Beauty: The Makeup Diaries Issue 2 14.1.18

Welcome to 'The Makeup Diaries'. This week I have chosen some more new products to use in my beauty regime. So here's a look at the beauty products I have used this week. I have listed them below and provided a short summary of what I've thought of them.

1. Bobbi Brown BB Cream in Medium: This is my 'go-to' face base as it is lightweight and provides light coverage with a natural finish. Plus it has an SPF of 35!

2. MAC Concealer in NC35: This is another staple of my face base prep. I use this as an overall face concealer. It has long lasting staying power and matches my complexion well.

3. Kryolan Derma Color Camouflage Creme Concealer: This was a newbie and I bought it to see if it would provide me with flawless undereye coverage. I have dark circle and have become more conscious of how they look when I am out. This is creamy once you warm it up and it is intensely pigmented. So far, so good!

4. Urban Decay Naked Concealer: This is pretty good. It is so light you don't even feel it whilst applying it onto your skin. I use it as an undereye brightening concealer and it has great coverage and staying power.

5. Becca 'Glow on the Go' Highlighter Set in Opal: So this was bought in a set which includes the liquid highlighter in Opal as well as the pressed powder. I'm still undecided on these. I like how the liquid highlighter works as it does look beautiful and natural on the skin but not so sure about the powder highlight.

6. Inglot Cream Blush in 96 - I read reviews on the staying power and matte finish of this product. I opted for a coral shade as that is usually my favourite. I LOVE it. It's lightweight and easy to apply with a stipple brush. The staying power is seriously amazing! 

7. Sellma Studio Matte Lipstick in Latte and Lipshine in Biscuit: I have been using these for 2 weeks now and it is my new every day colour. It's a lovely nude light brown and the shine on top is lovely and glossy. This may be my new favourite for liquid lipsticks as it still wears great after you've eaten!

8. MAC Lipliner in Nice 'n' Spicy: I have been using this with the products above and it really accentuates my lips and makes them appear more fuller. 

The IsaDora eyeliners I believe I used last week so I won't review them as I have done before.

Other than that, I am liking that I am utilising new products and integrating them into my beauty regime.  After this month is over, I am thinking of doing a project pan of beauty products and a decluttering post - home and possibly beauty.

Have you tried any of these products? If not, which ones would you be tempted to try?

Love Sara xx

#Best of Beauty 2017

#Best of Beauty 2017

#Best of Beauty 2017

I really can't believe that 2017 has come and gone! In terms of beauty products, I have to say I don't think I have seen a busiest year. There have been constant launches with many beauty brands in competition with one another. Whilst I have purchased new products, I do have my 'Holy Grails' that I keep on coming back to. So without any further rambles, I will list below my star products of 2017.

L - R: 

Face: Bobbi Brown BB Cream in Medium, Garnier BB Cream for Combination Skin in Light/Medium, MAC Prolongwear Concealers in NC35 & NW20, MAC Prep+Prime in Peach Lustre.

Eyes: L'Oreal Feline Mascara, Inglot Gel Liner in 94 ( used as an eyeshadow, IsaDora liquid liner in black, MAC Black Swan eyeliner, Urban Decay 24/7 Liner in Twice Baked, MAC Pearlglide liner in Petrol Blue.

Cheeks: Jouer Rose Gold Highlighter, MAC Give Me Sun MSF, Benefit Watts Up Highlighter, Max Factor Cream Blush in Soft Copper.

Lips: Jouer Lip Enhancer, MAC Oak Lipliner, NYX Mahogany Lipliner, Rimmel The Only Matte in 700, MAC Blankety Lipstick, MAC Myth Lipstick, Too Faced Melted Sugar Lipstick, Milani Cream Lipstick,  Sephora Lipstain in 03, Jouer Rose Gold Lip Topper & Kylie Cupid Lipgloss.

What have been your best beauty products? Comment below!

Love Sara xx

Beauty: The Makeup Diaries Issue 1 7.1.18

The Makeup Diaries Issue 1 - 7.1.18

L- R: Garnier BB Cream in Medium/Dark, Giorgio Armani Lipstick in 512, Laura Mercier Baked Bronzers in 03 & 04,
Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge in Blushed Rose, MAC Lipliner in Soar, Estee Lauder Heatwave Highlighter,
Too Faced BTL Mascara, Urban Decay Naked Concealer, Charlotte Tilbury AirBrush Powder in 03.

I wanted to add a new feature to my blog that would showcase my beauty products but with the primary aim of helping me to utilise my collection. Each week, I will be switching up some products in the bid to use my collection of beauty products more this year. I hope you enjoy it!

Sara xx

Beauty: As Seen On...Beauty Bloggers/Influencers

I am sure you are all aware of the rising number of beauty influencers/bloggers on social media these days. So I thought about which of them have influenced me to purchase products to based on their reviews. I have chosen products that I use quite often in my makeup application and given a brief overview which I hope you find useful.


Beauty Products as seen on....

1. RMCA Powder (as seen on Kathleen Lights). I remember this was in one of her 'Favourites' videos and as I had finished my Laura Mercier, I wanted to try a cheaper alternative. I really like how finely milled this powder is and how it blends nicely into the skin. I use this under my eyes and to set my makeup whenever I remember!

2. Carli Bybel Palette (as seen on Carli Bybel). I enjoy watching beauty bloggers who are passionate about what they do and Carli is one of them. She came out with her own palette in collaboration with BH Cosmetics and I have to say it does not fail at all. She has picked a great combination of colours perfect for day and evening too. I am currently wearing the browns and bronzes, as I created a smokey look.  Also, the highlighters in the palette are BEAUTIFUL! She has recently released a 'Deluxe' palette with more eyeshadows I believe and a few new colours.

3. MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Give Me Sun ( as seen on Holly Boon). I really think Holly Boon is a very talented makeup artist who loves to experiment with a range of products and who also loves tanning and highlighting! She had been using 'Give Me Sun' in a load of videos and I remember thinking how it gave her natural warmth to her skin. I use to use Laura Mercier's Baked Radiance Bronzers which I still love but wanted a touch more colour. So I eventually purchase this and haven't looked back. I use it to warm my skin up more and today I used it a touch more in replace of my usual blush and love the finished look.

4. MAC Satin Lipstick in Myth (as seen on Chrisspy). I LOVE a nude lip and my go-to has been Maybelline's Nude Delight for some time. But when I started to watch Chrisspy I wondered if I could pull it off too. It is amazing especially when combined with MAC's Oak Lipliner and Jouer's Skinny Dip Lip Topper or Cargo's Sahara Lipgloss. I'm actually almost due for a repurchase but have to agree with Chrisppy that it goes with any look!

5. MAC Amplified Lipstick in Blankety ( as seen on Anna Saccone). I loved this colour on Anna and have to admit at first I wasn't sure if it would suit me. But I caved in and bought it at Duty Free last year. I have worn this with lots of simple and natural make up looks and really love the colour, which is a muted dusky pink.

6. Jouer Lip Topper in Skinny Dip (as seen on Amrezy).  It is a lip gloss that is designed to be worn on top of lips for a shimmering effect. I love this lip topper and have used it lots on a variety of lip products. It adds more dimension to a lip colour and it isn't full on glitter. I find it quite subtle. I also have it in the shades: Frostbite and Rose Gold.

Which beauty influencers/bloggers have influenced you to purchase any products?

Do you rate them?

Love, Sara X

Beauty: Long Lasting Makeup for Teachers in the Middle East

As mentioned previously, I'm a teacher. A teacher who LOVES make up I might add. So I thought it may be useful to blog about the make up products I use on a daily basis when I am at work. I literally do not have any time to reapply my make up throughout the day, let alone any breaks! Since I have lived in Oman, I have switched up some of my make up products to make sure whilst my skin is comfortable, it also lasts throughout the day.

So what do I use?

I will list the products below in order of how I apply them and what they are used for.

#1. Skindinavia Primer Spray - After I have applied my skincare, I will lightly spritz my skin with this to prepare my skin for my make up application.

#2. MAC Prep + Prime Highlighter in Peach Lustre - I use this to colour correct underneath my eyes and any other dark areas of hyperpigmentation on my skin.

#3. MAC ProLongwear Concealer in NC35 - I lightly dab concealer on top of the colour correct areas.

#4. Garnier BB Cream OR Bobbi Brown BB Cream in Medium - I then apply a small peas sized amount all over my face and neck. Then I go back with the MAC concealer to make sure my base is flawless.

#5. MAC Master Concealer in 8.5 - I use a Morphe  brush and mark my cheek contour.

#6. Benefit Watts Up Cream Highlighter - I swipe this on my cheek bones and bridge of my nose and blend into my skin.

#7. Max Factor Soft Touch Cream Blush in Soft Copper - I LOVE cream blush for a more natural and glowy appearance. I use the small e.l.f. stippling brush and tap this onto my cheeks and blend in with my contour.

#8. Jouer Rose Gold Powder Highlighter - I use the Zoeva #134 brush to apply this on top of t he cream highlight. It's such a natural highlight, I love it!

#9. IsaDora Liquid Eyeliner in Black/Brown - I apply this to the top of my eyes.

#10. Eyeliner pencil  - I haven't listed a brand as I use loads and it depends on what colour I am feeling that day! But I apply this on my lower lash line.

#11. L'O'real Feline Mascara - this is a dupe for the Benefit Rollerlash mascara. It lifts and curls your lashes so well. I apply a few coats to the top and bottom of my lashes.

#12. NYX Mahogany Lipliner  - Again it depends on what colour I am feeling that day but more recently I have been wearing this combination.

#13. Rimmel Only Matte Lipstick in 700 ( Trendsetter) - I am not a fan of this alone and this works well with Mahogany and Mauve Squad to give a muted nude-mauve lip colour that goes with pretty much every look.

#14. Smashbox Mauve Squad Liquid Lipstick - I layer this over the lipstick and it is GORGEOUS!

#15. Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray - I spritz this over my makeup a few times to ensure it is set and lasts all day. I can vouch that it does last all day. However if I wear MAC Kohl, that eyeliner does tend to smudge. So I usually opt for Sephora, L.A Girl or Urban Decay eyeliners.

Sometimes I may apply RCMA powder to define my contour more but if I am honest it is quite rare on a school day! I do pack a mini Skindinavia Finishing spray with me but I never use it...I don't need to, but also I don't have time. I also pack my lipsticks but again very, very rarely top it up unless I am heading out after school.

I have to say that the Skindinavia sprays are a life saver here in Oman, they work so well! I am constantly repurchasing them as they make a huge difference to the longevity of my makeup. Also, I don't use foundation or anything that is thick on my face as my skin does not agree with it and also it is not good for this climate. I prefer to apply a face of natural looking makeup.

I hope you found this useful. Which products do you use to keep you makeup long lasting on your face?

Love Sara x

What Look Am I Rockin'?....Long Wear Ramadan Makeup!

Hey,

So as you know it's the month of Ramadan and I had wanted to tone down my makeup a bit and use some alternative products to achieve a more natural Ramadan look. It's quite fresh faced, hydrating and luminous as well as long wearing. The only product I have to touch up is my lipstick but that's normal with it being Ramadan and all!

I have included a little skincare and makeup products below, which may seem like a lot but honestly in this heat, they all work wonders!

Ramadan Skincare and Makeup Products

Back Row: Bioderma Serum, LM Tinted Moisturiser, UD Quick Fix Primer Spray,Skindinavia Setting Spray.
Middle Row: Wet n Wild Eyeliner, BB Longwear Eyeliner, Benefit Watts Up Highlighter, NYX Butter Gloss
Front Row: MAC Lipliner, MAC Upward Lash Mascara, MAC Cremesheen Lipstick, Kevyn Aucoin Creme Blush.

Skincare:

Bioderma Hydrabio Serum

Urban Decay Quick Fix Primer Spray

Skindinavia Setting Spray

Makeup:

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser in Sand

Wet n Wild Liquid Eyeliner in Dark Brown

Bobbi Brown Longwear Eyeliner in Hazel Brown

Benefit Watts Up Cream Highlighter

Kevyn Aucoin Creme Blush in Tan Soleil

MAC Upward Lash (sample)

MAC Cremesheen Lipstick in Pure Zen

NYX Butter Gloss in Creme Brulee

I won't go into detail with each product but honestly, all these products are amazing. They have been really hydrating and moisturising for my skin and kept it looking fresh throughout the day. The weather here is now usually 40+ and even though I am not outside for long it still affects you! Even with me using the AC inside, it's really important to care for your skin.

I have to say the skincare as noted above plays a massive part in keeping my skin looking hydrated and helps keep my makeup staying on my face longer. I have been loving cream products as they have been working well to blend in with my skin, rather than powder which although I love does sit on the skin looking a little cakey at times.

So, it looks like I will be carrying on using these products unless anything changes.

I hope you enjoyed reading!

Lots of love,

Sara

All Loved Up: May Favourites

So let's crack on with my May favourites from last month. I have switched up a few products as I have been wanting to utilise my make up collection and use pieces I haven't reached for in a while too.

My May Favourites!

L - R: MAC Subculture Lipliner, L'oreal Feline Mascara, Hourglass Lip Stylo in No1,
Jouer Lip Enhancer in Clear, Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturier and
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Rose Gold. 

#1: MAC Lip Liner in Subculture: I have been loving this shade recently as it's pretty much the same colour as my lips and perfect for a very natural looking lip colour.

#2: L'oreal Feline Mascara: I bought this in Duty Free a while back and since I had to discard my Benefit and Urban Decay mascara's, it was time to try this one. I really love it. At the moment my lashes have been pre curled due to a lash lift so I can't really comment how it is curling/lifting them. However, this mascara is lightweight and does separate my lashes making them look much fuller and paired with the lash lift looks so natural too.

#3: Hourglass Lip Stylo in Femme No 1 ( I think that's what it's called!). This I believe is a  near dupe for the Natural Collection Lip stick in Rose Petal. I do love a pink brown nude with a smokey eye or even just a natural looking face of make up.

#4: Jouer Lip Enhancer: This has appeared in a post or insta- story before. I bought this as an add on to my Jouer order and I have to say it has to have been the best purchase ever. I am coming to the end of it now and it works wonders by keeping my lips soft, smooth and plump.

#5: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser in Sand: So you may have read before I had been using the Bobbi Brown BB Cream. However now that I have ever so slightly tanned, I thought I would trial out the LM one and so far so good. It is is perfect match even when it has oxidised and actually feels nice on my skin, compared with before. It's almost finishing too but I am not sure whether I will repurchase as I have worn my BB far longer. We'll see.

#6: Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Powder in Rose Gold: Last but not least my ultimate favourite. I LOVE this colour highlighter as it provides the skin with such a nice, natural, luminous glow without looking like a disco ball.

I hope you enjoyed reading.

Lots of love,

Sara

All Loved Up: March Favourites!

Aloha my lovely people! Happy April! I am back - with a fresh new layout! What do you think? I think it looks quite fresh and yes I had to add in the turquoise somewhere! :P

Please accept my sincere apologies! Since I've taken up a brand new leadership role at my school, I've been pretty busy plus I have been on two trips - one work related and the other just a plain old holiday! I've got lots of exciting posts about my career, travels, beauty and life! I will be posting a few this week so keep an eye out!

But I thought I would start off with a beauty post as I've been diggin' some newbies lately!

My Beauty Faves for March!

                                            
I have listed these from left to right and explained why I LOVED them so much last month!

#1: Urban Decay Quick Fix Prepping Spray: This is a newbie and I LOVE it! The weather it getting pretty hot and humid here and this does the job of prepping and hydrating my skin before my makeup. I have found that it plays a HUGE part in keeping my makeup on throughout the day too. Well done Urban Decay!

#2: Urban Decay Cannonball Mascara and #3: Benefit Roller Lash Mascara : I actually use this in conjunction with the Benefit Roller Lash mascara. I apply the Roller Lash first to separate my lashes and curl and then the Cannonball to intensify the colour and volume of my lashes. This must be my third purchase of them now and still loving how they work together!

#4: MAC Prolong Wear Concealer in NW25 & NC35: These are more newbies. As I have a tanned slightly, I found that the Maybelline Age Rewind Concealers are too light plus I didn't think they lasted long on my skin. I had heard good reviews about this concealer so I ended up buying two; NW25 for blemishes and NC35 for my under eyes and I am AMAZED! They're perfect and to the point LONG LASTING!

#5: Bobbi Brown BB Cream in Medium: I have recently converted to the BB BB Cream because of its benefits. It has an SPF35, is lightweight and the shade matches me perfectly even after oxidising. I love the satin finish and it provides me with enough coverage too.

#6: Inglot Mascara in 24: I've also switched up my black eyeliner for brown and it's amazing what colours can do for your makeup look. It is much softer looking and really makes my brown eyes pop! The staying power again is great which is a bonus for me in this weather!

#7: MAC Peaches Blush: Hello Spring or should I say Summer now? I love how this blush provides my skin with a splash of luminosity and glow.

#8: Milani Luminoso Blush: I use this as blush topper on MAC Peaches and it really brings out a dewy, glow from within.

#9: MAC Oak Lip Liner: I remember when blogger Bubblegarm used to rave about this lip liner but I wasn't sure it would suit me. Anyways, I bought it a few months ago and have been using it ever since - so thanks Muhsine! :)  It is a lovely neutral colour that defines the lip really subtly.

#10: Jouer Lip Enhancer in Clear: My new favourite lip plumping, moisturise without the tingle. This is AMAZING! No, seriously, I am almost done with my first tube. It is so luxurious and moisturising whilst plumping my lips ever so slightly. I use this day and night and have seen the difference it has made. I will most definitely be repurchasing. 

#11: MAC Myth Lipstick and #12: Cargo Lipgloss in Sahara: I've recently discovered beauty vlogger Chrisspy and loved her lip colours. So when I found out that she paired MAC Myth with Cargo's Sahara I was up to try it out. I use MAC Oak to line my lips and then apply MAC Myth and a slick of Sahara on top. It's the perfect nude lip combo - thanks Chrisspy!

So there you have it, my faves from the month of March. I hope you enjoyed reading it!

Thank you,

Lots of love,

Sara

All Loved Up: January Favourites

My final post of this month will celebrate the makeup products I have been loving so much!

From L-R:

#1. Bobbi Brown BB Cream in Medium: I had a sample of this and really loved the finish so I thought I'd try the full size and I am enjoying using it. It has suited my skin since I have tanned a little but I do switch between this and the Garnier one depending on which look I am going for.

*Laura Mercier although it is amazing has now taken a back seat as I just can't wear it in this climate over here. So I've saved it for when I am back in the UK.

#2. Maybelline Age Rewind Concealer mixed with Collection Lasting Concealer in Dark: As mentioned in my previous post I really love the consistency and buildable aspect of this product. I have had to mix the medium shade with the Collection concealer as my skin colour has darkened a little. But it works well and provides enough coverage as well as being long lasting.

#3. Isa Dora Liquid Liner in Black: I actually haven't been wearing so much liquid liner on my top lash line but when I do I have been reaching for this one, because of it's pigmentation and preciseness.

#4. MAC Pearlglide Liner in Black Swan: This colour looks so pretty on the lower lash line as it's black with gold shimmer and sparkle.

#5. Sleek Powder Blush in Sunrise: I love the pigmentation of Sleek's blushes and this colour is just beautiful. It is a brown with red undertones but delivers such warmth to the skin with a slight shimmer. I have been HOOKED!

#6. Becca Shimmering Skin Perfecter in Rose Gold: Again, as mentioned in my last post, I adore this highlighter and love how subtle or intense you can make it appear on your skin.

#7. TBS Lip Liner in 10 (Pink Brown): My all time favourite lip liner which defines a more natural lip.

#8. Gerard Cosmetics Hydra Matte Liquid Lipstick in Skinny Dip: A nude-pink-mauve which again looks very pretty for more natural make up looks.

So they are my faves for this month - I'm pretty sure there will be some changes for next month though!

So that's all for now - I hope to blog soon with more beauty and travel updates!

Love & Blessings,

Sara

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

An Arabian Eye Makeup Look

Today, because I have SO much free time ( I literally do) I thought I would try and use and experiment with makeup I don't usually use. I would say this is more of an Arab Makeup look that I would wear to an event/wedding. Btw this is a picture heavy post!!

                  

                 
Face:  Superdrug Vit E Illuminating Cream mixed with a smidge of LM Tinted Moisturiser
         MAC Moisturecover and Studio Finish Concealer to hide blemishes
         LM Translucent to set

Eyes: UD Primer Potion mixed with BN2B2BB Highlighter
         UD NYC Palette Eyeshadows: Maui Wowie all over and under eye, Suspect outer,
         Smog in crease - blend, blend blend!!
         Bobbi Brown Gel Liner in Black
         UD Primer Potion with No7 Dreamlash (discontinued) in Jet Black
         Collection 2000 pigment in Heavenly as brow and inner eye highlighter

Cheeks: Sleek Blush in Suede
            Mac Blush in Margin
            Sue Moxley Baked Bronzer aka Highligher in Miami swept over cheekbones

Lips: TBS Lip Liner in Pink Brown 10 to fill lips,
        Natural Collection Lipstick in Rose Petal
        TBS Hi Shine Lip Treatment in Pink Cream

Brushes/Tools used: GOSH Face and Body
                     GOSH Blusher
                     MAC 217 blender, 239 eyeshadow, 219 pencil
                     GOSH Eyeliner
                     Models Own Eyelash Curler (LOVE THIS CURLER!!)

Spring/Summer 2011 'Natural and Neutral' Look

I thought I would experiment with an 'Au Naturale' look today in preparation for Spring/Summer. My makeup is pretty 'natural' anyway but always with a splash of bold colour bringing out the artist in me.

Recently I have switched moisturisers from Superdrug Vit E Illuminating Lotion to Neutrogena Oil Free Moisturiser as I felt that my skin was becoming a little more oily.

Because of that I thought I would experiment with my makeup to create a simple and neutral look that can be worn for the summer whereby I can add colour if I like...et voila

Spring/Summer 2011 'Natural and Neutral' Look

Products used:

Face: LM Foundation Primer

LM Tinted Moisturiser in Sand

LM Secret Concealer in 03

Kryolan Translucent Powder in T6

MAC Moisturecover Concealer in NW20

Eyes: MAC Paintpot in Painterly

Collection 2000 Liquid Liner in Brown

Bobbi Brown Eyeshadow in Sable

Urban Decay 24/7 Liner in Bourbon

The Body Shop Shimmer Cubes Palette in 06

DiorShow Mascara in Black

Cheeks: Body Shop Blush in Apricot

Lips: MAC Tinted Lip Conditioner in Feelin' Good

Have you been experimenting with any looks for Spring/Summer 2011?

Jewellery/Accessories Haul

Unfortunately this week I have been struck down with a pretty bad cold and cough. I usually get really ill like once a year and this is it. I feel so so now but earlier in the week I felt terrible :( Since school breaks up for Xmas holidays next week I really tried not to take any days off but I ended up taking 2 days off. I was stuck in my room 'resting', I say that because I found it really hard to rest, I was trying to find jobs to do to make use of the time I was home.

Today I wanted to get out of my room/house, I think staying in has been pretty dull so I decided to venture into central for the day. I originally planned to go for 9am but I ended up getting there for 12..I managed to get back for 4pm though so wasn't too bad! I went for a mooch along Tottenham Court Road and Oxford Street..

I did have a small list of things I wanted but ended up finding some pretty pieces of jewellery.

Aldo has some really lovely jewellery - I would say it is of a mixed price range because some pieces are quite cheap and others quite extortionate! There was a 2 for 1 offer where I purchased a pair of bronze diamante costume earrings along with a paisley fabric covered bangle. From their current range, I bought a pair of Bollywood/Bellydance style earrings, a style I have been after for a while and I randomly picked up a nail polish at the till point. It's a metallic taupe brown colour - perfect for a neutral look.

I originally went into Dorothy Perkins to purchase a hat..which I am still undecided on. It's really cute but deciding whether I really need it or not! I popped upstairs to find out that all jewellery had 25% off (yay!) and found an unsual pair of ethnic earrings from their 'Ribbon and Asher' range. I stumbled across their reduced section and found lots of goodies. A marbled cream and gold ring, a pair of fabric covered hoop earrings and a silver tribal style ring. I was happy with my purchases as I bagged some pretty good bargains!

I am not really one to continuously shop every other week or weekend. Although I do love my jewellery, in particular earrings and rings, I wouldn't consider shopping as something I love. Yes it probably sounds odd for a girl to admit that but it's true. I can probably last on a good day about 2 hours before I start to get bored and frustrated with other shoppers! Usually once a month or every two months I do 'treat' myself to something. It depends what I'm after...

Anyways I also popped into Selfridges to pick up my second MAC brush - 239, which is an eyeshadow brush. I do have a set of Body Shop brushes which I bought when I used to work there and they are still pretty much in good condition but I wanted to experiment more with my eyeshadows and therefore thought I should invest in some new brushes. So far I have the MAC 217 (crease/outer v) and MAC 239 (eyeshadow). I do have one or two brushes left on my MAC list and they are 224 (tapered blending brush) and the 219 (pencil brush). So far MAC brushes have defineltly lived upto their name. Thumbs up :)

Oh yes, I also popped into John Lewis just to pick up some buttons to sew onto my gloves. For some reason ( I own three pairs of capped gloves) one button off each of them has just come loose. So I decided to just choose a set of the same buttons and sew them all on. They look really cute now.

I did have a good day out and as I have been so busy lately I haven't had time to just relax. The only thing I forgot was how it's such a mission to just walk down Oxford Street (people aka tourists walk SO slow!)

Peace out for now :)

Haulage!

Hey lovelies...

This is a post of all the things I have consumed within the past month or so...

* New Look Fairisle Pom Pom Hat and Scarf - I would never usually buy a matching set especially something like this as I don't like furry pom poms or fur but I tried them on and they were really cute, and I also needed a nice knitted scarf for this cold weather. The pattern is really nice too. Simple but cosy and cute.

*New Look Capped Gloves in Black - Whenever it comes around to this time of the year I always seem lose one glove! I chose these gloves as I thought they were cute and being black they go with pretty much everything.

* Peruvian Earrings - I bought these on eBay. The design on the circular piece of brown shell is so beautiful. Also I don't have these style of earrings in my collection plus they were pretty cheap at £4!

* Rimmel Nail Polish:

I Love Fruities in Black Cherry - a vampish purple which is slighly metallic. I tried it on yesterday but forgot to take a pic. It is perfect for this season.

60 Seconds in Europhia - a duotone mauvey/pinky brown metallic. I love it completely unique colour from any other colour I own. I tried it on and below is a pic :)






* MAC Eyeshadow Refill Pans:

Ricepaper - I had read a lot of other make up blogs and they seem to recommend 'Ricepaper' as a staple eyeshadow to your collection. I don't think I have ever noticed this colour in MAC. It is a light goldish colour which swatches quite lightly on my skintone. Anyways I took the plunge and bought as I felt that it would be a great brow highlighter.

Sushi Flower - This colour is so pretty and moreso perfect for Spring/Summer. It is a silky pink with slight reddish undertones. I fell in love with 'Sushi Flower' when a friend of my came to stay and we were discussing our makeup collections. She showed it to me and told me that she tends to use it with MAC Paradisco which I also own. (Another beautiful colour!)

* Urban Decay Book Of Shadows Vol 3 Palette - You are probably going to think that I am crazy. I bought this just over two months ago and I have not opened it to swatch the colours. Why?! I have just been incredibly busy with my two jobs, driving lessons and bellydancing to even find the time to sit down properly, swatch and experiment! I was hoping on getting around to it this week since I am on half-term but other jobs have gotten priority..over makeup...yes I know! Another reason was initially I was unsure as to exchange it for the Naked Palette but I have decided that I have pretty much half the colours in my makeup collection. Also it is a permanent palette which I can purchase whenever I feel it is needed. I will definetly do a post of it when I get around to opening it!!

* Laura Mercier Secret Concealer - I have just finished my MAC Moisturecover in NW20 which I use as an undereye concealer. It is a nice, lightweight and blendable concealer but I was thinking that during the colder months the skin around my eye area can get dry, so I was on the hunt for a more moisturising concealer. I went to Bobbi Brown and Benefit but found that the consistency was too heavy and then decided to try Laura Mercier as I already own a few products from her range. I matched myself to Shade No 2 (depending on the MUA I prefer to match my own shade as too many a time I have walked out with a shade that does not match my skintone!) It is a perfect match and I have been using it since and I do like it. It is lightweight and easy to blend and works wonderfully with the LM Tinted Moisturiser.

So that was my haulage...I do have a few other things I bought whilst I was on vacation in Paris in the summer from the Oh So Amazing Sephora..yes!! I love Sephora and I can't believe they closed down in the UK :( Oh well maybe that calls for another post on my purchases!

Well earlier this week I popped into Superdrug as I was hoping to purchase Barry M's new Nail Effects but I resisted! Hmm...it kind of looked a bit tacky to me, maybe in another colour it would look nice but I wasn't liking the results. I fell in love with two other products, a new Lip Paint in 150, a gorgeous pinky brown shade perfect for autumn and the Glitter Eye Crayon in Bronze ( I know glitter can look so childlike sometimes but it was sooo pretty!!)

I was a very good girl and resisted buying any makeup, partly because I was looking at my makeup storage and thinking I sometimes buy on impulse, wear it a few times and then it's back in my drawer :( So I am really trying to make good use of my make up. I did buy a face scrub and eye cream for £3 from Superdrug's Vitamin E range which I love. I adore the skin oil which I usually use in the evenings and I honestly wake up with softer and smoother skin. I bought a face scrub because I am not completely satisfied with the Neutrogena 'Deep Clean' one I am using at the moment...it's just not gritty enough and I feel as though I need a grittier and creamier one especially for these cold months. I bought their eye cream mainly because as previously mentioned the skin under my eyes is becoming a little dry again because of the weather, but i will be mixing this with my Soap and Glory Eye Brightening Moisture Serum to illuminate them too.

I have changed my make up routine slightly as of last week so I will hopefully write a blog and post some photo's :)

Peace and Love

My Makeup Routine.

Hey my lovelies,
Sorry for such a delayed post things have been quite busy with starting a second job...
This post will be discussing my current makeup routine - products that I love using at the moment!

So after I have carried out my cleanse, tone and moisturise ritual I apply:



LM Oil Free Foundation Primer (please not I do not wear foundation...ever). A MUA in Selfridges tried this product on me when she was matching me to a TM and I just loved how flawless and smooth my skin looked. I apply a pea sized amount to my face to moisturise and allow it to sink in.



MAC Moisturecover Concealer NW25 - I use this for underneath my eyes as I find that it is light enough and provides an excellent eye brightening effect.



MAC Select Concealer NC42 - I will dab this on any marks or blemishes and it really does provide excellent coverage.



LM Oil Free Tinted Moisturiser in Sand - The consistency of this TM is in between thin/thick. I personally think it is just right as with other TM's I have found them to be too light and of an ashy tone. I absolutely love the coverage it provides as well as how flawless my skin looks after application. (Also I have had this TM for almost a year and use it everyday and I am just coming to the end now!)



Kryolan Translucent Powder - I used to work in a makeup boutique in Covent Garden, 'B Never Too busy To Be Beautiful' and my colleague recommended me Kryolan aka Charles Fox Shop behind London Transport Museum. I usually swirl my face powder brush into the lid and tap of the excess powder which is enough to set the TM. It's light, colourless and sets the TM beautifully resulting in a radiant finish.



MAC Paint Pot in Painterly - When I ran out of my UDPP I decided I wanted to see what all the hype was about MAC Paintpots - Painterly in particular being a 'fab' eye primer. I have to say I do like it. It does keep my eyeshadow looking fresh all day but I have had for just over 6 months and it seems like it's going a little dry.



MAC Paint Pot in Rubenesque - I LOVE this colour. It's so pretty and really compliments my skin tone which is fair-medium. I apply this with my finger as I find that I can blend it easily than with a brush, the application can be patchy.




Shu Uemura Drawing Liner in Black - Another product I highly rate. It is super smooth and a really intense black which glides on beautifully. I apply this with a fine tipped eyeliner brush I bought from the GOSH range in Superdrug.



Body Shop Eyelash Curler - I HAVE to curl my lashes and I really notice the difference when I don't. I can't compare as I have only used the Body Shop Eyelash Curler but it really is worth the investment :)



UD Big Fatty Mascara - I have been reaching out for this mascara at the moment. It delivers great colour, volume and curls wonderfully. I was a bit hmmm... about this mascara at first but I figured that it was how I applied it. Technique is so important!



UD 24/7 Glide On Eyeliner - Depending on my mood/outfit I'll reach for an UD 24/7 Glide on Eyeliner usually in a bright colour but lately I have been using Zero.



Nars Blush in Madly - This has definetly been my staple blusher for the past year. It is such a lovely colour - pinky brown and brightens up my complexion without a doubt. I love my blusher!!






Rimmel Lipstick in Foxy or Nude Delight - Again depending on my makeup/outfit I have been reaching for Rimmel's Lipstick in Foxy quite a bit and I love it. Especially if my eye makeup is neutral - a slick of Foxy looks lovely. If I wear colours on my eyes then I tend to use Nude Delight which is gorgeous!

I am so glad I have finally gotten around to completing this post. These are the products that I have been using pretty much for the past year. I do use other products in my makeup collection too but these are the ones I reach for mainly. Although I do have a feeling that now that colder months are here I will be changing my makeup routine - will keep you all posted though :)

*Please note that all photo's have been taken from google as I can't find my camera lead :( Hopefully will turn up soon!*

Peace and love,