BRAND FOCUS: THE ORDINARY

9 Oct 2017

Undoubtedly a brand who have made their mark on the skincare world over the last twelve months, The Ordinary, and their highly-coveted line of products, have achieved cult status for a number of reasons. Their products are effective; simple and ingredient-focused formulas allow prices to remain low, and products aren't clouded with overwhelming marketing gimmicks - honesty and clarity stand at the heart of the brand. 

The Ordinary remain part of umbrella brand Deciem, alongside NIOD and Hylamide. The line is noticeably more affordable than that of sister brands, yet without falling behind on performance. All products are free from parabens and sulfates (preservatives linked to cancers), mineral oils (comedogenic), and animal oils, as well as openly abstaining from animal testing. 


The Ordinary are a breath of fresh air in an overwhelming world of serums and potions. However, the informative labels can seem unfamiliar at first. To point newbies in the right direction, here's a fairly detailed breakdown of my faves from the brand.


Salicyclic Acid 2% Solution


It's a beta-hydroxy acid, a keratolytic, comedolytic and bacteriostatic agent. This essentially means that salicyclic acid causes shedding of the outer-layer of skin - it exfoliates, and it fights blemishes. It's incredibly effective because of its chemical structure: two hydroxy molecules are separated by two carbon atoms, which makes salicyclic acid oil soluble. Oil soluble substances can penetrate the skin easily, and target deeper layers of congestion. 

Use it after you've cleansed and (if you do) toned, but before any heavier creams or oils. You could dot it onto any blemishes for a targeted treatment, or apply a small amount all over for generally improved skin clarity. 

Notes - salicyclic acid can be drying, so avoid applying to the entire face if your skin is already dry or dehydrated. 

Lactic Acid 5% and HA 2%


Lactic acid, the stuff that makes your legs hurt after a run, is p. good for your face. It's an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), so essentially breaks down the sort of 'glue' that holds onto your old, dull skin cells, alongside mildly exfoliating. The Ordinary's solution also contains Tasmanian pepperberry, which works to reduce inflammation and skin sensitivity. Using this product will result in improved skin texture, as well as reduced breakouts. 

You can apply this to your face daily if you're an experienced acid user (!), but if you're new to AHA's, try every other day at first. Use it in the evenings, all over the face, before night-time moisturiser. The Ordinary's website recommends diluting it to begin with. 

Notes - AHA's can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, so apply this in the evening, rather than at the beginning of a day. Always protect your skin with an SPF; try to find a primer or tinted moisturiser that offers some sort of sun-protection. 

AHA 30% and BHA 2% Peeling Solution 



If the name of this one doesn't freak you out, the colour certainly will. A '10-minute exfoliating facial' utilises the following AHA's: glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid. On top of that, salicyclic acid is in there too, 'cos why not? Like we've previously touched on, the salicyclic acid (BHA) in this allows it to penetrate the surface of the skin to provide a slightly deeper exfoliation, this means a brighter and more even skin tone, as well as reduced congestion. It's essentially a [more] powerful mixture of the two products above. 

Not to be messed with, you can use this as a mask, but no more than twice per week - especially if, like me, you incorporate milder acids into your daily skincare routine. Wash an thoroughly dry face, apply a thin layer over the face. After no more than 10 minutes, rinse away with warm water. 

Notes - This is a formula containing very high concentrations of direct acids, don't make this the first thing you try from the brand. It also smells quite weird, btw.

High-Adherence Silicone Primer 


The formula for this super sticky (in a good way) primer uses adaptive silicones that sit on the surface of the skin, creating a smooth surface for makeup to be applied to. It hydrates, it mattifies, and it blurs imperfections. Foundation looks better, and it stays around longer, too.

Use this as the final step in your skincare routine, before makeup application. It can also be worn alone, for naturally enhanced skin and less shine. 

Notes - Silicone has been known to cause breakouts, but that shouldn't be a problem if you cleanse at the end of the day.

100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rosehip Seed Oil


Literally just rosehip seed oil, but it's unrefined, so it's super rich in linoleic acid, linolenic acid (both are hydrating and assist in healing skin), and vitamin A. It works to correct dark spots, it hydrates skin, it reduces irriations, fights against scarring, and helps to prevent fine lines. There's honestly no downside to using rosehip oil, and it's suitable for all skin types. 

Apply it once daily, all over the face, probably after all those acids! My skin can be oily during the day, so I prefer to apply it before bed.



Next on my The Ordinary to-buy list: Glycolic Toning Solution and the Serum Foundation. If only they weren't constantly sold out!







ON WEARING RED

18 Sept 2017

Widely used as a feature of symbolism in literature, the colour red has captivated for years. Its historical fascination transcends popular culture, as well as the natural world, and perhaps the allure relates to the colours dual identity. While it has often been a symbol of fertility, love, and lust (The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood), red is also regularly associated with danger, anger, and sin (The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne). 

Flashback to February of this year, and New York fashion week pronounced red to be the colour of A/W 2017. Seven months later, and the temperature is undeniably dropping - so how will you be wearing the most conspicuous colour of the season?


Hoodie and bra: both Weekday


1. Tonal Blocking


Obviously, red is about being seen, and there's nothing that will smack people in the face like a head-to-toe outfit in one colour. Not for the faint-hearted, committing to this bold look is v. brave. Take advice from Pandora Sykes in this Man Repeller feature, and make sure one item you're wearing doesn't match. It'll break apart the outfit, and you won't look 'like a crayon'. 


2. Denim


Ruby bought this H&M red denim jacket, now she and the jacket have become one and she is slightly closer to her dream (probably) of becoming the SOS emoji. Then, I got this ASOS denim skirt (which I can only describe as spicy), and I now feel incredibly dull if I go out wearing anything but. I think the only thing red denim has taught us here is that it is extremely addictive. 

3. Accessories


If, for some reason, you don't feel like walking around town in a head-to-toe ketchup outfit, there are more subtle ways to wear the trend. Statement red accessories such as a pair of earrings, a red hat (military-chic), or cross-body bag mean that the colour can be incorporated into any wardrobe without being so audacious. 

4. Beauty


An obvious way to introduce a bit of red into your beauty routine would be on nails or lip colour - which is fine. However, red on the eyes is much more interesting. Re-purpose a liquid lipstick such as this Gerard Cosmetics one, and apply a wing using a thin angled eyeliner brush.  Alternately, sweep a gold shimmer over your entire lid, and use a bright red shadow to highlight the inner-third of your lower lashline a la Solange.



Disclaimer: If you're going to opt for the fully red outfit, don't stand next to a post box with your mouth open. 

EARRINGS ARE ALL THAT MATTER RIGHT NOW

10 Aug 2017

There's a very fine line between chav and chic, and it's a line I like to walk dangerously close to - much to the disapproving looks from my own mother. I remember being 13, and all I wanted was a pair of chunky gold hoops from Elizabeth Duke at Argos. My mum hated them, and I didn't have the finances. Eight years later,  I think I've got some sort of complex, because statement earrings still make me feel the same kinda way.


A woman at the forefront of this trend; Eastenders' Pat Butcher has been mocked for her courageous jewellery choices. Although earrings have a much longer and more complex history than most people realise, the iconic Pat might be the catalyst to statement earrings being all over SS17 catwalks - and I'm not ready to let go of the trend just yet. 

 
[Pictured] A small sample of my superfluous collection. The yellow pair were the first I bought which could be categorised as 'statement', and I wear them when I want to feel more like Frida Kahlo. Since then, I've become more partial to a bolder look - hence the green and pink pair being a more recent acquisition.
N.B. Lemon not worn as earring, obvs. 

   

A statement pair of earrings has the same magical ability as a bold lipstick - creating the illusion you made much more effort than you really did. Pulling your hair into a bun takes two minutes, but adding earrings makes the look night-out-worthy. I honestly can't remember the last time I went out without a pair, so maybe I should give my earlobes a break... probs won't though.



JANUARY TO JUNE READING LIST

6 Aug 2017

BEST READ - The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri

After reading and loving the author-establishing Interpreter of Maladies for my degree, I decided to explore more of Jhumpa Lahiri's writing. The Namesake is her first novel and, just like her debut collection of short stories, is inspired by her Bengali heritage. 

The novel begins with the story of the Ganguli family as they leave behind their life in Calcutta to settle in Massachusetts. When their first son is born, Bengali tradition says Ashima and Ashoke's new baby will be named by Ashima's grandmother, and she will send her choice by post. When no letter arrives, Ashoke settles on Gogol - an ode to the Russian dramatist whose work nursed him through an accident years prior.

Conflicted between his parents' Bengali ideas and traditions and the North-East American world he's growing up in, Gogol Ganguli becomes Nikhil. The story resonates Lahiri's own experiences, teaching otherwise unknowing readers of her own culture and struggles as the daughter of Bengali Indian emigrants. 

Crafted with pleasing language and an unpretentious narrative, The Namesake has deservedly received a plethora of positive reviews and a number of awards. 

★★★★★

UNFINISHED READ - Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood


My first encounter with Margaret Atwood was in 2013 when I read The Handmaid's Tale, and have since re-read twice. Atwood's writing was enthralling, and the novel shocked me. The opening book of a three-part series, I intended to feel the same way about Oryx and Crake and its two sequels, yet I gave up 3/4 of the way through only the first novel. 

Surrounded by a post-apocalyptic world, Snowman (previously known as Jimmy) is struggling to survive. He narrates the stories of his life before mankind was consumed by plague, including his infatuation with Oryx, and the death of his best friend Crake. 


For me, the narrative of the life of Oryx (and Snowman's relationship with her) was unusually tragic - it seemed almost ill-fitting. As the novel progresses, the science fiction themes become increasingly prominent, which is maybe what caused me to lose interest. Margaret Atwood's writing is engaging and thought-provoking, but the genre of this book just wasn't for me. 


★★☆☆☆

OTHER PUBLICATIONS - Oh Comely


I've read magazines my entire life, but towards the end of last year I'd fallen out of love with my numerous subscriptions. I wanted to read something inspiring, joyful, and refreshing; then I discovered Oh Comely.

Oh Comely claims to be 'a curious, honest and playful independent magazine'. Each issue is centred around a theme, and it comes together with the submissions of readers all over the country. Their latest issue, 'Touch', is inspired by feeling. It features an interview with Josie Long about our political climate, life models' experiences, and instructions for making origami cranes. It's a bi-monthly magazine that encourages readers to be unapologetic, to create, to learn, to live - and each issue is printed on the back with #onegoodthing to be grateful for. 


Issue 38 is already with subscribers, but will be in shops from August 10th. 

PLAYLIST: FEBRUARY 2016

6 Mar 2016

All through February, I've spent a lot of time working, as well as travelling between Hull, Manchester, and Newcastle. We're into the second term of university, ergo most of this month's listening has been during my daily commute, and on many long train journeys. It's been a short but busy month, and this is the music I've been listening to through it all.



1. Fool's Gold LA - I'm In Love (Poolside Remix)

Fool's Gold, an LA-based band, released this in 2014, and I'm a bit disappointed about how late I am to it. This version has been remixed by Poolside, a duet also based in LA. I can't say I've ever been too much into music from the U.S, but this is funky.

2. Flume - Never Be Like You feat. Kai

Flume is baaaacccckkk, and just as commendable as ever; this electronic track is first-rate. Flume has firmly established his signature style, making his tracks instantly recognisable, and resulting in me using words such as 'Flume-esque' to describe other music.  

3. Pools - Summer Sunday

There's not much I can tell you about Pools, but it won't stop you enjoying this mellow track. Its name describes the perfect time for this song to be enjoyed, but I don't wanna save it just for then. It's relaxed and smooth, and will leave you lusting for warmer afternoons. 

4. Kenton Slash Demon - Syko

Denmark-based Kenton Slash Demon have recently produced this unique track, and some of the comments suggest it to be quite Burial-influenced. I found this through recommendation of Flume, and if it's good enough for him, it's good enough for me. The Harpe/Skyo EP is out now with Future Classic, and there's a music video for Harpe here.

5. Ida Engberg & David West - Abataka

This is something really different. The track is supporting a charity project called 'It Began in Africa', which was set up to aid children in their fight against poverty. The description states that "All profits made from the sale of this compilation will be donated to The African Children's Choir and their further projects; i.e. building schemes, the founding of nurseries, and schools to help children get away from a life on the streets." The message behind this is amazing. 

6. COEO - Back In The Days

This track comes from duo COEO, and it's much more 'deep house' than I'm usually into. I like how the energy grows throughout, and we're kept hanging on till the last minute; 2:34 is where it really peaks. Released by Toy Tonics at the end of January, this one will be on my party playlist for a while. 


For more of my playlist picks, check out my Soundcloud profile. 

Playlist artwork by Gunta Stölzl. 

NOTES ON WINTER BEAUTY

10 Feb 2016

The north of England has been bitten by the frosty Winter bug and I'm shrivelling into a dry prune. As with a lot of people, my skin is much dryer this time of year, which creates a plethora of problems. How can I moisturise without being oily? I don't want my skin to look dull etc. Alongside my flaky face: dry hair. I need nourishing products to assist me from November through to March; here I've compiled a list of examples which work for me. 

1) Eucerin Replenishing Face Cream

My daily morning moisturiser, Eucerin Replenishing Face Cream with 5% Urea, is specifically tailored for dry skin. Urea is a humectant naturally produced by the body to keep skin hydrated. However, as we age our skin tends to produce less - resulting in dryness. Eucerin have created a product that reintroduces Urea back into the skin to make it soft and bouncy, while also suitably preparing the skin for makeup application.

2) Jojoba Oil

Each night, I like to moisturise with oils. Jojoba oil is what people in the biz call a carrier oil, and I add tea tree and lavender oil to the mixture (a relaxing ritual before sleep). I'm not loyal to any particular brand, but the one I'm currently using is Balm Balm Jojoba Oil. It is 100% organic, inexpensive and suitable for the most sensitive of skins. 

3) Lush Mask of Magnaminty

A product popular with many people and for a very good reason: it really works. This inexpensive minty mask is self-preserving and smells refreshing. According to the packaging, it 'does everything it can to fight eruptions and outbreaks and return skin to tip top condition'. Its combined effects are rarely found together in one product: fighting outbreaks, brightening, non-drying and balancing. I tend to use this once a week.

4) Milk_shake Whipped Cream Leave-In Foam

For a long time I've used the spray version of this product, but since early January I've added in the more heavy duty Leave-In Foam. It balances oils in the hair and maintains colour integrity (something you may be interested in if you use dye). Suitable for all hair types, this is a product that moisturises without making hair look greasy. Apply from mid-lengths to ends of wet hair. Milk_shake products are limitedly available in a cute pink bottle for their breast cancer campaign.

5) Pixi Makeup Fixing Mist

Containing Rose Water and Green tea, this product is incredibly nourishing.  Applied before or after makeup (I tend to after), Pixi Makeup Fixing Mist adds a soft focus finish and really locks makeup into the face. It hydrates and balances while tightening pores, it also can be reapplied throughout the day to refresh the skin and makeup. Pixi are unsurprisingly famous for their skincare products, including the famous Glow Tonic, which I am also a huge fan of.





What are your winter beauty essentials?








PLAYLIST: MAY 2015

29 May 2015

Thank the Lord, May is over. This month seems to have been the longest and most tedious in my (almost) 20 years of living, so I'm happy to have it out the way and finally be looking forward to summer. In this edition of the monthly playlist, make sure to look out for revision motivation and end of uni celebrations, along with some old songs and a few new releases. 



1. Klaves - Come On

MikiÅ‚aj Gramowski (a.k.a. Klaves), is a young DJ from Poland to be keeping an eye on in the next few months. This Eton Messy release is one of his latest; it's upbeat and appealing, apparently something I desperately needed to push me towards my essay word counts. His next release is an EP, due at some point this year. 

2. Childish Gambino - Sober (LeMarquis Cover)


Who knew LeMarquis could sing. This cover by the French producer is much more mellow and sedated than Childish Gambino's original. It's one of the heavier tracks on the playlist, yet remains similar to the others in terms of it's steady beat and distinctive vocals. It's a modern rendition of one of Childish Gambino's most familiar sounds. 


3. Major Lazer & DJ Snake - Lean On ft. MØ 


At the beginning of the month, I managed to get hold of tickets to Major Lazer at Manchester Academy, hosted by Warehouse Project. Since then, I've been on a bit of a binge. MØ's vocals add a softened element to this, not present in other Major Lazer's other wok, which makes this one of their standout tracks. 


4. Disclosure - Holding On ft. Gregory Porter

On the 27th, in the form of BBCR1's hottest record, we were brought this new track from Disclosure and Gregory Porter - a collaboration I held incredibly high hopes for. It's an electrifying mix of signature Diclosure beats combined with Porter's silky smooth vocals that will 


5. Stefano Ritteri - You're My Lover


Released by Glasgow Underground in March this year, a track sampling the vocals from The Emotions' 'I Could Never Be Happy'. It's an unexpected crossover, starting with a strong foundation of tech house for the fun disco vocals to be built on top of. Definitely one for the dance floor. 


6. Kaasi - Those Days


Released this coming Tuesday (2nd June), will be Kaasi's latest EP 'Tramuntana'. In true Kaasi style, Those Days is incredibly laid back and light, everything he creates seems to float. It's minimalist and refreshing, something to chill out to in the late afternoon. Imperturbable would be a good word to describe this sound.

7. Flume - Some Minds ft. Andrew Wyatt


The top rated comment for this video is from TheSoundYouNeed and it states 'There is a god and his name is Flume'. My personal affinity with him began in the summer of 2013 and I feel everyone who encounters his music, can't help but love him intensely. This new release seems a bit unfamiliar at first, but around the 3 minute mark becomes unmistakably 'Flumey', and so my loyalty as a fan of his continues as I remain hopeful for a 2nd album. 


8. James Bay - Let It Go (Jack Steadman Remix)



Although James Bay isn't someone I saw myself listening to, if you throw Jack Steadman in there, I'm up for anything. A classic Steadman remix cushions Bay's vocals, to massively enhance the original track. 


For more frequent updates on what I'm listening to, head over to my Soundcloud. 

PICTURES: MANCHESTER ART GALLERY AND A BRASS BAND

15 May 2015

After living in Manchester for the past 9 months, I'm surprised I've not seen more of the city. My friend Conor and I decided to take a trip to Manchester Art Gallery, to have a look at some of their current exhibitions. Following this, we headed to a bar in Northern Quarter, where we learned that The New York Brass Band were playing on the roof of a car park that evening! 













PLAYLIST: APRIL 2015

27 Apr 2015


1. Pomo  - Feel The Same Way

Starting the playlist with this from Pomo. Thanks to Annie Mac for posting this onto my Soundcloud feed; it's smooth, slow (but not too slow) and nicely chilled. If you close your eyes, you can imagine partying on a white sandy beach; instead of sitting in the dark on your squeaky student accommodation bed.

2. Konna Summer - Bad Girls

A song that will stick in your head for days. Funky and timeless; it's a good one for late night groovin' and feeling empowered. This was reposted onto my feed by my good friend Jake - click his name to go to his Soundcloud profile. 

3. Stardust - Music Sounds Better With You

By no means a recent release (1998) but still an amazing song. Thomas Bangalter, who made up half of Daft Punk, collaborated with 2 others under the name 'Stardust' to produce this iconic, electronic 90s hit. I feel when you know that, the Daft Punk vibes are obvious. 

4. Jacques Greene - Another Girl

Back to chilling, now with Jacques Greene: a Canadian DJ and producer who brought this out in 2011. It's simple and powerful, with slow and gentle beats that would be perfect mixed with a late night turned early morning. 

5. Laurence Guy - W.L.Y.B

This song is beautiful and peaceful, thank you to Angus for introducing it to me. At 4:17 you'll be lingering for a drop, but instead it gently increases to something a bit heavier, where it dangles until 4:48. I don't have the ability to use words to give this song the praise it deserves; it's gorgeous. 

6. The Beach - Thieves (KAASI Remix)

I don't think I've ever heard anything from Kaasi that I haven't loved, and this is no exception. It's melancholy and resonant, in the best way possible. An overwhelming theme throughout this playlist seems to be 'chilled' and Thieves fits right in.

7. HNNY - Yogalates

Jumping straight to a way more upbeat tone, this song is fun and sunny, with a lot more electronic vibes than most of the others in this playlist. It's groovy, catchy and something a bit different from what I'm used to. It's good, but it's definitely not an afterparty song.  

8. Romare - Jimmy's Lament

This song is originally much slower, but  has been sped up to 45rpm by Octochamp. I heard it on an Arp Aubert Guest Mix, following Yogalates; so I thought it would be only natural to bring them to this playlist as a pair. The piano loops bring something a bit jazzy, and just like Yogalates, I think it's groovy and fun.


Hope you've enjoyed this playlist! As always, head over to my Soundcloud if you want to hear this kind of thing more frequently. Also, if anyone knows of anywhere in Manchester that plays music you think I would like, please let me know! I'm sick of hearing Oasis and The Courteeners on nights out. 







CURRENT EVERYDAY FACE

23 Apr 2015


My recent delve into the world of make-up has found me trying out a few brands other than the beloved Mac; something which would have the 15 year old me spinning in her grave. This is a post to walk you through how I've incorporated those products into my Everyday Makeup Routine.

Base




I like a full coverage, and something I recently discovered is the NARS All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation. It claims to provide a 'full but natural' coverage, as well as being 'weightless' and staying put for 16 hours. Having used this for the past week (in the hottest days of 2015 so far), I can say it really delivers. I use 2 pumps for my entire face and work quickly, blending with a Real Techniques Buffing Brush - as it sets into your skin straight away. I use the shade 'Gobi' or 'light 3', as my face is the same colour as a sheet of paper. If you live in Manchester I'd suggest heading to the NARS counter in Selfridges; I was served by Layla and she gave me a lovely makeover. 

To cover any blemishes and redness not masked by the foundation, I use MAC Pro Longwear Concealer in NC15 (their lightest cool-toned shade). I tend to apply this around my nose and, if I have any, my spots - tapping in with my fingers. 

I then apply the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer underneath my eyes, to conceal and brighten. Using the shade 'Chantilly', I smudge into place with the wand then blend out with a beauty blender. 

It's important to set your base if you want it to stay all day, so I use MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in 'Medium' - applying in a tapping motion rather than sweeping, over my t-zone. 

The last two products on my base include MAC Cheek Colour in the shade 'Immortal Flower' - now sadly discontinued. I finish my base off with Topshop Highlighter in 'Horizon', brushed over my cheekbones and cupid's bow. 


EYES


After I've brushed my brows upwards with a spooley, I use a thin angled brush to apply the tinted cream from the Sleek Eyebrow Kit in short strokes. I use the shade 'dark', because I like to imagine myself looking somewhat like Frida Kahlo. 

A recent purchase has been the Topshop Nude Eyes in the shade 'Stripped'. I use my finger to apply over the lid and blend with a fluffy brush to create a 'my-eyes-but-better' look - does that phrase work in this context?

The last thing I do is curl my lashes, then apply excessive amounts of both Benefit's Roller Lash and Origins Ginzing Radiant Mascara. 

If I'm feeling fancy, I'll apply something to the lips - but that varies from day to day and is usually either MAC Naked Liner and Please Me, or the Rimmel London Exaggerate Lip Liner in 'Eastend Snob', which are all basically the same colour anyway. *pouts*




LIV BAKES: NUTELLA FILLED CHOCOLATE CHUNK COOKIES

15 Apr 2015

I'm home from Uni for Easter and the house has been empty, so I filled some of my spare time by doing a bit of baking. As well as making a complete mess in the kitchen, I put together some Nutella Filled Chocolate Chunk Cookies. Complete with sea salt sprinkled on top.




The cookies use browned butter in their recipe, which means they take on a dark and nutty flavour. To brown butter, you need to heat it in a shallow pan over a medium heat, stirring continuously until it changes to a caramel colour.



Something I noticed with these cookies is that they tend to be better the day after baking, as they're too soft when not completely cool. If you're making these as a present or for an event, ideal time to bake would be the evening before. 

Ingredients:
  • 225g unsalted butter
  • a jar of nutella
  • 315g plain flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 212g brown sugar
  • 56g granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 tblsp sour cream
  • 340g choc chips (i used chopped dark chocolate)

Method:

  1. Put your nutella in the fridge a while before. This will make it easier to add the nutella to your cookies later on.
  2. Preheat oven to 160-180 degrees celsius, depending on whether it is fan assisted or not. 
  3. You need to brown your butter, so place it in a shallow pan over a medium heat. When it begins to foam, whisk constantly untill it turns a golden brown colour. Remove it from the heat and put aside in a glass bowl to cool.
  4. Combine all dry ingredients (minus the sugar and choc chips) in a seperate bowl. 
  5. To the browned butter, add the sugars and whisk untill combined. Follow with the egg and egg yolk, vanilla and sour cream. 
  6. Slowly add the dry ingredients, mixing thoroughly. Finally add the chocolate chips. 
  7. A good idea is to put the mixture in the fridge for a few hours. Putting a chilled cookie mixture in the oven will stop the cookies spreading out whilst cooking, leaving you with big chunky cookies. 
  8. Remove the mixture from the fridge and separate into small balls, placing on baking paper on a baking tray. Gently flatten out the balls and place a teaspoon of nutella in the middle of each one. Fold the edges of the cookie over and make sure no nutella is visible.
  9. Bake the cookies for around 9-11 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as the cookies won't be as chewy.
  10. Allow to cool completely, my cookies were more enjoyable the next day.
  11. Enjoy!


Let me know if you would enjoy these cookies, or if you can think of a way to improve them!