LionLovingTiger

Asda Eye Pad - £5 Xmas bargain

2011-12-19T10:49:00.002Z

Hey folks,

Let me firstly apologise for the brevity of this post, I'm blogging on my phone because both my laptop and camera are both on their last (proverbial) legs.

This find was so good though that I had to share - the Asda Eye Pad - an 80 colour palette that's selling for £5.

Some quick thoughts on this based on initial swatching:

•Nice mix of colours - 24g in total- predominantly frosts
•The pigmentation of the frosty shades is on par with Sleek - bright, soft and buttery
• Casing is designed to look like an iPad...but like an iPad, the clear screen will smash if you drop it.
• Pigmentation of matte/ satin colours is a bit blah - I haven't used it yet but hoping a base will help intensify the shades

Wondering how it swatches?

I think this is amazing value and a great stocking filler.... I found this one on the seasonal aisle of Asda alongside the decorations and gift sets. I'm making a bee line back there today to pick up a few more.

Hope everyone's feeling merry and bright!

Tx

posted from Bloggeroid

Some wedding pics

2011-09-25T21:40:00.002+01:00

It's been a long time since I posted... there's been all sorts of things keeping me busy (I'm exhausted and I've lost my mojo) but the most exciting was the lion's big brother getting married at the beginning of September.

It was an amazing day full of colour, music, dancing and lots and lots of friends and family... around 650 guests in total! It was the first time I've been to a Sikh wedding and it was great - there was an amazing atmosphere and everyone had a brilliant time. The bride and groom looked incredible and I was very proud of the lion's family.

Not many people really know I have a blog so I'm not going to put up any pictures of the actual wedding - mainly because I can't ask for permission from the lion's brother and new sister-in-law because are amongst those who don't know and I'd be really embarrased if they did! I don't really like putting pics of the lion up either but I thought I'd share some pics of what I wore... mostly because it's the only interesting outfit I've worn in ages!

The lion's brother brought me back this suit from India and I wore it to the temple in the morning...I have to say it was a very good choice and I was very impressed. The beadwork is incredible and I loved the colours. Forgive the really dodgy pic - this was taken as we were leaving my house and the sun was shining (odd but true for Scotland) hence the squinty eyes.

After the temple I changed into this suit that I got in the south side of Glasgow for the reception... another dodgy picture but the best one of the outfit!

This is the only semi-decent pic I have of my make up... I went for an Arabic style eye with heavy black eyeliner and highlights of fuschia under the eye to match my outfits. I can't remember exactly what I used but I know the Nars Pleasure of Paris palette, a 17 pink/lilac/fuschia eyeshadow trio and MAC Gilt by Association were involved. On the lips I wore MAC Pink Fish... for the first time in ages!

Major posing alert.... my friend took this pic at the end of the night to try to show off the mehndi... I got it done at a great place in the southside of Glasgow and wore OPI No Spain No Gain with a layer of the Katy Perry Teenage Dream glitter polish over it. The bangles and bindi were also found in the south side - gotta love Cathcart Road.

We haven't had the professional pics yet so I might post some more when those come through. It was easily the best wedding I've ever been to and I was so happy to be a part of their big day. The lion looked unbelievably handsome in his sherwani and I'd be lying if I said it didn't get me thinking about what our wedding might be like... if we ever decide to get hitched.

At this point in time I'm not really sure what the future of LionLovingTiger is... I've got a lot going on in my personal life, some of it really scary but really exciting, that's taking up the majority of my time. There are so many great beauty blogs out there and I haven't felt inspired to blog, mainly because I don't feel I have anything interesting to share. And you know how the saying goes, if you haven't got anything good to say, don't say anything at all!

I thought about deleting it but at some point in the near future, if everything goes well, I might take a different direction with it ... so we'll see! In the meantime I'll continue to be the laziest blogger ever.

I haven't really had a lot of time to comment on blogs but I promise I'm still reading and trying my best to keep up with what's going on! Thanks to everyone who's still reading and hello to my new readers!

If anyone has any posts on Indian weddings/suits/mehndi, leave me links below... I love seeing them!

T
x

And so the Shred begins

2011-06-11T19:41:00.001+01:00

I bought Jillan Michael's 30 Day Shred from Amazon a couple of weeks ago after I noticed that my clothes were starting to feel a little snug... too many nights on the sauce finally caught up with me. I've never done a fitness DVD before but I figured that there was no harm in trying it at only £5.99.

Over the past fortnight I've mostly been drunk/hungover/suffering with a cold so I have finally just got round to starting the shred today - I'm not majorly bothered about losing weight, I like curves so I'm more interested in toning up - a flat tummy wouldn't go a-miss either.

My initial thoughts? I survived but bloody hell, it's tough going! I'm not exactly the fittest person in the world - in fact, far from it so this keeping up with this is going to be a real challenge. During the first 10 minutes of this 20 minute workout I had already declared 'I hate this woman!' - not because she's annoying or irritating (far from it - she's really quite motivating) but more because the work out is tough and I was definitely feeling the burn!

I've been doing Zumba classes a couple of times a week recently as well as playing netball every few weeks so fingers crossed throwing the shred into the mix will do good things for my figure.

Have you done the shred or are you shredding right now? Let me know... there's strength in numbers!

Toni

xxx

NOTD - The One That Got Away

2011-06-04T08:42:00.000+01:00

I've got some big posts to write up on EcoTools brushes and my favourite eye cream combo but I'm seriously hungover after two nights on the sauce so I leave you with a nail of the day... OPI, The One That Got Away from the Katy Perry collection....

This was LE but I'm sure you can probably still track it down on eBay. My pictures don't do this colour justice but it's really beautiful - an

I love the tiny little bottles - I feel guilty sometimes (a lot of the time actually) when I pick up a nail polish from my collection and I've barely used it.The little ones are a happy medium - you get more choice in the 4 pack and you feel like you might actually use it up.

It has been years since I finished a nail polish with the exception of Seche Vite... I really wish all brands offered minis!

Hope you all have an amazing weekend... and that you aren't feeling as rough as I am this morning.

Toni

Label lust - Mulberry

2011-06-01T21:50:00.003+01:00

I have always said that if I were ever to buy a designer bag, I would buy a Mulberry Bayswater. To me it's the antithesis of the 'it' bag - a true design classic that never dates and gets better with age. It's the George Clooney of handbags if you like.

I'm going to an event in Mulberry's Glasgow store tomorrow night and just thinking about it has rekindled my desire for the Bayswater.

The lion and I currently have a shopping list that includes new central heating, a new bathroom (the green has to go!) and saving for quite an important special occasion... he assures me though that after we've covered all of those things off, he'll treat me to a Bayswater.

In the meantime I'll have to stick with living vicariously through La Moss... while hoping that we hit the jackpot on Saturday night's lottery!

Kate Moss rocking a Bayswater. Image via Google

What do you think? Have you ever splurged on a designer bag or do you have a Mulberry bag already?

Toni

Outfit of the Day

2011-05-29T09:49:00.000+01:00

The weather has been miserable in Scotland for the past couple of weeks - rain, hailstone and gail force winds. Lovely for summer.

I've been substituting sunshine with bright colours - nails, make up etc.

Top - Marks & Spencers

Jeans - River Island

Thomas Sabo Rose Quartz bracelet with charms - ROX

ToyWatch & bead bracelet - ROX

For make up I went for bold eyeliner using the new Barry M Wink pen and kept everything else really simple.

The Wink pen is good, I started with quite a fine line and added to it to make it a little bit more dramatic...

I don't usually look at the clothes in Marks & Spencers, I'm usually too focused on getting to the food department but this top caught my eye - I love the bead and embroidery detailing on it.

What do you think of M&S? Have you ever found any little gems?

Toni

A Knockout Red from 17

2011-05-25T21:54:00.001+01:00

My little cousin, who I should point is male... a soldier no less, surprised me at Christmas with a really thoughtful gift - a swish black glossy box (no, not one of those ones) brimming with make up and nail polishes.

I'm sure he had a little help from a female friend but it was unbelievably sweet and made me incredibly proud of the man he has become... he also got me a bottle of Tia Maria... which made me drunk and proud!

Tonight I was at a loss for which nail polish to put on, always a hazard when you have too many, and decided to test out one of the polishes that he got me - Knockout Red from 17. And oh boy, is this ever a knock out red. Essie Aperitif has always been my favourite red nail polish but this little cracker is giving it a serious run for its money!

This is one of 17's Fast Finish polishes... I used Seche Vite over it so I can't comment on the drying time but this is only one coat... one coat! Granted, the brush is a little bit finnecky but it's only £2.99... it doesn't really get much better than that does it?!

Actually, it does - these polishes are on 3 for 2 right now in Boots. If I wasn't trying to curb my nail polish purchasing, I'd definitely be going in for some more of these little beauties!

Have you got any other 17 recommendations?

Toni

Lanolips - a review and an offer

2011-05-24T18:32:00.006+01:00

If you're curious about Lanolips then now is the perfect time to give it a whirl - all products across the range are on 3 for 2 at Boots.

I picked up Lanolips 101 Ointment and Lanolips Lemonaid Lip Aid from Boots about 2 months ago after hearing a lot of buzz about the brand on Twitter.

I was excited to read on Lipglossiping at the weekend that the brand won Best New Skincare Treatment Product at the Cosmetic Executive Women Awards and was also joint winner with Dr.Organic in the Best New Brand category. I like it when products I use win awards... it makes me feel like I'm spending my hard earned cash wisely!

Here's what Lanolips say about the 101 ointment & Lemonaid...

A magical multipurpose & Ultra Pure Grade lanolin ointment.
This ointment is very rich & thick.

£11.22 for 17ml

Lanolips™ Lemonaid Lip Aid is an ultra rich and creamy whipped lanolin lip treatment with organic lemon oil to naturally exfoliate, leaving lips fresh, soft and moist.

£9.18 for 12ml

There's already lots of great posts out there on Lanolips so here's some recommended reading from some of my favourite bloggers if you're thinking about splurging...

I am totally in love with the 101 as a night treatment for my lips (and as a cuticle treatment) and the Lemonaid for use throughout the day... so much so that I have 3 tubes of the Lemonaid - one for my office, one for my bag and one to keep at home.

Slightly fuzzy pic but shows the true colour of the Rose Lanolips balm

I have very dry lips and a very bad habit of biting them when I'm stressed/agitated/bored. I've tried lots of different lip balms and treatments but the combination of Lanolips 101 used with Lemonaid has made a huge improvement and I'm a sworn convert of the sheep grease (gross but true!) in the cute lamb adorned tube.

The 101 treatment is sheer and feels quite thick and luxurious on whereas Lemonaid has a very slight shimmer and a yummy lemonade scent which I love. I use this under lipsticks and sometimes on top if I want a little bit of a gloss effect.

I would say that the combination has improved the overall condition of my lips but I do need to continuosly use it otherwise I see the different right away. The other slight negative is the packaging - the tube really needs a slanted applicator but I'm sure that will come in time.

You can also follow the founder of Lanolips, Kirsten Carrioll on Twitter - www.twitter.com/kirstenlanolips - Kirsten's really helpful so if you have any questions, I'm sure she'd be more than willing to help.

As well as 101 ointment and Lemonaid, Lanolips also has a 5 piece range of coloured balms including a couple of neutral colours, a couple of reds and a beautiful peachy/orange. I picked up the Rose shade along with an back up 101 ointment and the Lanolips hand cream (smells like baby powder - great if you like that smell...awful if you don't!) on 3 for 2. It's too early for me to report on the coloured balm but I'm pretty confident that it'll live up to its counterparts.

Bigger branches of Boots carry Lanolips and it's on 3 for 2 right now but don't forget that you can buy them online at Boots and have them delivered to your local store for free.

The offer is across from facial skincare, indulgent bathing (including Soap & Glory), hand and body, hair removal and self tan so you can mix it up with other products - you've got to love Boots!

Have you tried Lanolips yet... what are your thoughts on it?
If you've blogged about it, leave me a link so I can check it out!

Toni

NOTD - Rimmel London Azure

2011-05-22T10:12:00.000+01:00

I don't usually wear blue on my nails (bar Sapphire in the Snow by OPI) but this polish caught by eye in Superdrug last week and although I resisted it that day, it played on my mind for three days until I went back to get it.

I think part of the allure for me is the fact it reminds me of my favourite polish when I was a teenager which was by 17 and if memory serves me right, it was called Cosmic Blue. I tried Googling this but all that showed up was websites about cars (I guess Cosmic Blue is as popular for cars as nails) and a Sally Hansen colour.

I'll shut up now and show you the polish...

The colour is beautiful and at only £2.99 it's a complete bargain! I've had a tiny little bit of chipping but at the price you can't really complain - I think Rimmel nail polishes are brilliant value for money and are definitely up there with the best on the high street.

What do you think? Does blue do it for you this summer?

Toni
x

Addicted to charms

2011-05-20T22:24:00.001+01:00

My new love - Thomas Sabo charms. I really didn't see this one coming but what do you know...

And yes. That is a lion, a love heart and a tiger on a Sabo Rose Onyx bracelet... I couldn't resist.

ToyWatch & semi-precious bead bracelet

All purchased from ROX

What do you think of charms? Passing trend? Addictive habit?

Wooly hats in May?

2011-05-17T20:48:00.000+01:00

I live in Scotland... it's necessary! I forgot to take a close up of my eye make up but I was wearing Naked, Buck and Darkhorse from the UD Naked palette.

Navy hat - River Island

Scarf & bag - Warehouse

Trenchcoat - Mango

Maybe if we all keep our fingers crossed the sun will come back out again!

Toni
x

Day 4

2011-05-16T22:34:00.000+01:00

Continuing on with the Naked palette challenge, I went for a smokey eye using Dark Horse, Creep, Buck and Sin... and lots and lots of black eyeliner! This might have had something to do with the fact that I was watching the T4 show with the Saturdays and noticed how they all rock a really nice smokey eye.

The highlight on my tear turned out a bit more greyish silver than I expected, I must have had a darker colour on the brush I used...rookie mistake!

Have you been inspired by any celebs make up recently?

Tx

Test

2011-05-15T22:35:00.003+01:00

Bare Escentuals Well Rested - a review.

2011-05-15T16:17:00.013+01:00

After watching Michele1218's new Battle of the Under Eye powders video I decided it was time to post my thoughts on Bare Escentual's Well Rested.

I've been using Bare Escentuals Well Rested now ever since I watched Michele1218's Mila Kunis tutorial... I'd say I've probably had it now for about 3 months, have used it every single day and it has quickly replaced all of my other under eye concealers.

I'd been having a lot of problems with concealers settling in the lines under my eyes - even with my previous favourite MUFE Lift concealer and I'm happy to say that I have no such problems with this which seems incredible for it being a powder product. It's all in the technique.

I'd even go so far to say that I'd actually quite happily throw them out now and can confidently say that I wouldn't miss them. Under eye concealer and eyeliner are my two absolute must have products so that, for me, is a massive statement to make.

Well Rested belongs in Bare Escentual's line of 'Multi-tasking Minerals' which includes Bisque - one of its most famous products. They cost £19 for 2g of product - quite pricey but a little goes a really long way.

I've lifted this description of the range from the Bare Minerals website...

Besides working as a beautiful, soft eyeshadow base, Multi-Tasking Bisques also perform as miracle concealers for your face, covering dark circles and skin imperfections. Apply directly onto brown and red spots, blemishes, broken capillaries, scars, and other areas of skin imperfections

Well Rested is a very finely milled yellow toned powder which for me, works great at brightening my under eye area. I see this as more of a brightening powder rather than an everyday concealer for blemishes... I have since picked up Summer Bisque as a general concealer and I love that too. I've even found that it helps get rid of any little spots... and to think I scoffed at the SA when she told me that as part of her sales pitch.

After seeing Michele's Mila Kunis video in which she used Well Rested over her concealer to set it, I went to my local BE counter and asked to try it out. They advised using it alone as a concealer - I was very sceptical about using a powder product as an undereye concealer and decided not to buy it that day.

A week later though Debenhams had a Beauty Card promotion on where if you spent over £35, you got 750 points on your card, so I decided to pick up Well Rested and I decided to try one of their mineral foundations too while I was at it. I am in love.

A picture is worth a million words so here's a pic of me with and without... hopefully you can tell which is before and which is after!

With flash in a different light...

As soon as I bought Well Rested I started searching other videos (do you ever find that when you buy something you're really excited about, you want to see what everyone else says/thinks about it?) and found this great video by Ginabinawina99 where she demonstrates the way she uses Well Rested - I'd definitley recommend checking this out if you're thinking of purchasing.

I use a similiar technique where I first put on my Origins Ginzing eyecream (another massive LOVE), then I use a MAC 165 brush to blend a tiny, tiny amount of powder into the contour under my eye rather than trying to take it under the lash line. I usually use a light colour eyeshadow anyway on my lash line anyway so I don't need to conceal there.

I find this lasts all day and I don't get creasing the way I used to get with cream/liquid concealers.

Here's a pic of me one day after work wearing Well Rested... keep in mind this is after a really, really long day... I think it's held up pretty well!

Well done if you've made it this far! Well Rested has become my HG under eye concealer and I absolutely love it. I think it also photographs pretty well and I haven't experienced any crazy panda eye photos like what happens with the MUFE HD powder.

I don't think this will work for all skin tones though so I'd definitely recommend trying it out instore before shelling out with your hard earned dough. Personally I don't like wearing it over concealer either - that's when I start to find it caking in the fine lines and to be honest, it does the job on its own so why complicate matters?

Would love to hear your thoughts on Well Rested - have you tried it or are you thinking about it? Let me know if you've got any questions or would like any more pics/info.

Tx

Day 3 - gold eye

2011-05-15T13:00:00.006+01:00

So I'm into day 3 of the Naked challenge and decided to go for gold.

I'm not so much with the words today so I'll shut up and leave you with the pictures... do excuse my slightly crazy eyebrow in the first pic!

Half baked in the inner half of the eye blended out with Buck on the outer corner and into the crease. Sin as a highlight at the tear duct and browbone then mixed with Half Baked and taken along the lower lash line. Zero liner on the upper eye and whisky in the waterline.

And the full face albeit slightly washed out...

Happy Sunday lovelies, hope you're all having a fab weekend!

Tx

Day 2

2011-05-14T08:03:00.003+01:00

I tried to post the second look from my week long Naked palette challenge on Thursday but blogger was down and I would have posted it last night but I was slightly under the influence of Sailor Jerry... well it was Friday night.

Please excused my creased shadow... it was very late and I think you can tell in the pics that I was just about ready to turn in for the night when I took them!

I put Smog all over the lid, a little of Darkhorse in the outer V and Sin on the brow bone and inner corner. I then took Smog under the lash line... I usually prefer to use lighter colours under there to brighten up my eyes so I'm still not quite sure how I feel about this!

Hope you've all had a great start to the weekend!x

A little eyeshadow palette challenge

2011-05-11T21:24:00.000+01:00

I would have called this the Naked challenge in the title of this post if not for a (reasonable) fear of the type of site visitor that would attract. This ain't that kind of party.

I've had the UD Naked palette since it was first released and as much as I love it, I don't find myself reaching for it that much because I'm scared of neglecting my other eyeshadows. The thing is though, I have so many shadows that I have them on constant rotation. The excess really does trouble me.

I popped the Urban Decay Naked palette into my work bag this week though and have decided that I'm going to use it for one week for work and I'll pop the look up each day. Now please keep in mind that, 9 times out of 10, I'm one of those people that does their make up on the train. I'd just much rather have an extra 15 minutes in bed! Oh and these pics will also be taken at the end of the night so allow for my poor, weary eyes!

I'm looking forward to seeing how I get on with this and if I enjoy it, I might start doing the same thing with my other palettes and eyeshadow duos.

I'm starting a day late so here's yesterday's make up - by no means ground breaking - just a nice, simple eye for work...

I used Sidecar all over the lid (tapped on to minimise fallout), Naked in the crease, Smog under the eye and Sin on my browbone and at the inner tear duct. Followed with Gosh Black Eyeliner (incredible stuff), Model's Own mascara (not much oomph but has been improving the condition of my lashes) and ELF eyebrow kit.

And now for the rest of my mug...

Bare Minerals Foundation, Bare Minerals Well Rested, Bobbi Brown Peony blush and Lanolips Lemon Aid Lip Aid.

Anyone else care to join me in the challenge whether it's with the Naked palette or another eyeshadow palette?

Tx

NOTD - OPI Lucky, Lucky Lavender... and a dupe

2011-05-03T21:35:00.006+01:00

The lovely weather at the weekend inspired me to dig out one of my favourite summer nail polish shades - OPI's Lucky, Lucky Lavender which was from the OPI Hong Kong collection which was released last year.

This is a really lovely colour - a light lilac with a hint of pink to it... it kind of reminds me of sugared almonds.

Unfortunately though the formula of my bottle has gone really bad and application was an absolute nightmare - it was unbelievably streaky and I almost gave up half way through. In the end though I couldn't be bothered taking it off and painting my nails again so I just continued on and after 3 coats it looked... well it looked better but really not what I'd expect from a brand like OPI.

So here's how it looks in natural daylight...

I don't remember the polish being so difficult to apply when I first got it and it has great reviews on MUA so I think my bottle must have just gone gloopy because I haven't used it in such a long time.

When I was in Boots today though I realised that Barry M's Berry Ice Cream polish is almost an exact dupe at a snip of the price.

Here it is on my index finger... the Barry M polish is a smidge more lilac in this light but in daylight I couldn't tell the difference. The formula on the Barry M one, like all of their polishes, is amazing for £2.99... can't really go wrong and Boots has 3 for 2 on make up right now. Temptation is everywhere.

I was going to buy Berry Ice Cream (especially after I was told off for testing a non-tester - why don't they bloody put testers out!) but decided that I didn't need another polish the exact same colour because the formula was better, so I put it down and left the shop. Really quite sensible of me.

I also really don't need any more nail polishes and already have another 2 OPI shades on the way to me as I type - Happy Anniversary & Princesses Rule - I cannot wait to get my hands on them!

I'm loving pastel, girly polishes right now especially with the lovely weather we've been having, although on my tootsies I'm rocking OPI Black Cherry Chutney - one of my all time favourite colours.

Hope you're all enjoying the sunshine!

Tx

Outfit of the Night

2011-05-01T10:37:00.005+01:00

Last night I met up with a good friend who was down visiting from Aberdeen. On the agenda was catching up, champagne, bit of Glasgow banter with randoms (essential to a good night out), a spot of shape-throwing and a few Jaegerbombs. Needless to say, the latter have left me a little delicate this morning.

To be honest, even though I had this night out in my diary for ages, I was on the verge of cancelling having exhausted myself from non-stop Pimm's drinking on Friday... poor show that would have been and I'm really glad that I dragged my sorry ass out. Dry shampoo'd hair and all. Batiste really is a miracle product.

I lasted until 3am when the lion came to pick me up... his reaction - 'You look drunk...but nice.' He knows how to compliment a girl. My compadres were still going strong in a certain Glasgow club that opens til 6am... I feel like a bit of a lightweight for bailing early!

Anyway, here's what I wore...

It was a beautiful sunny day yesterday but I'm not quite ready to ditch the tights yet...especially with a dress so short!

Dress - River Island
Belt - River Island (from another skirt)
Blazer - Zara (love this!)
Sparkly tights - M&S
Shoes - New Look
Watch - Fossil
Bracelets - Thomas Sabo & ROX
Earrings - Accessorize

I decided just before I left that the look called for a red lip so I added Illamasqua Sangers - love, love, love this colour.

Who else was out making the most of the bank holiday weekend? Is it hangovers all round?

Tx

St Moritz Dark Instant Self Tanning Mousse

2011-04-30T16:36:00.009+01:00

I've meaning to do a post on my favourite tanning products for a long time now but the thought of taking pictures to accompany it has put me off time and time again. I always really struggle to get pics that are true to colour.

Anyway, I digress. Despite having dark hair, dark features and bloody dark undereye circles, I'm a bit like Casper the ghost. My mum is from Dutch heritage, my Dad Irish... somehow they both ended up in Scotland and I'm the peely-wally by-product.

When I was young I had very sallow skin that tanned easily (my mum only needs to look at the sun to take atan) but as I've got older, my skin has changed and I tend to burn now if I'm in the sun for too long. Of course that's not usually an issue, given that I live in Glasgow.

The thing is, I don't like being pale. It doesn't suit my colouring and I always feel better with a tan. When I was younger I did the whole sun bed thing but I've got a little bit wiser over the years and now fake tan is my friend.

One of my favourites is the St Tropez mousse - I've always found it really easy to use, it gives a nice, natural colour and it fades well... everything I'm looking for in a good tanning product. It comes at a price though and not one I'm prepared to pay if I'm using it the whole year round. It's more of a special occasion/ night out tan to me.

The St Tropez dupe, St Moritz was all the rage when I started blogging but I have to say when I tried it, it didn't really do it for me. The colour didn't look natural and I found it really tricky to apply. When I saw over on Tacky Blue Eyeshadow that they had a new Dark version out, I decided to give it a whirl. At £2.99 from Savers, it's no big deal if I end up looking like an ooompa loompa.

A picture is worth 1000 words (so they say) so here's a few snaps in different lights to show the colour...

Ok first things first, I didn't use this on my face which is why my mug is lighter in these pics - hopefully it gives you an idea of the difference to tan makes.

I don't *think* I look radioactive so I'm going to say that I really like the new dark version. I've been using it now for a couple of weeks and in my experience, the colour lasts well, it doesn't leave weird patches as it's fading off and it's fairly easy to use. The scent isn't over powering or overly offensive and I haven't noticed any stains on my jammies or sheets.

The one thing I will say though is this stuff dries super fast, which means you have to apply and blend fast - I use a mitt and find that makes it a lot easier. The first time I used it I did have a bit of a hand disaster but I think that was more down to me being a bit heavy handed with the application. Today my hands look pretty even and there are no tell tale lines or white spots in between my fingers!

The name of this is a bit misleading though - 'Instant Self Tanning Mousse'. This is not an instant tanner, it takes hours to develop. I usually apply this at night and let it develop while I'm sleeping... the mousse has a very dark colour indicator and when showering it off, you literally see the water running dark as it comes off. What's left though is a nice, natural (I think) looking tan.

I think different things will work for different people depending on colouring, skin type etc however if it helps, I will be buying this again and I think it's a pretty fab budget self tanner.

Would love to hear if you've tried this and what you think about it. I'm planning to blog on St Tropez in the near future and my very, very favourite instant tanning product - MAC Sundressing/Skin Sheen ... just need to motivate myself to take pics!

Tx

One year ago today...

2011-04-21T22:13:00.003+01:00

... I found out that the offer I had made on my new house-to-be had been accepted.

I was terrified, nervous, excited... so many emotions all at once. It turned out to be the best decision I've ever made. It was the beginning of an entirely new chapter in my life and this sounds SO cheesy but every day I come from home from work and I think 'I love my house'. I have even hugged the walls on the odd occasion.

To put this crazy behavious into perspective, I lived in a flat in a really rough area before I bought my house with really awful neighbours who just caused non-stop trouble. Every other night the police would be in the building and they were just horrible. To move into a nice, peaceful area has been absolutely bliss... the only noise I really hear is from my elderly neighbours TV when he has the news on loud early in the morning. I can totally live with that, it beats banging techno music at 4am every morning!

If I were to pass on one tip for anyone looking to buy their first home, it would definitely be to buy a smaller place in a nicer area rather than a bigger house in a bad area. There's nothing like feeling safe, comfortable and content in your own home.

I'm grateful every day for my lovely little house. I'll leave you with some pictures of one of the lovely trees out back and a pic of three of my favourite tops hanging on the washing line... mainly because I still get excited that I have a garden (albeit a small one)to hang a washing line. It's a beautiful thing.

Tx

An afternoon with Scottish Ballet

2011-04-18T21:45:00.015+01:00

This past Saturday I was a guest of the Scottish Ballet at a bloggers event at the ever so swish Blythswood Square Hotel to celebrate its production of Alice... a dark, edgy and deliciously tantalising interpretation of the classic tale.

With dramatic backdrops, exquisite costumes and beautiful choreography, Alice was enchanting, emotional, occasionally confusing and breathtakingly beautiful. The event has definitely whet my appetite for more Scottish Ballet productions and I've already told my friends that we're going to see Sleeping Beauty when it opens at Glasgow's Theatre Royal in mid December. The show will go on tour afterwards to Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness and Newcastle - check out the Scottish Ballet's website for more details.

I love that the Scottish Ballet is throwing itself head first into online and social media in order to bring the ballet to a new audience - I would never have thought about going before this event and now I can't wait for my next adventure. One of the things that really amazed me was the strength of the dancers... and the muscles... I was in awe, but I managed to draw my attention away (eventually!) to focus on the performance.

Anyway, if this sounds up your street Scottish Ballet will be streaming live from behind the scenes at the Festival Theatre in Edinburgh on Thursday, 21^st April at 7.10pm where you'll be able to see the dancers making final preparations for the evening’s performance of Alice right up to 7.30pm. You can also comment on Twitter with #alicelivestreaming or check them out on Facebook.

The organisers pulled out all the stops to put on an amazing event and every last detail was planned to perfection from delicious Alice themed afternoon teas at the Blythswood to hair and beauty treatments from Rainbow Rooms International, tours of the hotel and spa (amazing!), taxis to the ballet and even a little private room with refreshments and snacks during the intermission of the show.

I managed to take some pics but as ever my photography skills (or lack of!) fail to capture the magic...

Afternoon tea at the Blythswood including Chesire Cat cake

The ladies from Rainbow Rooms International doing their thing

A group shot... reminds me a school photo ut with better clothes, hair & make up!

Rani (l) & Charlene (r)

(L-R) Amanda, Nicola, Ruth , Louise

(L-R) Morven, Ayden ,Sarah , Kirsty

Before leaving we were treated to a gorgeous goody bag that was brimming with gorgeous goodies including Osis Dust It Mattifying Powder (love this stuff and had been annoying the Rainbow Room girls for tips on how to use it during the event!), a mini Hendricks Gin, Shearer Candles and vouchers for the spa at the Blythswood. As a PR, it was really odd to be given a goody bag instead of giving them out! It felt good though :) I love the label, it's too cute!

One of my clients, ROX, also popped in semi precious bead bracelets from its ROX Silver collection... I already have three of these bad boys and LOVE them so I figured the ladies would too! They come in Black Agate, Hematite, Blue Goldstone and Shellstone for anyone who's interested.
Here's the lovely Kirsten showing hers off... and looking absolutely gorgeous!

All in all it was a fab day - great food and drink, great ballet and great company. You can check out all the lovely ladies who joined us a couple of posts back - check them out - they all have great blogs!

Toni
x

Blythswood Square Hotel deal

2011-04-18T16:11:00.007+01:00

Just jumping on very quickly to share this 62% off deal from www.itison.com for the five star Blythswood Square Hotel - the venue for the Scottish Ballet bloggers event. The hotel is beautiful and the spa looks incredible. The deal only runs until 8am tomorrow morning so if you fancy it, make sure you purchase quickly!

TODAYS DEAL: £109 instead of £285 for an overnight stay for TWO people at the stunning five star Blythswood Square, including bed and breakfast, plus full use of the hotel’s fabulous Thermal Experience at the legendary Spa at Blythswood Square – save 62%

Showing some love...

2011-04-17T08:56:00.008+01:00

for the 22 fab bloggers that I met yesterday at the Scottish Ballet's 'Alice' event... if you're looking for new reading material you should definitely check these lovely ladies out...

www.girlinthecityglasgow.com

http://beautybloggingblonde.blogspot.com/ http://www.youtube.com/user/millmollmac

http://baroqueboudoir.blogspot.com/

http://www.beautyh2t.com/

http://beewaits.blogspot.com/

http://kingdomofstyle.typepad.co.uk/

http://fortyfoursunsets44.blogspot.com/

http://saskiathestylefairy.co.uk

http://www.weshopthereforeweare.co.uk/

http://www.pinkpompoms.com/

http://nude-obsession.blogspot.com/

http://lionlovingtiger.blogspot.com/

http://mydollface.blogspot.com/

http://thecrazybitchbeautygazette.blogspot.com/

http://makeuploveer.blogspot.com/

http://carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.com/

http://www.daintydresses.co.uk/ -

http://mycupcake-couture.blogspot.com/

http://conversationpieces.co.uk/

http://www.thomassenland.com

http://morven-catsandrockingchairs.blogspot.com/

http://walkthesand.blogspot.com/

More to follow on the event... we were truly and utterly spoiled by the Scottish Ballet (Twitter @scottishballet), Rainbow Rooms International (@rainbowroomsint), the Blythswood Square Hotel (@blythswoodsq) and I'm going to give a cheeky little shout out for ROX jewellery (@roxjewellery) too.

I'd like to say a massive thank you to Ann @girlinthecityg for the invitation - not only is she an amazing blogger but she puts on one hell of an event.

Some more shout outs for some other lovely ladies...

http://www.productplacementtheblog.com/
http://racheyem.blogspot.com/
http://foshoozley.blogspot.com/
http://vintageveronica.blogspot.com/
http://alisonkerr.wordpress.com/
http://www.juliehannahblog.com/
http://www.beautybombshells.com/
http://liparazzi.blogspot.com/
http://stylescanner.blogspot.com/
http://stolen--thunder.blogspot.com/
http://glitterandlovex.blogspot.com
www.foreveramber.com
http://www.siananigans.com/
http://missmaquillage.blogspot.com/
http://sparklyglossimers.tumblr.com/
http://vintageveronica.blogspot.com/
http://lostmyheartinwonderland.blogspot.com/
http://giddylittlemiss.blogspot.com/

I had no idea there were so many fab bloggers up here so it was great to meet everyone and spend a very girly day at the ballet!

Link me up if I've missed anyone out.

Tx

Daisy Chakra bracelets

2011-04-15T23:38:00.011+01:00

Given the fact that I work in marketing, you'd think that I'd be able to see through hype of the latest celebrity crazes... but you would be wrong.

Well I'll give myself some credit - I can see through them... but it doesn't stop me buying into them.

Case in point - Daisy Jewellery's Chakra bracelets. All the celebs are wearing them. Cheryl Cole, Sienna Miller, Katy Perry... hell even Kanye West's getting down with the Chakra action and as a result the fashion press is going nuts for them with Vogue, Grazia and Look all having featured them recently.

Here's what Daisy says on the website...

"The body's external subtle energy field can best be described as an aura - a rainbow of light surrounding the body. Chakras transmit information from the aura and represent a 'blueprint' of the body."

I'm on the fence about this and I don't know a lot about it but in my opinion, a bracelet isn't going to change your life... but maybe reading about the chakras and their different meanings affects your perception so you are more influenced by the colours around you?

I don't know... I think a lot of things like this are in the head and it's down to what you believe, what you make of them and how you choose to respond to them. Do I feel different wearing the chakra? Of course I don't... but I love it all the same.

There are 8 different chakras in 8 different colours and each comes with their own meanings and affirmations as per the chart below. They are made of cord with a silver or gold charm depending on which version you go for and they are adjustable... quite handy given that I have freakishly skinny wrists.

I think part of the reason that I felt really drawn to these is because they kind of reminded me of the bracelets that the women at my best friend's wedding were given and the bracelets that my partner wears which are sent to him from his aunties and cousins in India... I guess it makes me feel a little bit closer to his culture. Or maybe I've just been sucked into the hype.

In anycase, I had to have one. A purple one. They don't come cheap at £55 for the silver version and £86 for the gold plated one (!!!) but my lion knew that I had wanted one of these since before Christmas so when they came into stock at one of my client's store (Ortak Silverburn if anyone's interested), he took me over to get me one... lovely fella that he is.

It comes in a little pouch with a book to explain more about the Chakras... I went for the lilac ( because I liked the colour!) but apparently it represents intelligence, awareness and thoughtfulness.

If you enlarge the pic below you should be able to read everything that Daisy has to say about the Chakras...

I've worn it every day since I got it and I absolutely love it. Regardless of whether it's a gimmick or not, I think the design is so simple and so sweet... and I'm going through a real purple phase right now so it's perfect for me!

What do you think of the Chakras? Worth the money? Does the celeb factor turn you on or turn you off them?

Tx

Soap with a soul

2011-04-12T19:55:00.004+01:00

I know there's a lot of posts about this right now but I think it's fab and I want to help spread the word.

I like Lush but I don't love it... that said though, I think its new soap in aid of the Japanese relief effort deserves to be raved about.

Lush has 145 stores in Japan and a factory with 1600 staff - many have suffered great losses as a result of the tragedy. So, to help raise funds for the relief effort, Lush has launched the limited edition Japanese Aid Soap.

It costs £5 per bar and all proceeds from each sale will go towards Peace Boat, a charity that is organising teams of volunteers, transporting aid goods and cooking hot meals in the disaster zone.

It's very rare that a brand donates 100% of proceeds to charity and I think Lush should be applauded for this. We can all make a contribution to Peace Boat by doing something as simple as buying a bar of soap.

I toddled along to my local Lush store on my lunch break this afternoon (and got soaked on the way - damn Glasgow weather) to pick a bar up. The soap has the same scent as the brand's I Should Coco... I love the smell of coconut so this is perfect for me.

Spread the word, enjoy the soap and bravo to Lush for its great effort.

Tx

Alice... the Scottish Ballet way

2011-04-12T19:08:00.006+01:00

This coming Saturday will be a day of firsts for me. Not only will I attend my very first bloggers event (there's not much going up here in Scotland!) but I will also go to the ballet for the first time ever as guests of the Scottish Ballet in collaboration with the ever so cool Blythswood Square Hotel.

Scottish Ballet's interpretation of Alice premiers this evening at Glasgow's Theatre Royal and runs through until Saturday. After that it will go on tour around the UK and you can check out the Scottish Ballet website for details of its stops in Edinburgh, Inverness, Cardiff and Aberdeen.

There's been a bit of a media frenzy about this production here in Scotland - you can read what The Herald Magazine had to say about the show... it even made the front page of the Scottish edition of Metro today... and I cannot wait to see it.

I don't know really enough about ballet to wax lyrical on it so here's what Scottish Ballet have to say about the show...

Scottish Ballet and the creative team behind Cinderella and The Nutcracker present Alice, an extraordinary adventure into the depths of imagination.

After tumbling through a camera lens, Alice finds herself in a strange dreamlike place. Drifting through episodes from Lewis Carroll's treasured stories, she meets a series of fantastical characters, who each impatiently try to teach her something, and guided by Carroll himself, she has to rely on her wits to find her way out. Click here to read the full synopsis.

Featuring choreography by Artistic Director Ashley Page, otherworldly designs from Antony McDonald and a specially commissioned musical score by Robert Moran, this is an unforgettable take on the most curious of tales.

The promo pics look amazing and you can even download it as your wallpaper by clicking here - I think this is a really nice touch and the imagery is beautiful.

Let's have a look at some more pics shall we?

Eeeek... I'm so excited! I'm also super excited to meet some other fab Scottish bloggers and check out the amazing Blythswood Square Hotel before we head off to the show.

Is ballet up your street? I think it's the perfect way to spend a cultured Saturday afternoon... it's always nice to go back to the office on Monday with something more interesting to talk about than a weekend of catching up on the soaps and doing the housework!

Tx

You know it's love...

2011-04-04T20:14:00.001+01:00

when you're on your fourth purchase of a product and you have four back ups in the drawer.

So what is this product that I've fallen in love...it's not particularly exciting or glamorous but it's a great staple that does the job and doesn't cost a fortune.

Good ol' Johnson & Johnson and their wonderful Daily Essentials Refreshing Cleansing Wipes...such a mouthful but these are great. And the best part of all is these go on offer quite regularly in Superdrug for only £3.99 and come in different versions for different skin types.

I've got sensitive, oily, generally nightmare skin that's easily aggravated but these are gentle enough to use without breaking me out.

One sheet will remove all of my make up, mascara included...magic.

I'd definitely recommend giving these a try... they won't break the bank and they get the job done.

These are by far my favourite face wipes...have you tried these?

Xxx

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Rimmel Coral Queen

2011-03-14T21:09:00.001Z

I don't care if it's snowing outside, I'm ready for summer nails! Rimmel Coral Queen is beyootiful!

Bring on the sunshine!
Txxx

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WH Smith scores again

2011-03-08T20:40:00.005Z

Make up bag from WH Smith? Doesn't make much sense however while perusing the stationery section one afternoon (pretty stationery makes me happy), I came across this adorable pencil case and thought it would make a great make up bag. I say that about WH Smith but they actually make great stationery drawers that are awesome for make up storage so I really shouldn't be surprised at all.

So anyway I did what anyone would do and pulled out my MAC MSF to make sure it would fit comfortably, lo and behold, it did. £5.99 later and it was all mine.

So here's the make up that I've been using daily along with brushes... I quite often do my make up on the train so tend to carry quite a lot of slap. Shame on me but more often than not I'd much rather have an extra 15 minutes in bed. The 5 loose brushes are from Eco Tools and the little pouch is Eco Tool eye shadow brushes - these are amazing value, love, love, love.

And here it all is in the bag...

What I really liked about this is that it has a little compartment on one side that I can put my brushes in...

There's also space on the other side for little bits and bobs...

All in all I think this is a fab little purchase - it's a good size for my handbag, fits plenty and looks cute - winner!

Txxx

Happy days

2011-03-03T17:57:00.001Z

I placed my first ever E.L.F order last week, taking advantage of the free delivery code that was on the go.

I'm really quite excited about my new goodies having heard great things about the brand. I picked up one of the new Studio Tinted Moisturisers, the powder brush that I've read so many good reviews of and the eyebrow kit.

From a very quick play around I'm impressed with the quality of the product and packaging, not to mention the delivery. So far, so good - looking forward to trying them properly tomorrow!

Did anyone else partake in a little free delivery code action?

X

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Unadultered glamour

2011-03-02T20:35:00.004Z

The cover of the new Stylist magazine made me stop mid conversation to say 'WOW'.

I love everything about this cover and I happen to love the magazine in general. If you don't have access to the magazine you can check it out online - www.stylistmagazine.co.uk

Away to make a cup of tea and curl up on the sofa with Stylist. Bliss.

Tx

Must have palette?

2011-02-28T21:03:00.006Z

I've had a few Famous by Sue Moxley eye shadow palettes in my stash for about 8 months and although I've looked at them and thought 'good colour combos', I've never actually used them.

I don't know what sparked my interest this week but in anycase I decided to give the 'Must Have' palette a try... it's since made it into my make up bag and I've been using it most days.

I like the size and feel of the palette - it feels sturdy without being heavy and it has a good sized mirror inside it. The only thing I would say about the packaging is that it can sometimes be a little tricky to open... wouldn't recommend trying it if you've just had your nails done!

The 'Must Have' palette is made up of four matte shades - an ivory, baby blue, a warm medium brown and a darker brown - I haven't worn the blue eyeshadow yet but I'm loving the other colours as both eye colours and also for filling in my brows.

The texture is quite fine and I find you can build these colours up nicely, I usually wear them over Urban Decay Primer Potion and get on fine with them however you really need to layer the ivory and blue shades to get a strong colour pay off. I only use the ivory for blending out the others though so the fact that it's quite sheer and close to my skin tone is ok for me.

These shades are completely matte however I still had a little sparkle on my hand from swatching the new Nars illuminators ...

I think these palettes sell for around £9 in Superdrug and I think it's pretty good value, I really like the colour combination and the shadows are easy to work with. Here's a bit of a dodgy look of the day after a long day at work... on the rest of my mush I was wearing black Barry M liquid liner, Bella Bamba blush and a Clarins Colour Quench lip balm.

I have a couple of other Famous palettes... will maybe get round to trying those one day soon too!

Tx

Benefit's Bella Bamba

2011-02-26T10:52:00.006Z

When I first looked at the new Bella Bamba boxed powder in store I thought 'meh, looks just like Nar' Orgasm, not interested. Curiosity got the better of me though and I did a little bit of research online and saw that people were saying that Bella Bamba is a lot more pink to Nars' corally pink.

I had a gift voucher for Frasers and for the first time ever, I couldn't find anything in MAC that I wanted... or anywhere else that I really wanted so I decided to pick up Bella Bamba and try for myself.

In general I like Benefit but for me they have very clear stand out areas - blushes and their 'fix it' products. For some reason I don't have any interest in their eye/lip products.

Anyway, it's been mentioned a lot that the packaging has changed - gone is the lift off lid for one that is attached with a little mirror in the inside. And you're now getting 8g of product for £23.50... other Benefit products have varied between 9-12g I believe... it's an expensive product but you know, even MAC Blushes are up to £17 for 6g these days...pppht.

I'm not sure whether I would have forked out the moolah had I not had a gift voucher - I'm trying to cut back on my make up spending however I do like this blush and I've worn it every day since I got it. It's also really pigmented so a little goes a long way.

I'm on the fence on the packaging - it's holographic and quite 'WAAAH!' ... I come and go on it... today I'm quite liking it.

You can see from this pic that the product has a fine gold shimmer through it, I don't mind a bit of shimmer but it's quite pigmented so a gentle hand works best.

I tried to get a good comparison pic of Nars Orgasm vs Bella Bamba... this is the best I could do but I think you can see that Orgasm is a bit more peachy pink...

Now for the swatches... I think you can really see the difference here... I've swatched them both heavily to show but obviously these can be worn sheer...

Bella Bamber is a lot pinkier and I would say both are as shimmery as the other. I think this is a really nice brightening product, it wears well, has great pigmentation and adds a nice little pop of colour.

Here's a face of the day from work last week...

I was wearing a shimmery light eyeshadow from the Sleek Storm palette, black Barry M liquid liner, Too Faced concealer (loving this!), Bella Bamba and a Clarins Colour Quench lip balm.

I think Bella Bamba gives a nice little pop of colour and has a nice brightening effect that can be built up for effect.

All in all I'm glad I bought this and would recommend if you're looking for a nice shimmery pink.

Have you checked out Bella Bamba... and what do you think of the price?

Tx

Outfit of the day

2011-02-24T20:28:00.007Z

It's been a while since I did an outfit of the day post so thought I'd throw yesterday's ensemble out there.

I bought this dress a couple of years ago from Primark for £9 and I love it... you can find some real belters in there if you've got the patience... it's a really simple cut and just very easy to wear.

My work wardrobe consists of a lot of dresses, mainly because it means that I don't have to coordinate an outfit. You can just throw them on and go.

I wore it with my red ToyWatch which I got from ROX, a black Swarovski cord bracelet, black wooly tights (it's still cold in Glasgow!), tan knee high boots from Matalan and the gold locket that my fella bought me a few years ago. It's my very favourite piece of jewellery and I wear it almost all the time.

It was an accident that I matched my lipstick to my watch but I just love Illamasqua's Sanger lippie from the Throb collection - I bought both the lippie and gloss, my first Illamasqua lip purchases and I have to say I'm very impressed with them both.

My foundation looks a bit off in this picture but I think that's just from the flash. I kept my eye make up simple using Sleek's Storm palette and Barry M liquid liners. On the cheeks I wore Benefit's Bella Bamba - I've got another post coming up on that so keep an eye out for it!

I'm slowly getting my blog mojo back... finally!

Tx

A beautiful wedding

2011-02-22T18:50:00.000Z

I mentioned a few posts ago that I was a bridesmaid at my best friend Anna's amazing wedding a couple of months ago and I'm finally getting round to posting up some pictures.

It was an absolutely amazing day with a Hindu ceremony in the morning and a humanist ceremony later in the afternoon. Not only was the day itself a beautiful white wedding, but Anna was flawless - look out for her make up - gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous.

I'll let the pictures do the talking...

Didn't I tell you? Gorgeous!

Tx

Progress in the kitchen

2011-02-21T20:03:00.003Z

Slow and steady, like the tortoise, my little house is coming along nicely and each day I love it more and more.

When we moved in the kitchen looked like this...

Instead of buying a whole new kitchen I bought new doors from B&Q in their sale - to do this lot cost me around £115. I then picked up (not literally!) new worktops from Ikea for about £115 and door handles for about £45. I'm very lucky that my Dad is handy around the house so I saved quite a lot of money on labour. I had brought my cooker from my old flat and despite my dad's initial protests that I should throw it out, I kept it and I'm very glad because it looks great now! That and it's not often that my Dad says I was right!

Finally we added a bit of drama with black slate tiles on the main wall and et voila... a new look kitchen is ours at a bargain price... I think we spent about £350 in altogether.

The most important part of my kitchen though is of course the ever present bottle of Tia Maria!

Have you embarked on any DIY adventures recently?

Tx

Tx

3 for 2 on Soap and Glory

2011-01-30T10:12:00.009Z

My love for Soap & Glory is still strong and while I haven't bought anything for a while (I've been working my way through everything that I already have... lots!), I love the brand and think it's great value for money. You can check out my previous Soap & Glory reviews here.

That said, in these tough financial times, I've been holding off for special offers to go on instead of just picking things up whenever I fancy. So. When I saw there was 3 for 2 again on the Soap & Glory bathing range at Boots, it was time to indulge in a little something sweet.

I picked up the Sugar Crush scrub from the Spa range, the Soap & Glory perfume and the new
addition to their body scrubs - The Breakfast Scrub... seriously this stuff smells amazing. So good that it actually comes with a warning on the back to reinforce that it is not food. Maple Syrup, bananas, honey... once you smell it you'll understand the need for the warning... it is delicious.

What's quite disappointing though about this is the price - for £9.25 you get 300ml whereas with the Sugar Crush scrub, you get 450ml for the same price. What's that all about? Not quite sure really.

I tried the Breakfast Scrub last night for the first time (as illustrated by my paw prints in the jar) - it's very sweet as you'd imagine and the maple syrup fragrance is very strong in the tub. With scent being such a personal tast, I can imagine people will find this very similiar to Snow Fairy from Lush with some people loving it and others hating it. The scent isn't quite as strong when you're using it and it doesn't linger in the same way that Snow Fairy does which is a shame because if you're one of the folk who love it, you'll want it to last!

In terms of its exfoliating goodness, this is nice but it's not quite HG for me - it almost feels like it has lots of tiny, tiny grains of sand in it and when using it in the shower, I noticed the product crumbling and falling off, you need to use quite a bit and scrub vigorously to feel the effect. My skin did feel nice and soft afterwards, to be honest I probably wouldn't need to follow with a moisturiser but personally I prefer the feel and consistancy of the Sugar Crush body scrub.

According to the website, which has it listed for £7.50 rather than the £9.25 it's selling in Boots for, the product contains all sorts of good things...

A super skin-softening blend of:
- Golden Sugar scrub particles
- Natural Organic cupuacu bio scrubs
- Gentle Oatmeal grains
- Banana, Almond and Honey extracts
- Shea Butter
- Glycerin

For me, the Sugar Crush scrub from the Spa range wins hands down - the exfoliating granules are a bit bigger and slightly more abrasive and the product feels a bit heavier - I don't need to scrub as much to feel that it's working. I'm still glad I picked this up as it's a nice evening scrub... the sweet scent doesn't do much for me in the morning, it's calming, soothing and quite comforting really... in my opinion this is more for pampering yourself and enjoying the scent.

In comparison the Sugar Crush scrub's scent is fresh and zingy... although I have to admit I was put off it for a while when my aunt said she thought it smelled like kitchen cleaner. Despite this though, I've gone through about 5 tubs of this stuff which shows how much I love it.

On a side note, I really wish Soap & Glory would put their exfoliators in tubes - tubs are not ideal for showers!

Given that I love the scent of Soap & Glory products, I decided to try the perfume - I've only used this once so far and was pleased that the scent was still lingering after a full day of work. I like the little 50 ml bottle - it's handy for carrying around in your bag and I also really liked the box that it came in which has a strong magnet and the front of the box opens like a book...

It's true what they say that as you get older, you get more like your parents. I've taken the perfume out and I'm now planning to use this as a little storage box. Of course I have lots and lots of little storage boxes that I never use, but it's too cute to throw out. Hoarder much?

Have you tried any Soap & Glory products recently that you love? I noticed that they've got lots of new skincare items out... any recommendations?

Tx

Bargain Batiste

2011-01-29T09:33:00.001Z

So, to say that I haven't exactly been active with my blog would be the understatement of the century. In a nutshell, work has been crazy, I've been wearing little and sometimes no make up, and I haven't been bowled over by anything that I've picked up recently.

However I coudn't not share my purchase from yesterday... an absolute must-have for me...

And the best part of all - it's currently on offer in Superdrug - 3 for £3.50 - bargaintastic! I could only carry 3 cans with the other stuff that I had picked up but I'll be going back to stock pile.

I've tried the Tresemme Dry Shampoo a while back, both the spray and the foam, and it really did nothing for me. I ended up throwing it out and going back to my faithful Batiste. For me the price and the quality of the product is unbeatable. I also really like the Brunette version of the spray but for some reason it's quicky tricky to find.

If you haven't tried it before ( and I hadn't til I started blogging) you should check out Gemma's great video tutorial which switched me over to the wonder of Batiste.

I would have embedded the video if I could have figured out how to : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12AO4nKCREc

Happy shopping!

Tx

Saris in the snow

2010-12-04T13:28:00.006Z

One of my best friends got married last week in an amazing three day Hindi extravaganza - it was an absolutely beautiful wedding and I'll post more pics soon.

In the meantime, given the crazy winter weather, I wanted to share a pic of me (on the left) with one of the other bridesmaids in our matching winter boots! They definitely made it easier to get around in the snow while we were in our saris!

Sensible shoes all the way!

Tx

Help with Miami shopping list

2010-11-12T22:34:00.002Z

My significant other is off to Miami next week so I'm in the process of compiling a shopping list of US must-haves but I'm sort of struggling!

So far I have...

Cover Girl Lash Blast mascara
Maybelline Full & Soft mascara (still gutted they discontinued it here!)
Arm & Hammer teeth whitening booster
Some Eco Tool brush sets
Essence of Beauty crease brush set
Goody Spin Pins (can't wait to try these!)

I'll probably ask him to pick up Benefit's The Porefessional as it works out a bit cheaper over there.

I'd love to hear any other great recommendations for must-have make-up & beauty products that are available stateside.

Thanks in advance!
xxx

New boots and new 'do

2010-11-11T22:14:00.003Z

Loving my new boots so had to share them! I'm seriously considering buying a second pair... best part of all, they were only £28 from Matalan - what a freakin steal! I've already been getting loads of wear out of them and they're unbelievably comfy. Happy days!

Have also been for a wee cut - got my fringe trimmed (it was half way down my face - I just wish the rest of my hair would grow that fast!) and got my layers chopped up quite a bit. So far really liking it but will see how it is when I style it for the first time!

With the rain in Scotland, a good pair of boots is an absolute winter essential and I think Matalans totally on form this season - I got another really nice pair of shearling ankle boots which are lovely but unfortunately they're not quite so comfy!

Would definitely recommend checking Matalan out - I'm super impressed with their range of footwear.

xxx

1 hour laser teeth whitening at Dentawhite Glasgow

2010-11-10T18:39:00.009Z

My fella has wanted to get his teeth whitened for quite a while now so when I spotted a great deal for laser teeth whitening from Dentawhite 1 Hour Laser Teeth Whitening on itison.com, I decided it was time to act. I got right on the phone to tell him about - they were offering a massive 66% discount for one day only.

Of course I wasn't up for parting with my dosh (even though it was on special offer) without doing some research - so I started asking my friends who've had their teeth whitened and of course turned to good ol' Google. Dentawhite is a reputable company with salons across the UK - you can check out their website which I've linked to above - they promise whiter teeth with no pain and no structural or enamel damage - sounds good to me.

Oh and to clarify, it's a different company to the home teeth whitening people (also marketing themselves as DentaWhite) - don't get them confused as the latter seem to be getting some bad review!

So after deciding it sounded like a safe bet, I got back on the blower to the lion and gave him the thumbs up - being the grand fella that he is, he bought us both a treatment - yippee!

After we bought the treatment, another of my friends told me that it would hurt really bad so I did what any savvy girl would do - I booked my fella's treatment first and sent him along to roadtest it.

I met him straight after his appointment and he was happy as Larry. Teeth glowing... not quite Ross-like but nice and sparkly... and considering his teeth had been really discoloured, it had done a great job. The technician had recommended that to get his teeth even whiter (to the top of the white scale), that he go for a top up about a week afterwards which would cost £150.

The salon that we went to is in Glasgow's Merchant City and is downstairs in a spa called Radcliffe's - it's quite a nice wee place. I thought he was daft going for a top you considering how white his teeth were but I was about to find myself in a similiar position.

I went about a week after him to get mine done - when you first go in you have a consultation with the specialist who'll talk to you through the procedure and get you to fill out a questionnaire to make sure that you're gnashers are in good health.

Next, the technician colour matches your teeth, as they are, to show you where you started off on the colour spectrum. I was just over half way with my incisors being a bit darker. I had never really noticed how discoloured my teeth were but now when I look at pictures I'm shocked. I'm also obsessed with looking at other people's teeth - I try to be subtle.

After seeing the colour of my teeth and agreeing on the shade, it was downstairs to a treatment room where he popped a gumshield into my mouth and applied a gel onto my gnashers - I believe that the exclusive product that Dentawhite uses contains a lower percentage of bleach than the normal product that is used in teeth whitening. I also think this is what makes it painfree and safe on your teeth.

Then it was just a case of lying back for an hour with the laser on my gub - it alternates every twenty minutes to concentrate on different areas of the mouth and I'm not going to lie to you - it's boring. I was also terrified that I was going to sneeze or cough. Luckily I didn't. While I was in the treatment room I tried to take pictures with my phone but they were just hideous and had to be deleted. Retrospectively I should have asked the technician to do it but then I'd have had to explain why and I'm such a rookie!

My fella had also come back with me on this visit to get his teeth topped up so after the hour we both went upstairs to have a look at the results (see pic at very top!) - his teeth are now the whitest that you can get and mine are a few shades away from it. And despite telling him that he was crazy to go and get his done, I'm saving up my £150 to go and get mine done.

I didn't want to blog about this right away so I could give my teeth time to settle incase I did get any sensitivity - two weeks on and I'm pleased to report that I had absolutely none, no pain at all - just nice, white teeth...

Check out a before and after... also check out the tan/no-tan!

The only painful part of the treatment for me was the fact that I couldn't drink tea or coffee for 24 hours after - you basically have to avoid any coloured foods and drinks to allow the gel to work properly. I was like a junkie in rehab the following day in work but it was definitely worth it and I've actually cut down my tea and coffee in-take - I figure that I've (well the lion!) has spent a lot of money on my teeth and I want to keep them as white as possible.

The technician also recommended Arm & Hammer Bicarbonate of Soda toothpaste and advised that it's the best toothpaste for getting nice, sparkly white teeth... I've been using it daily since in place of my usual Sensodyne F Whitening and I'm really pleased with the results. I also managed to pick it up for cheap as chips £1.50 in Asda - two thumbs up for it.. four if you count the lion's too.

So all in all, it's a massive recommendation for Dentawhite's one hour laser teeth whitening - we're both delighted with the results... and that's a word I rarely use. I can even wear my MAC Viva Glam Gaga and not worry about yellow teeth... as soon as I looked at my teeth after the treatment I just thought 'I can't wait to try all my lipsticks on now!'.

The lion paid for our treatments with his own cash so this is a completely impartial review - I think the pictures speak volumes on their own!

If you've got any questions at all, feel free to fire them at me and I'll answer from my own experience... I'm obviously not an expert on this though so if you're considering laser teeth whitening I'd advise that you contact the clinic and have a good chat through the procedure to make sure you feel comfortable and safe with the practitioner that you're using.

Big smiles!
xxx

Blog sale update

2010-10-02T14:26:00.001+01:00

Hi there,

Just back from the post office - all blog sale goodies have been posted out now first class so will be with you all soon - hope you like!

MAC's Soften the Mood mineralize eyeshadow trio is the only item left - you can check it out below - it's £8 inc p&p.

Hope you're all having a great weekend.

Tx

Blog sale

2010-09-28T21:46:00.014+01:00

This afternoon I feng-shui'd my Inbox and tonight I'm feng-shuing my make up box.

Blog sale here we go.

Normal blog sale chat applies - if you're interested leave a comment below with your PayPal e-mail address. Items are pictured below with prices inclusive of first class P&P. I'll be heading to the post office on Saturday.

Hope you find something you like!

Set of 6 blue/grey MAC eyeshadow depots including Contrast, Tilt, Surreal, Charred and two others that I can't remember the names of - I think Electro Sky and Electric Eel - £14 for lot including P&P - Surreal has been used quite a bit and is touching pan. SOLD

Set of 9 MAC eyeshadow depots including Amber Lights, Style Snob, Satin Taupe, Ricepaper, Bright Future, Cork, Tempting, Embark (I think) and Typographic - £25 inc P&P - SOLD

MUFE Eyeshadow in 92 - £7 inc P&P - SOLD

MAC Mineralize Eyeshadow Trios from In The Groove in Soften the Mood (AVAILABLE) and Making it Easy (SOLD) - £8 each inc P&P

MAC lipliners in Test Pattern, In Synch and Redd - £4 each inc P&P - ALL SOLD

MAC Pigment in Rich Life from Warm & Cosy - £7 inc P&P - SOLD

MAC Grease Paint Sticks in Blue (AVAILABLE) & Violet (SOLD) from DSquared (£4 each inc P&P) and GreenGrease (SOLD) from Art Supplies (£4 inc P&P)

There may also be a nail polish blog sale in the pipeline - watch this space!

Tx

Needing new homes - Alice and Nemo... well... Marine Life

2010-09-21T18:41:00.003+01:00

There's a reason why I've not been blogging much - it's because I've been using the same make up almost every day - neutrals. Instead of loving my make up in my obsessive addict sort of way, I've just been slapping it on and going. Paint and blinds are getting me going right now. Sad but true. I've mostly been using the Urban Decay Naked palette, the Too Faced Naked Eye Kit (which I think is WAY underrated), Instant Chic blush, bit of concealer, badda-bing, badda boom.

So I have a couple of items for sale - if you're interested in either just leave a comment with your Paypal address. I'll ship internationally but the costs will differ - I prefer to send to tracked - I've had items go missing in the post before and don't like to take chances.

And what's sitting in my make up drawer never getting used - the Urban Decay Alice in Wonderland palette. Swatched a couple of times. I don't really like having make up that I don't use so I'm putting it up for sale. £28 plus £4 p&p (I'll ship special delivery in the UK)- this is still selling for stupid prices on eBay but I'm hoping that someone on Blogger might be able to show it some love.

I've also got a BNIB Marine Life that's been sitting in my drawer - I just think it's going to be too bright for me so if anyone wants it, I'm selling it for what I bought it at -£18 plus £4 p&p (special delivery again.)

Tx

Six reasons why I love my lion

2010-08-31T18:51:00.006+01:00

This month the lion and I celebrated six eventful years of being together. We know more than most that the road to true love is never smooth but through alllll of the ups and downs we're still going strong and happier than ever.

So for those six years, here's six reasons why I love him so...

1. For knowing that fried green peppers would make my chicken tikka even better

2. For letting me ramble on about make up and even asking to see my UD Naked palette

3. For not getting mad when I decide to sing (not scream) Usher 'OMG' when drunk

4. For taking my jewellery off when I collapse drunk

5. For knowing what mood I'm in at just the sound of my voice

6. For adopting a stray cat that had appeared at his pad sick - I swear I fell a little bit more in love with him when I heard this story

This year more than ever I'm so thankful for the amazing people in my life - and no more so than the lion.

Txxx

Urban Decay Naked...the wait goes on

2010-08-21T14:43:00.007+01:00

My original title for this post was Naked in Scotland but I thought I'd probably regret that.

I've not been feeling very well with a bout of flu (always nice in summer) so when catching up on Twitter, I read that the Naked palette has popped up in Frasers in London where it is exclusive 'til the first week in September. I've also read online that it's going to be available online from the 23rd of August on the HOF website - fingers crossed.

Generally I don't like shopping online - I don't trust the post office and I don't like having to pay shipping costs - stingy but true. If I can get the palette on Monday, I will but I have an irrational fear that it will sell out before I get to it.

What's really not cool about the exclusive deal though is that there is no Urban Decay counter in House of Fraser stores in Scotland... I think that may also apply to some HoF stores down south - which makes me ponder why UD did the exclusive deal with HoF opposed to Debenhams which they have done in the past.

So, in addition to getting landed with rain all-year round leading to crappy summer flus, we have to wait it out until it arrives in Debenhams and Boots in September. For a normal person it's no biggie to wait that extra fortnight... but it's killing me. I know I'm not alone...someone back me up here please!

I called up a nice lady at the Urban Decay concessions in Debenhams Glasgow today who told me that they're expecting a delivery of the palette around the 3rd of September and that they have created a waiting list. They'll be calling everyone on it as soon as they know it's coming into store to give them a heads up and will be able to hold the palette - as long as they can guarantee that they'll be able to pick the palette up on the day that it becomes available in-store.

The lady also said that the palette is permanent though so if we miss out first time round (in which case I will actually cry), it'll come back into stock although they don't know when they'll get their second delivery.

I also called the Urban Decay counter in one of the Boots stores in Glasgow to ask about the palette - not so helpful. She didn't know it was out already in HoF, she told me it was coming out in October, didn't offer to take my details to let me know when it was out and was generally unhelpful.

So two thumbs up to UD Debenhams for being clued up and genuinely nice. The lady in Boots did tell me though that I could wait the extra two weeks so I could get my Advantage Card points - a very fair point but she clearly has no understanding of the way the mind of a make up addict works.

While I wait (and wait) I will continue to live vicariously through reviews/tutorials and FOTDs featuring the Naked palette so if you have any to share, leave a comment below!

Tx

Outfit of the Day and Naked cravings

2010-08-13T20:27:00.005+01:00

Like every other blogger in the UK right now, I am craving the Urban Decay Naked palette... so badly. So badly that I scour MUA every day and check eBay but luckily I have enough sense not to part with £40 plus for it. As soon as it comes out here though I'll be all over it... even though I already have quite a few of the shades... including Sin, Half Baked and Smog which I decided to wear today...

I got these in the BOS 2 and Ammo palette and depotted - who needs clunky packaging when you can fit everything into a quad... I also depotted my Orgasm blush and Albatross highlighter from the Nars Bridal palette ... depotted pretty badly - I do not recommend that at all. I love that I can everything I need in one handy little compact though...

So here's the mug of the day:

Eyes: Sin, Half Baked and Smog with BB Espresso gel liner, Bad Gal Mascara

Face: Benefit You Rebel mixed with MAC F&B in C4, Nars Orgasm blush and Albatross highlighter

Lips: MAC Perennial High Style

And what I wore:

Tartan jacket - Topshop
Grey vest - Mango
Trousers - Zara
Flip flops - Havaianas

I also picked up some cute glasses from Next today for my make up brushes... not perfect but not half bad for £2 each...

I'm so ready for the Naked palette - come on already - roll on September! I just really wish that Urban Decay would confirm whether or not it's LE in the UK so I can decide whether or not I want to back it up!

Hope you're having a great weekend.

Tx

Love, Love Audrey

2010-08-13T17:44:00.002+01:00

I just want to do a wee Friday shout out to one of my favourites blogs - LoveAudrey - a beautiful mix of old-school glamour, beauty, baking and motherhood. It always makes me smile. In my opinion this blog is way underrated so if you haven't had a looksie... well what are you waiting for?!

Tx

The straight jacket

2010-08-12T20:06:00.006+01:00

An outfit of the day from earlier this week... I love this shirt... it's like a straight-jacket but a little bit smarter. I have one in white too. When I really like something I tend to buy in more than one colour. I think I generally have a back up personality.

So I had a meeting with the CEO of a big company and wanted to wear something a bit smarter than my usual office attire...

Straight jacket - Mango
Skirt - River Isand
Shoes - Next
Watch - ToyWatch
Giant ring - TopShop

On my nails Essie Wicked... love this colour... it's one of those go to, easy to wear, goes with everything (in my opinion) shades...

And then a mug shot... very simple make up - nothing to write home about but I do think I see an improvement in my hair since I started using the Avon Lotus Shield product that I was sent to try. My hair is very frizzy, or wirey as a hairdresser recently described it, and this product seems to help control it. I'm using just a smidge and in between washes because I've heard it can build up but so far I like it.

When I have important meetings I like to wear high heels - it gives me a bit of a confidence boost - do you have any tricks?

Tx

My weekend in pictures ... take one

2010-08-08T21:44:00.009+01:00

This weekend I have mostly been... praying for sunshine...

(Image from http://procrastinationinpaint.wordpress.com/ - check this page out - love it)

loving Illamsqua's 'Rude' cream blush...

tidying up my garden...

double teaming my crazy hair with Marrakesh Oil and Avon Lotus Shield...

missing my lion...

(Image from http://www.maryscomments.com)

searching for inspiration from the new Next Homes catalogue...

drinking Rekorderlig Strawberry & Lime cider...

painting my nails with Illamasqua's Jo'Mina and trying (unsuccessfully)to capture the colour on camera...

and rediscovering an old favourite...

Hope you've all had a lovely weekend!

Tx

Just some great basics,,,

2010-08-03T20:39:00.007+01:00

... over my quiet blog period there's been some make up products that I've been loving so I wanted to show them a bit of appreciation.

First up is the Topshop Skin Glow in Dark - I got this the day the Topshop make up range came out - it was £10 and it's basically an illuminating cream that looks like this...

I've been using this mixed in with my foundations to add a little bit of glow and it gives a really natural, bronzed effect. I like that the packaging (although mine's is now really grubby) has a hygienic pump nozzle so you can control the amount that you need. I haven't really read too much about this which surprises me - it's a great product.

Sticking on the bronzing topic, I've came to love Benefit One Hot Minute... I've posted about this before with swatches. It's a nice light bronzer with a slight shimmer... the pot that it comes in, while cute, is not at all travel friendly though - this is one that needs to be sat down flat otherwise it creates a mess.

Another Benefit fav of mine (and another grubby product) is BrowZings - it's an expensive purchase, like most of their range, but it's great - my favourite ever eye brow product. I use a MAC 208 brush to apply and I find it gives me brows a really polished look. I've also had this for about 4 years so it also lasts incredibly wear.

I've been going through for really simple eye looks recently and am absolutely loving eyeshadow duos - they're just so handy to have in your make up bag. Two of my favourites are the Topshop Rocky Road duo (great value at £6) and the Too Faced Teddy Bear and Heaven duo which is part of the Spring 2010 collection - these are perfect for creating neutral eyes for a pin up look with red lips. I'm so tempted to buy a few more of the Too Faced duos - they have some beautiful shades but I'm trying to save my pennies for the Urban Decay Naked palette - roll on September!

My fav lip product right now is the MAC tinted lip conditioners - I just love these and wish they'd bring out more colours. I have Pink Fish, Close for Comfort and Gentle Coral - they're uber moisturing and have a nice pigmentation too. I often dream of a Russian Red TLC...

MAC's Instant Chic blush from Pret a Papier is now, I think, my all time favourite blusher. A beautiful peachy/pink shade, this makes me feel instantly chic. Or chicer. I think it might be a psychological thing... I really couldn't capture the real colour of this but as always Temptalia has fantastic pictures.

Honourable mention has to go to the Sleek Storm palette - I know everyone and their gran knows about this but it's just brilliant value and such a wearable selection of shades. This has made it more than once into my travel case, with its mix of shimmer and matte shades there's endless options for neutral looks. I'm trying to satisfy my UD Naked urges right now with this.

Finally, Nails Inc London polish - the one that came free with 2 bottles of Diet Coke, why oh why didn't I pick up a back up?! I love this polish - it's by far by favourite greige shade. I'm trying not to use it too much though because I'm scared of running out!

Link me up to your favourites posts.

Tx

MAC Dipdown vs BB Espresso

2010-08-01T11:43:00.005+01:00

Fickle... that's what I am. I love MAC Fluidlines and have just discovered how amazing they are for the waterline. How I did not know this before, I do not know.

But despite my love for Fluidlines, I wondered ... is the grass greener in Bobbi Brown's garden?

I've started to run out of Dipdown, with no drying out whatsoever might I add, and started to feel curious about the Bobbi Brown Ink Gel liners.

Before I knew it I was at the counter and Espresso was coming home with me. I really like a nice dark chocolate liner and I loved Dipdown but wanted to try something a smidgen darker.

Price-wise the BB Ink gel is £15 for 3g while the MAC Fluidlines are £12.50 for the same quantity.

Here's some comparison pics so you can see the difference in the shades with Dipdown on the left, Espresso right...

You can see from the pic below with Dipdown on top that it's a much warmer brown whereas Espresso is more of a cool, grey toned brown... it's also a lot darker...

And the last pic I added Blacktrack into the mix so you can get a sense of where it is between brown and black...

I used Espresso for the first time yesterday for a shift that I was doing to help out at my boyfriend's restaurant. 12 hours behind a bar is quite the test and I'm pleased to report that it lasted very well - no smudging at all which considering how hot it was is quite a feat. I even got complimented on my liner a few times.

I took a few pics before I left yesterday to show how Espresso looks on the eye... this is over the warm silvery colour from the Sleek Graphite palette mixed with Half Baked from Urban Decay. My preferred brushes for gel liners are the MAC 209 & 210... I just cannot get the hang of the 266 no matter how many MAC SAs recommend it to me!

So far, so impressed with BB. My initial thoughts are that the BB Ink isn't quite as creamy as Fluidlines and I felt I had to work with it a bit more but this might because it's just the start of the pot and it will hopefully soften the more I used it.

I do love Dipdown and I might even buy it again at some point but I think Espresso gives really nice definition to the eye and makes a nice alternative to wearing black.

Where do you stand on BB Inks v Fluidlines?

Tx

Today I wore...

2010-07-30T18:47:00.005+01:00

....my new Zara trousers. The trousers that I bought in beige and navy. The trousers that 3 of my colleagues have also bought. Harem(ish) trousers.

I look like hell... the pics aren't great but I like the outfit so I'm posting it.

Retrospectively I really should have worn a darker coloured bra but in my defense, I had my scarf tied around by neck most of the day so hopefully I haven't been too scandalous in the office. I thought this pic showed off the trousers quite well though.

Navy pin stripe jacket - Mango
Navy t-shirt - Primark
Harem trs - Zara
Scarf - Warehouse
Shoes - Dune
Bag - Oasis

It's taken me a long time to come round to harem pants but I'm really digging structured styles right now. These cost £25.99 from Zara's basic range and they also come in navy and a khaki colour.

It rains a lot in Scotland so I tend to wear a lot of dresses/skirts with tights because in my view, there's nothing worse than when the bottom of your trousers get soaked in the rain and before you know it, you're soaked up to the knees. Not cool. Just puts me in a bad mood. So these also work to avoid that - 3/4 length. Good times. They're also really comfy and are casual enough to feel relaxed but can be smartened up for meetings.

I also want to say that I LOVE the scarf I'm wearing - so much so that I bought a back up because I fully expect I will wear it out. It was £22 from Warehouse and is current season.

What do you all think of harem pants?

Tx

Animal print...everywhere

2010-07-26T19:03:00.003+01:00

It's no secret that I love a bit of animal print... and if my gran was still with us she'd say 'Bet Lynch doesnae have a look in' about this post.

I lied a wee bit when I said I've done bugger all in my new pad. I've managed to make my room look half decent.. but the most exciting part was putting up my animal print light shade. Does it match? Hell no, but I love it anyway.

Before...

And after...

A bit of wallpaper and paint goes a long way. The other side of the room is boring with chest of drawers, a TV and washing basket - nothing interesting to see there I'm afraid.

Sad as it is the cupboards were one of the things that attracted me to this house - they're huge and they're everywhere - nothing like a good cupboard to get my attention!

I bought the house from an older lady so the entire house needs updating - one room at a time but I'm getting there slowly.

Anyone else indulging in a spot of summer DIY?

Tx

Softening the Mood Sunday

2010-07-25T12:50:00.008+01:00

It's been a while since I did a mug shot so thought I'd post up some pics of my make up for the day - the weather promised my 17 degrees and sunshine so I wanted to go for something suitably summery... queue digging out MAC Soften the Mood MES trio from In the Groove which looks something like this...

I bought two MES' from In the Groove - this and Making it Easy - happy to report that I love them both. Beautiful textures and lovely satin finishes. You do need to use a base with these to get maximum pigmentation and I hear they're also great when used wet.

I still can't get the lighting right in my new dressing room so you'll need to bare with me 'til I get adjusted - my face and body are the same colour but my face seems to look a lot lighter in these pics. I'd show you update pics of the new pad but to be honest I've done bugger all. Whoops.

So here's the breakdown of what I used...

Eyes
Mac Soften the Mood MES
MAC Painterly Paint Pot
MAC Brown Now GPS
MAC Graphic Brown Fluidline (on the water line)
Lancome Hypnose Precious Cells mascara

Face
MAC Face and Body in C3
Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel Bronze Universal (what a mouthful!)
Benefit Erase Paste in shade 2

Lips
Bare Minerals Buxom lip gloss in Amber

On the eyes I first put Painterly down as a base, and then using a MAC 239 brush I patted the light blue shade all over the lid. I then worked the brown colour above the crease in sweeping motions with a MAC 224 and used the pink colour under the eye. I then lined with Brown Now GPS above the lashes and MAC Graphic Brown Fluidline in the waterline. Et voila - really simple and I think it's quite brightening - I've been working 6 days a week for the past couple of weeks so all brightening tricks are welcome!

Oh and incase you were wondering - it's raining outside. Bloody Scotland.

Hope you're all having a great weekend!

Tx

Tresemme Dry Shampoo

2010-07-23T19:00:00.004+01:00

Dry shampoo has been my friend this week. I have not washed my hair since Saturday - mainly because I've been too tired to get up early enough to actually do it. So I've been reaching for my can of Batiste. Today it ran out and this afternoon I popped into Superdrug to pick another can up.

And then tonight, I nipped into Boots to pick up some Skin Clear Cleanser (mentioned in my last post and currently on two for £6.50 for anyone who's interested) and before I got to the skincare section, my attention was averted by a sign that said beach hair.

Having always wanted that beachy hair look I meandered over expecting to find surf spray and instead found the elusive Tresemme dry shampoo that I've heard so much about...

I've never found a Tresemme shampoo/conditioner that worked for me but I've heard great things about the dry shampoo so was excited to come across it. I went hunting for this not that long ago so I think this is new to the UK. Don't quote me on it but I certainly haven't seen it before.

It comes in two varieties - Dry Shampoo for Normal to Oily Hair which is a spray just like Batiste and then Waterless Foam Shampoo for Dry, Frizz-Prone Hair - my hair could fall into all of these categories so I bought them both to give them a try.

The Waterless Foam Shampoo advises that you should use 3 pumps of product, work it into the hair and then either rough dry with a towel or blast with the hairdrier - this is an extra step that I could be doing without but I'll give it a shot. I've not tried it yet but what I will say is that I really like the smell. I'm rubbish with descriptions so I'll leave it at - it smells 'salony'.

These are currently on offer at Boots for half price - they're more expensive than Batiste at £4.29 RRP so I'm going to give it a try and if it's good, I'll be stocking up while it's £2.14. I believe the offer is on 'til the 10th of August.

Has anyone tried this yet?

Tx

Things I'm loving

2010-07-16T21:57:00.005+01:00

Hey all,

It's been an age. Time is flying by, I don't know how the hell it's nearly August but for some reason it feels like I've been in my new house for years. The love is still strong.

With one thing and another I haven't had much time to blog but I'm happy to report that I've still been able to indulge here and there... yes MAC In The Groove... and yes Stereo Rose. I'm a bit meh on it though. I'm on the fence.

So I thought I'd do a run down of some of the things I've loving... there's nothing particularly exciting in here, just some really good basics...

I've started keeping a basket of all my must-have crap (non make-up) and here's what it looks like... I warn you now that my photography skills have got worse, if that was ever possible.

So in there I've got Xen Tan, Batiste, St Moritz, Fix Plus, MAC Brush Cleaner and these bad boys...

Amie Bright Eyes Very Gently Eye Make-Up Remover - the name's a bit of a mouthful but this £3.50 number is a really good buy. I've used Lancome's Bi-Facil and Clinique's Take the Day off ... now I'm not saying that this product is as good as these but at a sixth of the price I don't mind swiping the pad a few times more! You can check out Vex in the City's review of Amie here.

I stumbled on this product by accident - Rhamnousia at Desi Girl MakeUp recommended the Skin Clear Oil Free Mattifying Lotion and since I'm constantly battling with an oily t-zone I had to check it out. When I went to pick it up in Boots it was on 2 for £5 so I got that with their Deep Cleansing Lotion. I have really weird skin - I'm prone to acne on my forehead, the afore-mentioned oily t-zone and most products break my skin out even more. This does not. For that I give it two thumbs fresh. It's quite similiar to the Clean & Clear Cleansing Lotion but it's nowhere near as abrasive on my skin. You can see from the pic it's pretty well used and I'll 100% buy again.

I popped into to a salon/shop in Buchanan Galleries to look for a serum to calm my crazy hair. I got speaking to an even crazier haired SA/hairdresser who kept referencing my wirey hair. It took all my patience but I'm pleased to say that I didn't punch him. In anycase he recommended Marrakesh Oil - a mix of hemp and aragon oil that somehow, magically, makes my hair smoother, defines curls/waves more and makes my hair shinier and smoother. It's pricy at £18 but I reckon you can probably buy it online cheaper. I use a pump of product and massage it into damp hair before styling et voila. Not quite so wirey hair.

Now my favourite MAC product. Ever. Seriously I have bought about ten cans of this stuff. If there was a MAC Hall of Fame this should be the first inductee...

This is MAC Skin Sheen - an amazing instant tanner - when it first came out it was called SunDressing but for some reason they decided to change it. It used to be released each summer with what would be the equivalent to the To The Beach collections I guess but I haven't seen it for a wee while. Luckily I did some serious stock piling last time it was released so I've got three or four cans hidden away. I'm going to do a post on this seperately but it's my absolute go to body bronzer.

And then Strawberry-Lime cider - immense. The lion got some samples of this from a supplier at his bar and brought it home for me. I've never loved him so much. I love this stuff. And it's only £1.60ish in Asda. Move over Tia Maria...I have a new favourite drink!

Make up favs coming soon!

Tx

Star struck... just a bit...

2010-06-21T19:41:00.003+01:00

He didn't grab my bangers and I'm ok with that...mostly. Note the expression on the security guard behind us - someone was getting a shifty look!

In other news I finally found a maxi dress that I love from a little boutique that was exhibiting at GLAM called Eye Candy - I did spend most of the night stepping on it but I didn't fall so all was well.

Gok is lovely - my colleage has somehow convinced me that we get together a big group of girls and book him for the day to be our gay best friend. I'm not sure how she managed it but she's got me thinking it's a great idea.

My bank manager will be thrilled.

Tx

Loving a bit of Gok...

2010-06-19T08:10:00.004+01:00

Hoping there's no typo in that title!

I'm off today to meet the man himself - the Gokstar and I didn't think I would be, but I'm uber exited.

He's in Glasgow for GLAM in the City - a major fashion/beauty/lifestyle event taking place in association with Buchanan Galleries and The Scottish Sun in surprisingly sunny George Square. The company that I work for is involved in the event and as a joyous result - I'll be spending part of this morning in the company of the Gok... who announced last night on Twitter that he was going to paint the town pink and that he loves a man in a kilt. Don't we all Gok! Or is that just me?

I digress - if you're in or around Glasgow and like a bit of Gok (no typos) - then check out what's going on at GLAM. Tickets can be bought on the door for £14.50. And for any Gokaholics, he's also hosting the Miss Scotland final tonight - tickets on the door at £19.50- I'm really, really looking forward to that - it's always good fun. It's one of those events where everyone gets seriously dresses up and with Gok at the helm - even better!

I haven't had a good chance to nosey around all the exhibitors stalls at GLAM because I've been working but I did manage to swing by the Famous by Sue Moxley stand to pick up a few make up brushes - £2 each! I got a lip, blender and blush brush - haven't tried them yet but I'm particularly excited about the blender brush!

Have a great weekend whatever you're up to - it's been absolutely gorgeous in Glasgow these past few days so here's hoping the weather stays!

And tell me... do you love Gok?

Tx

From war paint to...just paint

2010-05-27T18:33:00.007+01:00

So it's been quite a wee while since I blogged eh? I'm amazed at how fast time has gone by but since my Brown Now ramblings, I've bought a house. My first house. And this week I'm on holiday moving, decorating, unpacking and planning all the things that I want to do to said house...when I have a bit of extra dosh.

I'm lucky that my faythar is a dab hand at DIY so he's been helping out and it's starting to look like home. Even though there's been some differences of opinion and some problems with someone not having patience (me) and someone not appreciating time frames (faythar).

One thing I have learned this week - there is no accessorizing an 'avocado' bathroom suite.

While I hunt for a bargain white suite (I want one for about a tenner so it might be a while yet) I've added some splashes of hot pink and have put my Soap and Glory stash to good use in trying to brighten it up. None the less it is still avocado. I'm surprised I've not had nightmares about it yet. No doubt I will tonight.

Another very cool thing I've learned this week is that onions absorb the smell of paint... did you know that?!

Here is a picture of an onion...

My dad was using oil-free paint in my bedroom - the smell is really strong and ended up triggering the lion's migraine...always a barrel of laughs. Long story short my dad recommended that I cut up an onion, stick it in a glass of water and leave it in the centre of the room with the windows open - the smell was gone the following morning. Just like magic. I was nothing short of amazed. If you try this I wouldn't then eat the onion.

So that's what I've learned this week. I'm not sure what my regular blog chat will be like over the next wee while as thoughts of bathrooms and kitchen doors fill my head but I'm still reading, watching YT and hoping everyone's well.

Txxx

MAC Brown Now GPS

2010-04-13T19:19:00.003+01:00

The new brown MAC grease paint stick makes me happy - it's like the MAC gods were reading my blog and granted this lovely pencil. I sort of wish they had called it brown cow though.

As I'm sure everyone will know (and probably be fed up of already) Brown Now was released as part of the MAC Art Supplies collection, a lovely burgundy sort of brown that I'm loving wearing as a smudgy eyeliner.

I have quite a few brown pencils so thought I'd swatch Brown Now so you can see the difference...

From top to botton: Barry M's Super Soft Eye Crayon in Brown which is an absolute steal at £3.99, then we have MAC Molasses Pearlglide liner that was released last summer, followed by Brown Now (see that reddy, burgundyish tint?) and then my all time fave kohl, MAC Teddy.

Here's another pic in natural sunlight which shows the colour off really well...

As you can see it's really different from the other browns and I'm glad I picked this up - it's great for the water line.

I haven't tried it as a base yet but I expect like the other GPS' that I have, it'll be great for intensifying other brown shades... not amazing for preventing creasing but I can live with blending out every now and then.

Did anyone else indulge in a little GPS action?

x

Hearting Cath Kidston

2010-04-06T20:08:00.005+01:00

I've been in the market for a new make up bag for quite a wee while now for a new make up bag and having discovered that Cath Kidston has a store in Princes Square (where have I been?!) I stumbled in and decided on this little beauty...

This is nothing new in the blogging world but it's new to me so let me indulge. I think £12 is quite a reasonable price and it definitely appealed to me more than the new MAC GMLOL bags.

Even though it doesn't look that big, look at it inside - it's like the Mary Poppins carpet bag of the cosmetics world...

The actual dimensions are 21x12x6 and the print is called Spray Flowers - it comes in other very cute prints too - it was quite a hard decision to make... I have such a hard life. And because it's 100% PVC coated cotton (so the website tells me) I reckon it'll be really easy to keep shiny and new looking.

I'm tempted by a lot of other stuff from Cath Kidston including the cutlery (so adorable!) but at £60 I can't justify it to myself. Even though I'm perfectly happy to spend £30 on a foundation that I'll use up in a couple of months. Go figure.

I really fancy one of their little box bags to replace my Bloomingdales Little Brown Bag (because nearly everyone on my train has one now) but I can't decide on the print, it's just too hard. And another look on the website shows me that I also want their laptop bag. Time to close the website and try to save my money!

Tx

Cute As A Button

2010-04-05T20:04:00.007+01:00

'Cute As A Button' - the name says it perfectly! I got this from Essie's Summer 2009 collection and I'm only getting round to trying it now. With my peach/coral obsession, it's safe to say that it's love. That's two coats and a topcoat of Seche Vite - the formula is a little bit on the streaky side but it's not too bad if you apply thin layers.

And I couldn't help notice that is seems to be the nail polish equivalent of MAC's Ever Hip lippie from Give Me Liberty of London...

An Ever Hip swatch for the sake of it...

There's not much to say about Ever Hip that hasn't been said elsewhere - it's a beautiful colour but I just wish it was an Amplified Cream. As it is I have to apply it quite heavily to get the true colour pay off which means I'm going through it quite quickly - just as well I bought that back up! It's also rather nice with MAC's Mouth Off lipliner - another new addition to my peachy collection thanks to the recommendation of VexInTheCity.

Anyone else obsessed with peachy/corals just now?

Tx

Cheating never pays

2010-04-04T19:02:00.007+01:00

I have been missing in action for quite a while - I keep meaning to blog but for one reason or another just haven't gotten round to it. I don't know if I'm lacking motivation or perhaps inspiration ... or if it's just that I'm still so obsessed with all things peach that I didn't want to bore you all with more of the same.

In anycase I've finally got my lazy ass around to a post that I've been thinking about recently... you might remember that a few posts ago I showed you some new purchases that I got from Benefit - Boing concealer being one of them? I also then, in my Benefit craze, went back and bought their It Stick. Before those I had got Erase Paste... that's three concealers. When infact I have a brilliant concealer. The best concealer that I've ever used...and yet I still felt the need to stray - one day I will learn.

The HG concealer in question? Make Up Forever Lift Concealer in shade 3.

I first picked this up about two years ago when I was in New York - I was in Sephora and was originally considering the Amazing Cosmetic concealer as I heard it was great but when I tested it, I noticed that it quickly settled into the fine lines under my eyes. At this point I should make it clear that my main need for concealer is under eye circles. I then looked at MUFE's Full Cover but again trying it showed that it would also settle into my fine lines. And then I tried Lift Concealer and it was as though the heavens opened up and the voice of God spoke to me. Or something.

I've repurchased this twice since and I get mine from Make Up Provisions where it costs £16.10 for 15ml - I use shade 3 - neutral beige.

Here's a swatch compared to the Benefit products, from left to right:

MUFE Lift Concealer, Benefit Erase Paste 2, Benefit It Stick, Benefit Boing in Medium

Lift Concealer has a light, fluid texture compared to the other products which are much creamy and heavier which probably is what makes all the difference when it is applied to the delicate undereye area. Another plus is the super hygienic packaging - no need for spatulas here Benefit!

I've found that the best way to apply the concealer is to tap it onto my under eye using my ring finger and then I like to use the MAC 130 brush to gently blend it in - the MAC 188 is also excellent for this.

The brushes fit really nicely in the undereye area...

The MUFE shades are not lightest to darkest but rather numbered in accordance to their undertone as follows:

01. Pink Beige.
02. Dark Beige
03. Neutral Beige
04. Caramel Beige
05. Brown

A quick look on the MUFE website and they describe this product as:

"Lift Concealer hides circles and makes complexion more even in a natural way. Its formula, with a tensine base, improves skin tone and smoothes the skin around the eyes."

I don't really agree with the latter part - I've never noticed any reduction in the lines under my eyes however it certainly does brighten them...

After the shock of my otherwise make-up-free mug and sketchy hair, you can hopefully see the difference between my left and right eye. Lift is a great concealer and I'm kicking myself now for thinking that I needed something more.

I've also recently started using Laura Mercier's Secret Brightening Powder to set the concealer as I find it makes it last much longer however I'd recommend using this sparing as I've found that if I apply too much it makes my under eyes look crepey...not quite the desired effect.

I think the LM powder cost £18 so it is fairly pricy- I think Benefit's Camoflage Powder is a similiar idea - it's a very finely milled transulcent powder that is supposed to set concealer and brighten the undereye. I use a MAC 224 brush to apply it once I've blended the Lift Concealer in.

So all in all I have rediscovered my love and will not be straying again!

I do really like the Benefit Erase Paste for undereyes too but it's quite thick and creamy and unless I used it really sparingly it does highlight my lines, it also goes on quite shiny too so I definitely need to set it with powder whereas it is an optional step with the MUFE one. I also find that the brightening effect that it gives when first applied wears off quite quickly.

The other Benefit concealers I have been using - Boing just doesn't work under my eyes at all - it actually accentuates the fine lines and makes me look really tired and old however it is a decent concealer for covering blemishes. I do know some people who swear by the concealer though so I wouldn't completely rule it out - but it's not for my undereyes.

And it turns out that I love the It Stick as an alternative to Benefit's Eye Bright and High Brow for a brow highlight/tear duct highlight so all is not lost.

Have you ever strayed from your HG?

Tx

Ripe Peach vs Peach Nuance

2010-03-13T21:50:00.005Z

Ripe Peach has caused the quite stir since the launch of Spring Colour Forecast. Not long before it came out I had bought Peach Nuance from Estee Lauder which is very similiar. That still didn't stop me picking up Ripe Peach though.

So here they are together to let you see the similiarity...

And then individually...

Ripe Peach also has a very sheer golden shimmer to it...

I find Peach Nuance needs quite a bit of work to build up whereas I need just a swirl of Ripe Peach. Now to the (bad) swatches... Ripe Peach on top - these are the colours swirled together...

A lot of people have commented that Ripe Peach is expensive... well the maths here aren't great for EL...

RP is £19.50 for 9 grams. Peach Nuance is £23.00 for 5 grams.

I've worn RP every day since I bought it... leaving Peach Nuance rather unloved. So I'm going to sell it for £15 inc P&P - if anyone fancies it leave a comment below with your pay pal address.

Tx

Clearing out my closet...

2010-03-12T22:02:00.009Z

I've been missing in action on the blog scene for the past week and if you follow me on Twitter you may know why. Last Saturday I fell in love with a house. This week has been the excruciatingly painful wait to find out if my offer on said house would be accepted. Today I'm very happy to say that it was. I celebrated with Tia Maria.

Then I realised that I have to move in 4 weeks. Bugger. So I thought now was as good a time as any to start clearing out the bits and pieces that go completely unloved for one reason or another.

I don't know if anyone will be interested in any of these bits and bobs but you never know! If not I'll take my sorry ass over to eBay.

If there's anything that takes your fancy, leave a comment with the item number and your paypal address.

I'd prefer to stay within the UK and will include p&p within the prices but if any US/international bidders want anything I'll post out for an additional £2.

If you've got any questions, ask away as all sales will be final and items will be shipped out as soon as payment has been received.

All bags £5 including p&p...

1.River Island...

2.Mango...

3.Morgan...

4.Miss Selfridge...

5.Mango...

6.Oasis...

7.Mango... (threading's coming undone a little - click in to see)

Shoes...

8.New Look - £5

9.Dune - size 4 - real leather - think I've maybe worn these once... £20

Fake fur jackets that I'm just not cool enough to pull off...

10.Next - size 8 - £18
11.New Look - size 12 but more like a 10 - £15

Dresses...

12. Can't remember where this is from and think I've cut the tag off - a small size 10 - £5

13. TopShop - size 8 - needs to be worn with a slip - £5

14.Topshop - size 8 - £5 - wish I was still skinny enough...

15. Primark - size 8 - £5
16. Primark - size 8 - £4 - have lost belt...whoops!

Thanks for looking :)

Next post will be a comparison of MAC Ripe Peach vs Estee Lauder Peach Nuance...

Txxx

A day well spent...

2010-02-28T22:52:00.005Z

... well really only about half an hour. After reading Bubblegarm's genius post about depotting the Urban Decay Book of Shadows I was inspired and before I knew it this afternoon I was out with the scissors.

I loved the UD Book of Shadows 2 but I just don't see why they have such clunky packaging, it's supposed to be a book so why not have a little palette like the Ammo which actually looks like a book? I don't know.

Anyway, I already had a full MAC palette with blues, purples and one lonely green so I decided that the bright colours would fit nicely at home in there and I had an empty MAC quad for the neutral shades.

I popped out the seperators in both and got to work on the UD BoS2. I just pulled out the drawer and then used the scissors to prod into the outer 4 corners of the shadows and then gently lifted out- they actually pop out fairly easy - there doesn't seem to be a lot of glue holding them down. I then just wiped off the excess glue and stuck magnets on the back. I still need to relabel them - I'm so lazy I always skip that step. If you want to try it out I'm sure there will be tutorials on You Tube.

After that, I decided I wanted all my colours in the one palette... so the Ammo was next - again just the same method of piercing the outer corners and carefully lifting them out. I love that I now have all my eyeshadows together - it means whenever I'm travelling I don't need to pick and choose - I can take them all.

Thanks again to Bubblegarm for the great idea!

Also a quick word to the wise - do not try to depot when you are feeling emotional - it will only lead to disaster as I unfortunately found out this evening while on a depotting high and trying (badly) to depot from the Nars Bridal palette.

Txxx

Mish mash

2010-02-26T23:12:00.003Z

Emma at PassionforFashion sparked a renewed desire for an animal print scarf with this post. I love a bit of animal print and had saw an amazing scarf in Zara last season but left it too late and it sold out. My colleague in work has it and every day I see it, I practically drool over it. G, if you're reading, don't be scared!

So anyway I went on the hunt for an animal print scarf which was actually harder than I expected, oh and by the way, did you know that camouflage is back? So Zara and Mango are telling us anyway.

I finally found one that I liked in H&M and it was only £7.99 so I had to throw it on today along with my new studded belt from River Island, £14.99, which I'm also rather happy with.

Apologies for the headless, photo in the mirror effort - it was the best I could do. Nyi (phonetically pronounced ni-yi).

I really liked the clashing black and white flower print with the animal print, the belt and my lovely red ToyWatch (Valentine's gift from the lion).

xxx

Benefit One Hot Minute

2010-02-26T20:26:00.009Z

A couple of posts back I showed off some of the products that I picked up in an impulse binge at the Benefit counter. One Hot Minute was in amongst my goodies and a few lovely ladies asked me to let them know my thoughts on it after using it for a while.

I've been using it pretty much every day (bar 3 sick days...phhst) since I bought it so thought I'd give an update on it.

To get started Benefit's One Hot Minute is described by Benefit as:

why we love it:Look sexy in seconds! For a gorgeous "gaze at me glow" sweep this loose rose-gold finishing powder over your complexion & décolleté. All it takes is...one hot minute!what else you need to know: The accompanying custom brush dusts on the perfect amount of powder for a beautiful sheen.

Tinted for radiance on all skin tones...anytime, anywhere!

The tin contains 8.5g of finely milled powder and costs £23.50, I'm sure I read that there's currently a 20% discount code for ASOS though which stocks Benefit - can anyone who knows it leave the code in the comments section? :)

Ok onto a few pics...

As always with Benefit the packaging is adorable however is it practical?

The container has a plastic cover for over the filters however as you can see from the pic above, powder still manages to spill out onto the lid... it's better if you can keep the tin flat to avoid this which means it's not exactly ideal for travelling. That said, the fall out is fairly minimal as long as you keep the plastic container. I should at this point mention that it also came with a little black fan brush which sits on top of the plastic top - I chucked this as soon as I got it - I prefer to use the MAC 168 to apply this.

Now onto a few of my infamously bad swatch pictures - from top to bottom here we have the bronze side of Benefit 10, Nars Laguna, Benefit One Hot Minute and MAC Redhead MSF...

So I've been using this every day as a bronzer - as you can see from these pictures it has a very light shimmer and it's actually listed on the Benefit website under the shimmer section... it's not glittery or frosty... and it's quite a nice warm shade so works quite well on my neutral skin. The finish is similiar to Nars Laguna in my opinion but a lighter, peachier shade.

I haven't had any problems with breakouts either with this which is nothing short of a miracle with my combination/break out prone skin.

So far I really like this product and I'm glad that I picked it up, the colour can be built up - I've applied it quite heavy here so you can see the colour however just a fine dusting would give a subtle glow that would work nicely as a highlight colour.

I'd definitely recommend testing this if you can though before buying - £23.50 is a lot to shell out without trying.

Hope this helps!

Txxx

This is me now...

2010-02-23T18:55:00.002Z

Being sick is boring.

x

I blame MAC...

2010-02-15T20:36:00.003Z

...clearly their new collections haven't been fulfilling my needs and I've had no choice but to satisfy my urges elsewhere.

I generally like Benefit. Some of my must have make up products are from Benefit. My favs include BrowZing, High Brow and Eye Brow - they are expensive but they last a long time, I like the results and I enjoy using them. That's all I'm really looking for from my make up.

I've used their You Rebel in the past when I've been more (fake) tanned and really quite liked it however now that I'm all pale (and not so interesting) I took an inkling to try the light version. And it kind of just spiralled into the haul above.

Have any of you tried any of these products? I'll probably review the You Rebel Lite after a few weeks of seeing how it bonds with my skin - I'm keeping my fingers and toes crossed!

Txxx

Estee Lauder Michael Kors Starlet Peach

2010-02-13T20:45:00.008Z

Remember my peach purchases from Estee Lauder's Michael Kor's collection? Well the lovely Tina from All the Vanity asked me to post some swatches and give my thoughts.

First off here's what I bought - the Starlet Peach lipgloss and lipstick... these were around £16-£17 each...

First thoughts - good packaging Estee Lauder...much better than this...

That's a blusher from the regular line... look at the size of it! Anyway back to MK... let's start off with a picture of my bare lips for an idea of pigmentation...

You need to make sure your lips are smooth with these lip products otherwise they show up every bit of dryness. So here's a pic of just the lippie...

It feels quite light and moisturising on- I think you could compare this to a MAC luster finish.

Now onto the lipgloss, firstly a very light coat on its own... this kind of reminds me of MAC's cremesheen glasses...

It's a really pretty peach and I like the shimmer however when you put on a heavier application...

it starts to settle into the lines and then on top of the lipstick...

Yikes! Great colour but very obviously sitting in the fine lines...not so attractive. It's really a shame because I love the feel of this lipgloss - it's nice and moisturising and has decent staying power. Is it worth the money? If it didn't settle into the fine lines I'd be inclined to say yes. But it does so I wouldn't repurchase. If anyone has any tips on how to stop this from happening I'd love to hear!

I tried to swatch these on my hand but it was quite touch due to their sheerness...and the fact that I'm pretty shit with a camera.

Finally with the MK lip goodies I also picked up Peach Nuance from EL's regular line and I'm please to report that I love it!

What I do not love is the packaging or the crap little brush that came with it so that went straight in the bin. It's a great quality blush though and I've worn it every day since buying it. It's rare that that actually happens. So here it is on my mush...

What's everyone else thoughts on Estee Lauder's Michael Kors collection?

xxx

A world of Rimmel PRO polish...

2010-02-12T21:52:00.008Z

Once upon a week ago, there was a special offer on in a magical store called Superdrug. Rimmel London, which helped make all the princesses beautiful, was offering 3 for 2 across all of their cosmetics. A tiger, lost deep in thought on a busy Glasgow high street stumbled into Superdrug while trying to run away from the stress that was hanging over her.

Looking at her own talons she realised that what she needed was a boost of colour... and Rimmel's new Pro polishes and their snazzy new wands would make it easier for her to get to grasps with painting her claws. Pop Rose, Coral Queen and Beige Style (this should have been called Style Beige)... beautiful colours for dreaming of lands far, far away...

Style Beige...Pop Rose...

Coral Queen...These three wonderful polishes set the tiger back just under £9 and made her very happy... and her claws the envy of all the other tigers in the land.

Note - no animals were hurt in this fairytale.

So back to reality - if you haven't tried Rimmel's Pro nail polish line I'd definitely recommend checking them out. The formula is pretty good for a drug store brand, and let's face it, even Essie & OPI have the occasional streaky formula - but at £4.49 you can't really fault them. I needed two coats with each of these which is what I expect from most polishes anyway. I always wear Seche Vite as a topcoat so I can't tell you how long this will last and what the all-important chippage factor is like. If you haven't tried Seche Vite, please do. It will change your nail-polish-wearing-life.

The new brush is pretty cool too... check it out in the middle flanked by OPI on the left and Essie's measly show on the right...

Hopefully you'll be able to see from the picture that the Rimmel brush is almost double the size in width and has a curved brush which makes application really simple.

If they had a better colour selection I'd probably choose these over OPI/Essie because I like the brush so much... unfortunately while they have a few really great colours, the range is fairly limited at the moment - hopefully they'll have more unique shades on the way for us.

Special props to Coral Queen - this polish is wild! It almost looks fluorescent to me... it's like a coral nail polish on speed. Further note - I do not condone nail polishes taking drugs.

Have you tried the new Rimmel brush? What do you think of it?

Txxx

A Lush thought...

2010-02-09T19:22:00.002Z

Not really a thought... more of an observation. I'm not a huge Lush fan. I have a few bits and bobs that I like. I don't *get* bath bombs, I think I can get as many bubbles from a £1 bottle of Dove bath stuff as I can from Bubble bars (maybe it's just me?) and their soaps are pretty frickin' pricey. That said, a lot of brands need to take a tip or two from Lush. Their customer service in store is excellent - every time I leave I think how lovely, helpful and well trained their staff are and it makes me want to go back. I love that they give you samples, that they're not too pushy and they genuinely seem to enjoy their products. MAC - take note.

Tx

Win a ToyWatch from ROX...

2010-02-09T15:34:00.003Z

You all know I love a bit of ToyWatch action so just haring some info on a FB competition to win a white Fluo (which I have now added to my collection) - check out http://twurl.nl/zxzboy

All you have to do is become a fan of ROX ( a really cool jewellery company in Scotland, also online at www.rox.co.uk) and leave a comment. It can be a good or bad chat up lines or just a simple enter me msg.

Good luck if you enter!

x

The Walker women made me do it...

2010-02-08T19:54:00.006Z

If you follow me on Twitter you'll know that I've recently fallen in love with the Walker family of Brothers & Sisters fame. I got the boxset with series' 1-3 from Santa and have been watching, addicted, ever since.

Set in sunny California, the show follows the trials and tribulations of the Walker family, headed up by mother Nora who is played (amazingly well) by Sally Field. Along with her two daughters Sarah and Kitty (Calista Flockhart) and three sons - Tommy, Justin and Kevin, Nora's clan is a loud, opinionated, hilarious and heartwarming family that will have you wishing you were a bonafide Walker. Or maybe that's just me as an only child.

There's drama and laughs a plenty here and I have laughed, cried, gasped and screamed at the TV over the past month while getting up to speed with the family and their loved ones. William Walker is a man with a lot to answer for...that's all I'll say!

I adore a good DVD boxset - I'm rubbish at remembering when things are on TV so with dramas I usually hold off til the DVD is released and then watch through at my leisure - a good show and a cup of tea is my idea of bliss. And I feel with Brothers & Sisters you get value for money - 23ish episodes per season, each at around 40 minutes - none of this 7 episodes nonsense. Yes Gavin & Stacey I mean you.

So over the course of the month and my 60-odd episodes, I feel like I have bonded with these characters. And subconsciously I have been influenced by them. Case in point - the peachy Californian freshness of the women of Brothers & Sisters...maybe it's the sun... maybe it's the water at Ojai...

While watching I noticed that peach was the colour for the ladies, it triggered a lemming and a serious, dun dun dun, realisation that I don't have any peach shades in my box of war paint.

These pics are from Google and not really that great but it's the best I can do...

Kitty...

Sarah...

Nora...

Holly...

Rebecca...

Julia...

So today I decided to explore peach. And before I knew it I was at the Estee Lauder counter eyeing up the Michael Kors collection. I hadn't really been bothered about it but the Starlet Peach lipstick and lipgloss perfectly fulfilled my craving...

And then a wee blusher caught my eye - this is Peach Nuance, a lovely graduated shade that will hopefully have a brightening effect... as much as any product can brighten in Scotland...

I haven't tried these properly yet but I'll let you know how I get on in creating that California glow!

Has anyone watched Brothers & Sisters? If not get on it!

Tx

Return of the sale...

2010-02-07T11:55:00.006Z

I'm not really sure why I have Return of the MAC(K) playing in my head right now but I do... so that will be the soundtrack to this blog sale.

Yes, I have even more make up to clear out - as usual just items that I'm not reaching for... rules are as below:

1. Postage is included in each item cost for 1st class
2. If you'd like an item, leave a comment below with your PayPal e-mail address
3. UK sales only this time
4. No returns and I'll post out when payment has been received

So onto the good stuff...

MAC Cremesheen Glasses in Boy Bait (£5 - SOLD) & Partial to Pink (£5 - SOLD) - both lightly used

BN MAC Popster TLC from Hello Kitty (£6) - SOLD

YSL Rouge Volupte in Frozen Mango - BNIB (£11) - SOLD

Soap & Glory Sexy Motherpucker lig gloss set - tried each colour once (£7) - SOLD

MAC Pearlglide liner Fly by Blu (£5 - SOLD) - used a few times
MAC Pealglide liner in Black Russian (£5 - SOLD) - used a few times

Urban Decay mini-size 24/7 liners in Bourbon (£2.50 - SOLD) and Covet (£2.50 - SOLD) - used a couple of times each

Shu Umera Drawing Pencil in Me Pink (£4) - used a few times - never sharpened

MAC Paintpot in Indianwood (£6 - SOLD)

Too Faced Galaxy Glam eyeshadow in Moonbeam (£3.50)

MAC Paints in Bamboom (£3 - SOLD) Naturalism (£3 - SOLD) and Pixie (£3 - SOLD) - each used lightly

Bobbi Brown Stonewashed Nude palette (£7) LE from a few years ago - was around £35... - SOLD

MAC Dainty blush - lightly used - £5 - SOLD

MAC High Def lipstick - used a few times - £5 - this is very similiar to one of the lipsticks from Warm & Cosy but I can't remember the name...not much help am I?!

Chanel Allure Laque in 78 - lightly used - £7 ...these RRP for around £22 - SOLD

MAC MSF Natural in Medium Light - used - £7 - SOLD

Hope you find something you like :)

Tx

MAC Rich Life pigment

2010-02-06T20:47:00.013Z

Let me start off by saying that I am not a huge fan of MAC pigments - I have Naked and Tan, both which I love, and I've got small samples of Golden Olive, Teal and Cornflower blue - all which I had full sizes of but sold because quite frankly, I would never ever be able to finish them. Or even get close so I don't see the point in droppin the cash on them.

There has been a lot of chat about MAC's decision to decrease the size of pigments while the price remains the same (£15 for 4.5g now) - a pretty shoddy move in terms of customer goodwill in my opinion. As just another make up lover (ie. not artist) the smaller size is actually better for me but come on MAC, knocking a couple of quid off wouldn't have hurt too much.

Anyway, that aside, I'm always on the hunt for the perfect dark brown. I had high hopes for Nars Mekong but on me, it looked almost black. Enter MAC Rich Life pigment - a very dark, cool toned brown with silver shimmer through it. Is it my perfect brown? No. It's pretty nice though...

Some pics with flash...

I hate trying to format pics on here

And some without...

so I'll use this space to curse blogger.

This was the only item that I got from the All Ages, yada yada collection - in general I found the collection, like Warm & Cosy, pretty dull and don't even get me started on Lillyland.

No actually here's my take on Lillyland - an online exclusive - are you fricking have a giraffe MAC? I've been looking forward to the pearlmatte beauty powder for months and come first Thursday of the month I jaunt into the store happy as Larry to find out they don't have it? Slap in the face much? Am I exaggerating much? Yes I am, but to me, it's another example of MAC taking the piss. I wouldn't mind ordering online if they had a good return policy but am I hell buying something that I can't swatch/try first and then can't return.

Anyway here's some pics of what Rich Life looks like on me...

Blended out with an unknown MAC purple that I was too stupid to label after depotting...

I'm not really sure where the strap of my top is in this picture, but I assure you I am wearing one!

Anyone else pick this up?

Txxx

Lush Mint Julips Lip Scrub

2010-01-27T20:25:00.006Z

If you're anything like me, you'll know all about dry, flaky lips. Some people are lucky enough only to get dry lips in the winter, but me... all frickin' year round. Not very attractive.

So anyways, I popped into Lush on my lunch hour today to pick up an eye cream and when I got to the till I noticed this rather cute little pot...

It's from Lush's new range of lip scrubs - I thought I saw 4 flavours but I can only find 3 on the website and they are - Mint Julips (Peppermint & Chocolate...mmmm!), Bubblegum (smells like Snow Fairy) and Sweet Lips (milk chocolate). They cost £4.50 for a 25g jar.

As you can (hopefully) see, the ingredients include Castor Sugar, Organic Jojoba Oil, Vanilla Extract, Tagetes Oil, Peppermint Oil and Limonene flavouring.

I love the smell of mint choc chip ice cream so Mint Julips was right up my street. I was really curious to see what this could do, and as soon as I got home I gave it a whirl.

You can see here the consistency is basically just sugar - I expected it to have a thicker, gloopier (best word I have for it!) texture but it literally feels like a slightly less abrasive sugar - I guess the oils must soften it.

Lush recommends that you - "Rub a little gently into your lips to scrub them smooth and soft"

This is what it looks like on and as suggested, I just used my finger to gently rub this into my lips - the results - completely smooth lips. Afterwards, I licked it off and it tasted amazing. I'm not sure whether I'm supposed to do that but it's a risk I'm willing to take for the yumminess.

I've used the Body Shop's lip scuff years ago, infact it was one of the first beauty products I ever bought but I didn't really like it - the Lush lip scrub is super easy to use and does the job at a reasonable price.

I've been tempted by the Sara Happ lip scrubs before but at £20 for a tub the same size, the price was a big stumbling block.

I know you can also make homemade lip scrubs quite easily however for the price I think this is a great little buy and really nice to use. I do still need a lip balm afterwards to moisturise but I can see this becoming a staple for me.

Tx

Essie Angora Cardi

2010-01-23T20:08:00.003Z

I thought I'd quickly show you Essie's Angora Cardi nail polish properly... it's a gorgeous warm mauve colour and the formula is absolutely amazing - it was completely opaque with one coat.

I've had this on now for about two weeks, gotta love Seche Vite, so there is some shrinkage but you get the general idea...

I think it's a really gorgeous shade for winter.

Tx

Look familiar?

2010-01-23T12:37:00.010Z

Oasis does ToyWatch - they have red, white and blue versions at £20. I haven't seen these in real life yet because I hardly ever go into Oasis these days - I think their stuff is overpriced and recently, quite dull.

As far as comparisons go - this is a nice take on the ToyWatch - it doesn't have the date dial that the ToyWatch Fluo has (which I really like in a watch seen as I never know what day it is) and has black quarter hour lines that the original doesn't have but all in all not bad for the money.

I still prefer the original design - in my opinion the face is much nicer but this is definitely a good budget buy. I am planning on buying the white ToyWatch tomorrow with some money that I received for my birthday, I think it's a good all year rounder and I'd rather invest in a ToyWatch, but I might just take a look at the blue Oasis version for a summer change.

Tx

Be still my Burberry-beating heart

2010-01-23T12:23:00.005Z

Words cannot express the beauty of Posh's Burberry ruffled trench coat so I'll let the pic say it all...

Image from www.dailymail.co.uk

I can't find that particular style on the Burberry website however I did actually see some Lipsy layered trenches in TopShop on Thursday - let's all head there for the bargain versions! I tried on the one shown in the top of the Lipsy site but unfortunately I was in between sizes and didn't think I could pull off the ruched shoulders. If anyone knows how much Posh's trench is...let me know... this is one worth saving for!

Tx

A new addition

2010-01-21T21:37:00.003Z

Today after work I popped into TopShop to see if my friend was working...she wasn't... however all was not lost... look at my new ring!

I don't play favourites with my make-up, jewellery or clothes for that matter but I think this is pretty special! And only £9. I picked up another ring and a top which I'll post about at the weekend, what I really like about TopShop is their rings don't turn your fingers that attractive shade of bluey/green like some shops, ahem, Accessorize!

Random picture but I was trying to be creative in showing the ring! Essie Angora Cardi on the nails if anyone's interested thanks to a very lovely friend :)

Sexy, sexy

2010-01-21T20:49:00.008Z

I have lived in Scotland for all of my 26 years. It has taken me 25 of those to discover what is needed to battle the Scottish winter...

Take one sexy featherdown coat ... or sleeping bag, whatever you want to call it... I got this one 3 or 4 years ago in Mango half price in their sale for £40...

Add one pair of heavy duty construction worker style boots - Cat Mardy will do the trick - I managed to get these on eBay half price at £50 last winter...

I can't tell you how much I adore these boots - I've worn them in rain and snow - they don't let in ANYTHING at all, they have great grips and they are so, so comfy.

Give me warm over stylish any day of the week.

:)

xxx

Not quite 21 again...

2010-01-20T20:08:00.000Z

On my birthday I decided to whip out some old favs, I forgot to take pics that day but I used the same products at the weekend - unfortunately I'm a lot paler than I used to be and about a stone heavier so I don't quite look 21 again but I'm still going through a renewed love for MAC Jest and Nylon eyeshadows and MAC Cream Colour Base in Hush so much so that I've actually hit pan...

MAC Jest on the left, MAC Nylon on the right

This is a ridiculous pic but I wanted to show you the sheen that Cream Colour Bases give - I got this as an alternative to MAC's Belightful powder and I actually think it's more natural looking than quite a lot of the MSFs - definitely worth checking them out.

Lashings of eyeliner - my favourite look :)

Any old school loves that you've recently discovered?

xxx

The list...

2010-01-18T21:43:00.008Z

Throwing my tuppence worth in cos I love these posts...

Shampoo: Aussie Mega Shampoo with the occasional use of Lush Big Shampoo

Conditioner: Aussie 3 Minute Miracle in Luscious Long

Styling products: Nada

Shower Gel: Trying to use up my Soap & Glory Clean On Me - it's lasting bloody ages!

Body Moisturiser: Soap & Glory Righteous Butter - awesomeness - even the lion has noticed

Deodorant: Some Soft & Gentle Aromatherapy wonder

Fake Tan: I keep meaning to put on Dove Summer Glow... not happening though

Foundation: Having ditched Nars Sheer Glow I'm running solely on my MAC MSFN

Powder: Ditto

Concealer: Benefit Erase Paste...mostly because I like the cute tub it comes in

Blush: I don't even think I suit blush but I'm reaching for MAC Blush Baby quite a lot

Bronzer: Nars Laguna however I am rediscovering my Hoola appreciation

Highlighter: MAC CCB in Hush - more to follow on this later in the week

Eyeshadows: Loving the Nars Pleasures of Pareeee palette - amazingness

Mascara: YSL Singulier - meh..

Lipstick: Loving me some MAC Close for Comfort TLC

Lipgloss: Zip, zero.

Nail Colour: Essie Angora Cardi

An expensive addiction...

2010-01-17T18:48:00.011Z

...no not narcotics. Not even make up. ToyWatch...es.

I hadn't heard of Milan brand ToyWatch until late last summer when I discovered the wonder of fluorescent plastic watches. I had my doubts too but after exploring them for work purposes (honest!), I fell in love with my first ToyWatch and after going to just try one on to see what it looked like (for work!), I snapped it up on the spot. Prices for ToyWatches start from £115 so it's not the cheapest habit but they are unbelievable addictive - I'm planning on buying another two in the near future!

I've worn my ToyWatch Fluo in Ultra Violet constantly and it has made several appearances on this very blog...

One of the first things I noticed about ToyWatches, well it's hard not too, is how light they are. I had been wearing a chunky rose gold watch before and had got used to carrying the extra weight, so when I tried this on, it felt quite flimsy however 6 months on it's going strong and I haven't had any scratches or anything which I had been a bit worried about.

If you follow me on Twitter you may remember that I mentioned before Christmas that I had received a new ToyWatch as a gift so I thought I'd give it a little LionLovingTiger outing...

Isn't it gorgeous? I absolutely love its bling quality and it's great for toughening up outfits - for anyone who's interested this is the Fluo Chronographic which is £165 - it also comes in white - also gorgeous.

Lots of celebs have been spotted wearing ToyWatch including Ashley Tisdale sporting a White Fluo (next on my hitlist)...

Even the first lady is feeling the ToyWatch love...

My final ToyWatch lust for the moment (the perfect Valentine's gift in my mind... hint hint lion!)

Just found this amazing blue one online... see what I mean, addictive...

Anyone else on the ToyWatch bandwagon? If you've got any pics, link me to your blog :)

You can find ToyWatches in Scotland in ROX (www.rox.co.uk) or Cruise ... down south I believe they're available in Harvey Nichols aswell as on select online retailers with prices beginning at £115.

Tx

Help Haiti...

2010-01-17T15:38:00.004Z

This weekend the wonderful Gemma has called upon YouTubers and beauty bloggers to come together to raise funds to help Haiti - so far Gemma's campaign has raised an amazing £840 - please take the time to watch the video above and if you can, donate a couple of pounds (or whatever you can afford) to help Haiti recover from the devestation of the earthquake that hit earlier this week.

Well done to everyone who's contributed so far - and to Gemma for a really inspiring idea.

To donate check out the links below, pinched from the gorgeous Lipsticks & Lollipops

The DEC: http://www.justgiving.com/youtubersforhaiti

You can read more about them here.

Doctors Without Borders: http://www.firstgiving.com/youtubersforhaiti

You can read more about them here.

x