*SP Hot or Not App Review

I recently got asked to write a review piece on a new photo sharing style app called Hot or Not. I read online that it originally started as an online photo rating website where you’d rate users pics from 1 – 10 and kind of spiralled from there into the world of mobile apps! From what I hear the app is really popular in the USA and is only just being taken on here in the UK, hence why I hadn’t heard of it before.

I downloaded it and decided to give it a whirl! To start with I didn’t really understand what I was doing, it was kind of confusing – basically you get your own user profile but instead of it taking me to that it seemed to take me to users in my area, however it was pretty easy to navigate and I got the hang of it in the end. The profile is just a really simple to use profile with a picture a bit of info and you can select your interests. I wasn’t sure if you’d be able to use images previously taken but you can so it makes setting up your personal hub pretty simple. If I am honest I don’t really know if the interests have any bearing on the people that appear in the feed or if it is just a little bit of a ‘get to know me’ kind of section. The app is free which naturally makes it super attractive to me – I am SO stingy when it comes to buying apps, the cheaper the better is what I think!

So what you do is you rate each picture ‘hot’ or ‘not’ – it’s pretty self explanatory really! You then get given an overall score; I believe this is worked out by an average of all the love shown. When you view someone, it also tells you the interests you have in common and your shared friends. You can add people and chat with them through the tab called Connections so it goes from being just another photo rating app to being one that’s fully integrated into the social networks. I think when you sign up you can even sign up with Facebook so it’s something that works well in social integration.

In my opinion it’s a great app for teens – it’s something you can imagine they’d use with their school friends. I’d say I have personally outgrown this type of app but it really depends what your friendship circle uses – It’s great to use along side other social networks rather than being standalone. It’s a pretty cool app that has loads of potential, like I say it’s great for kids keeping in touch and having a laugh with their friends as well as making new friends too.  Definitely one to watch out for! Click Here to download Hot or Not from the app store it is available from the Apple and Google Play stores.

If you loved this post then let me know on Twitter I’m over at @SamSquireBlog, and show Hot or Not some love on Facebook – click here to see their page!

*SP – This is a sponsored post, however, my opinions are all my own and this post was solely written by me. The blogging gremlins had no involvement!

American Hustler

American styles have slowly been leaking their way into the UK fashion marketplace. I found a really great black and white 'Michigan' print tee from Burton that has an American baseball kind of vibe about it. So, I took that shirt and decided to style it up to give it a casual street-wearable look. Click the links as usual to check out the items.

First off, let's start with the t-shirt. I am going to be a bit of a let down here because I have scanned the internet and now cannot find the t-shirt on any websites! I know it was from Burton so it may just be a line that has been replaced, however I did find this uglier one on the Burton website - maybe they replaced it with that? Shame. It's a great look, it's quite a slouchy, baggy t-shirt and works really well with the overall outfit. 

 Apparently the weather is turning and getting chillier, which not only upsets my soul somewhat but also makes me absolutely need a jacket!  For the past year or so I have been a big fan of the bomber jacket style, this jacket I got from River Island last year and since then they have become extremely popular. Whilst they don't stock this one anymore, they have some absolutely corkers, click here, here and here to see my top 3 favourites that they stock at the minute - I may have to treat myself! 

And to keep your little ears warm you'll obviously need a hat! I got this Freshman hat around Christmas time from New Look. I got it in red, I cant seem to find it in red now but they do still stock it in grey - the even better part to this is it is now discounted to just £3 down from £9.99! That is a serious bargain. Click here to check it out.

Finally, to make that outfit a little bit snazzy, you need to get yourself some accessories! I'm a watch kind of guy, believe me - I literally own tonnes of them.  I picked the Fossil watch because I simply love the brand and their vintage inspired timepieces - the Decker Chronograph is made from black stainless steel so whilst it isn't too in your face it does still has a strong presence on your wrist. This was priced at £115.  I teamed it with a chunky gold chain bracelet just to add a bit of colour and draw attention to that super classy watch - this was £6 in the Topman sale so whilst it is a bargain - it is also a really great addition to your wrist.

So that is my super on trend American inspired outfit! What do you think? What latest trends in men's fashion and you rocking? Drop me your comments in the section below or on Twitter @SamSquireBlog - Also, I am currently working on a top secret new venture! It is going to be really cool and I cant wait for you to all see what it is, give it a follow on twitter @FramedReckless.

AgonySam - Solving Lifes Big Issues

As you know I've been adding some new segments to the blog that will become weekly features. I cannot believe what a success my previous post #FMOTW was. I am totally overwhelmed by it! Here is another new segment, it's my AgonySam column in which I answer your questions and try to help you out with issues life throws your way! You can get involved by either dropping me a Tweet @SamSquireBlog, or, you can send me an email with your questions samsquireblog@gmail.com. All information is kept anonymous, I will not share your name with any story!

I want a promotion in my new job, how do I ask for this? – Anon­

Hold your horses tiger, you ‘want’ a promotion but do you deserve one? Let’s not become power crazy.  At the end of the day, progression in the workplace should be natural not forced. You say it’s a new job, you need to prove to your boss that you’re worthy of it over the people that have been there longer than you. What do you bring to the table that no one else does and why is this progression quite so important to you? Work out your priorities, more power means more responsibility and can mean more stress, do you want the added stress or are you okay going along as you are? One thing I would say for your situation is that you definitely should not even consider asking your boss for a promotion, unless by promotion you mean new job.

I’m falling in love with my best male friend, what do I do? - Anon

Before you consider doing anything, you need to think this through.  First off, the most important question is are you really in love with him or do you just think he’s a bit of alright? Second, how will this news affect your friendship, you don’t want to be going somewhere that is simply going to make things awkward! Finally, does he feel the same? I don’t just mean is he a flirt or has he called you pretty, I am talking emotion. Love sure is a confusing thing and at the end of the day, is it worth risking a friendship if you aren’t sure what to do? This is something you personally have to work out and answer; it isn’t something I can give you a definitive answer for because it is so personal to you. Good luck!

I have low self esteem, how do I become confident and happy in myself? - Anon

Personally I don’t understand why anyone should have low self esteem; we are all great in different ways.  You should never feel like someone is better than you, of course you can see their strong points but we all have our kryptonite, some are just better at hiding it than others! The main one I hate is the image one, don’t let anyone make you feel like you’re ugly, because in fact, they are the ugly ones.  You will simply get nowhere in life with an ugly personality, putting people down isn’t great and only inflates their egos for a few minutes before they remember that their life isn’t all that perfect!

I’m ready to move out from my parents’ house but I don’t want to do it alone, what should I do? - Anon

This is big! First of congratulations, it’s great you can admit to being ready, and to be quite honest with you, if you feel ready then I highly doubt you need a friend to hold your hand along the way!  It is a massive jump to make, suddenly you have to do it all for yourself and experience life, but that’s awesome, there is so much great stuff out there for you to see and experience so don’t let it go to waste! If you really don’t feel like you’re strong enough to take the leap on your own, I am sure you have friends in the same situation, why not mention it? I am sure someone will notice your predicament and will feel the same. Good luck in your move!

I want to go to university this year but I’m scared of not knowing anyone, do you have any tips? – Anon

I didn’t personally want the university experience – don’t get me wrong, I love a party but after a turbulent time in Sixth Form I felt I’d had enough of institutional learning. However, I know this much, everyone is in the same boat and that’s great – you all start fresh in a new city, a new home to start the next progression in your life.  There is no issue with feeling anxious at all but I guarantee if you talk to any Universities about this then they will reassure you that in that first couple of weeks you make some awesome bonds with your fellow students.  A really great website for advice is ‘The Student Room’ if you Click Here then there is some great tips on there, just make sure you ignore the bozo’s that naturally feel the need to comment on forums – we yawn at them! Enjoy Uni, I reckon you’ll be fine!

Fashionable Man of the Week: Ollie Proudlock

Power to the fashionable man! Welcome to my new segment I have started, its #FMOTW and will happen (hopefully) every Friday. I wanted to kick off this fashionable feature with a guy I take major style inspiration from - he's got quality style that is resonated in his Serge DeNimes collections, if you haven't already, you have got to check them out. If you haven't already guessed, or read the title above, this week I have interviewed Made in Chelsea star, rocker of the man bun and all round fashionable man, Ollie Proudlock.

Image from Ollie's Official Twitter @OliverProudlock

Sam - How would you describe your style in 5 words?

Ollie - Urban, Diverse, Nineties, Laid Back, Eclectic.

Sam - I think it's great having a diverse style, don't always follow the crowd and leave your fashion stamp on eyes everywhere!

Sam - Would you say you're an indie or a big brand kind of guy?

Ollie - I prefer the more independent brands as you can find more unique pieces, but I love Ralph Lauren, Diesel and other designers so it really depends, if there is an item I like I will buy it. 

Sam - You really can find some real unique pieces from indie collections.

Sam - Who is your style inspiration?

Ollie - I have a few, but I think my main style inspiration is Johnny Depp – he always gets it right. 

Sam - He has great style! His red carpet look is always super sophisticated.  

Sam - Out of all your MiC cast mates, who would you say is best dressed? 

Ollie - I think Rosie Fortescue has the best style, its always impeccable and has some really cool items.

Sam - Rosie is really well dressed, I like Binky's style too, I like how she can dress so casual.

Sam: Who is your go-to designer? 

Ollie: I have a few, but I love Ralph Lauren and Tom Ford.

Sam: Tom Ford have some great sunglasses in their collections, I'm a fan! 

Sam: Finally, how would you say your style has evolved over the years?

Ollie: I think it has just evolved with me growing up, but its hard to say. I think I am braver now than I used to be, I like to try new styles, but I am still as laid back with fashion as I have always been.   

Sam: I agree, growing up your style will progress with you but experimenting with it is a good thing to do, you have a really great and unique style.

Thanks so much to Proudlock for answering my questions! Why don't you pop over and follow us both on twitter? @OliverProudlock and @SamSquireBlog. Definitely a well deserved #FMOTW don't you think? Who do you want to see interviewed in future?

  

 

New Fave Thing

Hiya!

So for Christmas I got a neat little gadget that claims to clear your skin right up on your face. It's the LABSONIC face cleaning device from Sirius Skincare. It's basically a really good dupe for the Clarisonic brushes, actually, most reviews I have read seem to think this is a tonne better than the Clarisonic. 

 At a little over £40 compared to £99 for Clarisonic's cheapest device, you're looking at a super affordable and effective gadget that you will find yourself being unable to live without! With 5 different interchagable heads, you're able to massage, cleanse, microdermabrasion, hydrate and exfoliate.  A much more impressive collection than its competitor.  This is available from Boots here in the UK so it's really accessible.  I only have a couple of issues with this system, first off, the heads have to obviously be changed every 3 months or so.  I've had a few issues searching for replacement heads, I would have thought Boots would sell them but they don't seem to.  My second issue is that sometimes water can get into the battery compartment, after use I always ensure I take it apart and dry it fully before popping it in its handy little stand. 

What I use with it:
I use the Eve Taylor purifying wash on a daily basis, you can get a 200ml bottle for £14.80, click here to buy it. This leaves your skin feeling really smooth and clean.  When I want to give my skin a really deep clean, I use the Microdermabrasion Gel from pH Advantage - this is something of a more high end product, this is £40 for a 130ml bottle, however, I have had this ages and I am nowhere near in need of a new bottle, it lasts for ages and gets rid of all the dead skin and feel like it gets deep in the pores for a really deep cleanse. Click here to buy it.

Have you got any sneaky skincare tips or tricks? Share them in the comments below! Follow me on Twitter @SamSquireBlog.

Chat soon!

 

In (collar) tip top condition!

Hey!

Just a quick post today! As we know by now, I have a slight penchant for the odd collar tip here and there, so you can imagine my quite frankly utter delight when I ventured into Topman, darting past the indie kids along the way to find they had several collar tips reduced to just £2.  Now, I don't know if it is just me but in all honesty I would most likely buy anything reduced to £2 in fear that I am missing out on an amazing offer.  I can't supply links to these products as I have searched online and can't find them, total mare!

So, as you gather, I bought me some new collar tips! The first ones are animal skull things, I literally have no idea what the animal is, like some kind of cow with horns...I have no clue, David Attenborough I'm surely not. I'd normally just stick to the casual pointed tip, however, I was feeling brave and giddy with deals so couldn't resist!

Did someone mention a casual point? The second pair are just a standard collar tip, they have a kind of Aztec print along the sides of the point, they zing them up a little. These were also £2 and I feel these would go really well with a smart-casual look.

Have you nabbed yourselves any deals? I know right, 20p for a years supply of cabbage is too good to miss out on! As usual, drop me a tweet @SamSquireBlog or leave a comment below!

Byeeeee!

Top of the Shops

Hola Amigos! 

I hope you're all doing great and I seriously hope your NYE hangover has gone, if not then I think as a group we will stage an intervention...ha!  Now I know it's pretty laborious to shop the sales and find a good buy, so me being the helpful human that I am have done it for you...you just need to do the payment bit, seriously, I'm not that helpful!  Here are my top 3 picks for the sales - click the images as per to be taken to buy the product!

1. 25% OFF Orange Mixed Yarn Beanie - topman.co.uk

No one likes a chilly earlobe and at £2.00 for this mini beanie, you have absolutely no excuse! This on-trend rusty orange beanie has a cool 25% knocked off it's original £8 price tag, this is one of many amazing offers on Topman you really shouldn't miss out on!

2. 50% OFF Calvin Klein 3 pack boxers - www.usc.co.uk

They're a necessity every guy needs, and lets face it, we all want a pair of posh pants! USC currently have this 3 pack of CK Boxer Briefs in their sale for a super cool £18 (was £36) you have a whopping 50% saving! Take advantage because it's a really popular offer! 

3. £9.99 OFF Dog Print Knit - newlook.co.uk

It's a new year so you could consider a new look, what better place to hit the racks than New Look? Now, I know you'll be questioning my fashion knowledge when it comes to this one but I actually think it's kind of endearingly ugly, as we all know this holiday season I have had a penchant for the odd ugly jumper. This is no exception. I'd absolutely wear it, plus with £9.99 off, this beauty(?) is now only £10, love a bargain!  

So, that lot should easily get you on your way to a fantastic new wardrobe for 2014! Have you grabbed yourself a bargain you think I need to know about? Drop me a tweet @SamSquireBlog or alternatively leave a comment below!

See you next time

 

I walked up a hill...Outfit Post!

Hello!

Before I start happy blummin new year folks! 2013 was an absolutely crazy year for me, so much happened and I can honestly say I really hope this year is as good as last! I hope you all had an awesome night last night, what did you do for NYE?! So I've had a bit of a spending spree lately, quite frankly an intervention needs to happen for all of our sakes! Here's just one of my new outfits that I am loving for 2014.  How stunning are the pics? They're taken up at a folly at a stately home I live near, it doesn't look it but Crikey Moses was that hill big! 

The fashion sales have been super good don't you think? Most of this outfit is from Burton.co.uk I am a big fan of Burton, they do some great pieces that are always on trend. First up we have the beanie, it was super cheap, just £5! Cant beat a good old bargain and I need to keep my ears warm, plenty of heat escapes those trophy ears! 

Next up we have the plaid shirt, it's a really warm flannelette kind of material, this was down to £12 in the sale and the bright, vibrant orange check print caught my eye straight away! I wasn't looking for a shirt at all, if anything I wouldn't really say I am a shirt kind of guy, I guess my style is evolving!

Now for my annoying part, my jeans. I got myself a pair of the famous spray-on skinny jeans from Topman.co.uk however, me being me managed to buy them before the sales, thus paying the full price, then a load went into the sales, utter mare! However, these are literally my favourite jeans right now. I know they get some negative comments, some people don't like to see a bit of leg, but please, it's 2014 - live a little! I finished off the outfit with a pair of Nike Blazers in a grey colour. I've got to say, I bought my Blazers a while ago and they've been put through a lot but after a spin in the washing machine, they literally look good as new!

What's your top 2014 trends? Let me know by commenting below or dropping me a tweet @SamSquireBlog!

Chat soon!