Urban Decay Naked Skin Concealer - Restoring my Faith in Concealer

I without a doubt have a strained relationship with concealer. I love it. I need it. But I hate shopping for it, I hate the limited shade selection. I hate how much I need under my eyes. And the list goes on...

But step in Urban Decay's Naked Skin Concealer, and we have a wonderfully large tube restoring my faith in ye olde imperfection erasers.

To get the negative out of the way, the shades are odd. "Fair Neutral" is WHITE, like reverse panda eyes face white... So I picked up "Light Neutral" (I'm pale, but neutral skin-toned) and it was SO dark. Like normal panda eyes dark. Oddly, "Light Warm" is lighter in colour. Don't ask me why, but shopping outside your usual skin tone may help with the colour match due to the variant in shade.

Now, the positive...

Immediately, you see it's size. Its HUGE for a concealer, significantly larger than the ever so popular Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer that comes in a little more expensive. With it's intense pigmentation, a little goes a long way, meaning if you don't use concealer heavily, this should last quite a while.

The doe foot applicator works a charm to any double-dipping, and if you're applying to spots, contamination can be easily avoided by applying to your hand, and pressing over the area with a clean finger. Otherwise the applicator is ideal for applying with precision to small areas around the eyes and nose. While it can be blended out with whatever technique you prefer, I've used both fingers and a blending sponge (and Mac Fix+ setting spray) and found them to disperse the product perfectly, meshing it with the skin and making it almost undetectable.

It's major selling point for me is the creamy consistency, which unlike Laura Mercier's Secret Camouflage (my previous go-to) is easier to disguise on the skin, and much more forgiving to textured or dry skin. Unlike the dry, hard formula of LM Secret Camouflage, you will need a small amount of setting powder to stop any budging or creasing, especially if you're applying over a dewy, or water-based foundation.

This has undoubtedly made my routine easier, abolished all my worries about caking and coverage on my dark under-eye circles, and made me a happy bunny at £17.50 for 5ml. (You can buy on Feelunique, here.)

And with my faith restoring, how do people feel about Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer? Y'know, for experimentation...

Best Beauty Videos of Youtube

I don't know about you, but I hate people trying to make plans with me on a Sunday. They are strictly reserved for laziness, Netflix (mulled wine if it's near Christmas) and typically a dose of Michalak blogs.

I'm not a big fan of watching Youtube, I don't personally see the attraction. I know that seems relatively shocking but most just don't cut it for me, of course we have Lisa Eldridge who is simply a goddess, but I rarely find myself branching out. Even Charlotte Tilbury's channel is now something which seems filled with overzealous claims about products and totally heavy makeup application. BUT What if a girl just wants subtle makeup?!

Well, I'm not claiming these are natural, but they are super pretty, are filled with tons of amazing tips, and are my go-to for inspiration (or just my absolute favourites for when boredom strikes) let's get to it...



Monika Blunder and Phoebe Tonkin go ALL BRONZE EVERYTHAN' - We all know how much I love Phoebe Tonkin. And with Monika's soothing voice and expert knowledge, this is ideal for me. Looks so healthy in the skin then completely sultry on the eyes - perfection!


Lisa Eldridge does boyish - so far from the traditional makeup you see on YouTube, yet so beautiful. This is minimalism at its finest, and ideal if you, like me, need the perfect combination of masculine and feminine on a daily basis.

Monika Blunder and Karima McKimmie recreate Emilia Clarke look (think Mother of Dragons meets Mother(s) of Makeup) - More beautiful makeup courtesy of Monika. Can anything honestly beat those stunning brows and striking eyes?


Shameless Fripperies werks a Super-Speedy Bronze Look *sassy hair flip emoji* - Another bronze look, but ideal for inspiration when you're more pressed for time. 


Glam and Gore transforms into Lana Del Rey (and a zombie?) - Not at all a daily look, but techniques always translate, right? And if you have a weirdo inside you wanting to get out her channel is everything you'll ever need. Seriously this girl is freaking awesome. Can we be best friends, already?! 

Totally enjoyed compiling this post with some of my favourite Youtube videos. It'd be really interesting to see who else everyone else watches regularly, or standout videos from specific people. Leave them below so we can share in the Sunday Youtube entertainment...

Nude goes permanent - Tom Ford Nude Dip Eyeshadow Review

I was completely slow on the mark last time the Tom Ford Nude Dip eyeshadow quad came out. Mostly because I was scared that starting off buying TF products would be a downhill spiral into an expensive addiction oblivion, but after getting shade and illuminate at Christmas, and it being added to the permanent line... I couldn't resist.

The shadow itself is quite a stiff formula, definitely not what you'd be expecting, but in hindsight, removes possibility of fallout, both from the pan and on your eye. While like all other eyeshadow quads, the applicators that come with it are mostly pointless, and these in particular serve only to look pretty with the TF logo on them (me... superficial? No...) But the packaging is just as slick and beautiful as what you'd expect from such a premium brand. If I wasn't terrified of carrying this around and breaking it, I'd be taking it out every five minutes just to brag.

The colours of the shadows themselves are exactly what you'd expect from a neutral palette, but a million times more beautiful courtesy of it's multi-tonal satin shades. The top row holds a frosted, golden champagne colour, and a muted copper/rose (quite similar to the likes of Mac Naked Lunch). The bottom two shades are a medium taupe, and a dark brown both with subtle warm undertones, to link the shades altogether. All the shades are well pigmented, and easy to blend, while lasting a full day (with primer) without any creasing. I can quite easily make a day appropriate smoky eye, and layer a darker shade come evening to "amp up the drama..." don't judge me based on the cliches.

If you're a fan of in your face glittery eyeshadows, and deep intense shades like that of a Mac pigment, you probably wouldn't be the biggest fans of the latest permanent addition. If you're a strong supporter of the glowing, natural look (for both day and night) you will adore this Tom Ford Nude Dip eyeshadow quad - even if it is nearly too pretty to use!

Cheating Perfect Skin

If someone complements me on my skin, I always do a little snigger internally. Not that I can't take a complement, (I can't, but we'll leave that for another day) it's more that it takes me forever and a year using skincare products and various makeup products to cheat something not even close to "perfect" skin. These two products are the ones that are currently acting as real-life Photoshop for my face...

Given tinted moisturisers were my first venture into make-up (and that's something we usually wish to forget) I somewhat surprised myself with how much I liked this Chanel Les Beiges fluid when I tried a sample. So I took myself down to the closest Chanel counter and the rest was history. It offers a very light coverage, but covers everything you want it to. I'm looking at you, hormonal redness and spots. And being someone that prefers an unfragranced base product, the white rose scent of this is heavenly, and helps to protect skin from environmental damage, whilst offering boosts of hyaluronic acid to up the moisture levels of your skin.

And once again, I find myself revisiting the This Works Perfect Look Skin Miracle on ze blog, and I realise how big of a cliche this is now becoming, but I just cannot get enough of this literal miracle product. This "tinted skin perfector" is highly rated by Lisa Eldridge, and for good reason; it's sheer, hydrating, and has the good variety of natural ingredients, that collectively help to make us all beautiful. With the caramel and mica ingredients offering the colour, this is suitable for all skin tones, and will adapt to your natural skin colour.

These two products work amazingly together, and just as well on their own. The This Works perfector is ideal for light coverage, but won't cover any spots, at which point the Chanel offering will come in handy. Layering both of these products or using them singularly will perfect skin, depending on whether you want a sheer or heavier coverage depending on time of day and skin concerns. With each of them having no nasty ingredients, the only other thing you'll be needing is your SPF, then you're good to go.

Have you tried either of these products? And what products do you use to fake perfect skin?

Most Visited.

After actually paying attention to my "most visited" sites on my laptop, I realised, that with the front-runners being Into The Gloss, Who What Wear and ASOS, my Internet life really does revolve around fashion and beauty! So then my little brain cells got ticking, and I thought how curious I would be to see what my "most visited" beauty products would be. So pretty much, my most-used, but that's just too simple...

Despite how much I think concealer is a miracle product, I have never found the perfect one, whether it be too pink toned, too cakey, or stupidly sheer, but my MAC Pro Conceal and Correct palette is pretty darn perfect. With it having two correctors, and four concealers, you can mix and match tones for a perfect under eye, and blemish concealer. (I don't like having favourites, but it is the yellow, shush.)

I won't go on too long about Essie's Ballet Slippers, as with this being my third bottle now, I think you all now just how much I love this day and night appropriate polish. Clinique Chubby Stick for lips in Mighty Mimosa has never popped up on my blog before, and is still relatively new to me, but BOY have I used a lot of it. It is a beautiful sheer pink balm, doesn't require a mirror to apply, and makes your lips just look incredible. I can't recommend this enough for someone wanting something subtle for daytime. I keep this in my handbag and it really does get used A LOT whilst I am out.

With it having been fashion week month, I'm sure you've all heard plenty about Bioderma Crealine and Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre, as they are both well loved by beauty insiders, and are seen in many make-up artist kits around this time of year. Despite being a pain to get hold of, they are both so worth it, Bioderma, being the easiest way to remove makeup, and Embryolisse being fantastically moisturising all day, and giving you the supermodel glow we all try to achieve.

Blistex Relief Cream, is the most un-glamorous lip balm ever, but is the best for my lips, with it being slightly medicated, it doesn't irritate, and deals with the more severe/sore dry lips. I've truly lost count of how many of these I have bought, so it definitely is one of my most used products of all time!

Moroccanoil is loved by so many people, and I truly say this combination of products was the only way I got my hair to grow so quickly and in such healthy condition. I use these as often as necessary, and they most definitely contribute to maintaining healthy hair.

Hope you've enjoyed this post, I'd love to know what your most visited beauty products are!

Shu Uemura Eyelash Curlers - Necessity or not? - Review

With these being highly rated by beauty insiders like Lisa Eldridge and Charlotte Tilbury, it's hard to not feel as if these are something you need. I've always been both sceptical and curious about Shu Uemura's eyelash curlers, I mean, they're lash curlers, they aren't something you need to fork out so much money on are they? How can these be so different to a pair that cost closer to the £5 mark?

Well, honestly, I GET IT. These lash curlers truly are amazing and really are different to all the other pairs I had tried, and thought to have loved at the time. 

The curling with these takes a matter of seconds, and following the instructions on the box, you should have an impressive curl, with a hold that will last all day. The curlers them self seem to be quite resistant, and whatever doodad (yup- technical!) makes them tougher to clamp together give them more strength to shape all of your lashes in one go.

I like that much unlike my other pairs, the pads that come with the Shu lash curlers are black, meaning any little bits of mascara or liner that make their way onto the pad aren't as noticeable.(But no doubt that is one of the little things only I am amused by.)

All in all, these truly are glorious, and I can happily say that this is one hype I'm glad I gave into. They really are worth the money, and I love the results which come from using them. It's a 10/10 from me, and a full recommendation to anyone wanting a lash curler, whether amateur or expert...

Now, if I go bat my eyelashes at people, think I can get any free food? I'm pretty starved.

More Crownbrush Love - Duo fiber Face Brushes Review

As mentioned in one of my previous posts, I was lucky enough to win the beautiful duo-fiber face collection of brushes from my faves, Crownbrush UK. As always, they came with immaculate packaging, and super-speedy delivery just a couple days after I had passed my address onto them. I used three of these brushes on my birthday, and everyone commented on how lovely my skin looked, as well as the complete adoration of my flawless face make-up myself. (That sounded completely big-headed, and it was the only way to get my point across, I apologise, but it was totally unintentional!)

The brushes from left to right are; Bronzer C442, Face Powder C406, Liquid Foundation C404, Blush C436.


Despite that this is stated as a bronzer brush, I found this brush worked best at buffing in my foundation. With it being my birthday, and having a little more time to spend on make-up, I applied two shades Laura Mercier's silk creme, to lightly contour, and my foundation was left twice as flawless as it usually would be with a Real Techniques Buffing brush, or my triple-the-price Urban Decay Optical Blurring brush.

I have used this brush for applying both cream blush products, and cream highlighters, and have loved the finish created with both. It is a similar size to the liquid foundation brush, but thanks to the shorter length of the bristles, this brush is a little more dense, and I find moves the product around less, which is ideal for getting a more precise application either on the apples of the cheeks, or the tops of cheekbones, depending on what it's used for. I hadn't realised that I already had the liquid foundation brush, and have already reviewed it in my previous Crownbrush post (here) but I've chosen to use this brush for applying my radiance primers, as I found the application with a brush makes the product work into my skin easier, and I can use less product than I would normally.




This face powder brush probably hasn't seen as much action as the others, as I tend to favor a natural finish to matte. But whilst we had the horribly sticky and warm weather, I applied my powder with this, and applied a little MAC Fix+ afterwards, and I have to say, it left a much nicer finish than without the powder. My makeup stayed put, even after a long country walk and a few wine and sodas.

I'm completely thrilled with these brushes, and once again Crownbrush has knocked every other brush company off my radar thanks to their incredible customer service, speedy delivery and more than perfect professional quality brushes.

If there was an angel and devil sitting on each shoulder, even the angel would be telling you to treat yourself on the Crownbrush site. I promise you won't be disappointed, go, go, go! I currently have a 10% code off for all my followers too, which is FINJA13, and my link in the sidebar will take you straight to their site.

Thanks so much Crownbrush. You have once again, completely revolutionised my make-up routine!!

My MAC Eyeshadow Collection

Hey everyone! So the birthday celebrations are more or less over now, so I thought I'd get to work on a post I've been planning for quite a while now, a very much overdue eyeshadow collection to join my previous lipstick collection. This one is forever growing, but at the moment, this is my MAC x15 eye palette, in all of its beautiful glory.

The colours in this palette, with the finishes from left to right are:

Vanilla (Velvet)

Brule (Satin)

Quarry (Matte)

Omega (Matte)

Cork (Satin)

Woodwinked (Veluxe Pearl)

Patina (Frost)

Satin Taupe (Frost)

Charcoal Brown (Matte)

Embark (Matte)

Sumptuous Olive (Veluxe Pearl)

Club (Satin)

Cranberry (Frost)

Sketch (Velvet)

Carbon (Matte)

All the swatches in this post have been done using a blending brush, to create a more realistic view on what the colours will look like when applied.

MAC shadows are easy to blend, last well, especially when used with a primer, and some are more pigmented than others, but overall, their shadows are pretty damn incredible, and the colour selection is perfect for beginners and professionals.


The "mattes"- (Left to right, Vanilla, Brule, Quarry, Omega, Cork, Charcoal Brown, Embark, Carbon)

Both Vanilla and Brule were very hard to photograph, because they are so pale, and don't show up a lot on your lids anyway, but both are ideal as base colours, or very subtle highlight colours, depending on your skin tone.

Quarry is an ideal crease colour, a lot cooler in tone than most, so looks very natural, making it ideal for a "pin-up" 50's inspired eye look. Cork is also amazing for this, but it's a lot warmer, so I tend to use it if I'm a little more tan, or if my makeup look is a lot more bronzed and Victoria's Secret-esque. I also like to use Cork all over the lid, and under the eye if I decide to go for a bohemian/grunge Cara-esque look.

Embark and Carbon tend to be used as liner, as powder colours are a lot more subtle than liquid and gel liners for certain occasions. Embark is a lot more subtle than Carbon, which is a true black. The red undertones in Embark are truly beautiful, and make this one of my favourite shades in this palette.

Both Omega and Charcoal Brown are brow colours for myself, depending on how intense my makeup look is, and because I dye my brows, Omega is good for the days where it has faded, a mixture of both in between, and Charcoal Brown for when they are darker. (Girl problems, ey?)

The "shimmers"- Left to right (Woodwinked, Patina, Satin Taupe, Sumptuous Olive, Club, Cranberry, Sketch)

Woodwinked is a beautiful colour to be used alone, as when blended out, it seems to come across as two colours, starting as a deep bronze/gold shade, and leaving a very warm red/brown on the blended edges. Quite similar to Sumptuous Olive and Club, which when blended also have the effect of two shades. Club is completely multi-tonal, it appears brown in these pictures, but has tones of green running through it, similar to Sumptuous Olive, making them a perfect combination.

Sketch is quite similar to the darkest shade in my Estee Lauder Raisins palette (review: here) a deep plum, which is very flattering on pale blue/green eyes like my own. Cranberry is similar in finish, but more of a deep red, than deep purple, it's very obvious to see why this is such a favourite, it is beautiful, and so different to the usual eyeshadows on the market.

Patina and Satin Taupe are also beautiful shades, with Patina being what I would call a very subtle bronze, and much more appropriate for daytime wear for anyone nervous about having too heavy of eye makeup in the day. Satin Taupe is quite similar to Woodwinked I'd say, but as the name suggests, it has tones of Taupe running through it (too obvious?!)

I'd say my favourite finish would be a toss up between matte and frost. I like mattes as they are so easy to wear on a day to day basis, and blend well, however frost is almost like a shimmery version of matte, without having huge shimmer particles that make you look like Edward Cullen, it's a subtle way of doing shimmer, and making your lids look more glossy, rather than sparkly.

My favourite combinations, are; 

-Brule across the whole lid, Quarry in the crease, with cat-eye liner flick for the perfect 50's inspired look.

-Patina across the lid, Embark used as liner, and blended a little. Embark is a brilliant alternative to black liner, and the red tones are so flattering on pale blue/green eyes like my own.

-Sumptuous Olive and Cork through the crease, with a little Carbon dabbed as close the lash-line as possible to thicken the lashes.

I feel as if I've waffled on for what feels like a lifetime now, if you want to see any looks, or anything reviewed in depth, please let me know! I'm going to post about my two MAC quads next week, I think.

New In from Real Techniques

Hey everyone! How are you all doing? I had the prettiest dress arrive in the post today... I ordered it last weekend but hadn't realised the order didn't go through properly thanks to a mistake on the billing address, woops! So yesterday I went on ASOS to reorder it and much to my disappointment it was out of stock, and determined to not give up I spent four hours refreshing the page hoping for a size 12 until I FINALLY GOT ONE. Haaaaalllllelujah!!! Although another bit of clumsiness came when it arrived this morning... The postman woke me up at about half past eight, and we keep our house alarm on at nights, so when I jumped out of bed I forgot to turn it off, and whilst signing for the parcel, with eyes I couldn't open, the house alarm was blaring very loudly, thankfully he didn't laugh at me and was more than sympathetic and accepted the dot and squiggle I left on his "signature machine."

And five hours later I'm onto the post...

Like half of the female population (maybe a little over-exaggeration) I have fallen in love with the makeup brushes by Real Techniques. So when I found out about the news that they were bringing out a limited edition duo-fibre collection I let out a little squeal. With them having appeared in other countries before the UK, every time I saw pictures on Instagram or blog posts I sat in envy wanting them to be mine, anyway, jealousy aside, me and my Nan went to Ikea last week and I "just nipped" (never a good sign) into Boots whilst I was there. When I saw these I was like a kid in a candy shop and ran over to buy them, skipping down the aisles with my brand new Chanel lipstick in a carrier bag by my side... My poor Nan was probably left feeling embarrassed by my excitement over lipsticks and makeup brushes...

And apologies in advance for the icky brushes, I forgot to clean them and wanted to take advantage of the natural sunlight before it disappeared, so I decided against brush cleaning...

 

I don't think Real Techniques as a brand needs an introduction does it? Well, anyway, Real Techniques is a makeup brush brand designed by the makeup guru Samantha Chapman, one half of Pixiwoo. The collection includes three brushes, a face, contour and eye brush and all are duo-fibre. The design is different to the usual RT brushes, and I'm not sure what I prefer, I like the simplicity and minimalistic design of these, but the metallic colours of the permanent collection are to die for. Also, unlike the other collections by Real Techniques these don't come with the little case/stand, but currently having two of them left unused, I don't think I mind about this.

I cannot comment on the face brush properly, as I don't apply powder on my face, other than under my eyes to set my concealer. Although, I tested it by applying Nars Laguna bronzer, on the high points of my face and it did look more natural than normal

The winners of this collection for me are the contour and the eye brush. To use the eye brush to its maximum potential, you apply your shadow to the white bristles only, and to get a defined crease, you apply it in the similar wind-screen wiper motion that you would usually and the black bristles will do the blending for you. Fool-proof blending for pros and beginners.

The contour is absolutely perfect for, guess what? Guess what it is super good at doing? Did you guess? Did you? Did you? (Currently seeing Dory in Finding Nemo... Maybe it's time to shut up.) YUH-HUH, it's brilliant for contouring!! Thanks to its more oval rather than circular shape, you can turn the brush on its side for the different parts of your face, and whether you're using contour colour or highlighter. To make the most of this, I tend to use the slimmer side for adding a contour to my cheek, and then turn it the other way around to blend it out to avoid the "stripey" effect which comes from not blending properly.

So yeah, these brushes are pretty damn wonderful! And if you're starting a kit, I'd recommend this
and the core collection to get you started. These brushes are especially foolproof for beginners, especially the eye brush. Go and get some whilst you can, because these are amazing!!

Hope you've all enjoyed my review and are having a brilliant weekend. Lots of love.

Bye Bye, Beauty.

I personally, absolutely love "empties" posts, I think they show a brilliant insight into how good, or how bad a product is. If something is dreadful, it probably won't ever be an empty tube, but if something is amazing, it'll get severely mutilated with a pair of kitchen scissors to get the last teeny little drop from the bottom. And for those who aren't aware of the "empties" concept, it is where over an amount of time, you keep the empty packets of the things you've used up, and comment on what you think of them when you've can determine just how good they really are.

My apologies for the dreadful photography in this post too, I'm in the middle of "having a clear out" making a mess and only have a little area under my window where I can see the floor. And with it being under my window the light isn't the best. But all of a sudden all my products seem to be running out, so I thought I best get all of these out of the way and in the recycling bin.

Skincare 

REN Radiance Perfection Serum- Although I love the scent of this, and its sister product, the Glycolactic mask I just wasn't hooked by this product. I didn't see any improvements or radiance coming from this product, and if I went a day without using it, my skin didn't look dull or feel any different. It does apply like a dream, and feels so lightweight on the skin, but unfortunately these are it's only redeeming qualities. Would I repurchase? No, I've tried better, and I own better.

Origins GinZing Eye Cream-Yes, more Origins... This cream seemed to have lasted an absolute lifetime! I liked it, but not as much as everyone else seems to do. It's illuminating properties are great for days when you want to wear no makeup, but I don't think it offers as much moisture as it could. Would I repurchase? In all honesty, I'm not sure. I'm quite loving the Kiehls eye cream which has circulated into my routine, but if for some reason I started to dislike that, I think I would repurchase this. But I'm not in a rush to replace this. 

Origins Brighter by Nature- For an Origins moisturiser, I thought this one was a little "meh" it seemed quite heavy on the skin, despite its texture being light, and it tended to leave my skin feeling a little tacky. And as for its claim of being brightening, I didn't notice this at all. Would I repurchase? No, this is definitely more suited to day-time and you all know that GinZing is now my one true love. 

La Roche Posay Micellar Solution- You all know my love for micellar water, I won't waffle for too long. This thoroughly removes makeup easily, and leaves zero residue on the skin. Would I repurchase? YES. Completely 110% I'll repurchase this product, and I already have a backup! 

Maybelline Baby Lips in Cherry Me- This is the first time EVER that I have finished a lip balm. So I guess it's quite the monumental moment for me. But I love this product so much. Would I repurchase? Definitely, my Aunty actually brought me two back from when she went to Vegas so I should be stocked up for a while.

Bodycare

Soap and Glory Clean, Girls Body Wash- A delightful smell, and the lovely moisturising and quick lathering wash that you expect from the much-loved Soap and Glory. I'd go as far as saying this is my favourite wash by them as a brand. Would I repurchase? In the future, yes... But as I have so many various bottles scattered across every inch of my bedroom, I don't think I need any yet!! 

Clarins Moisture-Rich Body Lotion- I got this as part of one of those gift sets, the ones with miniatures that costs the same price as the product itself so you think "well I may aswell if it's free" but then it gets stuck at the back of a drawer and not touched. Anyway, I found this and thought I'd give it a quick go, much to my surprise, I loved it! It had a pleasant, subtle scent and soaked in quick enough for me to not freeze whilst running around semi-naked waiting for it to soak in. Would I repurchase? As with the above, when some of my current products have run down, I'll repurchase, definitely! 

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream- Single handedly (okay, great pun, but unintentional) the best hand cream I have ever tried. And like the Baby Lips, this is the first time I've finished a hand cream too, I tend to just fall out with the ones which leave you feeling greasy and with overwhelming scents. The scent of this reminds me a little of baby products, which I don't like but its immediate moisture and it's ability to make yucky hands look worthy of a million pound diamond ring make the scent less of an issue. Would I repurchase? As soon as this finished I was scouring the internet for the cheapest tube (Debenhams- 10% off)  to have it arrive two days later. And let me tell you, those two days were PAINFUL.

Haircare 

Toni and Guy Finishing Shine Spray- This seems to have been discontinued as I cannot find it anywhere. I bought it a couple years back and reintroduced myself to it, to remember why I loved this lightweight shine spray so much. Would I repurchase? Sadly, I can't. Sob....

Avon Moroccanoil Hair Mask- With my Aunty being a Rep for Avon I got this before anyone else did, and yes, I probably should have reviewed it then, but hey... turns out I'm a little slow. (nothing new...) But for its price (I paid £1.50 but Avon prices are forever fluctuating) this hair mask is pretty damn incredible! It's a very thick consistency, like most masks, and after 3 minutes of this being on your hair, and rinsed off in cold water, flyaways are non-existant, frizz is eliminated and sleek locks to envy Mila Kunis will be yours. Would I repurchase? Totally, it's a genuine bargain and makes the greatest companion to Moroccanoil. 

Fragrance

Ted Baker XO EDT- The name "XO" makes me cringe, but as you can see, it had pretty much rubbed off the bottle, and I'd be lying if I said I'd purchased this, I kind of, pinched borrowed it from a relative. It's a lovely scent, sensual and timeless, encased in a gorgeous bottle, but like most EDT doesn't have a strong staying power. I'd compare this to more of a body-spray than a perfume. Would I repurchase? Probably not, I have better perfumes at the moment which I'd choose over this. Although I'd recommend this for younger girls, or a gift for someone who you don't know very well.

Valentina Acqua Floreale EDT (Sample)- I'm pretty sure I put this in a wishlist post a while back. This is the most incredible scent, and lasts so much longer than the typical eau de toilette. I absolutely adore it, not to mention the gorgeous bottle of the full-size version. Would I repurchase? Totally. Not quite yet as I do have quite a few perfumes, but this is so lovely I will get a bottle at some point.

Miscellaneous

Avon Nail Experts Conditioning Cuticle Pen- Currently on a health kick for my nails, and cuticle oil isn't new for me, but I used to use it as and when I needed it, now, I've decided on a every day and night routine. This one has a brush applicator, similar to that in Touche Eclat, enabling you to apply the oil easily and not get a greasy oil all over your finger tips. I quite like this oil, and I'd go as far as saying it's my favourite I've used so far. It has a beautiful lavender scent, which when you apply just before bed is very relaxing and soothing soon as your head hits the pillow. Would I repurchase? Yes, I would. I very much prefer the applicator to other oils even if it doesn't hold as much product as some others.

Eye Candy Lash XLR8- This popped up in my first favourites post a couple months back but hasn't been mentioned since. I thought that once I stopped using it I might end up with dead-looking, sparse brows, but how wrong I was. They seem to be even fuller since I've stopped using this. How this has happened, I don't know... Would I repurchase? Seeing as it didn't actually do anything for my brows, no.

Bassetts on the go Vitamins (Maintain)- As you can see there's two packets of these, so they're definite repurchases for me, but I'm unsure on how you "review" a vitamin... These taste good, there you go... Would I repurchase? I do, everytime I'm about to run out. These must be something like my 8th tubes now.

Hope you've all enjoyed this post. And with the thought of GFC soon becoming obsolete, make sure you click that Bloglovin button in the sidebar, I don't want to lose a single one of you lovely lot!

Lots of love.

Creating Shine with Deborah Milano

I was contacted by the lovely people over at Deborah Milano who said they would like to send me a lipgloss or lipstick to review, I said I'm a huge fan of red lip colours and erm, YES PLEASE! For those who don't know of Deborah Milano, an Italian cosmetics and skincare brand now coming across the channel into the UK. I received this the day after they had emailed me and struggled so hard to not apply it before taking pictures. Although, I waited patiently to not ruin any of the pictures I've took for you guys.

 (For anyone wondering, my nail polish is Quicksand from the A/W Headline Colours range) 

I was sent the Shine Creator Lipstick in number 12. Look at the packaging... I can't stop staring at it in sheer awe. It's the most beautiful glossy, hot pink casing, with Deborah Milano's logo on the side (duh, you can all see that...) I also recieved a sample of their BB cream, which I haven't had chance to try yet, and a sample of another lipstick, in a fuschia pink shade, which I don't particularly suit, so I've decided to give this one to my Aunty to test out.

And too add to the luxurious feel, look at the embossing on the lipstick itself...

The lipstick prides itself on having 3 in 1 properties, those of a lip balm, lipstick and gloss. It performs similarly to Revlon Lip Butters, but I definitely prefer this lipstick, it is very hydrating. As with most hydrating and glossy formulas, the colour doesn't last long on the lips, but this isn't a problem, as thanks to the beautiful packaging, I can't help but want to whip it out every couple hours anyway! 

It's a very versatile lipstick, with it being so buildable, you have the choice between a sheer lip colour, or a full red colour. The first swatch is three layers of the colour, the second is one. Does this make it 4 in 1? Shine, hydration, protection and multiple colours... It's definitely an all-rounder, put it that way.

I'd just got out the shower before taking these snaps, and I scrubbed all of my fake tan off and didn't apply any make-up, so I feel like I should apologise for my absence of make-up and casper-like skintone. Oops...

Thanks guys for sending me this brilliant lipstick, I absolutely adore it!

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Favourite Things #2

I cannot believe its been a month since I last posted my Monthly favourites in the form of my "Favourite things" where does time go? Anyway, sharing what new things I've been loving, what things I've rediscovered, and the things still taking pride of place in my favourite things.

Beauty Favourites

Eylure Individual Lashes in Black (Short)- I got these off Amazon, as I didn't know you could actually buy them in packs by length. I've bought the packs in Boots before, and the "Long" ones in the packs are pretty much pointless, they are SO long that they look way too Barbie-esque for my liking. For day-wear, I like sticking a couple of these at my lash line for more volume. I tend to use these when I wear a smokey-eye, as without full-looking lashes, my eyes can look a little sleepy (probably not, it's my nervous Nelly coming in there...)

Eylure Dylash (Black)- Not a new discovery for me, but it is in this shade, as I used to buy the dark brown one for my blond-ish eyebrows, but it didn't seem to make much of a difference. I was terrified of trying the black as I thought it would be way too obvious, but when I went in Boots and this was all they had on the shelves, I decided I'd go for it. This works tons better than the dark brown, makes my brows look fuller, lasts a lot longer than the dark brown and makes me look a lot less brow-bald (another new-term I've coined!) when wearing no make-up

Seche Vite Dry Fast Top coat- Brought forward again, from last months favourites, I LOVE this top coat, and since using it, have seriously noticed a difference in how long my nail polish lasts, and how the tips don't wear as much as they had previously.

Revlon Nail polish in Gray Suede- I'd been hunting for a perfect non-sheer nude nail colour for a while now, and my Nan chose this one out whilst there was a 3 for 2 offer on in Superdrug last weekend. I've been loving it since! It has the teeniest shimmer, which stops the nail polish looking dull, but doesn't make it look glittery.

Clarins Liquid Bronze Self-tanning- Another one which has popped up in my favourites previously, I love this bronzer for achieving a healthy glow. I put a tiny amount on at night after my moisturiser and wake up looking fresh and glowing.

Origins GinZing Moisturiser- I won't ramble too long, you've probably already seen my review (if you haven't, it's here) but I LOVE this product, and it had been my day moisturiser since the day it came through the door.

Maxfactor Masterpiece Max- An old favourite of mine, and one of the only mascaras I've repeatedly repurchased. I picked this out of my mascara drawer by mistake, but I'm glad I did. Myself and this amazing all-rounder have restarted our love affair.

Burt's Bee's Pomegranate Replenishing lip balm- I've had this for quite a while, but as my Baby Lips balm is running out, I've been reaching for this more. It definitely protects and heals the lips more than any other balm I've tried, but can occasionally feel a little heavy. I've been using this every night before I go to sleep, and waking up to smooth, soft, plump lips.

Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray- This is also another time this has popped up. I'm going to review this next week, after the love it received on my Instagram picture I thought I should share just how incredible this bad boy is for giving you ideal surfer beachy locks.

MAC Conceal and Correct Palette in Light- It's no secret that I am a lover of fake tan, although I can be quite partial to a more porcelain and gothic look, so foundations and concealers started to become a problem for my ever-changing skin tone. I got this a couple months back when it came out so that I have concealers for days when I'm a little paler, and also a little tan. I'd never used correctors before, and these are ideal for covering up blemishes and dark circles. I love this palette, and if any of the shades run out, I will definitely be buying them as a full-size version. (These are the Studio Finish concealers, and offer a medium/full coverage)

YSL Rouge pur Couture in Blond Ingenu no 24- I bought this after hearing it was Lana Del Rey's signature lip colour. Whether that's true or not, I don't know, but it definitely reminds me of something that she would wear, and looks incredible with all make-up looks, not to mention the beautiful signature YSL packaging, and the moisturising qualities of this lipstick.

Roberto Cavalli EDP- One I put on my birthday list last year, I've been reaching for this more than some of my others recently. I'd describe the scent as floral, however much unlike some of the floral perfumes, it isn't sickly sweet, and feels much more sensual and seductive. It lasts quite a while on me too, however I know this is a personal thing. I tend to reapply every few hours, I usually go for about 4/5 with this scent, to keep myself smelling like roses (okay, not technically roses...)

Non-Beauty Favourites

The non-beauty related favourites this time haven't actually lasted me a whole month. This Blackberry and Elderflower herbal tea from Whittard is incredible, and one of my favourite drinks of the moment. I try to avoid drinking large amounts of caffeine, but like a hot drink before bed, so this is perfect. I already have a few boxes as backup I love them that much!

This one hasn't particularly lasted me a month, I started reading it about 5 days ago, and it is the last book in the Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris. Of course I had mixed emotions about reading this, with it being the end of the thirteen-book series, I was inevitably excited, yet sad to finish it. I'd glanced over reviews on Amazon before I'd started to read it, all saying they were left disappointed and wanting more, however I thoroughly enjoyed the ending, and thought it was unexpected, it completely broke the boundaries of the "love triangle" which every plot, whether it be book, or film, seems to be adopting currently.

Hope I haven't waffled on too much, and you've enjoyed this post.

My MAC Lipstick Collection

You know how I promised absolutely ages ago that I'd share my MAC lipstick collection (and eyeshadows, but I'm working on it) with you, well, I've finally got my butt into gear and took the pictures for it. I currently have ten MAC lipsticks, and I know that it isn't as many as some people, but if you consider that I never wore lipstick until about 9 months ago, I think I've developed quite the collection. Hope you enjoy.

Left to Right: Shy Girl (Cremesheen), Jubilee (Lustre), Cosmo (Amplified Creme), Faux (Satin), Chatterbox (Amplified Creme), Viva Glam Nicki (Satin), Lady Danger (Matte), Ruby Woo (Matte), Russian Red (Matte), Rebel (Satin)

I probably wouldn't be able to tell you my favourites of the bunch, as I do genuinely love them all equally. But I'd say that the ones I get the most wear out of are Cosmo, Faux, Lady Danger and Ruby Woo.

The brightness of Viva Glam Nicki really hasn't shown up in either of these pictures, it's a very bright yellow-toned pink, and something I'd usually turn my nose up at, "Me? Pink? I'll look like an idiot!" But this is one of those colours which everyone seems to compliment whilst I'm wearing it! It is also brilliant for a spin on a pin-up look, and I tend to always wear this with a contoured cheek, a cat-eye liner and voluminous lashes.

I'm quite lucky in the way that I have quite the neutral skin-tone and can get away with reds with both blue and orange undertones, and I bet you can't tell. I like my matte reds can you? I love wearing a matte lip, as I sometimes think glossy ones can make your lips look bigger, and this is the last thing I need. I use Ruby Woo to create a pin-up look, and Lady Danger I tend to use with a more minimal make-up to draw attention to this incredible orangey-red matte lip colour.

Despite how similar the nudes I have actually look, they do look quite different on the lip (I promise. Any excuse...) Shy Girl is a slightly sheer/orange toned nude, Jubilee being similar but more brown toned. Cosmo is almost like the opaque version of Jubilee, a rich pink/brown tone, and Faux is similar to this, but a little pinker, and a lot lighter in colour.

Left to Right: Shy Girl (Cremesheen), Jubilee (Lustre), Cosmo (Amplified Creme), Faux (Satin), Chatterbox (Amplified Creme), Viva Glam Nicki (Satin), Lady Danger (Matte), Ruby Woo (Matte), Russian Red (Matte), Rebel (Satin)

Hope you all have a brilliant weekend! I promise I'll bring you my MAC x15 eye palette collection soon! But I can tell you in advance, it's pretty much neutrals, neutrals and more neutrals.

Lots of love.

Too Faced Boudoir Eyes Palette - Swatches and Review

Howdy all! How are you all doing? Can you tell I'm in a good mood already? I'm not sure if its a sugar overdose or not... 

The Too Faced Boudoir Eye Palette has popped up quite a few times now on my blog, but I haven't yet shown you in-depth exactly what you get for your money, and just how amazing this product it (so basically, I could have said a review, but you know.. that's just too easy.)

Oh and a little warning for all the gigglers, It IS a "boudoir" inspired collection after all, so some of the names are a little raunchy. At least none are as bad as Nars' Deep Throat... 

So one thing which is obvious about this product is just how gorgeous the packaging is. Its a metal tin, and the size is reasonable enough for travel, and I'm already singing its praises without showing you the inside...

Each row of three shadows are categorised into looks for Day, Classic and Fashion looks. Some of the shades are more pigmented than others, but the colour selection is fantastic, as is the range of shimmer and matte shades. The application and longevity of these products is fantastic, I have applied them without primer (which is something I don't usually do) and found that they lasted up to 8 hours without creasing. (For reference, my skin type is normal, and I don't have oily eyelids) None of the products have fall down other than In the Buff, the lightest shade, which when applied reminds me of MAC's Brule, and isn't actually as white as it appears in the picture above.

Inside the lid of the product is this amazing little step-by-step on how to use the shadows, for a Day, Classic and Fashion inspired look. It shows pictorials on using the shadows, and also has numbered instructions which will come in handy for those who are novices to eyeshadow.

I feel as if I should apologize in advance for the stereotypical "arm swatches" that are coming up...

Left to right: (Day; In the Buff, Fuzzy Handcuffs, Voulez-Vous. Classic; Satin Sheets, Sugar Walls, Garter Belt. Fashion; Birthday Suit, Lap Dance, French Tickler)

I wouldn't necessarily say its my "most-used" palette, as my MAC palette holds my eyebrow powders too, so sheer laziness often makes me use the one that I already have out. But, I cannot physically recommend this palette enough, the shadows are amazing quality, and for all neutral lovers provide a great mix of tones for all eye colours and day-to-night styles.

I bought my palette off Beauty Bay for £29.00.

(GIF credit: GIFBAY)

Jumping on the BBandwagon

It's Fridaaaay again! And it's a bank holiday weekend, so let's hope British weather brings us a little sun for BBQ's all round.

So at first, I thought the whole BB cream was a bit of a novelty. It seemed like something which I didn't need, a light coverage foundation with a different name. It's no secret that I have a love for Dior, and the woman on my local Dior counter remembers me well so gives me a few free samples when I go in store. When I bought a few things a couple months back she matched me up to the new BB cream and gave me one of those lovely little pots filled with it. I tried it just because it was Dior. When I applied it and looked back at myself in the mirror, I was astonished by how bright and glowing my skin looked. After a day of wear, I went straight online to Debenhams and ordered the full size tube. Thus starting, my love for BB creams...

Clarins Skin Perfecting BB cream c/o Escentual

Dior Nudeskin BB cream

Dr Jart Water Fuse BB cream

Its quite the collection saying I was completely unimpressed when they came out. And I cannot lie, if another brand brought one out which caught my eye, I would consider buying it. BB creams seem to have much more illuminating and resurfacing effects than a foundation, and when applied with your fingers, mesh with your skin making you look flawless and as if glowing from the inside.

Dior's BB offering is one of the newer offerings, and my personal favourite (not just cause the packaging is pink) I think out of the three I own, despite having "nude" in the title, it has the most coverage. Although I do like a light-coverage, I feel much more confident with a little bit more, and not so "Is she looking at me because I look like an alcoholic just coming off a 4-day bender?" 

I bought the Dr Jart one after hearing so much about the brand, and seeing it on offer for an amazing £10 in Boots! And I must say, it isn't my favourite, I think the texture is a little thick, so it requires a lot of blending, and quickly, before it sets and you end up with a streaky, three-tones-too-dark face. Once blended, it does provide the perfect skin look which you expect from a BB, as is perfect for days when you're not doing anything fancy and don't want to waste expensive products. 

Escentual very kindly sent me the very new BB cream from Clarins, in the lightest shade they have. I thought that if anything, it'd be too light for me, oh how wrong I was... As you can see from the swatches below, when blended out, the colour becomes a lot less obvious, but is still a visible change from my skin tone. I gave this one to my Aunty, who is yet to try BB creams and she loved it, said it evened out her skin tone and even covered the redness she occasionally gets in her cheeks. She has a cool skin tone, whereas I have a neutral, and it worked well for both of us, seeing as it doesn't have any yellow or pink undertones, just another reason to love it. (Although I think I may have to hide it)...

Despite the colour being a little off, I thought I would slick on a little fake tan in my body to try match it up better, and thought I'd road test it while I was spending a day at home. This product lasted a reasonable amount of time on my skin, and dried to a natural matte finish. The coverage is actually very light because it required so much blending, but I did try to build it up, and it worked so I would say it's definetly build able for people with skin concerns. I would recommend this BB cream for summer, and for medium skin tones, but if you're classed as having a "porcelain" skin tone, you will look the teensiest bit like an Oompa Loompa. 

I cannot wait for the weather to warm up, so I can get a little tan and start wearing this on a day-to-day basis, as it truly is a lovely BB cream but just currently a little too dark for my casper-like skintone.

So, have you all jumped on the BBandwagon yet, or are you still to do so? I recommend getting matched up to Dior's offering in-store if you're new to BB creams, it's pretty much a fool-proof and incredible addition to your make-up bags.

Hope you all have an amazing bank holiday weekend. Don't get too drunk...

Holy Grail Mascara

Happy Monday guys. Seeing as Monday's aren't the best day for most of you, I thought I'd bring a mini review on my holy grail mascara! Imagine a bright white light, and angels singing.. it shows my love for this beauty

After the negative post I did the other day on Benefit's They're Real mascara, I mentioned the Dior Iconic Overcurl mascara, and decided I would bring you a post on this, seeing as I think I have finally found a mascara which does exactly what I want and makes my lashes look INCREDIBLE.

Often, the description of mascara boasts unrealistic outcomes, like 130% extra length to your lashes, looks just like false lashes (no, false lashes look just like false lashes...) But this one promises "extreme curl and-spectacularly shaped lashes." and believe me, it does the job like a dream! 

The curved wand fits perfectly into the lash-line, and means mascara application becomes quick, easy and faultless, not to mention, the beautiful fanned-out and seperated lash look you gain from just a couple coats of this mascara. I will admit, that for those wanting more length from their mascaras won't get an excessive amount from this, but if you want your lashes to have zero-clumps, a gorgeous curl, incredible volume and a sure-fire way to get closer to Zooey Deschanel esque doe-eyes, you've got a winner. And if you're a sucker for pretty packaging, don't you think Dior has the most gorgeous luxurious feel to their packaging? 

 Now I don't mean to be a pusher... Who am I kidding?! I love making people buy things (its a curse!) Go, go, go pick one of these up at your local Dior counter or online here at Debenhams, who currently have 10% off!! I PROMISE you won't be disappointed.