In some cities it's even hard to find a flat, so start looking for one as early as possible. You shouldn't have high expectations. Since you are young and studying you can't afford a 90 sqm flat in the best area with the newest designer kitchen. Have a look online what's free to rent, look at a few flats and if your parents are happy to support you, talk to them as well. Your parents usually know better ;).

Rent is not the only thing you need to pay

Make a list of things you need to get for your new flat. Start with the basics like dishes, cutlery and work your way through the other important stuff like internet and even electricity. It is also really important to keep an eye on your finances. Get one of your cute, empty notebooks and make a list of your earnings (childcare/pocket money, part-time job, ...) and expenses (additional costs, costs of living like food, going out, ...). It will make life so much easier and you don't need to worry.
Stuff is so much more expensive when you have to buy it on your own!

Learn how to use the (right) screwdriver

I am really lucky that my dad is a beast when it comes to handicraft. He can basically do anything and he also has all the tools. So, because of that, I am used to helping him whenever he needed to fix or do something in the house. Not because I had to, but I am really interested in it and I actually love using the drill (can you believe this?!).  I am not a pro and I can still improve in my skills, but I think it's important to know how to use a screwdriver. You will feel so accomplished after building your own IKEA bedside table!

Ironing is the worst thing. EVER.

Living on your own is not all rainbows and butterflies. Besides studying and/or working you need to manage to do the household. And ironing. And it's hell, at least it's for me. So what I do is I usually to put Netflix on and iron all my clothes. You are distracted and it feels like the time goes by so much faster! And when you're done, it's such a relief and you can go back to the more fun stuff.

Have you moved out already? What are your tips? x

How To Kickstart Your Day

I genuinely love my bed. It's so nice and warm and cozy and hach.. it's heaven. Sometimes it's really hard to get up but I feel like it's so much more doable when you have reasons to start the day. Here are a few of the things I do which help me to leave my bed.

1. Start your day off with a big glass of water! After sleeping 7 - 9 hours your body is dehydrated and it needs water to function. You can also infuse your water with lemon/orange slices, berries or whatever you have at home to give it some flavour. I always have a glass of water on my bedside table so I don't forget about it.

2. Workout! A few weeks ago I decided to start exercising again. Because of work I don't have time to go to the gym, that's why I went for runs. It was alright but after a while I recognized that running wasn't doing it for me, so I started doing Blogilates and it works perfectly fine for me. I suppose a lot of you already know Cassey Ho and her Youtube channel. I don't wanna lie: it was so damn hard at the beginning, but I went for it and it's so much fun. I can really feel myself improving and getting fitter again. I am following her monthly workout calendar which provides exercises for every part of your body and a great variety. Get ready for a sore body, guys!

3. Enjoy an amazing breakfast! You might have heard it a 96482648 times before: breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Why? Easy: as much as you need water, your body as well needs fuel  in terms of food. There are so many ways of enjoying an easy and quick breakfast: avocado on toast, yoghurt with fruits and granola, oatmeal or my favourite BAGELS!
They are such a nice treat on the weekend when you have a bit more time preparing your breakfast. And what would this post be without a "How-To-Make-The-Perfect-Bagel"-recipe?

YOU NEED

• one bagel (I always use the cinnamon and raisin bagel which is heaven with savory filling!)
• 1/2 avocado, mashed
• red spicy hummus
• tomato, sliced
• 1 egg
• cheese (I use sliced mozzarella)
• spices and herbs

HOW TO

Cut the bagel open and pop it into your toaster for two to three minutes until it's golden. Meanwhile crack your egg in a heated pan and fry it on medium heat, on both sides.
Put the mashed avocado on the lower part of the bagel, followed by your cheese of choice, slices of tomato and the sunny-side up egg. Finish the bagel of by adding the top part with the hummus.

4. Make a plan! I always feel better when I know what is actually going on during the day. I try to be as productive as I can be, except I planned a lazy day with my BFF, also known as Netflix.
Start off my creating a To-Do list with all the stuff that needs to be done like i.e. laundry, emails you need to write, etc. It is such a satisfying feeling when you can cross tasks out after finishing them.

I hope this tips will help you to have a great start to the day x

Tips On Being An Aupair

(source: pinterest)

After graduating from high school in 2013 it was time for new adventures. I wanted to leave my old life behind and just go somewhere. New experiences, tons of new memories, meeting new people - that's all I wanted. That's why I decided to move to London and be an Aupair, and you know what? It was the best decision I have ever made in my entire life.
Not only will you improve your second language and live in an amazing new country/city, you will also grow. You will grow with every responsibility, every new task, every problem you solve and eventually you will find out what you really want in life. You will start to appreciate yourself and others, especially your parents more. You will learn about your personal values and priorities and how to achieve your goals. I'm not gonna lie: it will be tough and you might struggle with homesickness. Being an Aupair is a huge responsibility since you are looking after (young) children. It is really fun and an incredible feeling watching them learn new stuff like reading, but it's hard work as well. You have to make sure they are safe and happy, which can be hard in the beginning since you and the kids have to bond.
As an Aupair one of your duties will also be running the household. It depends on your family how much you will be in charge of it but as far as I know it consists of cooking, keeping the house tidy and other bits and bobs.

Most of the new Aupairs are arriving around August/September and since I have been an Aupair for almost 1 1/2 years in total I thought I'd share some of the most important things you need to know if you decide to become one as well.

1. Hire an agency

Hiring an agency will make your life so much easier. You can be sure that your future host family has been approved and if anything goes wrong you can actually contact someone. Your agency will support you regarding questions/needs and they will make sure that you and your family are compatible.

2. Say "No"

Your agency will send you portfolios with different families and you can decide which one you want to Skype with. Portfolios usually contain a letter to the future Aupair, a form and pictures of the family. Read everything carefully and just make sure how you feel about it. Are you okay with the duties? Do you think you will get on well together? Do you feel comfortable?
If you're not: tell your agency about it and read the next portfolio until you are happy with a family you want to Skype with.

3. Be yourself

I was so nervous and excited when I decided to Skype with the first family. I can give you just one simple advice on this: inhale, exhale, don't worry and be yourself. Have a nice casual chat, ask them questions about their daily routine, if they had Aupairs before and about your duties. Tell them about yourself and what you expect. After the "interview" you can decide whether you want to talk again or not. The second/third talk is usually the most important one because you decide if you want to be their Aupair. Once you made a decision the real adventure is starting.

4. Keep yourself busy

The first few weeks will be hard. You are living in a different country in a different house with people you don't even really know. Try to spend some quality time with your host family, talk to them and simply get to know each other. You can attend a language school to improve the language and meet other Aupairs in your area. Meet up for coffees or plan play dates with the kids, explore your neighbourhood and spend some time on your own. Keeping yourself busy will help you to settle down and most importantly reduce homesickness.

5. Give the best you can

Make sure you fulfill all the tasks efficiently and with a clear conscience. The family hired you to help and support them, and since being at work all day they can't do certain stuff. Make their life easier by doing little things like taking the garbage out, preparing dinner, etc.
You can also integrate the kids by making it fun. What about a competition: "who will be the fastest tidying up all the toys?" If they are older they can also help you prepare a meal. They can measure out liquid, stir the sauce or even cut up veggies.

6. Talk to your host parents

If anything is not going how you expected (i.e. jobwise) and you are unhappy, talk to your host parents. Tell them how you feel and why you are concerned. It is better to talk about it then to ignore it because it will pile up and lead to frustration and you won't be able to enjoy your time abroad.
If it doesn't get better you can contact your agency and explain your concern objectively. They will support you and - in the worst/best case - you can change the family.

7. Enjoy

Okay, so far it sounded like you have to work, work, work, but I guarantee, you will also have time off. Sometimes it can be overwhelming so get out of the house. Meet your new friends for some drinks, go out on the weekends and travel. When you are in America you have the opportunity to visit  all this amazing places and it is so much cheaper to fly intercontinentally.
Try the local food and learn about the country's history and culture. Take pictures, make new experiences and get involved. By doing this you will have the time of your life. And that's what you deserve.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask! You can also write me an email at
nexttolondon@gmail.com  and I will respond asap!

Take care x

Five Things: Photo Editing Apps

Since Instagram had it's breakthrough there are so many photo editing apps you can download to make the best of your photos. You can add a filter here, a bit of lightning there until you are completely satisfied to upload your image. But because there are so many apps: how do you find the one who suits your needs and expectations? Here are five of the most useful apps which help me out a lot of the time!

Afterlight (£0,79): Afterlight is the holy grail of the most successful instagramers. It's brilliant in terms of filters and adding different frames (like a heart shaped one) to your pic.
This app contains a wide spectrum of features which make it possible for you to create a whole new atmosphere to your photo. You have to pay for it, but it's really affordable and so worth it.

VSCOcam (free): This is probably my most used + loved app. You have so many features and filters you can use to brighten/darken/sharpen up your pic. In the appstore it's also possible to download more filters, even for free! I also really like that you're able to create an account and you can browse through other peoples artwork. You can get it for free on the app store and it's the perfect alternative for Afterlight. Thumbs up for this!

Rhonna Designs (£1,49): This app is perfect to add things like a text, masks or frames to your picture. You can play around with different lightnings and to pimp your photo even more, you can add one of the preinstalled quotes to it. More packs are available to buy.

Fotor (free): Fotor is one of the "go-to"-apps you need on your phone. I think this app contains everything you need. It has a great flexibility when it comes to it's effects and features, and it is free! What more could a photographer heart desire?

Whitagram (free): If you just want to crop your image and add a frame to it - that's the app you need. It's really basic and super easy to use. Apparently you can't play around too much with it but since it's free, you can't lose!

What app do you use mostly to edit your images?
Take care x