Saturday, 29 December 2012

Santa Baby

So Santa was super generous to me this year so I decided to do a Christmas Haul! Bit hard to see everything on this image so i'll just list the main things :)


  • Yankee Candle in the scent cinnamon stick
  • Christmas stocking Pandora charm
  • Jimmy Choo fragrance 
  • Next fragrance in scent 'London'
  • MUA make-up palette in 'Heaven and Earth'
  • Maybelline gel eyeliner 
  • Next cashmere body butter
  • Little Miss Sunshine mug from Utility
  • Life of Pi novel by Yann Martel  
  • Eye shadow set and Nail set by Lumiere cosmetics
  • No7 illuminating make up mirror
  • New look black  jeweled dress
  • New look bright pink onesie
  • Topshop black and gold sparkly dress
  • H&M Lana del Rey jumper and skirt

I would seriously recommend this Yankee Candle as it is the most perfect scent for the festive period. All the candles are seriously strong even without burning, so it leaves such a lovely aroma in the room. This one is super large so it lasts for ages too. The traditional design of Yankee's signature classic jar candle reflects a warm, relaxed sense of style that's always at home. Convenient and easy to use, these large candles provide 110 to 150 hours of true fragrance enjoyment. Note- it is cheaper to buy from Amazon and there many other fragrances by Yankee are also available. Buy Here

The MUA palette is also fantastic as it is a natural palette with all those basic every day shades that are an absolute must all year round. I think these palettes are around £4 too which is such an unbelievable bargain! They are great quality shadows too with excellent staying power.

Finally, in terms of beauty, the Maybelline gel eyeliner is something which I have only just discovered and I would now not be without it. I have used liquid eyeliner for years and love that too, but this gel formula has the appearance of a liquid liner but is so much easier to apply if you find it difficult. It is reasonably priced and includes a brush too, although I use a much thinner one to get a super precise finish. It is practically the same as the famous Bobbi Brown liner too, for about half the price so it is an absolute bargain! 


*Happy Holidays!*





Shake the Glitter




Seen as it's Christmas and New Year is fast approaching, I thought this would be a great make-up look for the festive season. I wore this sparkly gold glitter make up for a party last night, and it was so fun to experiment with. For me, Christmas is the one time of year when its acceptable to wear both a striking eye and a bold lip. This look goes perfect with that classic chic red lip, or even a dark purple which is what I teamed it with. Try out this glamorous make-up look for this season and your bound to sparkle.

To get this eye make up look I used:

  • base shadow primer from frontcover cosmetics
  • gold eye shadow by frontcover
  • holographic glitter by frontcover
  • No7 eye shadow in 'Starry Lights'
  • Maybelline gel liner
  • MAC Opulash Optimum black mascara
  • Cheryl Cole lashes by Eylure 
What's on my nails? 
I teamed this glitter look with a classic red from Nails Inc in the colour 'St James' which is my ultimate favourite winter colour- a bold red that's not too dark and serious, slightly pink in tone. I also used Barry M in 'Yellow Topaz Glitter' as a glittery topcoat to add an ultra sparkly festive look. 

Thursday, 6 December 2012

December Beauty Haul



These are products which I have recently purchased for the Winter season, and some which I have been sampling/use especially for this time of year. Firstly, as I was so impressed with the Rimmel lasting finish foundation (which I reviewed in a previous post), I decided to buy another one from Rimmel but opted for this match perfection one instead, as I was attracted to the innovation of smart tone technology which adapts to the colour and tone of skin. I went for shade 003 In true Ivory, which is somewhat paler than I would usually choose purely because of the Winter season as skin would inevitably be paler in complexion. This tone matches my skin exactly. Previously with foundation, even if it is a shade darker It can be blended into the skin to create a natural, yet more tanned look, whereas as soon as this shade was applied even before blending, it matched my skin exactly. It gave me a flawless finish without leaving my skin too dewy which is ideal for the cold temperatures- a dewy look is most desired in the Summer season. Even though I have oily/combination skin, this foundation kept my skin matte all day, without having to apply powder more than once, which I have found with previous foundations. This skin was not too heavy either, thereby allowing the skin to breathe which is great, however my only criticism is that is was a little less coverage than I would like as I had to use quite a fair bit of concealer to cover blemishes, yet I would still highly recommend this foundation, particularly if you already have flawless skin anyway. What's more, this foundation has an amazing scent which is super fresh, and leaves a beautiful to the skin making it look healthy and radiant. I would rate this 9/10, and at £6.99 this is a bargain for quality.  



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Next I recently received these gorgeous Cheryl Cole lashes from Eylure and they are so amazingly natural, perfect false lashes for the glamorous party season, designed to enhance the natural beauty of your eyes. Fabulous, flirty and flexible they are suitable for all eye shapes and all occasions, with an ultra- lightweight feel. Normally, I'm not a huge fan of false lashes, I normally just prefer to use lashings of mascara to create that desired intense eye look, however these are so natural that they aren't too obvious your wearing them. These lashes just add thickness, but not enough to look 'fake', they also have a subtle winged out effect on the edges which can match your best mascara, creating a really natural, yet beautiful evening look. As always from this range, they are easy to apply with glue included, and reusable. Just make sure you leave the glue for a few minutes until tacky so they stick better, and then gently place on the lash line with tweezers to make sure they are on securely and correctly. Be sure to place the lash on your lash line to measure before applying the glue, the check it lines up correctly, and trim any excess if need be. I finish by applying a coat of mascara over the top of the false lashes to bind them to the natural ones, creating a seamless natural look. Cheryl herself says: "I love the volume of my lashes. Gorgeous, subtle and versatile they can be worn day or night." I would rate these 10/10 as they are the best, most natural lashes I have ever tried. Priced at £5. 




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Next I have been loving this splendidly silky moisturizing conditioner from Percy & Reed. It is specifically designed for parched hair, which is often a result of the harsh conditions in which winter brings. This conditioner therefore treats your hair spectacularly, giving it the attention it needs to repair itself. I discovered this as a sample in Glamour a while ago, recently started using it regularly the other week and it has already done wonders for my hair. My favorite thing about this product is that it smells unbelievably fantastic, you have to try it if not just for the smell.    

Splendidly Silky Moisturizing Conditioner is packed with moisture infusing marvels;
  • Blueberry Extract which helps to neutralise and protect the hair from free radicals.
  • Grape Seed Oil which is rich in vitamins, minerals and protein.
  • Sweet Almond Oil; rich in Vitamin E and known to help reduce hair fall.
  • Lastly Aloe Vera Gel which detangles, moisturizes, heals and smoothes dry and damaged hair.
All these ingredients combine quite beautifully, to hydrate and deeply nourish your hair, creating luscious looks with added shine, to give you that luxurious treatment that your hair is in need of this time of year. I would give this product 9/10, priced at £16, you can buy any product from this range on their website: http://www.percyandreed.com/



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My favorite winter moisturizer this season has to be this one from Clinique, its best-selling dramatically different moisturizing lotion. It helps to duplicate the moisture naturally occuring in the skin to provide comfort and balance to your skin. It is such a hydrating moisturizer that you only need a tiny amount on dry areas only, which naturally occur in the winter season even if you
don't normally have dry skin. I like to put this on before bed so it nourishes and moisturizes my skin throughout the night, so I wake up with refreshed and hydrated glowing skin. Also great as a day cream and acts as a good base for make-up. Winner of the Zest Skin Care Awards for Best Day Cream. I would highly recommend this moisturizer and give it a strong 9/10, the only reason why it is not full marks is due to the price which is a little higher than I would like to pay at
£17, however, it is a highly-rated product unsurprisingly as shown by the results.

Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion


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I discovered this Opulash Optimum Black mascara by M.A.C last Christmas as a gift, and I have brought another one since. Whats great about this is the huge and slightly scary brush which is MAC's most bodacious one yet, indicating just how voluminous it makes your lashes. It combines a new formula in a more saturated intense black, with extra voluminization, expansion and curl delivered dramatically. It is perfect for the Christmas party season for all the special occasion events where that desired glamorous and shockingly intense eye look is ideal. If that doesn't persuade you, it lasts 15 hours! This incredible staying power requires quite a strong eye make up remover, as the mascara is literally bullet proof, and most importantly will not flake onto your face throughout the day. I would give this mascara 9/10, and it is £14. This would also make a great gift; I received it last year and loved it, so if you need a stocking filler this is perfect. 




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I have used my Tangle Teezer now for a few months, and I honestly would not be without it! If you haven't heard of it before, it is an innovative, revolutionary hair brush which will literally get out any tangle whatsoever with no pain, no matter what style hair you have. So impressive are the results, that it has taken the beauty industry by storm overnight. It is the original professional detangling brush, containing a unique teeth configuration which flexes upon contact with tangles, thereby making brushing your hair easy and stress free by removing tangles- not your hair! It delivers impressive results on both wet and dry hair, I particularly like using this after washing my hair when it is damp, as it removes all the tangles before blow drying, what's more it is quick too. It also works on extensions and weaves, so it will work on literally anyone. It really is your hair care saviour and a true detangling solution. Tangle Teezer Original is the only brush that is literally changing lives. "Don't change your lifestyle; change your hairbrush". It is also the perfect compact size so ideal for taking with you on the go, and for travelling especially. Available also in several colours, I brought mine on Amazon for £9.99 and would rate it without a doubt 10/10. 


Saturday, 1 December 2012

Christmas Gift Ideas

Yardstick Ornaments


Now were finally in December it's the time to start thinking of interesting gift ideas if you haven't prepared already (like me), to make a really special gift for a special person, instead of the last minute Christmas eve shop buying pointless gift sets.. anyone else experienced this? Here are some gifts I think make an ultra special, thoughtful idea...

 Perfume

You can't go wrong with perfume for a girl friend or family member. Every girl should own her 'signature' fragrance that can be associated with her and this Christmas i'm loving the new Marc Jacobs Dot perfume, not only does it smell fantastic but the bottle is just irresistibly cute and festive. This feminine scent is a lush juicy and floral vivacious fragrance, bound to bring happiness to any girl this season. Why not go all out on this gift set for the ultimate perfume lover, £50. 






Taylor Swift Wonderstruck Eau De Parfum Spray 100ml


A charming and sparkling fragrance by Taylor Swift, embracing all that is special about Taylor. At around £30 for 100ml, this is perfect for that younger person. 

Jimmy Choo Eau De Parfum Spray 60ml

This is my favourite fragrance right now and one I will be definitely be asking for this year.  "Fragrance has always been part of my vision for Jimmy Choo. To fully extend the Jimmy Choo lifestyle, enveloping a woman with the sensuality and essence of the brand. I have always loved wearing perfume; it is part of my identity. Now to create a signature fragrance for Jimmy Choo expressing an aura of strength and beauty is my ultimate dream." - Tamara Mellon, OBE, Founder & Chief Creative Officer, Jimmy Choo. This modern fragrance exudes glamour, filled with a sense of fashion and fun. Seductive and alluring, with a hidden and mysterious sense of confident sexuality. Around £40 for 60ml.

Lady Gaga Fame Black Fluid Eau De Parfum Spray 50ml

This innovative new perfume from Gaga is the first of its kind. Its black in the bottle, yet invisible once airborne making this fragrance a truly unique one, but from Gaga I wouldn't expect anything otherwise. The egg shaped bottle was inspired by Gaga's performance at the Grammy Awards 2011, and once removed, the claw shaped lid functions as a stand for the perfume. This fragrance is built around 3 main accords: dark, sensual and light. £30 for 50ml. 

Ghost Deep Night Eau De Toilette Spray 50ml



I love this fragrance by Ghost, Deep Night, I have worn this for many years now and I've never tired of it. It is a freshly oriental composition for the ideal transition from day to night. A sensual and romantic scent, at just £30 for 50ml. 

Beauty 

Caviar & Oyster Palette
A little pricier, but at Christmas time Bobbi Brown really does bring out some wonderful palettes which are perfect for the Christmas season. I particularly love this 'caviar and oyster' palette which combines two options of strong and smokey, or soft and pretty, creating the best of both looks. This beautifully edited palette features eight different shadows and a luminescent skin enhancer, so this mirrored palette makes it easy to create a multitude of perfect party looks. Taking a cue from the look of something pretty against something edgy, the set includes rich caviar and pearlescent black shades. Introducing the standout star of the season, Ballet Sparkle, a shimmer so sheer it can be worn on both eyes and cheeks (without ever looking overdone). Priced at £59.

Tube Tint Trio
 This trio of easy-to-use tubes features a shade from each formula: Glitter Lip Gloss in GrapeShimmer Lip Gloss in Pink Mist and Pink Violet Lip Gloss (for just a hint of pretty colour). Absolutely perfect to bring some glamour to the party season! £28



This easy to use kit makes a great gift this year as it is perfect for experimentation, it allows you to create a bold look with the iridescent gold eye shadow (which has excellent staying power), or you can play it down with a sophisticated liner as this kit comes with a new double-ended applicator featuring a liner brush. Team this glamorous look with one of three fabulous nail shades, to match your eye look or contrast, you pick. What's more, all these front cover kits come with instructions from expert make up artists and nail technicians to make your look super straightforward. At £16 this also makes a great value gift.

she's so jetset
she's so jetset
she's so jetset
This adorable limited edition set from Benefit includes:

  • 4 shade eyeshadow palette
  • the POREfessional
  • they’re real!
  • first-class face powder with brush
  • lip gloss in life on the A list
  • double-ended applicator

'She's so Jetset' is a stunningly packaged value for money set, which includes the best selling 'they're real!' mascara. All of these products work well together to effortlessly transform your look into one which exudes glamour. £29



Finally, for a great stocking filler this year, 'hope in a jar' the original formula moisturiser for all skin types in trial-size 15 ml, for a inspiring yet festive way to share the gift of great skin this holiday. the award-winning moisturizer from skincare experts philosophy is loaded with antioxidants which hydrates and gently exfoliates for smooth, radiant skin. a hopeful gift that inspires a healthy-looking glow.









Christmas Tree subway art - print & put in red frame.

Want to start your year off in the best way possible? Here's this idea I heard recently which I think is really cute and bound to make anybody joyous for the New Year! 
Definitely want to start this for 2013! Throughout the year, write down memories that make you smile. On New Year's Eve, open and re-read all of the good stuff that made the year wonderful.

Throughout the year, write down memories that make you smile. On New Year's Eve, open and re-read all of the good stuff that made the year wonderful.