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Why not try...

afterlight Emily/Twenty/London

Wednesday 18 December 2013

Luxury Beauty Christmas Wish List

Luxury Beauty Christmas Wishlist

Luxury Beauty Christmas Wishlist by folkesthinks 

With a week to go I thought I would share with you some of my favourite luxury beauty items. 

1. The Urban Decay Naked 3 palette. I unfortunately don't own palette 1 or 2, but 3 certainly seems the best so far. With a full range of colours to create a neautral, matt or smokey look it is a great, adaptable palette. I have my eyes on the far right purple colour for a smokey look!

2. Where would we be without Nars Orgasm and Deep Throat blusher. So the invention of the Nars One Night Stand palette was just genius. Bravo Nars. A whole palette of there blushers really would send me to Nars heaven. 

3. Kiehl's Creme de Corps body moisturiser is one of the most incredible smells I have every experience. And I mean that. A combination of soya milk and honey I just want to smooth this into my skin all day long.

4. The new Shu Uemura eye lash curlers may look like a weird contraption but they are designed now to catch the teeny corners of your eyelashes, creating a wider, fuller lash. 

5. Laura Mercier Souflee Body Creme Sampler Collection would not only look perfect in my bathroom but feel and smell perfect. My Auntie is a big Laura Mercier fan and whenever I stay at her's I always make sure I can use some after a bath. Yes, this whole set would make me very happy indeed!

6. Clinique's Black Honey nail enamel would be the perfect partner for my Clinique Black Honey Eyeshadow. A sophisticated, deep, burgundy red which will nicely welcome in the New Year!

7. This Works Dream Team is apparently not an essential to some of my friends, but I think they're wrong. If you love sleep, like me, but stress, again like me, then this is a must have! It contains the This Work Pillow Spray - a refreshing mist for your pillow containing sleeping send-off smells - and their Deep Sleep Stress Less roller ball to provide you with even more aroma's for a perfect night sleep. 

8. Last, but most certainly not least, is this Diptyque set. Diptyque is certainly not a cheep company, however you get what you pay for and they smell and look beautifully expensive!! This set is supposed to be lit all at once to create a wonderful unison of smells!  

Saturday 14 December 2013

November Favourites



My favourite thing throughout the month of November has been my Diptyque Christmas Candle. A diptyque candle has been on my wish list for a while now. Whilst some may think they are extortionately priced - which yes, I guess they kindaaaa are - they really do make the room smell wonderful in minutes, and of course the jar is rather beautiful. Mine smells of Indian Incense and it has thoroughly cheered me up through the cold winter of November!

The Origins Super Spot Remover has saved my skin this month. As the turn of the winter weather (and the increase of chocolate) has sent my skin a bit crazy recently, I have been using this to cure the blemishes. I have even used it on my boyfriend and it wiped his clean overnight. I thoroughly recommend this if you want those pesky spots to be gone in a hurry.

As my 7ams and work demands have increased November has been a month where I haven't had much time to spend on my makeup routine. So, to speed things up, I have been relying on the Clinique Chubby Sticks for eyes. The shades Ample Amber and Fuller Fudge have satisfied my neutral palette quite nicely! They are seriously simple to apply and just a blending out with the thumb will not only speed up your routine but make you look like you've spent time trying!

Finally, the random purchase of Charles Worthington Moisture Seal Shampoo and Conditioner left me and my hair slightly speechless! In the hunt for some small products to take the gym I simply picked these up just by chance. However, without sounding hyperbolic, they really are the best shampoo and conditioner I have ever used. I suffer from quite dry, fine hair and they both bulk up the moisture and leave hair looking wonderfully shiny.

Wednesday 27 November 2013

Winter Lipsticks



For a while now I have being trying to gain more confidence when it comes to lipsticks. I've always been a balm girl and believed too much colour meant too much "trying". However, I think its time now I realised my mistakes when it comes to the pouting department. Vivid lipcolour is in trend. It is ok to be bold; enhancing your confidence and femininity. What a way to bring in the Christmas season with a bold, sumptuous red pout!

And so, as my confidence has grown, so has my collection. So I'm going to share with you my favourite colours that I think will be great for the winter, and of corse, Christmas months!



So, (from left to right)...

Body Shop Colour Burst Lipstick Enraptured Red. This really is a "boom, Ive got colour (holla)" shade. (If you know what I mean ladies!). I always feeling like Lady Scarlet when applying this. Applied with careful precision, this is an excellent formula for long lasting colour.

Revlon Colour Burst Lip Butter - Raspberry Shortcake. I have quite a few products from the Lip Butter range. Yes, this technically isnt a lipstick, but it provides a lovely, hint of natural, raspberry toned colour which is perfect for winter. For a day time look when I perhaps don't want to be too bold (or, simply, can't be bothered) this does the job perfectly.

MAC - Dare You. A smoothy, promiscuous, yet slightly innocent red. This isn't as vivid as the Body Shop red yet still provides a full, shimmering red colour. If you're looking for a seducing pout then I thoroughly recommend 'Dare you'.

MAC- 'O'. My friends are always asking to borrow this on nights out. Being a frost formula the shade provides quite a glossy finish. This is one of my favourite lipsticks. A great step up for someone trying to branch their way slowly in to the world of bold lip colour.


Rimmel Moisture Renew Lipstick - Glam plum Fulham. Whilst providing a tremendous amount of eye-popping shade this lipstick provides an unbelieveable moisturising finish. Easy to apply, fab colour and an affordable price. This lipstick, if you are to get any, is most definitely the one to go for!

Topshop - Beguiled. One can never go wrong with a Topshop lipstick. This, whilst perhaps looking a little terrifying in colour, this shade is a great daaaark red. Matt in texture this is perfect is you are looking for a more vampy red.

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick - Black Cherry. As you will see from my last post, this really is a very dark shade. Like a black forest gateau (excuse the food reference) it provides a dark, red colour and certainly one that will get heads turning (not based on personal experience!). If you're daring then I really do recommend giving this shade a go!

Sunday 24 November 2013

What I wore #4





Recent celebrations for my friend's birthday meant another occurrence of yay-birthday-makeup excitement: a tragic case for the beauty obsessed! In my books, the best bit about going out is the getting ready: sad, I know!

So, a swooping of Revelon Nearly Naked Foundation made an appearance again. I don't use this often (I'm not a foundation lover, it has to be said) however, every time I dig it out I feel bad for neglecting it - it really give great coverage for a high street product. With a smudge of Benefit Stay Don't Stray Primer I was prepped for my favourite palette from Clarins - a limited edition Christmas 2012 set. A hint of matte bronzer, with a layer of gold pigment sparkle always makes me ready for a night ahead! However, I always add my trusty Nars Eyeshadow in the shade Meekong for extra smoke. With a layering of Rimmel Scandel Eyes kohl in the shade bronze and lashings of Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme mascara (a product I still need to buy full size!) the eyes were all set.

Of corse a shading in of the brows with the oh-so-amazing Benefit Brow Zings never goes a miss. I then decided for a bronzed look, and so out popped the Nars Laguna Bronzer for some tanned contouring. If you haven't heard me mention this before, then this really is the only bronzer a girl will ever need! Of corse, topped off with Nars blusher in orgasm the face was all paired up - the combination of these two Nars products really does work a treat!

Finally, I used my new Revelon Super Lustrous lipstick in the shade black cherry. A little daunted at first - this is the darkest shade I own - however, I felt this was the perfect, winter shade and will definitely be making use of it more this season. 



Thursday 14 November 2013

A Spot of bother



The turn from Autumn to Winter is not one I particularly look forward to. A dramatic dip in temperature, extra layering and hat hair have a huge dislike in my books. However, the main problem is the havoc the change does to my skin.

Yes thats right, it has all finally caught up with me and my skin has had to suffer! Dryness, blemishes and a dull complexion: my skin really has had its ups and downs the past two weeks. So, with a bit of some TLC and with the help of some 'wuuuuunderful' products, I have finally got my skin back on the right track. 

The main player has been the Ren Clarifying Clay Cleanser, a number I mentioned on my October Favourites. I have been replacing this with my Liz Earle at night time. It does smell a little funky yet one pump really has done wonders. A clay based cleanser always works when your skin is conjested with blemishes. It works to get rid of the nasties by a thoroughly deep cleanse. The only negative is its drying properties so a good moisturiser is the crucial next step.

I have then been using the Origins Drink Up Intensive Mask. I have read a heck of a lot about this mask and felt it was the best thing to cure my intense dryness. My thoughts after just the first use was WOW. I really don't know where this product has been throughout my life! You apply it before you go to bed which I wasn't 100% comfortable with at first. However, its beautiful smell of peaches and passionfruit soon sorted out that fear. The next morning my face felt fresh, rejuvenated and full of moisture. This product really does what it says on its packaging!

Finally, the Origins Super Spot Remover has been the zapper for my pimples! Its tingling sensation made it feel like it was doing it's job, and boy it most certainly has! A pretty pricey number for its size however your blemishes will soon go with a spot of this over your annoyance!

Monday 11 November 2013

October Favourites




Rimmel Moisture Renew Lipstick in the shade Glam Plum Fulham has been the perfect autumnal plum colour. Admittedly, a little tricky to apply on my small lips I have had to spend time with a lip blush applying this one. However, that goes out of the question when thinking about the colour and the moisturising texture of this lipstick. Rimmel need a round of applause for the successful update of the collection.

Bobbie Brown Metallic Eye Shadow in the shade Forest. This was a little treat bought for me by a friend in September. However, it's full use was demonstrated in the last month when I decided to spice things up in my makeup looks.

Body Shop All-in-One BB Cream
I don't think I gave this product enough recommendation in my Body Sop Haul. It really does give wonderful and accurate coverage: coming out of the tube as white and adapting to your skin tone upon application. This truly provides you with a perfect natural glow.

A second praise to the Body Shop for their Brown and Liner Kit. Over the autumnal October I have been using the lighter brown shade to create a subtle contour rather than going OTT with Nars Laguna which I think looks a little false in the colder months.

Finally, a little gem which has become part of my skin routine. Ren Clarifying Clay Cleanser has been helping me beat those spots (yes, I've been unfortunately suffering from the dreaded S word) from my stress! I have been using this every night and it has calmed my skin a-hell of a lot down!

Friday 25 October 2013

Body Shop Haul



As you saw from my post about their increeedible eye make up remover, I have been having a slight affection for the Body Shop recently. For many years this has not been the case. I only regarded them as an alright-moisturiser-place, an eco-friendly, struggling chain for the suffering high street.

However, this has all now changed. I cant apologise enough for my misconceived opinions. Since their recent makeover, and due to my hours spent of research on   on Vivianna Does makeup (thank you you Beauty Blogger goddess!) I have finally branched out within the Body Shop and made many makeup purchases.

So lets get started...

Firstly, I have been loving their colour crush eyeshadows especially in the shade CCoconuts About You. In my opinion this is Mac Satin Taupe without the shimmer.  With a quick application of their  Eye Definier in shade Rich Brown a subtle grey smokey smudge has been the result: a wonderful everyday  I'm-going-to-try shade!


Since growing in confidence I moved up the scale when I purchased one of their Colour Crush Lipsticks in the shade Enraptured Red. A vibrant, scarlet red, has been a bold step up...and I've been loving it! With a matt finish this lipstick is perfectly on trend for this Autumn/Winter.


Now my new Oh my god/amaaazing product is their Brow and Liner Kit in the shade 02. As we move into the colder, winter months I can sometimes find the bronzer look to be a bit too desperate. And so, after taking advice from Vivianna, I have been applying the darker shade of this to contour my face. This subtle definition has been a perfect pairing with my autumnal blushers resulting in one happy look I've got cheek bones look!

Finally, after much deliberation, I purchased the All-In-One BB Cream. This has been a whole new world in BB creams; coming out white and turning your shade once applied to the skin. This has created a perfect every day nature base. Admittedly it does not cover spots, but for the good days, I can guarantee this is the one!

Friday 4 October 2013

September Favourites




September is always a favourite month of mine. No, not just because it is my birthday. But because of the organisational, back to school, warm autumnal days time. Yes, I love going back to a routine and September usually means a bit of a sort out with storage and life!

This month I've decided to keep it nice and simple. I cannot admit that I have been wearing a lot of makeup as I have been unfortunately too busy to bother but, more crucially, I have been wanting to show off my skin. This I believe has been all down to the Origins High potency Night-A-Mins moisturiser. This has been on my wish list for a while now and my birthday month gave me the excuse to purchase. I find it to be a high intensity, thick creme, which means a small amount of application goes a long way. My skin has felt dewy and glowing and I fully believe it is down to this!

An unusual number next, but Body Shop Camomile waterproof eye & lip makeup remover is amazing. Want to know more then read my post.

As the bold lips have become more trendier I have decided to be more braver. With a whip of Revlon Just Bitten Kissable balm in the shade Lovesick on my lips I have been confidently rocking this shade out. Even to lectures may I admit. I love how this gives a shade of colour but is a balm formula, meaning I don't look caked in lip product.

My Nars blusher in the shade orgasm has been an every day saviour. Thank you style scout for my present. It is just the perfect, natural pink blush. I really do mean perfect.

Finally, I have been loving an application of Rimmel Scandal Eyes waterproof kohl in 012 bronze. It is so 'creamy' and easy to apply and creates an intense smokey effect.

Monday 16 September 2013

Body Shop Camomile Eye make-up remover



With my oily eyelids waterproof mascara is a necessity.  An odd feature I know, but if waterproof wasn't applied I would look like I was going for a halloween/mascara run down look everyday. Now, nobody wants to see that look do they! 

As a girl with expensive taste the Clarins make-up remover has been on my wish list for sometime. Why? Because my cheap simple remover, which claims to remove waterproof mascara does not work. I am left constantly rubbing my eye with a drenched cotton pad of remover and nothing is budging....However, this was my old routine.

 I heard a rumour out there that the Body Shop's Camomile make-up remover does the same job as Clarins and at half the price. I was, obviously, sold and went out straight away to purchase this needed item. I am pleased to announce that this boy does the trick. It is a dream to use. Simply shake to activate, squeeze a bit on a cotton pad, place over the eye for about 5 seconds and Voilà: all my eye make-up, yes my tough to remover waterproof eye make-up is gone!! Safe to say I have since removed the Clarins number from my wish list and replaced it with my replen of this. 

Tuesday 10 September 2013

Nails Inc Piccadilly Circus





Last night I was searching for the perfect shade for my nails. After a freeeezing few days I was getting into the Autumn mood. However, could I find any appropriate fall shade in my nail draw? Not at all. So off I went to my mums draw. Now, if you thought I was a nail varnish addict then you haven't met my mother. She counted her nail varnishes once. Eighty Four. Yes, that's right ladies and gents. Eighty Four. Enough said.

So, with that collection it is no surprise that I managed to find my desired shade. Say hello to Nails Inc Piccadilly Circus. This, in my opinion, is the perfect autumnal shade. Mullbery/damson-esque: it perfectly sets the tone.

Now all I need is to add it to my collection.


Sunday 8 September 2013

What I wore on my face #3






Revlon Nearly Naked Foundation in shade 150 nude was the choice of base on Friday. I don't use foundation often but always select this as my luxury choice. It blends in really well, creating a better version of your skin look. It's a little thick so I don't lick to use too much but find its finish very satisfying!

Brows is undoubtedly Benefit's Brow Zing's in the set medium.

On my eyes I started off with Estee Lauder Pure Colour Stay on Shadow Paint in the shade cosmic: a beautiful cooper shade of medium brown with a hint of shimmer. I love to use a cream shade as my base on a night out as I find everything stays in place quiet nicely! Over this I then applied the dark brown shade from my Clarins limited edition palette. To enhance my creases I, carefully, applied Nars eyeshadown in Mekong. This is a VERY dark brown and always takes me time to apply as it can almost look black. Despite this I find it the perfect shade for creating a smokey dark look. All blended out with a trusty MAC 217 the shadow is complete! Next I used Bourjois Volumizer Mascara. An incredible drug store mascara that gives amazon volume, it really does what it says. With a quick flick from Barry M Blink Waterproof precision eyeliner and an underlining from Mac eye pencil in Coffe the job was done!

Nars blusher in Orgasm swooshed my cheeks whilst being accompanied by its partner, Nars Laguna Bronzer. The perfect duo.

Finally to finish the look my new Mac Lipstick in 'O' bought out the need to express the berry lip trend. And thus I was ready to go out and pardy with my friends.



Saturday 7 September 2013

What I wore

Birthday Night Out Look
Last night was spent celebrating my 20th Birthday with my best old school friends. Going out for drinks in our home town whilst the rain poured down with rain meant jeans would definitely be on the cards.  I teamed my Topshop high waisted black jeans with a silver beaded cami from Miss Selfridge; a recent purchase which I know will bring me into the Christmas (shudder at the thought) when sparkles are essential. With my trusty Mulberry handbag and new Topshop heels I was ready for a celebratory night ahead.






(Clinique Happy on my Toes and Bourjous 1 second enamel in Turquoise block on my fingers!)


Friday 6 September 2013

Birthday makeup haul


On Wednesday I turned the ever so sounding grown up age of twenty! As a makeup lover it was quite natural that I would just share with you what I received. Please note this is not in a show off way, its just an excuse to me to talk about all things new and show how well they photograph together!

Firstly my wonderful friend Chloe or Style Scout (please check out her blog as one day she will have an influence over what is published in Vogue) got me a lovely goodie bag from Liberty's which included...

Nars Blusher in Orgasm. Why I have never purchased this myself I will never know. It is the perfect, peach, pink just oooooh-wow shade. I love my Nars blusher in Deep Throat but now I realise why this is there best selling blusher. I know this will be the perfect pick me up in the cold days of Autumn.

Bobbie Brown Cream Shadow Stick was the second surprise. I have been a huge fan of the Clinique Chubby sticks but, ironically, have been disappointed by how chubby they actually are; making them difficult to apply completely and neatly over the lid. This Bobbie Brown number however has resolved my problem. With a smaller stick this has answered my problems. In the shade Golden Pink Chloe chose my favourite shade!

Then finally I had in the Bobbie Brown Face Touch Up Stick in shade sand. This is my saver throughout the day when I need the pick me up around the eyes and pesky blemishes.

I have the kindest and most generous friend in the world right? Love ya if you're reading this!!

My second best friend, my mother, then treated me to my final two items.

A MAC 217 brush. Perhaps the only makeup brush a girl ever needs. It applies, its blends, it smudges. It is the all-rounded tool for applying eyeshadow. After receiving a fake from ebay I needed the real thing in my life!

A few Christmas' ago my mum bought me a lovely tartan Mac set which included a limited edition lipstick. Great that there aren't many of these shades in the world but a bit of a bugger when you need to replenish you're favourite dark shade! So after much swatching in the MAC concession I finally found its replica in the shade 'Oh'. A beautiful deep set, bronzy, burgundy red which will be making an occasion more often on my lips now that I know I can repurchase!


Tuesday 3 September 2013

Blue Rules





I am a lover of the colour blue. A love which is perhaps most expressed by my room: blue bedsheets, blue walls, blue carpet... When it come to beauty I therefore also love to express it through my nails. It was only the other day when I realise I own eleven blue nail varnishes. Eleven. Indeed, I have every blue shade you could possibly think of. Yet I still have a need to buy more blues. I just love blue ok??

Today I decided to choose my 'top five' and hopefully you will see why. 

1. Chanel Blue Boy
This was a pricey number, but a special one I bought for my leavers ball. I wouldn't normal recommend Chanel as I find they chip straightaway. However, I have, somewhat, found a way to save this: an application of seche vite top coat.

2. Essie Button Lapiz of Luxury
I cannot find a better word to describe this colour than luxury. A beautiful deep set blue

3. Essie Bikini so Teeny
With a touch of sparkle this is one of my all time favourite nail varnishes. It is just the perfect blue.

4. Bourjois 1 seconde Nail Enamel in Blue
This really does apply in 1 second. You need no second coats. The wide brush makes it also very easy to apply.

5. Nails Inc Chelsea Psychic Gardens.
A dream baby blue. It needs a few top coats but I love wearing this when my nails are in good, long condition with lots of silver rings. My fingers seem to look quiet expensive...they like it!

Monday 2 September 2013

August Favourites



After a depressing moan about the dry and awful condition of my hair I decided to purchase L'oréal Ever Riche No Sulphates shampoo for Dry Fine Hair. For the price of this shampoo it should almost be described as miraculous! After one wash I couldn't get over how smooth and healthy my hair felt to touch and it's noticeable added shine. I thoroughly recommend this shampoo if you have currently fallen out with your un-manageable locks!

I love a good skin care regime and bought the Origins Clear Improvement Charcoal Mask a while back now. However, throughout the month of August I made a conscious effort to use this one a week rather than every now and again. I have definitely noticed the difference: smaller pores, a clear glow and not to mention NO SPOTS throughout the month. NO SPOTS AT ALL. I mean it, hence capitals.

When YSL discontinued my favourite liquid eyeliner I have been searching the shelves for a similar dupe. What I so loved about this eyeliner was how thin the pen/brush was. If you're a eye-liner flick amateur like me then you'll know that a smaller brush is easier to create a flick. This month I discovered the Barry M Blink precision eyeliner. This is the first time I have bought something from Barry M and have been seriously impressed. It was easy to use and stayed on my eyes all day/evening; a big achievement when it comes to my non-stick eyelids!

August has been a pleasant summery month and to translate this summer hype I have been regularly using a highlighter. For this I have turned to MAC Mineralise skin finish in the shade Soft & Gentle. On first glance this product can look far too shimmery but applied to the cheek bones it creates a soft and natural shimmer that can cheat and make you look energetic and healthy!

Finally, I've been using my Real Techniques Expert Face Brush all summer to apply my cream blushers. I realise I hadn't given it enough hype and thought this would be the best opportunity to declare that this is the perfect brush to create the natural, apple of the cheeks blush!

Saturday 24 August 2013

What I wore on my face #2




Last night I went out with some friends. Once again I opted for a classic Emily natural make-up selection but tweeked it slightly by trying to create more of a smokey look.

Face: Surprise, surprise Diorskin Nude BB Creme. My most recent favourite when it comes to wanting an all over colour, glow and healthy dew! For a bit of bronze I went for Nars Laguna Bronzer. Unfortunately I'm running low on this little number. When I think of a bronzer this really is the perfect, dreamed of bronzer. It sculpts, it tans, it glows and all without being too shimmery: it does what a bronzer should. Perfection. Applied with a MAC 163 brush I contour and bronze it up! On my cheeks I used Stila Covertible colour in Gerbera, a warm peachy-pink, followed by a bit of Mac Mineralize Skinfinish in Soft and Gentle for a bit of cheeky highlight. 

Eyes: Firstly I used my go-to primer, Stay Don't Stray by Benefit and then applied Mac Woodwinked all over the lid. This is a warm gold colour which is brilliantly pigmented so you're colour actually shows and stays.  In the crease I then used a bit of Faint from my Urban Decay Naked Pallette to create a bit of shadow, followed by Nars Mekong, a very dark glittery brown, just to top the shadow I off. I then used a sample of Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme mascara which, as you can see, gives incredible length. With a bit of Rimmel scandal-eyes waterproof kohl in 012 bronze and BarryM Blink precision eyeliner I felt a natural smoke was achieved!

Lips: In highsight I perhaps should have chosen a red, but some reason chickened out last night. Instead I used Kate Moss for Rimmel Lasting Finish lipstick in shade 101 with a touch of Revlon Colourburst Lipgloss in shade008 Peony to create a shimmery blend of pink.





Sunday 11 August 2013

What I wore on my face


Last night I went on a little date out with one of my friends.  As you know how much I love talking about and reviewing products I thought I'd finally show you what it looks like when applied!

Although quiet simple and nothing too ultra glamorous I personally like a natural, glowing (yes, the overuse of that word again!) finish.

At the moment I am LOVING the new Dior BB creme. A luxury item at £30, however it certainly gives a high class finish. I'm not too keen on foundations and I'm a thorough believer of the no-spots-or-redness-then-you-don't-need-foundation- look. I find this BB creme is best applied with fingers so as to ensure correct blending and dewy finish..

I then used Bourjois Volumizer mascara, a product I immediately go to for length. It's two step wand allows you to create super volume, hence the volumizer with a Z title. Therefore 'hello-Big eyes' is always the effect. As for my un-feminie sweaty eyelids I use Benefit's stay don't stray primer with a sweep over the top from my favourite Clarin's palette of brown followed by a lining of Mac Coffee eye pencil. An essential for a subtle smokey hint. 

Being a lover of YSL's touche èclait for so long I was OVERJOYED when I found it's dupe. Rimmel wake me up concealer is AH-MAH-ZING!! Seriously girls, I would never, ever turn to a high end concealer again...I think! It definitely does the job of hiding those sneaky dark circles!

For my cheeks just a sweep of Clarin's bronzer to give a subtle healthy glow followed by a pinch of Stilla's cream blush in the colour Gerbera. 

Simple I know, but a subtle healthy look for Summer always goes a long way I believe. 

Monday 5 August 2013

July Favourites


July was an absolute scorcher! Hurray, we were finally able to celebrate summer. The perfect weather had, after what seemed like a wait of eternity, arrived in the England and one could top up the tan and chill with a British BBQ and pimms!
On the makeup front however, problems were soon to arise, such as 'aaaah, how is this stuff not going to melt off my face' scenario!

Therefore, the top of my list has to be Diorskin Nude BB Creme. Now I know some of us may all disregard the BB and CC nonsense but this really is a beautiful product. It provided me with a light coverage that was so needed in the hot weather, whilst also creating a healthy glow. I couldn't help but notice my skin in the mirror and, apologies, have a good old vain stare!

In the summer months I always tend to stay away from powder blushers and so I brought this product back up from the depths of my makeup bag! Bobbie Brown Sheer Colour Cheek tint in the shade sheer pink is the prettiest, cheeky pink that I can only describe as giving you the cute, little girl colour. Blended into the Dior it worked a treat on my skin!

To keep up the tan I purchased (after a Tanya Burr recommendation of course!) the  Clarins Bronzing Duo. This has been a wonderful number which has allowed me to finally put the Nars Laguna down. I have found the Clarins the perfect bronzer for a daytime look. Applied with a Mac 236 brush it has created shape and a lovely summer time glow!

On my nails I have been using Bourjois 1 second nail gel in the shade turquoise block. After the Vivianna Does make-up post I couldn't not say no. Easy to apply and a brilliant, vibrant colour. This shade has wonderfully enhanced my tanned hands!

For Lips I have returned back to my Revlon Colour burst lip butter's, particularly the shade Strawberry Shortcake. These lip butters give wonderful shine and colour and are not as heavy as lipsticks which I prefer for nights out or the winter!

Finally, my July scent has obviously had to be Esteé Lauder Bronze Goddess. I purchased this at the airport (duty free savings and all that!) and enjoyed a luxurious spray a day on holiday. It smells of all things holiday. It really is just summer in a bottle. I thoroughly recommend giving it a sniff next time you are near a concession!

Enjoy the sun while you can and let me know what your Summer Staples have been. I love a good beauty discussion!


Wednesday 24 July 2013

Hydraluron Rave



My rave throughout this post should be credited to the one and only Caroline Hirons: skin-specialist,  all knowing face expert, in my opinion skin goddess (check out her blog here). There is nothing about skin that this lady does not know!
So with my investment and growing knowledge for skin-care I had no alternative (sorry piggybank) in purchasing the Hydraluron Moisture Booster Serum. 

Caroline states that the majority of skin is dehydrated. Now don't shrug this off so soon! Can you personally claim to drink 8 pint glasses of water a day? If yes, then congratulations you fish-like human! However, for the majority of us busy ladies out dare, drinking the required daily water intake is a challenge. This is where the wonders of hydraluron serum step in.

Its a hydraronic acid-gel based formula. Indeed, I was slightly frightened by the word acid too, and have nightmare visions of my face burning off. However, this is DEFINITELY not one of the outcomes. The acid binds to the skin, therefore attracting double the amount of moisturiser, and ultimately resulting in more moisturised skin! Immediate hydration is therefore guaranteed. 

I have 100% noticed the difference with using this product. I have realised that without this stage my moisturiser was just sitting on the surface, rather than being absorbed. With this stage now added in, my skin looks immediately hydrated, and my makeup application has been far more successful, even resulting in a dewy, healthy finish which I have been desiring for far too long.

At only £25 from Boots this stage NEEDS to be in all ladies handbags. 

Saturday 23 March 2013

Macbeth review

It is an experience like no other when a theatrical production transports you away from reality, displacing you in an unfamiliar dream-like sensation. Over exaggerative, you say? I say not. Today I went and saw Jamie Lloyd's production of Macbeth and indeed, excuse the use of hyperbole, experienced the performance of a life-time. Although I have to admit, on a vain level, it was Jame's McAvoy's performance that led me to see the production I was truly not disappointed.

Presented in a dystopian, fracture Scottish landscape Shakespeare's Macbeth came into a new light of interpretation. Traditionally, the tragic hero Macbeth is interpreted on a same wave-length as Hamlet: deluded and decaying into a self-conscious layer of madness. However, here we saw a revolutionary performance as the audiences witnessed the blood driven, ambitious and terrifying portrayal of Macbeth. McAvoy, I believe, picks up Macbeth's tortured conscious like no other has done before: creating a futuristic, yet albeit, a realistic and timeless interpretation. Here was a character who was not and immature Hamlet. It was a shell-shocked, troubled and anxiety-ridden soul who was not comfortable but yet seemed to share our own personal issues: How do we deal with our fears and struggles when we know we are in the wrong?

McAvoy brilliantly depicted Macbeth's slow pyschological turmoil; bringing to life and emphasising Shakespeare's haunting soliloquays as he gaged and deluded over the lines. Indeed, 'the dagger of the mind' was enticing and metaphorically powerful.
Moreover, the Scottish setting of the play was, in a peculiar phrase, beautifully presented. Never have the words of Shakespeare has so much power as the actors seemed to sing their lines of conflict and chaos. Shakespeare's haunting language has never seemed to reveal so much prophetic layering.

Clair Foy's portrayal of Lady Macbeth of corse can not escape praise. Her strong depiction as she confidently and almost psychological abused Macbeth to kill Duncan struck a new level. For such a young actress it was deeply interesting to watch a new portray of what is so traditionally perceived as a mature role. Her slow isolation from her husband is outstandingly captured as she too descends into her madness.

Drawn to tears I left Trafalgar studios emotionally drained. Undoubtedly this is a remarkably production; one which doesn't deserve the Guardian's three stars!! Definitely catch this if you can! It is bloody, brutal and undeniably brilliant.

Friday 1 March 2013

February Favourites

How can it be March already?! 2013 is going far too quickly, though I'm sure I say that every year. My new busy uni/reading schedule has meant a recent rejection of my blog: I apologise. However, here I try and make amends and share with you my February faveourites...


Estee Lauder Pure Colour Stay on Shadow Paint in the colour Cosmic - This eyeshadow really does what it says on the tin. An excellent stay on shadow, and they definitely mean one that stays on. Praise the lord for those of us with oily eyelids! Although in the photo Cosmic looks very burgendy toned, when painted on it creates a lovely, dark, glittery-brown effect. I have been wearing this just by itself for a daytime natural look and then making it more smokey in the evening with the addition of a darker brown such as Nars Mekong.

Soap and Glory Scrub Your Nose In it Exfoliator - I came across this product after a Sunday Girl recommendation. I don't have a particularly oily T-zone (which the product says it helps) as so was slightly apprehensive that it might be too strong and making me come out in blemishes! However, this product really is worth a GLORY award!! For £8 it is fantastic. I have been a user of the Clarins exfoliator for a while now, and believe this does the exact same job if not better! It works really well; deep cleaning and helping to refine those pesky pores!

Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara - We know I love this (see why here) I'd be lost without this one!

Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair - When I had my Estee Lauder haul I was given a few samples to try out. At the time I had quite a few cheeky blemishes on my face and they advised me to use this serum. Despite it's worldwide beauty hype I have never wanted to bring a serum into my skin care regime. I have constantly believed that they are unnecessary and would clog up my pores resulting in more blemishes. However, I was wrong. Indeed I have been far too stubborn. This serum has worked wonders. Not only have my blemishes disappeared but my whole complexion has dramatically improved. The only unfortunate outcome now is I need to save up to by the proper sized bottle..

Illasmasqua Speckle Nail Varnish - My last post saw my hype about this polish. Since then and the wider recognition of this uber-cool polishes ASOS have now sold out the collection. If you are lucky enough to find one of these varnish's please do. Your daily compliments will be never ending!

Nars blusher in Deep Throat - During the colder months I like to stay off the bronzer and up the blusher. Deep throat has been able to substitue my bronzer addiction. It is a lovely pink/coral tone with a slight hint of shimmer. This blusher definitely provides you with a daily pick me!

Sunday 10 February 2013

Illamasqua Speckle


Illamasqua's new S/S 13 range has taken off with a bang. The collection takes its inspiration from our imperfections, and thus campaigns to stand up to these self conscious features: our imperfections should infact be our most beautiful and unique qualities.




There is not one beauty blogger that hasn't hyped over these beautiful speckled beauties and I now add to the the rave!


These limited edition polishes come in five pastel shades, Scarce, Mottle, Speckle and Freckle and are inspired by the imperfection of freckles, or some say the irregular markings of birds eggs. Ironically  these nail varnishes do in fact remind me of mini eggs, not only for their aesthetics but for their delicious quality!

I have been trying out the colour Speckle (as seen in the photos) and have fallen instantly in love. It's pale, blue lavender tones have become my new outfit accessory. It is so unique from any nail varnish I have seen before. It is great for that every day extra sass: not too over the top yet not too subtle! Worn under my Seche Vite topcoat (click here for my review) they have so far gone nearly five days without chipping: very promising!



I am new to the world of Illamasqua nail polishes but have to truthfully admit that I am very impressed by the quality. It has an easy brush for application and a quick drying speed, which is definitely a bonus. Now the only negative is that I need to order the rest of the collection...

Sunday 3 February 2013

January Favourites



Bare Minerals Original Foundation - I am not a huge lover of foundation but over January I fell in love with this raved about product. It sits really well on the skin, and being a of a mineral consistency it had a lovely lightweight coverage. Moreover, with spf 15 this product also acts as a moisturiser. This foundation is perfect if you are looking for a light, natural coverage.

Clarins Ombre Minerale 4 Couleurs Palette in Odyssey - I was treated to this bad boy palette for Christmas, and it really has lived up to my excited expectations. This palette was part of Clarins' Christmas collection and (unsurprisingly) sold out instantly! Being a lover of natural eyeshadows these colours create the perfect day time and night time smokey look! They are beautifully pigmented and of corse the packaging makes me feel like Im unwrapping a present every time I use it. 

Ojon Rub Out Dry Cleansing Spray - I have a love hate relationship with one. Its a fantastic product in that it does what it says on the tin. It really is a FAB dry shampoo - it instantly cleans your hair and does not leave the overwhelming white remaints. However, the smell is really not to my liking. It describes its smell as 'Soap Bark Tree', and this really is not my thing. Yet, please don't be disheartened. This product does its job, and in my opinion, is better than Batise dry shampoo.

The Body Shop Shea Body Butter - I think we can all admit that the Body Shop have had a rocky road with marketing over the past few years. I was given this product in my complimentary bag at the Company Magazine event and I really have fallen in love with it. It gives AMAZING moisturisation and lasts all day. It has made me remember why we used to love the Body Shop butters in the first place! 

Benefit Brow Zings - Im sure I mentioned about this product in my favourite products of 2012 post...I cant remember. If so, I am emphasising my brow love. In my process of trying to grow Delevigne brows (don't mock me now) this has helped create that look. More importantly, it has helped to recreate this look NATURALLY. It does not create a drawn in with permanent marker look but creates a natural finish. With a how-to-guide this is, in my opinion, the best brow product out there!

Dior Blush in Sugar & Spice - I have had this product in my makeup draw for a while now, but fell in love with it again over January. In the winter months I don't particularly like a light, coral colour for my pale tones. This Dior blush however created the perfect balance between giving me a bronze and plum look; giving my face the warm lift my complexion so needed from the cold!

Friday 1 February 2013

Borough Market

I may ramble on about makeup and fashion the majority of the time, but one of my other passions is food! Yes, I do indeed love my food (hello fatty!). However, I am actually a fussy eater. Im obsessed with healthy food: by healthy I mean good, organic ingredients in wonderfully, prepared-on-the-day receipes. 
So with now living in London for five months now I finaaaallly took the needed trip to Borough market with my London bred friend Charlotte (check out her blog here). 



The market really was incredible. It was a visual heaven of food!! With produce from all around the world and try before you buy options (yay to my hungry belly!) I really was in a tasting paradise. 







If you are like me and love food and experimental cooking then you seriously need to check out this place. With a range of unique and international produce you will be able to find that scrumptious, impressive ingredient that you need to impress your dinner party friends.
Or, if you just want a quick bite to eat then you be introduced to unique take away experience. But warning, it will take a while to make up your mind!


As you can see I was mighty impressed by my free range chicken wrap with rocket, salsa, mayo and sweet chilli dip...quite a mouthful, I know!


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