The Review: Too Faced Lip Injection {Lip Plumping Gloss}

The Product: Too Faced Lip Injection

Too Faced 'Lip Injection' Lip Plumping Gloss

The Background:

Recently, I wanted to purchase a lip plumper. I have used one before and was pleased with the results.  After watching make up artist Huda Kattan on her HudaBeauty.com website, I read she had tried out a few lip plumping products from home made to glosses to tools.  Don't get me wrong I am happy with the way my lips look but I thought why not see how they look plumped up! She recommended Too Faced Lip Injection which I actually hadn't heard of, but I was initially going to go for Soap & Glory's SexyMotherPucker. However, odd as it is they only stock the bath and body range here in Kuwait so off I went to Sephora { always an excuse to visit my favourite makeup shop!}

The Review:

So I bought the Too Faced Lip Injection and tried it as soon as I got home! I have taken photos as the process began. I prepared my lips my removing any dead/dry skin using Lush's lip scrub in mint Julips. Then I carefully painted my lips with the clear-pink gloss and then waited. After a few minutes there was a slight tingling feeling. Then I saw that my lips were plumping up. It must have taken maybe 5-10 minutes in total for my lips to look fuller and more plump. Then I applied Rimmel's Nude Delight in 700 and Apocalips in Shooting Star to see the final effect.

The Verdict:

I really really like this lip plumper and have used it a few times now. It takes about 5 minutes for my lips to feel and look plumped up and it does make a difference. I get a more fuller pout :P In comparison to Soap & Glory which I tried out 2-3 years ago. The tingling feeling is felt more with S&G but I have to say the results are the same. Overall a really great product from Too Faced! I will be rating this as 10/10.

 Photo 1: First I prepared my lips, by using Lush's Lip Scrub in Mint Julips. 

Photo 2: Then I applied Too Faced Lip Injection to my lips being careful not to go out of the outline of my lips.

Photo 3: My lips after 2-3 minutes of applying the lip plumper - looking pretty plump!

Photo 4: After about 10 minutes, I applied my lipstick and gloss on top. I think the result is pretty AMAZING! They look so full and plumped up! 

I hope you enjoyed reading my post. I hope to post maybe 1-2 more before I leave for the UK this week. If not I will be sure to post at least once during my vacation back home :)

Love & Blessings,

Sara xx

What look am I rockin'?...Natural with a 'Pop' of colour!

So, I thought I would do another blogpost on a makeup look but with a 'pop' of colour. I absolutely adore colour, however it does depend on how I am feeling and what I wearing as to which colour I choose to wear. I mainly stick with shades of blue and green. My favourite colour turquoise so that's probably why! Also ever since I started wearing makeup which was at the age of 19/20...I also experimented with colour. Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliners were the first beauty product I owned and I always used to wear eyeliner on only my bottom lash line. Fast track 7 years later and I love experimenting and wearing make up. I wear eyeliner on the top and bottom lash line now :) I do however have make up free days to give my skin a breathe of fresh air as it is definitely needed.

So below are some photos I took via Photo Booth of a look a created before a trip to the Avenues Shopping Mall here in Kuwait. I LOVE the eyeliner on my lower lash line. It is a newish colour from Urban Decay. Yes I still swear by Urban Decay primarily for their colour range. It is phenomenal! I have also listed the other makeup products used.

Face: LM Tinted Moisturiser in Sand, LM Secret Camouflage Palette in 05, Sleek Brow Kit in Medium

Cheeks: Sleek Contour Kit in Medium, NARS Blush in Madly, TBS Baked Bronzer in 02

Eyes: Prep + Prime Highlighter in Peach Lustre ( under eyes), MAC Moisturecover Concealer in NW20 ( under eyes), Collection Liquid Eyeliner, UD 24/7 Liner in Chaos on bottom lash line, Sephora Eyelash curlers, Revlon photo ready mascara and UD Cannonball mascara.

Lips: Elizabeth Arden 8hr Cream, No7 Lipliner in Nude, Rimmel Lipstick in Nude Delight, Rimmel Apocalips layered on top in Shooting Star.

I hope you enjoyed the look, until next time :)
Love & Blessings,
Sara xx

My Shades of Lipstick ♡

So I was never really into lipstick, I was definitely more of a lip gloss girl when I was younger but I have slowly started to build up a collection of lipsticks.  Don't get me wrong I still have my fair share of lip glosses too!

A shade of lipstick can really transform a makeup look from day to night. I love experimenting with different colours and I solely put that down to the artistic side of me. It's really important to find out which shades work for you and that includes eye colour too. I know that coral shades really liven up my day to day make up look but if I go for a more deeper/brighter shade it is perfect for the evening. However having said that I do have my signature lipstick shade and that is 'nude'. I LOVE different shades of nude; peachy nude, pink nude, brown nude...you name it but the shade I reach for the most is Rimmel's Nude Delight in 700. It is perfect when I use Apocalips Lip Lacquer in Shooting Star ( I think that's the name). UBER LOVE!

So I am heading back to the UK next week and I was sorting out makeup I want to take back with me. I am trying to limit is as I still have a stash back home that I want to bring back with me as well as picking up some essentials that you cannot get over here in Kuwait. E.G. Collection for their liquid eyeliner (amazing!!) and Sleek for their matte blushes. Anyways so I ended up swatching them all and realised my lipstick falls into two maybe three categories; pink, coral and nude (no surprise there hehe!). I thought I would show you my collection of the shades in my Kuwait Lipstick Collection.

I hope you enjoyed reading.
Love & Blessings,
Sara xx

What look am I rockin'? ...Smokey Eyes & Nude Lips

So a few weeks ago,  I was watching a whole load of Youtube make up videos and then had the urge to play around with my makeup and try out a simple look. I wanted to do a smokey eyes with nude lips look as at times when I have tried to do a smokey look it just ends up wrong! So I tried and tested a few products in order to create this specific look. I will list the products used below but unfortunately I can't remember the order or what I mixed with what! Next time I will be sure to type up a blogpost after the makeup look.

Full Face View of Smokey Eye and Nude Lips

Skincare: Body Shop Vitamin E Cleanser, Dermalogica Toner, Johnsons 24hr Moisture Cream, Bobbi Brown Hydrating Eye Cream, Elizabeth Arden 8hr Cream

Face: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser, MAC Moisturecover Concealer in NW20, Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer Palette, Sleek Contour Kit, Sleek Brow Kit

Eyes: Sleek Storm Palette, NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk, Collection Liquid Eyeliner in Black, Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner in Perversion, Sephora Eyelash Curlers with Revlon Photoready Mascara and Urban Decay Cannonball Mascara

Cheeks: NARS Blush in Madly, Body Shop Baked Bronzer in 02

Lips: No7 Lip Liner in Nude, Rimmel Moisture Lipstick in Nude Delight, Loreal Riche Lipstick in Blush, Rimmel Apocalips Lip Lacquer in  Nude Eclipse ( a lotta Nude shades there!)

So after application and a lot of blending on the eyes, below is a close up of my eye makeup and my signature pose :P

Close Up of Application of Eye Shadow

Overall, I really like the look, considering I have a lot of eyeshadows I don't tend to wear them as much at the moment but I want to get into experimenting more. I like this look and would definitely wear this look out for the evening for sure.




I hope you enjoyed reading this post.
Love & Blessings, Sara xx

The Review: Eden Salon & Spa, Sharq

Another review of a nail salon because I just love to pamper myself at the weekend :)

The background:A week ago, because I had heard a lot of raving reviews about Eden Salon & Spa I thought I would visit them to see what the hype was really all about!

Amazing range of nail polishes!

The Review: So after my uninviting and not so warm or friendly welcome to the salon I sat down and a lovely girl prepped my Gelish removal. I was then told to choose my colour which I spent absolutely ages on :S They have SO many colours it is pretty cool and I will give them credit for that but then I ended up opting for a French Manicure as it is classy, chic and goes with everything. I had only one person working on my feet and then my hands and as lovely as she was, I did not find the mani and pedi to be thorough enough. I was there for 2 hours which was fine but the seats were not so comfy and I think it has to be a must if you are going to be relaxing for a long time. Anyways, when I was there it was quite busy and noisy but the last half hour was so nice and quiet as there was hardly anyone there! The Gelish looked good when she was doing it but when it was finished, I notice detail well and the white line was smudged/blurred on a few nails which hasn't happened in previous salons. Also when I got home, I had a nap (hehe) and when I woke up my big toe nails were smudged too.  To be honest I think the salon is best for haircuts and hairstyles which I may try out one day. 

Gelish French Manicure

The Verdict: I would give them 6/10 and this is due to how I was welcomed when I entered the salon. I found the receptionist to be quite arrogant and stuck up which turned me off the whole experience there straight away. I think Eden Salon and Spa is overrated and there are much nicer spas like Nail It and Me Time and I am sure there are others too.  Also they were not as thorough as Nail It in Hawally and Me Time Spa in Al-Rai so I would not revisit for a manicure or pedicure - maybe for my hair but we will see!

That's all for now - will blog soon :)

Love & Blessings,

Sara

The Review: Me Time Spa, The Avenues Mall, Al-Rai

So this is a long time coming as I wanted to post this review about 3 weeks ago but I have been quite busy with school - report writing is no fun!

Anyways since I am here in Kuwait for a year I thought why not try a range of salons to pamper myself. This is the third salon which I have tried out a Gelish Manicure and normal pedicure. the second salon which is located in my apartment block sadly does not deserve a review as I thought the service was quite poor :(

The Background:
I found out about this salon/spa originally whilst surfing the net and also by a friend. So I thought why not?!

The vast array of nail polishes!

Me Time Nail Spa

The  Review:
It was easy to book an appointment and their availability was pretty good. I arrived about 20 minutes early but they were more than happy to start my mani and pedi. I spent about 10 minutes deciding on a colour as I had wanted to match the Gelish colour to my pedi. I eventually chose a mint turquoise ( 'Kiss me I'm a Prince' for my hands and Essie's 'Turquoise and Caicos' for my feet. I cannot remember the name of the girls ( sorry!) but they were lovely and offered me a drink and then put on the massage chair which was amazing. They got to work and did a great job - I felt very relaxed as the place was calm, quiet and tranquil. The layout was nice and minimal with a splash of colour. It made me feel as if I was somewhere else in Kuwait.

So I had two girls, one working on my hands and the other on my feet and they worked well. My feet were bathed in water for a while and then wrapped in cling film to make them extra soft and then the pedicure was started. For my hands, she tidied them up, cut and filed and then prepped for Gelish. I would say the woman doing my manicure was more thorough than the woman doing my feet but the end results were fantastic so I was pleased.

Gelish Manicure and Regular Pedicure 

My Gorgeous Gelish Nails :)

The Verdict: The staff were lovely and friendly and very accommodating so I would give Me Time Spa 9/10. If they were more thorough I would have given them 10/10.

I hope you enjoyed my post and if you are in Kuwait and looking for a nail salon, I would definitely recommend Me Time Spa.

Love & Blessings,
Sara xx

My Makeup in Kuwait

Since I have been in Kuwait, my skin has had to get used to air conditioning and the heat. From going to one extreme into another was crazy as my skin would get quite dry but finally my skin has adjusted. I thought I would do a post on my makeup routine at the moment. I've realised that now I am older, I don't tend to try out different products as much as I have found makeup that suits my skin - so why go on the hunt for something that is not needed? Of course there are some exceptions with being abroad as there aren't the same brands as the UK. Below is a breakdown of the products used for the look.

Face: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser in Sand, MAC Moisture cover Concealer in NW20, Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer Palette in No 4, Sleek Contour Kit in Medium.

Cheeks: Sleek Blush in Suede, Sue Moxley Highlighter in Miami ( discontinued) or I use these for my blush NARS Madly Blush and The Body Shop  Baked Bronzer in 02.

Eyes: Collection Liquid Eyeliner in Black, Urban Decay 24/7 Liner in Perversion, Models Own Eyelash Curlers ( now replaced with Sephora's Eyelash Curlers), Revlon Photoready Mascara, Urban Decay Cannonball Mascara, NYX Jumbo Eyeshadow Pencil in Milk (used to highlight under eyebrows).

Lips: OCC Lip Tar in Hush, Natural Collection Lipstick in Rose Petal (lightly dabbed on lips) Inglot Sleeks Lipgloss in 32 or I usually use MAC Jazzed/Everhip with Inglot Sleeks Lipgloss in 32.

Brushes used: Real Techniques Contour Brush, GOSH Blush Brush, OCC Lip Brush.

I really like this look as it's natural looking and not over the top. It allows me to build up both the blush or lip colour and it can change the final look. For those who may be wondering, I recently dyed my hair too using Wella - I can't remember the shade but it was a bright red, maybe it was called Ruby Red? I hope you all enjoyed this post. If you have any questions please feel free to leave me a comment or email me.

That's all for now...until next time :)

Love & Blessings,

Sara

Eid Treats for moi :)

So yesterday I ventured to The Avenues Mall to pick up a few essentials but to also 'treat' myself for Eid and the work I have put into my job so far. I didn't think it would be SO busy but it was! I entered via The Grand Avenues entrance and went straight to Harvery Nicholls to pick up a lipstick I had seen on an makeup artist's instagram I follow. Her makeup is absolutely flawless and amazing. I love it! Sadly, Illamasqua were out of stock of 'Over'  (matte bright peach coral) so I went on to find the Eden Spa I had been reading about but I was informed it had closed down a long time ago - gutted as the reviews were amazing!

So I did a spot of essentials shopping at H&M and picked up a top and few trousers for work and leggings for the gym. Then I headed to Sephora ( my favourite makeup shop although in Q8 it is quite small!) Anyways, I needed to replace my eyelash curlers so I picked up a pair of Sephora's own brand which I will review once I have tried and tested them. I also restocked my mascara. I have found my 'Holy Grail' mascara which actually consists of working with two together. First I apply Revlon Photoready which defines and separates each lash and then I apply using a slight zig zag movement, Urban Decay Cannonball. I love how this combination lifts my lashes and they look as if I am wearing falsies :P Whilst I was in Sephora, I want to treat myself to a perfume but I was unsure as to which one. I must have had about 10 samples and lost count as to which perfumes they were but I eventually narrowed them down to 3 and then chose a new scent. I chose the classic Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel which is a lovely, light but gorgeous scent. Then I went on the hunt for a black liquid liner - honestly I must have swatched a few from Makeup Forever, Sephora and Boots and then I went back to Makeup Forever. I bought the new Matter Eyeliner in Black which I am yet to try. I wish I had stocked up on a few cheap makeup essentials from the UK as you can't find the same here. E.g. Sleek and Collection.

Eid Treats L - R: Coco Mademoiselle EDP, MUFE Matte Eyeliner & Rouge Intense Lipstick,
Sephora Eyelash Curlers, UD Cannonball Mascara, Revlon PhotoReady Mascara, Bvlgari Sunglasses 

My last big purchase was a pair of sunglasses. Unfortunately I had scratched my pair of Ray Bans by not taking care of them :( I have had them since I was 18 and Ray Ban don't do replacement lenses anymore. On the positive side, I got to look for a brand new pair. This time I had my eye on Bvlgari - they are just so elegant and chic even with the diamantes! Again I tried on about 10 before I narrowed them down to 2 and then I finally chose a brown pair with a simple diamante design on both sides of the lenses. I was very happy with the purchase and cannot wait to wear them!

I will take photos of my new stash from my haul and update the post ASAP!

Love & Blessings,

Sara

The Review: Nail It Spa, Hawally

So I thought since I have been to get my nails done twice at this salon I should probably do a review!

The background: I had wanted to get a manicure and pedicure as the my current nail polish was dated! I had a gorgeous peachy pink with diamantes on my hands and feet for my cousins's wedding prior to moving to Kuwait. They were beautiful..If I can find a photo I will include it below :) Anyways I needed to refresh my nails so I googled nail salons near where I live and I came across Nail It. It seemed quite reasonable and it was near so my friend and I popped along about 3 weeks ago now for our first visit.

LED Gel Manicure at Nazila Love Glamour, London

The review: On the morning they called me to remind me that I still had an appointment which was nice and the receptionist was very polite and friendly. When we got there, we were greeted and asked which scrub for the manicure we wished to go for. They were lovely but I felt a little pressurised in opting for the 'Soothing It' scrub so we went for that only to find out properly about the others which we then changed to the regular Nail It scrub. We were asked to choose our colours - I opted for a french manicure as it's chic and it goes with everything. We were led to sit down in our chairs and our manicurist came. I had Carol and Nori and they were both so lovely and friendly. It definitely felt like a pamper session with my hands and feet being done. They took their time and asked what shape name I would like and if I wanted any other treatments. I really enjoyed it. The whole manicure and pedicure took about 2 hours. This was because I had to have my previous Gelish nails removed and then reapplied. I just had a regular french pedicure as nail polish on my toes tends to last longer.

My first visit to Nail It - French Gelish Manicure

My second visit to Nail It - Regular Manicure using Orly Mayhem Mentality (LOVE IT!)

The verdict: So overall I thoroughly enjoyed my experience and I ended up bringing another friend on my second visit. The staff were very attentive and friendly which is a must. Also, there is a tv with my favourite E! News which made me feel very at home and relaxed. The pricing is reasonable as I ended up paying 21KD for a Gelish manicure, regular pedicure, callus removal and Gelish removal so I would definitely go again. I would give this salon 9/10!

As I had a regular manicure and pedicure on my second visit, I found that with my day to day activities it did not last as long as the Gelish. So next time I visit I will be returning to Gelish manicures. I would definitely recommend visiting this salon. They also have another branch in Arraya which offers massages and other treatments.

That's all for now,

Love & Blessings,
Sara xx

Ahlan w Sahlan from Kuwait :)

Ahlan w Sahlan all my lovelies :) I have finally moved to and settled in Kuwait!

I have been in Kuwait for a month now and I am getting used to a more relaxed way of life.  For the first 2 weeks, I had an school induction which was quite dull to be honest. There was a lot of talking and sitting and listening...and not much information being taken in! The fun part came when we were allowed to decorate out classrooms. I really enjoyed decorating mine. I love to make sure that each and every child will enjoy learning in my classroom and so far it's so good. My class are lovely, chatty too but so very lovely. I am glad I do not have a class like last year who were just out of this world!

So far I have been to two beach clubs that were lovely but I will not join as there are mixed facilities. I am hoping to join gym nearby and I am looking forward at getting into more of a routine. Next week I start Arabic which I am excited about! I have also looked into horse riding...I want to make the most of my time whilst I am out here.

In terms of teaching, it is different from the UK. The majority of the staff are unfamiliar with the British curriculum which was a bit odd at first considering the school prides itself on teaching from the British curriculum. Other than that, the staff are nice and my team and I get along well. The children are lovely and they are thriving to learn which is so nice to see.

Out of school, I have been to a few malls and eaten out. Kuwait is beautiful and relaxing but there is not a lot to do compared to London. Obviously they are two different places on two different scales! But I am trying to find things to get involved in so I am busy and making use of my time.

Tomorrow is Saturday so like a Sunday in the UK...and I will be popping into school to do a few jobs. That way on Sunday aka Monday morning everything will have been prepped :)

Well I am going to sleep now, as I intend on waking up early to do a few jobs!

Love & Blessings,
Sara

A long time coming post...

Ah...I cannot believe I have not posted since April. It has been crazy! I have been very busy with school( I will do a separate post about what's been happening). Also it is now Ramadhan which ia going well. Ramadhan Kareem to all those who are fasting!

So what's been happening...?!

Oh yeah in the May half term my friend Tam and I vacationed in Tunisia. The time has gone so quickly since we visited there but it was an amazing holiday. We really relaxes and enjoyed ourselves. Photos to follow.

Apart from that I visited my sister in Geneva which was so beautiful. It is a really relaxing city and I would definitely visit again. I will post pics at the the end of this blogpost.

Aside from my mini trips...I have been counting down the days until I leave which I am excited and also nervous about. I have started packing some things for Kuwait and bringing home  from school my resources. I actually cannot wait to leave. The start of the next chapter is awaiting and I can't wait to see what's in store!

I did.remember I was going to type up a post on My Jar of Smiles which are events and things that have happened  or I have achieved throughout the year which have put a.smile on my face. I will do a post on that soon..

Love & blessings for now,
Sara xx

Y'all I'm haulin' these beauties...

I am currently on Easter break, WAHEY and earlier this week I met up with a good friend of mine for lunch and cakes but we also managed to fit in a little haulin'. I actually purchased one item with her and then when I was making my way to the bus stop, I detoured (my bad!).

So in Topshop with my friend Ayesha, she showed me some new polishes Barry M has recently introduced. There were three in total and they were pastel shades that included a cool blue, pale pink and minty green. We were swatching away as she had her eye on a turquoise Gelly nail paint and I on the minty green aka 'Sugar Apple' nail paint. As a result, she unfortunately put her shade back but I purchased mine!

Then on my way to the bus stop, I went to Selfridges to repurchase my fave blush ever - NARS Madly. It is described as a seashell pink but it is more of a bronzy pink with slight shimmer. Have a look at some of my make up pics to see how it looks when applied. After I went to Superdrug to do a spot of toiletries shopping and I sneakily went to the makeup section as I was curious to try Barry M Peach Melba. It looks gorgeous in the bottle but I was a little apprehensive as to how it would turn out on my nails. However I bought and I love! The colour is on my nails at the moment and perfect for the beautiful weather in London at the moment! I then started exploring the brow palettes at Sleek make up. Now I am SO against eyebrows that look like they have been stamped onto your face but the kind that have been defined carefully and look chic are the ones I like. More recently I have been experimenting with filling in my eyebrows and darkening them slightly and I LOVE! In my previous post you can see the difference from photo 1 and photo 2 where I am wearing it. I have been wearing it most days this week! I SO have to tell my mom about it!

Barry M Sugar Apple

Barry M Peach Melba

My next posts will be on what I have been upto in the holidays and on my card-making :)

Enjoy the rest of your day.

Love & Blessings,

Sara xx

The Review: Remington Curling Wand

Another blog post for my lovelies...

The Background:
A few days ago, I decided to dig out my Remington Sapphire Curling Wand which I purchased over 2 months ago. I had done an electrical appliance clear out and got rid of my Tresemme Hair Straighteners and my Corioliss Curling Wand. I opted for the Remington Sapphire Hair Straightener and the Remington Sapphire Curling Wand as they were reduced significantly from  HomeBase ( I know I wouldn't have thought to even look there but they had the best deal online). I think if I remember I paid £20 RRP £25 for the curling wand and the straighteners for £40 RRP £85. I have included a standard photo of the curling wand as it does not really differ from mine.

The Review:
The wand is a conical wand that starts off thick from the base to thin. It  comes with a heat proof mat/pouch and a glove. It has a digital display which allows you control the temperature. The highest temperature is goes unto it 210 degrees which is pretty HOT! (I burnt my thumb the other day and boy did it hurt!) I tend to use it on 190/200 which is fine as it creates smooth but long lasting curls. I section my hair and then either curl inwards/outwards or a mixture depending on what I want my hair to look like. I have included two photo's, one of me earlier in the week with more inward, contained curls and the second from today which I absolutely love! I used a mixture of loose and tighter curls and brushed them out to create the look. P.S I recently refreshed my hair with dying it red in pic 2 :)

The Rating:
I would rate this as 9/10 as they are pretty amazing overall! It gives the more defined curls as well as the beach style curls too but I wish they would make it a little more safer for use when you curling though as I have burnt myself a few times :S


Hope you enjoyed.

Love & Blessings,
Sara xx

#Beauty Saviour of the Month: Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream

So this is one of what I hope will be a regular monthly feature on my blog. I chose this particular product as I had totally underrated it years ago. My sister first introduced me to it when I suffered from chapped lips and I used to apply a slick of this to my lips in the evening and by morning they were amazingly smooth. I recently converted my colleague to using this too and now she swears by it!

I took the plunge and bought the tube version of the product about a month or so ago now when I noticed a little dryness around my eyes and also dry lips. Now if you are sensitive to scents then I would refrain from purchasing this (although I think they do a fragrance free version now). The product is of an amber coloured stick consistency with a medically scent. I disliked this at first but I have now grown to put up with it as the results are amazing. I tend to apply this in the evening, dotting it around my eyes and applying it to dry patches of my skin. In the morning, my skin looks like it has been refreshed. YES it is THAT amazing!

I would highly recommend having this saviour in your beauty stash :)

Love & Blessings,
Sara

Lovin' my new booties :P

I promised a few posts ago this would be my next post but I totally forgot to snap a photo of my new boots. Initially I had been looking for a pair of cowboy style boots, but I could not find any or the ones I did see did not really WOW me. So just as I was giving up my search, I thought I would try Dune. I never really thought much of Dune until last Summer when they launched some beautiful beaded sandals which I purchased at a hefty price but they were beautiful and one of kind so it all worked out :)  I saw a pair of mid calf tan (actual colour dark brown) boots online and wanted to check them out in person.

So I popped along to Dune in Central London and went along to find out how the fit was but unfortunately they did not have the colour in. I opted to try the black version of the boots and they were like SO comfortable considering they had a 3 inch heel. As they were on a boot promotion, I took the plunge and ordered the tan colour in store. They were originally £135 and I got them for £105. I have to say delivery was swift although not sure why they delivered my package a good few doors away from me :S I picked them up and tried them on but it was not until a week later when I actually decided to keep them. This was due to my self consciousness about the shape of my calves. Sometimes I feel like they look like tree trunks and other days they look on the slim side. I am happy to say I am glad I decided to keep them as Dune is a well known and respected brand which has excellent quality shoes/boots. Since then, I have worn them a few times when going out for girly dates and dinners and they are still so comfy although I am thinking of getting them resoled to prolong their longevity.

I hope you enjoyed reading this post. My next posts will include my 'Beauty Saviour Product' of the month as well as a review of my Remington Curling Wand.

Love & Blessings,

Sara xx

Easter Break is HERE!

Ah I cannot tell you how happy I am now that the Easter holidays are here!  This term has been so long, busy and very challenging so I cannot wait to relax properly!

Unfortunately due to sorting out my papers for Kuwait, I was unable to book a holiday away :( A shame but actually sometimes staying home is good too at times! The closer it is to moving abroad to teach the more excited I am feeling towards the new challenge. I have enjoyed my time at this school but feel SO ready for something more exciting. I have lots to do beforehand like paperwork and sorting out which resources/clothing/jewellery to pack with me.

Today is the first official day of the holidays and guess what I got upto? I went into frickin' school but to be honest I am SO glad my classroom is all sorted and prepped for next term. I am aiming to spend 1 and half days on my planning and other bits and bobs and then will enjoy the rest of my holidays.

I will leave you with a few photo's I managed to snap of my classroom today - enjoy :)

                                 

Love and Blessings,
Sara x

#Selfie

This weekend, I decided to take time out from school work on a Saturday rather than a Sunday to catch up with a teacher buddy of mine Tahmin :) We went for a late lunch at a Lebanese restaurant in Central London ( one of my favourites as I have been going there since I was at university). The staff are lovely and food is amazing! It was really nice and then we had shisha. I can't believe we were there for 7 hours chatting away!!

Before I met up with her, I decided to take a good ole' selfie. My skin is actually not so good at the moment. I never have breakouts but for the past week I have and it has been terrible. I think it may be due to being ill a few weeks ago and also having an uber stressful week at school. Anyways, I have listed the products used below. I have been sporting the cat eye eyeliner technique and I love it. It is really Arabesque along with a pop of colour during the week. However for yesterday I kept with black. Hope you like :)

Face: 

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser, NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, Laura Mercier Secret Concealer

Cheeks: 

Sleek Blush, Sue Moxley Baked Highlighter

Eyes: 

Collection Liquid Eyeliner

Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner

Models Own Eyelash Curlers

Revlon Photoready Mascara

Urban Decay Cannonball Mascara

Lips:

Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream

Natural Collection Lipstick

Loreal Glam Shine Lip Gloss

My next post will be of my brand new booties :) 

Love & Blessings,

Sara

Poorly Bunny Crafting Cards...

From the title of my post, I am a sick bunny indeed. Today is probably the best I have felt since Thursday evening. It was so bizarre how I suddenly fell ill. Honestly, I could not get up out of bed and my throat was sore. I felt terrible! I am on the mend now and hopefully will be back in work by Tuesday unless I get worse.

So I was getting so very bored of resting in my bed since Thurs/Fri that I decided I would make some hand made cards and guess what?! It took me 3 hours, I know that is long but I made 3 collection of cards ( yet to be named) which totalled 20 cards. Two of the collections are ethnic inspired whilst the other is more for Spring :)

I am gradually getting back into creating art and IA setting up my website/online shop. I will keep you all posted :)

***Update ( I was supposed to post that last week on Sunday but somehow got sidetracked)
So, I went back to work on Tuesday when I really should have taken the day off as I felt worse that  day. I stuck it out for Wednesday, Thursday and Friday..well half day as I felt nauseous in the morning and had a really bad pain in my stomach along with feeling dizzy :( Not good, today I feel so so...I have been resting up mainly and taking it easy I do not want to take anymore days off work. I am not sure what has brought all this on...I just feel quite run down with no energy whatsoever...but I am determined to feel better as I absolutely hate calling in sick! I'm just thinking about how much work I have to do...never ending! I am going to take a nap now...

 I hope you enjoyed looking at my handmade cards :)

Love & Blessings

Sara                                                     

Handcrafting Happiness :)

I absolutely adore art and craft and colour! I specialised in Fine Art at university with an emphasis on textiles and sculpture. Now that I am a primary school teacher, unfortunately I do not have as much time I would like to create art but the time I do have I make my own handmade cards. I can't remember how I got into it but I love it and I am still ( 2 or more years later) in the process of setting up my website and online shop. Everyone keeps telling me I should promote my card designs more which I now feel more confident in doing. So watch this space :P

Recently I made a few cards and have been experimenting with new designs for a small collection. Earlier this week, my sister requested that I made her a card for a friend's engagement so off I went to Hobbycraft and John Lewis to pick up some stock. Whilst I was in the process of making her card, I had a cute idea for a card for my friend who has recently had a baby boy.

For requested cards, I don't sit down and sketch and plan. I just get out the materials needed and work it out as I go along. However for collection based cards, I do plan and jot down ideas.

Below are two of my designs for cards. I love them and they always inspire me to create more beautiful cards.

Love & Blessings,
Sara xx

The Reviews: NARS Tinted Moisturiser, NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, NARS Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base and NARS Blush.

As mentioned in one of my previous blog posts, I stated that I had purchased a new tinted moisturiser and concealer which I had been wearing up until this week. As I have been wearing it for well over a month, I thought I should review the products used.

The Background:

I bought *NARS Tinted Moisturiser in St Moritz which is a perfect match to my skin with the NARS Gingerly concealer which is definitely a complimentary product. Initially I purchased, as I had dyed my hair over the Winter break and felt a change in my tinted moisturiser. I'd read up on the NARS tinted moisturise and though why not? So off I went to John Lewis to get all matched up, the make up artist who matched me up was very pleasant and honest. She tried three shades on my jaw line and then recommended but also asked which one I preferred. I checked in two mirrors near to the door ( checking your tm in natural is very important!) and opted for St Moritz. She also did the same with the concealers and opted for Gingerly. The application was pretty flawless, lightweight and breathable which was pretty damn good. It pretty much matched my skin tone compared with LM which does not have as many shades especially, yellow based ones which brighten your complexion. Then she applied the concealer which I liked too but disliked her application around my eyes. She put a bit too much on which resulted in fine lines. However, all in all after application and a walk about I returned to purchase the moisturiser. I did purchase the concealer a week later, as I still had my MAC Moisture Cover to finish up. ( Yes, I am no longer an impulse buyer with makeup but I tend to think what I have and what I need. Boring and dull maybe but I got to the stage where I had quite a bit of makeup I never really used. Now I experiment a whole lot more with the makeup I have.)

The Review: 

So, as mentioned I have been wearing it for about a month and what I like is the easy application. I used my hands and gently blend it in and build up if necessary. It is very light, lemon scented and of a creamy but silky consistency. It blends in well but it really only provides light coverage. Perfect for the summer although I used in Autumn/Winter. It lasts well over 6 hours so just a little short of the Laura Mercier one.

With the concealer it is also a very good match to my skin, as stated in the title of the product it is creamy indeed. I love it. I have to admit I think MAC is still the best for concealer but only by a little compared to this concealer. It provides medium coverage and blends in nicely too.

In terms of the NARS Smudgeproof Eyeshadow Base aka primer, I purchased this when I was back in the States and I LOVE it. It is white, creamy consistency that you blend over your eyelids to prep and prime for eyeshadow application. It is amazing and much much better than the Urban Decay primer I used to wear! It helps keep my eyeshadows on for well over 7 hours. Amazing!

NARS Blushes are BEAUTIFUL. I adore the colour range and I have been through a few such as Madly, Orgasm, Gilda and Torrid. My favourite has to be Madly which was the first NARS blush I purchased with my gorgeous friend Sheena who introduced me to the brand. I have to been honest it does not look appealing in the pan but once applied it is AMAZING. It is a pink-brown based blush with minimal shimmer probably my most reached for blush and on that note I didn't take a photo because it is all crumbly and almost finished ( time for a new one :D )

*As I have recently dyed my hair back to red, I have switched back to Laura Mercier ( I do wear NARS more at the weekend now though) as I like a more of a warmer-bronzed look :)

The Rating:

Overall I would have to give the tinted moisturiser a B+, blusher A+ and the concealer and eye primer an A-. I really liked all four products and that's pretty good grading for the brand. If I had to recommend just one product though as tough as it is, it would be hands-down their Blusher. I would happily purchase more!

Here is a relatively recent photo* of me with the NARS products used, before I dyed my hair uber red.
* Excuse the pose :p

I hope you enjoyed reading my review.
Just as a heads up expect a few bulk posts!

Love and Blessings,
Sara xx

Selfie of the Day...

Yesterday, I went out to shop for a few things and thought why not do a few selfie poses before I head out :p I had actually dyed my hair the day before back to intense red too (any excuse for a photo!) I have listed the makeup products used on my face below :)

Face: LM Oil Free Primer, NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Gingerly, LM Tinted Moisturiser in Sand, LM Translucent Powder

Cheeks: Sleek Blush in Suede, Sue Moxley Baked Highlighter in Miami

Eyes: Collection 2000 Liquid Eyeliner in Black, Barry M Bold Eyeliner in Black, Sleek Storm Palette ( set bottom liner with black eyeshadow), Models Own Eyelash Curlers with Revlon Photo ready Mascara in Black

Lips: OCC Lip Tar in Divine

Love & Blessings,
Sara xx

The Review: Shellac Nails Manicure

The Background:
So here's the lowdown, back at uni I hardly cared about my nails as I was just getting into makeup. Fast track to 2013/4, I have a collection of about 30 nail polishes ( I recently did a clear out of over 60 nail polishes :S)  I enjoy painting my nails although I tend to go through phases where for a few weeks at a time I'll routinely paint them  or go to the salon and get them done. So before my trips to the salon I had experimented with the normal high street and high end nail polishes, nail wraps and falsies. I wore falsies during the end of my uni years when I suddenly got into the habit of biting my nails ( gross I know).

Anyways, it was actually my sister's friend who tempted me with getting my nails done. She was staying with us in London and decided to get her nails done at our local nail salon. When she came back I was like WOW! Her nails looked immaculate, clean and so chic. So I think it was actually a few weeks after, I decided to go in and get a french manicure but the nail technician coaxed me into going for shellac. So I did! I was SO amazed with the results. I could not believe my nails were instantly dry and were SO glossy. I was sold! From then on for the next 2 months, I had shellac manicures.

The Review:

First the nail technician, cut, filed and shaped my nails. Then she prepped them with a base coat and allowed them to cure for a few seconds. After she applied a baby pink and allowed that to cure as well. Next she applied another coat and let it cure and then applied the french white tips. She let those cure before doing them same procedure on my thumbs. The whole application took about 30 minutes and to leave with them looking beautiful was definitely a plus!

At the start of this year, with all of this miserable weather I decided to opt for a coloured Shellac manicure. I was looking forward to choosing a bright colour, however my salon compared with the CND Shellac website was disappointing as they only had a minimum range. I did choose a beautiful coral with slight shimmer which definitely refreshed my look. The second time I had it done, I chose a nude-almost baby pink which went with everything.

          

       

The Rating:

I would definitely give the Shellac French Manicure an A* for it's , rapid drying speed, high glossy finish and longitivity. The longest period it has stayed on for me is 18 days. Then it is in need of a reapplication.

However, unfortunately I can't say the same for the coloured Shellac Manicures. I have only had 2 and they have lasted me 12 - 14 days before the gel started to peel. So I would have to give a B- for the coloured manicures.

*Please bear in mind application on your nails be give you a very different lasting power.

Lately, I have been tempted by the acrylic look of nails ( don't worry I am not going for it! ) I had acrylic done on one of my nails last year. All I am saying is never again! It completely wrecked my nail and took about 3 months for it look and feel healthy again.

Year ago I remember going to this beauty salon in North London and the beautician telling me about 'Biosculpture' nails. I wasn't really interested at the time but it has been something I have been reading about lately. As I found that with the coloured Shellac didn't last as long, I want to try something that does but does not ruin my natural nail. So I will keep you posted if I decide to get this done :)

Look out for my next post focusing on NARS.

Love and Blessings,
Sara xx

Finally an update...

I haven't blogged in over a month, the reasons being work has been crazily busy at school and as a result I lost the motivation to update my blog (sad times I know!)

However, I am back (hopefully for longer this time around!) with lots of news to tell, beauty products/trips to review which will be coming your way shortly.

For now, this is just a 'relatively' short update on what I have been unto...

Workwise - I have literally been overloaded with planning, assessments and of course teaching as there have been numerous changes in my year :S hopefully things are looking onwards and upwards now...

Out of work - I have been trying to keep to a fitness regime and also enjoying more of a work/life balance. I now dedicate Saturdays to be ZWD (Zero Work Day) whereby I am not even allowed to check my email. I can comment on the results as I have been trialling it out for about a month now and I feel a lot more relaxed when I commence work on a Monday. My fitness regime lasted just over 3 weeks before work got in the way but I am more determined to get back into it as I really, really, really want to tone up before the summer.

Other EXCITING news! (No I am not getting married, I'm still a happy, single woman...hehe)

First thing is I decided before Xmas break that I was going to look for teaching jobs abroad and I finally got round to it I think just after the break. Anyways, I got offered a few interviews and jobs and have decided to take up a teaching position in Kuwait :) To be honest, it hasn't really sunk in yet but I know I will be excited nearer the time. I can't wait to explore the Middle East - I love that part of the world for the culture.

My second piece of BIG news is that I was promoted just before the half term break to Year Leader, so I lead 2 other teachers and liase with my Y1 Phase Leader. It is great that I will be able to add this role to my CV/Resume but I practically have been doing this role since September, although it is nice to have my efforts recognised.

I am currently back 'Home, Home', which has been super relaxing and I have been catching up with my parents and siblings which has been nice. I am back to London tomorrow as I will be popping into school to so some prep for next term ( seriously, a teacher's job is never-ending!) and then hopefully catching up with friends for a good old catch up and then chilling out too :)

Upcoming posts include:
Shellac Nails Review
Nars Tinted Moisturiser Review
A Refreshed Spring Time Make up Look


So look out for my following posts that should be posted this week, but for now take care :)

Love & Blessings,
Sara xx