Beauty and Blogging Resolutions for 2015

I feel like 2014 was the 'start' of my blog, I started collaborating with brands and had some lovely opportunities, which I am so grateful for! My readership has grown so quickly in the last few months, so thank you to everyone that visits my blog!

To keep myself focused on my blog and my beauty regime, I've decided to give myself some goals and resolutions for 2015.

001. Keep on Blogging
Okay, this sounds a little silly but I sometimes struggle to keep on top of blogging. I work 9-5, Monday to Friday, with an added hour of commuting on either side of my day, by the time I get home it's dark. So I find myself rushing on a Saturday or Sunday to get photos taken and blogs written. I think for me it's organisation that will help me keep to my blogging schedule. It's also not the end of the world if I don't post in twice or three times a week, so I'm going to put less stress on this.

002. Share the Love
I'm aiming to share the love in 2015, I'll be tweeting bloggers and retweeting links so we can all share readers. If I enjoy a post or a blogger's photography, I'm going to give them some praise. It's good to get positive feedback for something you worked hard on.

003. Join More Blogging Chats
I'm going to push myself to join more blogging chats and participate by answering the questions set and tweeting fellow bloggers. I'm hoping to chat to a few new bloggers and make some friends.

004. Work on Photography
I'm currently saving for a DLSR, so I'm going to be brushing up on my photography skills and reading some photography posts to make the most of my blog images. If you have any camera recommendations or posts on photography, please link them in the comments.

005. Look After My Hair and Skin
I love slapping on make-up and I'll happily spend hundreds on new make-up items but my skin and hair get neglected. My hair is so dry and brittle, so in 2015, I'm going to make regular trips to the salon to keep it all in shape. As for skin, I know understand that my oily skin needs moisture too. I'll be alternating between scarring treatments and moisturisers for oily and acne prone skin to keep it in good condition.

006. Use Up What I Have
I have a crazy amount of beauty products, my drawers and Muji storage are full to the brim. I'm determined to use and condense my collection.

What are your resolutions?

14 Beauty Favourites for 2014

I rifled through my beauty collection searching for my 2014 favourites. I'd recently created a Holy Grails post, so to keep this post fresh, I've selected only beauty products which I discovered this year, unlike my Holy Grails, which are long term loves and constant repurchases.

14 Favourites for 2014:

Soap and Glory Archery Brow Pencil in Blondeshell
Soap and Glory's re-vamped pencil is hands down my favourite brow product of the year. I was a fan of the original but found I only used the pencil and not the ink, but this slim lined version is perfection. The retractable pencil has a small, fine point, ideal for drawing hair-like strokes. Luckily Blondeshell is the correct colour match for me, but the shade selection is limited so might not suit all. It's been compared to the Anastasia Brow Whiz so give this one a go before splashing your cash on the higher end version.

NYX Blush in Taupe
An old favourite of many bloggers, NYX's Taupe is a contour colour for me, despite it's blush title. This little beauty is so affordable and is the perfect ashy brown for my skin tone to create killer cheekbones. The orange, shimmery high street offerings cannot compare to this product, you need it.

Bourjois One Seconde Mascara
I've seen this mascara in a number of favourites already, and you should believe the hype. It has a large plastic brush with tiny spikes, which pick up every lash and coat them wonderfully. I find it easy to build up volume, without it clumping so it's quick, easy and hassle-free!

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in Fair
I'm one of those girls no matter how much sleep I get, I just cant seem to shift my grey eye bags. This concealer is strong stuff and thanks to this, my horrible eye bags become invisible and I look human again. I fully recommend it to those with oily skins, it's thick and long lasting, great for creating a flawless finish.

Illamasqua Glamore Nude Lipstick in Minx
I finally found my ideal lipstick shade, it's on the darker side of nude with a hint of redy-pink, which goes well with my fair skin. The formula of this lipstick is heavenly, it's buttery and so comfortable to wear, it's reasonabily long lasting too. Check out the Glamore Nude range, they have one for each skin tone, so you are sure to find your dream lipstick.

Beauty Blender Sponge
I've only recently reviewed this sponge, I won't be going back to brushes for foundation and concealer. It makes application easy and effortless, as well as creating a flawless finish. I have a full review here.

Makeup Revolution Blush Palette in Hot Spice
You must have been living under a rock if you haven't heard about the Makeup Revolution Blush Palettes. They are excellent for those who are just starting to try make-up, as it's every shade you'd need. I love the high pigmentation levels and the soft feel they have, honestly worth the £6! Go on buy one, you won't regret it!

John Fredia Frizz Ease Extra Strength Hair Serum
I never really read reviews on hair-care, something I am planning to do in 2015 though. I just pick things up when they are on offer and so this discovery was just by chance. My frizzy curly hair has to me tackled every few days into a straightened, presentable style. This serum cuts the drying time and leaves the hair feeling smooth, I do still have to run the straighteners over it but that is expected with my hair type. If you have a similar struggle as mine, you should really give it a go.

Lush D'Fluff Shaving Soap
Shaving is just the biggest hassle isn't it girls?! I picked up this shaving soap after giving up on the cheap shaving foams, which gave me rashes. For a start it smells lovely, just like strawberries, and secondly, it's moisturising after you've rinsed off. I don't think it works miracles and stops hair growing as fast or makes it easier to shave but the moisturising is the selling point for me.

Charles Worthington Salon at Home Texturising Spray
If money grew on trees I'd happy purchase the Oribe Texturising Spray but I'm a girl who looks after her pennies. The Charles Worthington dupe has just the right amount of hold and just the right amount of dry texture. My hair can be dry at times but this spray does not leave me like a birds nest, it's still manageable and touchable after you have used it. I curl my hair in rough sections and then spray and scrunch the ends to give a 'lived in' look.

Lush Dream Cream Body Lotion
This is a best seller from Lush. It's a no frills product with it's dull colouring and not heavily scented formula. In what it lacks in creativity, it makes up for in the way it leaves you legs feeling silky smooth. It's simple staple that does the job, worth the money, no doubt.

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray
Sunday nights I can never get to sleep, anyone else find this?! I spray a little of this product onto my pillow and it just eases me into sleep. You can see my full review here.

YSL Black Opium
I'm a lover of floral fragrances like Chloe and Flowerbomb, but this sexy scent is an unusual favourite of mine. It mixes the floral tones and vanilla with darker, sexier tones of coffee. It's sensual yet refreshing, you need to go and smell it.

Origins Drink Up Mask
I'd of laughed at you if you said my oily skin would love a moisturising mask. Even though my skin is oily, it's often dehydrated. This overnight mask just replenishes the moisture levels, leaving the skin soft and plump. It also smells divine!

More Charles Worthington...

I've found some great products in 2014, and no doubt they'll be repurchased and take pride of place in the Holy Grail category soon.

I'm always interested in seeing other bloggers favourites, as it gives me a few things to put on my shopping list to try out, so feel free to leave a link in the comments.

Beauty Blender Sponge Review - Duo Set

For some reason, I’d decided that using sponges to apply make-up was unhygienic or amateur, picturing those wedges that cost 99p from Superdrug. I stuck by my MAC Stippling Brush or the Real Techniques Buffing Brush, and couldn’t be swayed by the hype, which surrounded the Beauty Blender Sponge.

 

I finally caved after a few weeks of my foundation looking patchy, I bought the duo set thinking I’d save money in the long run and I should probably bin one and open a new one after a month or two, to stop germs spreading.
 

As you can see, they are relatively small when they are dry but as soon as you add some water and squeeze the excess out, they become larger and ‘spongier’, with a bit more give. Even when the Beauty Blender is damp it still has a firm texture, ideal for ‘pushing’ the foundation into the skin.

 

I generally use heavy foundations like MAC Studio Fix Fluid, Estee Lauder Double Wear and Revlon Colour Stay, so I wanted to see if the Beauty Blender would improve the feel and look of the foundations.
 

With Revlon Colour Stay, it was almost impossible to spread the foundation, the brush I used seemed to drag the foundation around because of its heavy formula. The Beauty Blender takes the effort out of applying this foundation. I suppose some of the moisture from the water mixes with the foundation as you stipple or bounce the sponge during application, making a slightly more manageable consistency.
 

It works well with all the foundations I’ve tried and it eliminates the streaks that brushes can sometimes give. It simply leaves a smooth, even amount of foundation over the skin, I use the domed bottom part to cover large areas in seconds.
 

I also use the pointy end to blend concealer, it fits perfectly into that crease under the eye. I’d imagine it would be good for cream blush and contour but I haven’t tried it personally.
 

To judge if my love for the Beauty Blender was true, I went back to a brush for a few days, in the end I would pick the sponge up to blend the smears that the brush had left. So I don’t think I’ll be going back to brushes anytime soon!

Have you tried the Beauty Blender?

NV Colour Cosmetics Review and Swatches - Eye Crayon in Cinnamon, Lip Crayon in Mocha and Lipstick in Siren

Lovers of bold lips and bright eyes should check out NV Colour Cosmetics, their products pack a punch. I’ve been trying out three products from their range, the Chunky Lip Crayon in Mocha* (£5) the Chunky Eye Crayon in Cinnamon* (£5), and the Lipstick in Siren* (£6). It’s safe to say these colours are vibrant and well pigmented, ideal for make-up artists.

I went for the Chunky Eye Crayon in Cinnamon as I loved the burnt bronze shade, I thought it would be ideal for a smoky eye. It’s incredibly easy to apply, I just scribble over my lid or just in the outer ‘v’ and blend with a MAC 217. Its creamy formula makes it a dream to blend and smoke out. It sets and lasts all day.

The Lip Crayon in Mocha has the same easy application, I would say this is creamier than the eye version but this makes it comfortable on the lips and moisturising. It’s a lovely brown with a pink hue, similar to the ever popular 90s nude lip that everyone is loving. I do have to reapply during the day but it’s expected with a moisturising formula.

The Siren Lipstick is a show stopper; it’s a vibrant red, reminiscent of the 1950s glamourous red lip that the film stars wore, hence its name. The red hue perks up your complexion, so would be ideal for those days whether you need a pick me up. Again it has lovely moisturising finish but it also has a slight stain, which is noticeable when the lipstick starts to wear off. The best feature of this lipstick is the magnetic closure, I could click it all day. You can just drop the lid onto the tube and it gives a satisfying magnetic click shut. It’s all about packaging as well as product for me and this scores highly.

 Here are some swatches, these are just from one swipe from the bullet.



I would recommend the NV Colour Cosmetics range, they are highly pigmented for the price.

You can purchase the items on: http://www.nvcolour.com/

*PR Sample

A Sneak-Peek at the Latest Beauty Releases - NARS, Bourjois, LUSH, Revlon and Benefit

 

 

New releases suck me right in, I feel like I need them and I begin to covet until I get my hands on the product. With 2015 fast approaching, here are a round of the new beauty releases set to hit the shelves in January and February.

The Eye Opening Act Collection is a new limited edition range from NARS Cosmetics, which is solely focused on the eyes. Their latest offering has a selection of textures and dimensions from matte to velvet. NARS collections are always highly coveted and this one will no doubt have positive reviews. The range includes new Matte Velvet Shadow Sticks, a new shade of Illuminating Multiple Stick, Velvet Shadow Sticks and Inoubliable Coup D’Oeil Eyeshadow Palette.

Launch date: 1st Jan 2015
Price: £19-£30

Bourjois has announced the launch of the Silk Edition Powder, which sounds right up my street. The face powder provides a matte finish which claimed to last eight hours. It also claims to have a bare skin effect, a formula that melts and has an undetectable finish. It’s only available in six shade which is a little disappointing.

Launch date: Late Jan 2015
Price: £8.99

LUSH has the best themed collections, they do not disappoint when it comes to Christmas and Valentine’s Day. This February you can buy your partner a number of loved up products including: Cupid’s Love Soap, Heart Throb Bubbletoom, Lonely Heart Bubble Bar, Unicorn Horn Bubble Bar, Floating Flower Bath Bomb, The Kiss Lip Scrub and Gloss, Prince Charming Shower Gel and Love Locket Bath Bomb. You’ll be spoilt for choice and some of the products come in ready-made gift boxes. I think I’ll be romancing myself and buying a few of the products – for me, from me.

Launch date: 9 Jan 2015
Price: £3.25

Revlon have added another product to their already popular PhotoReady line with their Prime and Anti-Shine Balm, which sounds like a strange concept to me, it’s a solid compact with a balm which mattifies oil and hides pores. It will be interesting to see what the consistency and texture are like.

Launch date: Jan 2015
Price: £9.99

You may have seen sneak-peeks of this in some Vlogmas videos, Benefit are launching their Puff Off under eye gel. Benefit love a gimmick, this product has a tiny iron as its applicator. The peptide in the product promises to reduce puffiness. As products get blogger hyped I seem to doubt their claims, we’ll just have to see for ourselves!

Launch date: Feb 2015
Price: £22.50



Which product launch are you looking forward to?

*Images from Diary Directory

Elemis Pure Rose Indulgence Gift Set Review

Elemis is a brand that oozes luxury, it's an aspirational brand, we'd all love to be surrounded by Elemis products for a spa like skincare experience. I think the Pure Rose Indulgence Gift Set* would make a lovely present for those who need a pamper or for those who dream of an indulgent evening of relaxation.

The set contains the Jasmine Rose Bath Milk, Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, Gentle Rose Exfoliator and Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules.

We have to talk about the Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm first, I'm happy I received this set as I'd wanted to try the balm for a long time. It's waxy in texture when you scoop some out of the pot, but as soon as you start to massage this over your face, it becomes a silky balm that feels heavenly. It's a hard working cleanser that removes all your make-up within seconds. It does leave a film of oil on the skin, but it feels like it's working wonders in hydrating and reviving your skin.

The Gentle Rose Exfoliator is a great everyday exfoliator, as the name suggests it isn't too abrasive. The formula is gel like in consistency and contains Vitamin C, which is great for renewing the skin cells, giving you a glow.

I've never seen a product quite like the Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules, there are two sets of coloured capsules, pink and green. The pink ones are filled with their rose oil which should be applied in the morning and the green capsules contain lavender oil, which should be massaged into the skin at night. Both oils are warming on the skin, which gives a lovely spa like feel to the product. I have oily skin so I tend to alternate the two on different nights as I can't use oils in the daytime. They work quite like the Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair in that they work overnight to renew the skin. I wake up and my skin looks clearer and my scars are reduced.

All I can really say about the Jasmine Rose Bath Milk is that it's so luxurious and relaxing, I've caught my mum trying to use some in her bath! That's why I think this set would be great to give mums for Christmas.

This set would be great as a pamper gift or you could even purchase the set yourself to try out the products in sample sizes. You honestly won't be disappointed by the quality!

*PR Sample

Library of Fragrance Gingerbread Spray Review

The fragrance aisles are jam packed with garish celebrity fragrances and expensive scents you can only afford once in a blue moon. Library of Fragrance are a breath of fresh air in the overcrowded market.

They've stripped back all the complicated base and top tones, which us bloggers find amazingly hard to describe without a cheat sheet and gone back to basics with scents like Daisy, Fresh Coconut and Rain. The simple names describe the scents perfectly. Their most popular lines are Baby Powder, Pure Soap and Clean Skin - it's like your favourite fresh scents from Yankee Candle being made into a scent!

I have the Gingerbread fragrance*, which is £15. Cute little side story: every time my Nan took me shopping, she used to buy me a gingerbread from Gerrards Bakery, so this fragrance brings back some memories.

Library of Fragrance describe the Gingerbread scent as 'warm and sexy', and I totally agree. This scent is much more grown up than you would have imagined. It has a warm and deep spicy scent that is juxtaposed against sweet vanilla sugar notes.

As for longevity, the scent does last well for a cologne spray, but as the bottle suggests these are a 'pick-me-up' so you can refresh the scent throughout the day.

They've now added some classic Christmas scents to the range, including Egg Nog, Cranberry, Christmas in New York, and Christmas Bouquet. Their range of scents can be layered so they'd make a great present, you could select three which compliment each other and make your own customised set.

Library of Fragrance scents are stocked on their website and at selected Boots stores/ Boots online.

*PR sample

Amara Amara Multi-stone Boho Coin Bracelet Review and 12 Days of Christmas Treasure Hunt

Jewellery makes an ideal present, we don't often spoil ourselves with rings and bracelets, that's why I think it's so lovely to receive a piece at Christmas.

Amara Amara is well known for their stunning gemstone jewellery. If you believe in holistic well being, these stones can bring clarity, strength and balance to those who wear them.

The Amara Amara Multi-stone Boho Coin Bracelet* is a lovely dainty piece of jewellery, it's feminine and chic. What I love about this bracelet is how it's sturdy but still has that delicate feel. It's a mixture of 18ct gold vermeil coins and their signature gemstones.

Any woman would be very happy to be treated to this bracelet this Christmas, it's elegant and looks beautiful on. Go on, spoil your mum, sister, aunty or friend, she'll be forever grateful.

Beverly Hills Formula's Perfect White Black Toothpaste Review

Charcoal is often used in skincare because of its cleansing properties but Beverly Hills Formula have taken it one step further. They’ve created a BLACK toothpaste, yes I said black, which contains charcoal, called Perfect White Black*.

Activated charcoal is said to be one of the most effective and safest teeth whitener ingredients, great for those who don’t want harsh chemicals in their beauty products. It’s a well-rounded ingredient as it also helps combat pesky plaque and gum disease.

Now you know it contains charcoal, I bet you think this toothpaste is gritty and tastes bad, well it’s the opposite! The flavour is surprisingly refreshing with a touch of mint to banish bad breath.

If you’ve ever tried a toothpaste with bicarbonate of soda, I'd describe it as a similar texture. It’s not super gritty but does have a slight texture, but this isn’t off putting and it makes you feel like you’ve given your toothy pegs a good scrub and clean.

As for whitening, I feel that this is comparable to most whitening pastes, it does have a slight whitening effect but you need continual and long term use to get those pearly whites. It really is worth investing long term into keeping your teeth white and this toothpaste is a good on to start with!

Would you try a black toothpaste?

Beauty Stocking Fillers with Burt's Bees, Balmi and I Love...

Secret Santa and Stocking Fillers can often be the hardest presents to buy, budget doesn't have to mean basic. These minis would make any beauty lover happy.

First up is Burt's Bees, I've already claimed their lip balm as a Holy Grail, which both of these sets have.

A Bit of Burt's Bees Mango Set - contains Nourishing Lip Balm with Mango Butter and Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream.*

This fruity version of their famous lip balm smells good enough to eat. The Cuticle Cream is great to use after a manicure to nourish the nail beds and prevent dryness. This set also comes in Beeswax, Pomegranate and Pink Grapefruit and costs under £6.

Hive Favourites Set contains Beeswax Lip Balm with Vitamin E and Peppermint and Naturally Nourishing Milk and Honey Body Lotion*

I can see why the body lotion is a 'hive favourite', it sinks into the skin beautifully and leaves you feeling well moisturised.

I Love ... Raspberry and Blackberry Tiny Box of Love  contains Bubble Bath and Shower Crème and Moisturising Body Lotion*

This sweet smelling trio is ideal for Secret Santa gifts, as it's under £5! They also have a range of scents which include Coconut and Cream, Lemons and Limes, Mango and Papaya and Vanilla and Ice Cream.

Balmi Moisturising Lip Balm Bauble in Raspberry*

I've seen a number of brands releasing beauty baubles as stocking fillers but this has to be one of the most affordable. The lip balm is in a sturdy cube which makes it ideal for throwing in your handbag and the balm is shaped to a pointed dome making it easy to apply.

All of these options are under £10, they are incredibly affordable, you could even treat yourself to one ;)

See my other Christmas Gift Ideas here.

BLACK FRIDAY Discounts and Deals for the UK - Beauty and Fashion

Black Friday is something us shoppers in the UK have adopted from our American counter parts. I'm #feelingspendy (as Amelia Liana would say) and I'm sure you are too, I mean who can't resist a bargain!

Discounts and Offers

Beauty

Body Shop - Black Friday Bundle £30 worth £76.50 with the code BUNDLE - Friday 28th Nov till Tuesday 2nd Dec. ALSO save £25 when you spend £50, save £10 when you spend £25 and save £5 when you spend £15 with the code TREAT


E.L.F - Free Festive Mystery Gift Bag with orders over £20 - Monday 24th Nov to Saturday 29th Nov


Hothair - 20% off everything – Hairpieces, Wigs & Hair Extensions -  Online and in store from Friday 28th Nov till Monday 1st Dec



Hair Philosophers - 3 in 1 brush at 25% of on Black Friday, RRP is £69.99, currently selling at £59.99 and for the Friday it's down to £44.99. For that price you are getting 3 boar bristle brushes.
Fashion


River Island - 20% off  with the code TREAT28 between 11am - 3pm on Friday 28th Nov


ASOS - 20% off with the code CYBERWKND20 - Friday 28th Nov


All Saints - 20% off with the code CYBER - Friday 28th Nov


Missguided - 20% off with the code CYBER20 - Thursday 27th Nov till Tuesday 2nd Dec


Whistles - 30% off everything, no code - Starts Friday


Love Hearts and Crosses - 15% off all jewellery orders, this includes sale items and Disney Couture jewellery. Use the code BLACK15 at the checkout. Thursday 27th Nov till Tuesday 2nd Dec


Find even more Black Friday discounts on myvouchercodes.co.uk*

My Foundation Collection - Pale Oily Skin Foundation Reviews and Recommendations featuring MAC, Estee Lauder, Bourjois, L'Oreal, Revlon

Foundation can be an endless struggle as your skin tone and texture and skin type change throughout the year. I often find it hard to match a foundation to my ghostly white skin, so I've trialled and tested a few to help a sister out. Hopefully this may help the oily skinned pale girls out there find the right foundation for them.

Please note, this is what I use and how my skin behaves just to give you an idea:

Skin Type: SUPER oily

Problems: Prone to spots and oily skin

Primers: Max Factor Face Infinity Primer, Bourjois Happy Light Matte Primer, Smashbox Primer

I've left the image as unedited as I could to give you an idea of shades. 

Revlon Colour Stay Foundation for Combination / Oily Skin in 110 Ivory

Texture and Formula

This heavyweight foundation is like marmite in the beauty community. Its thick texture has often been compared to a mask by those who do not favour this product. For me, I do agree with the comments of a heavy coverage but I don’t feel like I’m wearing a mask.

I really do not recommend applying this with a brush, the texture is slightly sticky until it sets so it just smears; I advise a sponge. I use the Real Techniques sponge currently and I find this is the best application.

The drying time of this foundation is a downside, it takes a minute or two to properly set.

Colour / Undertone

I would say it’s the thickest formula from the bunch but also the palest. This Ivory shade is on the pink side so be careful if you already have a pink undertone in your skin.

Longevity

It’s intended for the oiliest of skins, and honestly I feel like this does a good job of keeping my oil at bay. On my more challenging days where I may have been hot and bothered or running about, I do find that Colour Stay does start to a tiny bit patchy, it’s fixable with a little powder and hardly noticeable.

Overall

I thoroughly recommend this to those who really suffer with oily skin, I mean SUPER oily skin, then the thick formula isn’t such an issue as it’s mattifying properties far outweigh the heavy feeling. For just ‘normal’ oily skins, I think you should avoid this and go for MAC Studio Fix.

MAC Studio Fix Foundation in NW10

Texture and Formula

MAC Studio Fix Foundation has been a long term friend, it’s been with me for a number of years. It’s seen months of love then months of neglect, all depending on how my skin is behaving.  I would say this is a mid-weight in the oily skin foundation ranks, it sits between the buildable coverage of L’Oreal True Match and the heavier textures of Estee Lauder Double Wear and Revlon Colour Stay. I find this easy enough to apply and blend.

Colour / Undertone

It’s almost as pale as Revlon Colour Stay but just a tiny, tiny touch darker, and on this skin this is not noticeable. Thank the Lord that MAC brought out NW10 as NC/NW15 was just too orangey and dark on my ghost like skin. NW if you didn’t know is nude warm and NC is nude cool.

Longevity

On average Studio Fix lasts around 4 hours on me, staying relatively matte. After that my super oily skin starts to seep oil and imbalance the foundation and create a funny patchy look. For those days that I don’t want to slap on Revlon Colour Stay, I just blot on top of this, it gets me through work and looks passable. As I said people with ‘normal’ oily skin will love this foundation and find it would last so much longer than it does on my skin.

Overall

I will always have Studio Fix in my arsenal, it’s something that’s easy to apply and is good enough for a day at work. It doesn’t have the best longevity but the colour for me is pretty spot on!

Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation in 1C0 Shell and 1N1 Ivory Nude

Texture and Formula

A few weeks ago I claimed this foundation to be my Holy Grail and I stick by this claim. It’s not an everyday foundation for me as it has the same feel as Revlon Colour Stay so I’d rather save this expensive version for best.

It’s easier to work with then Colour Stay but again I suggest you use a sponge so give the best coverage. It definitely creates a flawless matte finish, that’s why it’s my Holy Grail.

I think it’s a little less sticky than Revlon Colour Stay, but like its rival, I do think it takes a while to set, I wait a minute or two before I apply powder.

Colour / Undertone

I have two of the palest shades, 1C0 Shell has a pink undertone and 1N1 Ivory Nude has a more orange hue on my skin. I can get away with both as long as I blend well!

Longevity

Double Wear wins on longevity hands down, it trumps both Colour Stay and Studio Fix. I can go up to 6 hours without shine and it lasts a whole night of partying! No patchy fading throughout the day and lasts well on the skin.

Overall

I could gush about this foundation all day, if I was made of money this would be my everyday go to. If you have the cash to splash this long wearing flawless coverage foundation is worth a buy. If you are strapped for cash then consider Revlon Colour Stay as an affordable option.

L’Oreal True Match in N1 Ivory

Texture and Formula

I’ve heard many Youtubers and Bloggers sign praises of the L’Oreal True Match foundation, but I doubted the claims as most of them have perfect skin anyway! I went to a Boots points event and got suckered into a 3 for 2 offer on L’Oreal.

I find this foundation to be the most fluid of the bunch, it has a watery consistency but don’t let that put you off. With my troublesome skin I would normally avoid formulas like this, but I’m glad I gave it a go. I would say this is a lighter texture than Studio Fix and on the same par with Bourjois Healthy Mix. Again I use my sponge to apply this foundation, one layer isn’t enough coverage for my liking so I pat on another and leave to set. I do still have to go in with heavy duty concealer for scarring and dark circles but overall it covers the worst of it.

Colour

This foundation is one of the only products I’ve seen in the drugstore that carries a warm, neutral and cool shade of each skin tone. This is the palest shade in the range but it is still a touch darker than Revlon Colour Stay.

Longevity

This is on the lower end of the longevity scales of my foundations. Studio Fix sticks around longer, True Match lasts about 3 hours before shine appears. I use this foundation if I’m just popping to town for a bit to do some shopping, it’s quick and easy and does the job for those few hours.

Overall

This would be more suited to those who have oily combination skin, it would probably last a lot longer on your than my skin. I think the shade range is great for drugstore but I’d pick Studio Fix over this.

Bourjois Healthy Mix in 51 Light Vanilla

Texture and Formula

I’ve never really LOVED this foundation, it only really works on me when I have drier skin than normal. I think the key with this foundation is layers and powder. It does have a ‘lit from within’ finish but this can soon turn to oil on my face.

It’s a pleasant texture, which is light and easy to work with. I normally use my Real Techniques Buffing brush but you could also use a sponge if you wanted a super light coverage.

Colour

This is the darkest foundation in my collection, and is the palest shade in their shade range. I feel Bourjois haven’t caught up to the times, a uniform beige colour as the palest shade is unacceptable. I don’t recommend this shade for really pale girls like myself.

Longevity

This has next to no longevity for me, it last around 2-3 hours maximum without shine but when 5 o’clock comes round I look like I’ve been dipped in chip fat. It also oxidises as the day goes on, leaving you with a tangoed face.

Overall

I really do not recommend this for oily skinned girls, although it would be okay for those with drier skins.

I know this was a lengthily piece from me but I really wanted to help out the pale and oily skinned girls out there.

Have you tried any of these foundations? Which is your favourite?

MAC x Giambattista Valli 2015 Preview

Italian designer Giambattista Valli, is to launch a limited edition lipstick line with MAC cosmetics in 2015, which is inspired by his Haute Couture gowns. As you can see in the collage I created, he's taken inspiration from his previous shows for the MAC colour palette.

He told Vogue:
"The best thing about make-up is that a lipstick can really change your look. If you never wear colour on your lips and then one day you wear red, everyone just goes wow! I made these for a woman with personality, a woman who lives her life and isn’t afraid to wear colour and isn’t afraid to kiss."

I haven't been excited about a MAC collection in a long time, I felt their Christmas collection was just like every other seasonal collection they have released in the last few years but this collection of lipsticks is stunning. What I really love about these are the coloured bullets, these will be a collectors item for sure.

We have a little to wait as this collection won't be released until Spring 2015 but I'll be keeping my eye out!

Images from Vogue

Milk_shake Hair Care Christmas Gift Sets

Have a female in the family that spends hours in the salon and cannot be separated from their straighteners? Milk_shake, a new environmentally conscious professional hair care products brand, has the perfect gift sets for them.

The unique selling point of Milk_shake products, except for its modern and eye-catching packaging, is there recipe which combines the benefits of milk and fruit for wellbeing and beauty benefits. Any hair care lover would be grateful of their benefits and it's a failsafe option as the products suit all hair types.

The luxury Christmas gift box (£29.95) includes a Daily Shampoo, which contains apple juice, this hydrates and protects the hair, and a Conditioning Whipped Cream, along with a Milk Body Cream and Argan Oil.

The Integrity Christmas Trio Pack (£29.99) contains a shampoo and conditioner from the Integrity line, which contains organic Muru Muru butter, it cleanses and hydrates and best of all they are both sulphate free!

The set also contains their popular Incredible Milk, which has 12 actions: UV protection, repairs all hair types, protects and maintains colour, protect from heat, detangles, maintains hold on your hairstyle, gives shine, adds body and volume, controls frizz, prevents split ends, helps straightening and helps smooth the cuticle. It really is a miracle milk!

The Duo Pack for Christmas contains the best selling Colour Maintainer Shampoo and Conditioning Whipped Cream. The products contain milk proteins that work to replenish the hairs strength and soothe the hair into a more manageable state.

I was kindly gifted a few products from Milk_shake: Argan Oil, Daily Frequent Shampoo and Whipped Cream Leave-In Foam.

Milk_shake Glistening Argan Oil* - £5.69 for the travel size and £19.59 for the 50ml

Argan Oil is one of the most coveted products on the hair care market at the moment. This one smells lovely, it makes your hair soft and manageable.

Milk_shake Daily Frequent Shampoo* - £12.79 for 100ml

For those who wash their hair everyday this would be perfect, it claims to cleanse the hair while keeping the moisture balance.

Milk_shake Whipped Cream Leave-In Foam* - £6.39 for travel size or £15.29 for 200ml

The Whipped Cream intrigued me the most, I've never seen a product like this before. This would make a lovely leave-in treatment once a week just to boost the condition of your hair.

This is just the tip of the iceberg of Milk_shake hair products, they have wide range of brilliant hair care, including a Sensorial Mint for a refreshing wash, a volume and colour range and also a range of styling products. You can check them out at http://www.milkshakehaircare.co.uk

L'Oreal Superliner Gel Eye Liner Review

Following my first proper FOTD, I thought I’d review the gel liner I used for the look. I've never used a gel liner before, so the fact that this one came in a nice gold pot with a brush completely swayed me to purchase. If I'm honest, I was a bad blogger and didn't research the L’Oreal’s Superliner gel before I bought it.

 

Consistency

The gel liner is a good consistency, it’s thick but creamy and is easy to work with, I don’t I have to drag the brush across my eye lid. Being a creamy consistency I did worry that I might get transfer. I've only noticed a slight transfer in the inner corners of my eye, where the eye goop gets (wonderful description there haha). As far as eye lid transfer goes, I haven’t experienced any.

Pigmentation

Pigmentation is the down side of this product, it’s a grey black. Compared to my 17 Wet Look liner, this colour just doesn't compare. If you are looking for something with depth, I wouldn't suggest this gel liner.

Brush

I do own a few brushes which would be great to use with this product, but I thought I’d give the one that comes with the liner a try. It doesn't have the finest point but if you angle it to the side you can work with it quite well. I’d say it’s an average brush, you do have to be cautious but it’s not awful.

Overall

For my first gel liner, I don’t think that it’s a bad product. I’d give it a 3/5, the pigmentation and slight transfer in the inner corners of the eye let the product down. I would recommend using your own brush, although if you don’t have a gel liner brush theirs isn't the worst.

Have you tried the L’Oreal Superliner gel liner?

Christmas Wishlist & Childhood Memories

I’ve suddenly got into the Christmas spirit, I’ve been humming Christmas songs and making draft wishlists, anyone remember circling the Argos catalogue?! Well making a collage of products is the blogger equivalent of the Argos catalogue, a very unsubtle hint at what to get us!

My friend and I were discussing Christmas traditions over lunch, we remember wearing silly paper hats, mad rushes to find last minute presents and leaving mince pies out for Santa’s reindeers.  As a child I made my own tradition, I used to go on hunts for Christmas presents every year. I was a naughty little child who couldn’t wait till Christmas day.

I remember one year where I went searching in my parents room, opening cupboards, riffling through drawer until I finally found what I had been looking for, mine and my sisters presents. I stood there in awe, on my list that year was a Walkman and on my sisters was a Bear in the Big Blue House toy, and there they were stuffed at the back of a cupboard.

I was never good at keeping secrets as a child so I blurted out to my mum in guilt that I had found them. Ever since then she’d hidden things in my aunty’s house.

Well here’s what’s on my Christmas wishlist this year, I promise I won’t go on a hunt this year!

GHD Limited Edition Rose Gold Straighteners - £130

Chloe Eau de Parfum - £61 for 50ml

Tweezerman Tweezers - £33

Tangle Teaser - £10.99

Elemis Pure Rose Indulgence Gift Set - £29*

What's on your list?

FOTD featuring L'Oreal Superliner Gel Liner and Caresse Lipstick in Impulsive Fuchsia and MAC Satin Taupe

Becoming a blog with a face is a scary thought. Of course we all upload profile pictures, mine being a highly edited, soft focus version of myself, but publishing an only slightly edited photo of myself is a strange feeling. For the most part my blog posts include photographs of the product I’m reviewing and a brief summary and some thoughts wrapped up into 250-500 words.

I’ve never been one who posts FOTD’s and OOTD’s, in honesty I’m not that confident and we all know the camera adds ten pounds. In an attempt to submerge myself deeper into the blogging world, I thought I’d work on my first FOTD so be gentle!

 

Products Used:

MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation in NW10

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in Light

Soap and Glory One Heck of a Blot Powder

MAC Satin Taupe Eyeshadow

Urban Decay Half Baked Eyeshadow

L'Oreal Superliner Gel Liner

Bourjois One Seconde Mascara

Soap and Glory Archery Eyebrow Pencil in Blondeshell

 

This look was an ‘I’ve got a lot of time to play around with make-up’ kinda look. Rushing in the morning for work, I don’t normally get much time to play around with make-up. I’d bought some new items so I thought I’d slap it all on for some first impressions for the blog.

Starting with base, I used an oldie but goodie, MAC’s Studio Fix foundation in the shade NW10, (yes I’m ghostly white). My under eye concealer needed to be heavy duty that day so I picked up my Collection Lasting Perfection concealer in Light and to set this all I used my Soap and Glory One Heck of a Blot powder.

Another Soap and Glory product was used in this look, my eyebrows were filled in with their Archery brow pencil. The repackaged version is amazing, it has a finer point than it’s original.

 

Next, for my shadow, I reached for Satin Taupe by MAC, a blogger favourite. I tried to create a ‘spotlight’ eyeshadow effect that’s been spotted on the runways. I patted Satin Taupe all over the lid and added Half Baked by Urban Decay in the middle. I don’t think the shades I picked were contrasting enough to really show up though.

 

 

 

For my signature winged eyeliner, I tried a new product, L’Oreal’s Superliner Gel. After a number of disappointments from liquid liners I thought I’d give this one a go, there will be a full review up soon.

Another new product was used for mascara, I’d heard such great things about Bourjois’ Volume 1 Seconde mascara. From first impressions, it’s a good’un!

Finally to add a pop of colour I used L’Oreal Caresse lipstick in Impulsive Fuchsia, I feel these lipsticks have just fallen off the radar, but they have a lovely finish.

For me this is a more ‘tarted up’ look, but I really do like the contrast between the Satin Taupe eyeshadow and the L’Oreal vibrant pink lipstick. So that’s my first FOTD published, how exciting! Have you tried any of the products I've mentioned?

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray Quick Review

I'm not an insomniac, but sometimes I do find my tendency to overthink leaves me rather anxious, resulting in a bad nights sleep. I picked up the This Works Deep Sleep Spray in the hope that it may help soothe me and help me drift off to the land of nod.

At £16 per bottle (75ml) this stuff isn't on the cheap side, so here's why I think it is worth splashing your cash on.

 

 

 

Often the problem with not getting enough sleep is not being able to clear your mind in order to relax. Once you've sprayed a couple of squirts of Deep Sleep onto your pillow, the lavender scent really helps to soothe you. I find the scent is comforting and I feel my thoughts becoming 'softer' as I give into the relaxation and I fall quickly into a deep sleep.

 

I can honestly say this product and it's scent help rid my mind of thoughts and provides me with a good nights sleep.

 

I give this product a 4.5/5. If you struggle with sleep it's worth the investment!

October Wishlist featuring Charlotte Tilbury, Hourglass, Benefit and GHD

I've been uploaded quite a few hefty posts lately so I thought I'd keep this one light and give you an overview of my current wishlist.

GHD V Gold Classic Styler Straighteners - £115

I've had my GHD’s for a few years now, they still work but I feel they just aren't as good as they used to be. I’ll be handing my old pair to my sister and treating myself to a brand new pair.

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush Palette - £56

Ever since I laid my eyes on the press release for Hourglass’ Ambient Light Blush palette, I knew it had to be mine. I was sold on the rose gold packaging, never mind the blush shades. I wasn’t overly bothered by the original powder palette, I stay away from luminising setting powders due to my oily skin. I do enjoy a rosey glowy cheek though, so I've justified the high price point by saying I won’t have to buy any new blusher shades for a while. These variations will have me set for every make-up look.

Benefit Gimme Brow Gel - £17.50

I’m often dubious about Benefit products, I feel they push their latest release in front of a select group of bloggers, who write rave reviews without any qualms. I thought this about the Gimme Brow release, I couldn’t believe that a little brow gel could be so amazing. After doing plenty of research and looking at before and after shots, I really am sold. Now it’s made its way to my wishlist!

Charlotte Tilbury Colour-coded Eyeshadow Quad in Vintage Vamp - £38

Charlotte Tilbury can do no wrong according to the beauty blogging community. I agree from first impressions, impressive packaging and a beautiful range of colours and products has really got me lusting. As an eyeshadow fanatic, I've set my heart on a new palette. I love the rusty shimmer shade, it would amazing paired with the burgundy for an Autumnal look.

Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Liner in Pillowtalk - £16

Another Tilbury product has been added to my lust list after a number of my favourite bloggers, including Kat at Sugar Fixx, described this lip liner as you’re lips but better and more plumped up. I think this will look great with my MAC Please Me lipstick.

What’s on your wishlist?