Top 5 Products for Glowing Winter Skin

Ack, doesn't Winter really take it out of your skin?! It seems that, every year, as soon as the air gets colder and the wind picks up a bit, my skin begins to turn to stone. Dull, rough skin isn't a good look in any weather and I refuse to spend the festive party season looking and feeling like sandpaper so I've done something about it. Next week I'll be sharing with you my ultimate winter skincare picks, but today I'm feeling all festive so I thought I'd share with you 5 favourite products of mine for a glowing winter complexion, for face and body. 

Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads

Words cannot express my everlasting love for this product. I've been using it since it first launched. This is an exfoliating product designed to even out the skin's texture as well as brighten skin tone. I tend to pair it with my Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant a couple of times a week to really smooth things over but, after cleansing, I always swoosh one of these badboys around my face before toning, moisturising and applying makeup. Makes for a super smooth base. 

Superdrug Vitamin E Sugar & Oil Scrub

Superdrug's own branded products are regular in my routine now, and have been ever since I became vegan (almost) 2 years ago. Their Vitamin E range is a particular favourite of mine. In the past I've stuck religiously to Soap & Glory scrubs, and I still do use them, but this is a fantastic budget option. It's grainy, silky and really gets the job done. My skin feels glorious after I've used it and it really helps buff away that nasty, dull layer to make way for...

Tan Organic Self Tanning Oil*

New favourite fake tan alert! Confession; I've had this product for ages, but never actually got around to using it regularly until the last couple of months, due to a seriously busy year of exams, graduations and moving house. This product just refuses to streak... ever. It's an oil so it smooths on really easily and gets into all those awkward bits with little effort. It's also really quick to sink in. It's made up of a blend of organic, eco-certified oils and gives a wonderful subtle glow after a single application. Totally buildable though, if you desire a deeper colour. For me, it just takes off that pasty winter tinge. Usually I'd prefer a more olive toned product, while this one is more gold, but I find that nowadays I don't desire such a deep colour. Perhaps I'm getting old. 

GOSH Cosmetics Giant Sun Powder

I'd be nothing without this huge compact. Can you believe that I've managed to use one up already? My favourite way to use it is to dust it over my shoulders, chest and legs (if I've dared to expose my pins, that is) ready for a night out. Great for when you haven't had time to tan and gives off a lovely, subtle shimmer. I also like to use it on my cheeks if I'm going for a more bronzed look (which is usually the case for me, I love my gold and brown tones). On darker skintones it would also make a brilliant highlight. 

Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer

I'm sooooo late to the Too Faced party. I've heard cruelty-free bloggers across the board rave about this bronzer so I gave in a purchased it a couple of weeks ago. No word of a lie, I've used it almost every day since (well, the days I've dared brave the weather and venture outside, that is). It's the most amazing, blendable contour shade but it's also great for dusting over foundation and powder for a deeper colour. Because it's matte, its lovely for daytime wear, when you don't really want too much of a shimmer. My guess is I'm preaching to the converted here so I'll leave it there. 

For a more thorough round-up of my Winter skincare essentials, stay tuned for next week's post. With everyone gearing up for the Christmas party season, I thought we could all use some extra glow this week. I also wanted to officially give the finger to this nasty stormy weather we're currently having in the UK. Desmond can officially do one. My skin is armed and ready! 

What are your top products for the perfect winter glow? Do you reach for the bronze when the weather gets rough?

A Few Daily Beauty Essentials

Happy Weekend Everyone! 

Whilst I was streamlining my makeup bag the other day I got to considering what my absolute essential beauty items are and which products I am constantly pulling out every day, regardless of where I'm going. I must admit, I don't wear makeup every single day. Now that I'm self-employed and working mostly from home, I'm not constantly showing my face off to the world. Still, when I do venture out I definitely have my favourite go-to products, so I thought I'd share them with you. 

Superdrug B. Pure Micellar Water 

I first reviewed this product last year (check it out) and it's become an essential part of my daily routine. It freshens my face in the morning and does a great job of removing makeup at night. At night I'll use it alongside another, more intensive, cleanser such as my beloved Elemis Lime Blossom Cleanser or, more recently, Superdrug Vitamin E Hot Cloth Cleanser (more on that in a future post.) It's reasonably priced and super-handy and it's always on special offer.

Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner*

I never used to understand the purpose of toners, but I wouldn't be without one now, especially as we move into summer. It's been a revelation! I'm currently using this multi-active toner by Dermalogica and I love how it enhances the performance of my moisturiser. I'm not going to say too much as I'd really like to do a full review of this at some point. I also adore Elemis' Lavender Toner, but this one definitely gives it a run for its money. 

Amie Skincare Hydrating Daily Moisturiser

I cannot praise this product enough. At the moment I'm using it day and night, despite it being a day cream. As a rule, I have combination skin, however, I have hydration issues in some areas and this cream offers instant relief. I love it under makeup and it leaves my skin feeling so smooth. I'm a huge fan of Amie products as they are BUAV approved cruelty-free and almost all of their products are free of animal ingredients. 

Illamasqua Skinbase Foundation - Shade 9

I tend to use high-end foundations sparingly due to budget issues (sigh) but, during the summertime, I find that a lot of drugstore foundations just can't stand the heat so I have repurchased this old favourite. I love Skinbase because you can get an exact match due to the extensive shade range. It also has similar properties to a BB cream so you get a lovely coverage without having to use a lot of product. Exactly what I need now that the weather is hotting up a bit. I've also gone a shade darker, because tan. 

Superdrug B. Blusher - Golden Peach

I think it's pretty obvious (despite it being out of focus - fail) that I've got a crush on this product - I've hit pan! You'll find this on my cheeks most days at the moment, whether it be nipping to the shops or on a night out. I find it very similar to my old favourite MAC Melba (but with a touch of added sparkle). I need to try more from the B. makeup range. I'm a huge fan of their skincare. 

OCC Lip Tars - Interlace and Hush

I'll confess something to you now... I am still using up a lot of my old, pre-vegan lipsticks. I refuse to waste makeup and I have enough to open a store. However, for daily wear I prefer to use something that is 100% cruelty-free and OCC Lip Tars are the best around in my opinion. They last all day with minimal retouches. On the surface these shades may look identical but Hush (bottom) has a lovely, dusky pink hue to it, whereas Interlace (top) is just a great all-round peachy nude. I'm developing a Lip-Tar habit. I get mine from cutECOsmetics.co.uk.

MUA Cosmetics Matte Palette

I praised this palette in my previous post. Luckily the one pictured here was a more recent repurchase (my previous palette was too 'loved' to be photographed.) It's just the most perfect palette for neutral, everyday looks, but also gives a decent smokey eye should the need arise. I keep a spare at my parents house as well in case of emergencies. At £4 it's an absolute essential for me. 

GOSH Amazing Length & Build Mascara

Y'know, it's pretty difficult to come by a decent, cruelty-free drugstore mascara, mainly because there are only a few to choose from. This is the only one in the GOSH range that is suitable for vegans. Luckily I really rather love it. Most of the time I don't go for liner if it's just a normal day but, if I'm feeling fancy or have somewhere to go, I'll team this with my Illamasqua Precision Ink. 

Those are my most-loved, can't-live-without products. Don't get me wrong, I love to switch it up depending on my outfit or where I'm going on a particular day, but everyone has those fail-safe products that they fall back on time and time again. I will probably follow this post up with an everyday FOTD-type post (once I grow a pair and get my eyebrows sorted out). 

What are your everyday beauty essentials? 

MUA Cosmetics Spring Break Palette

The irony is not lost on me that I'm writing a blog post about Spring/Summer makeup shades whilst huddled under a blanket listening to the wind howl outside my window but I've been desperate for ages to share this pretty Spring eyeshadow palette by MUA Cosmetics* with you. I've had it for a little while but wanted to wait until I was done with all the stress of my final year of Uni so that I could give it my full attention. So, without further ado, here's my thoughts on the MUA Spring Break Palette....

MUA have delivered us safely away from Winter with this shimmering mix of neutrals, pinks and soft greens. Normally I would be a little wary of an all-shimmer palette (shimmer just isn't my bag for day-to-day wear) but these shades are all extremely wearable. My go-to palette at the moment is MUA's Matte Palette. I absolutely swear by it. However, when the sun finally decides to put it's hat on and keep it on I'm definitely going to incorporate more of these colours. 

As regular readers might have gathered, I'm a sucker for neutral shades so this palette was always going to be a winner for me. In some ways it's not dissimilar from MUA classics such as the Heaven & Earth palette, but the additional pink hues, pastels and purples definitely justify having both. Surprisingly though, it is the golds, pinks and shimmering khakis in this palette that have got me the most excited. Looks like I'm going to be easing out of my comfort zone. I'm definitely going to make the effort to try the pastel green shades in the palette. 

My top 3 shades from the palette are Amber (a shimmering gold/bronze), Posy (a slightly deeper dusky pink with a hint of shimmer) and Gold Khaki (exactly how it sounds). The texture and finish of these shades is exactly what I've come to expect from MUA over the years; soft and easily blended. For a budget palette it really is a pleasure to use. 

Image Credit - MUA Cosmetics

Thought I'd include this new-season 'Barely There' lipstick by MUA for a good measure, although it really was a bit of a disaster on me. I think you'd have to be pretty porcelain-skinned for this to be flattering. It's a shame though as it's so beautiful in the tube. It also contains beeswax, making it a no-no for me, as a vegan. At £1 though, it may be well worth a try for others, especially paler ladies. 

I will probably attempt an eye look post featuring this palette over the Summer, once I'm a bit more tan and can pull off a little extra shimmer. Now that I'm getting myself organised and planning more posts in advance I hope to do a full range of Summer beauty posts over the coming weeks. 

The Spring Break palette retails for £4. 

MUA products are available in Superdrug stores or online at

muastore.co.uk

What are your go-to shades for Spring? 

MUA Luxe Velvet Lip Lacquer

Matte lips are EVERYWHERE on the high street at the moment! It seems that every drugstore brand has taken their cue from Limecrime and brought out their own take on the velvet, matte lip. I'm a huge fan of the Limecrime Velvetines, however, my bank account really isn't. Imagine my joy one afternoon, mooching around in Superdrug (a regular occurrence for me) and spotting the MUA Luxe Velvet Lip Lacquers on 3 for 2! After a little studying of ingredients, I deemed them vegan friendly and picked up one of each shade they had in stock...

These really are a great budget option if you're looking for a long-lasting matte lip. Very easy to apply and, once dry, perfectly matte. The longevity is fantastic as well. One tip though... I did find that after several hours, it did become a little 'grainy' on my lips but this was fixed by a quick wipe with a tissue followed by a touch up. The swatches below might as well have been a tattoo. It took washing up liquid and a scourer to shift those badboys once they had dried! As you'll see, the pigmentation is fantastic and the colours range from raspberry red, to hot pink, to nude. There's even a Limecrime dupe in there (more on that in a future comparison post).

  L-R: Halcyon, Atomic, Reckless, Funk

The only lip swatch I did was for Halcyon, which is a nude shade that can't seem to decide whether it is pink or peachy in tone. Depends on the light I suppose. It's definitely the one I've been wearing most and is extremely versatile. I think if I'd tried to lip swatch them all, my lips would have been raw. They really do take some removing! This isn't even all of the shades. There are nine in total (really rather gutted I haven't been able to get my hands on the purple shade). 

These lip colours are great for summer as you can just apply it and forget about it for hours and because they're matte, they're not going to melt off your lips at the faintest hint of heat. I'd say they're worth every penny of the £3 price tag and a very worthy budget competitor for the higher end versions. 

Check out the full shade range and shop MUA online at
muastore.co.uk

Holiday Beauty Favourites: June 2014

I'm completely failing as a blogger just lately aren't I...

I guess there isn't a simple explanation for my absence. I'm spending so much time on blogging and social media for work that I've let myself slip a little. Being painfully skint really doesn't help matters either but I'm doing my best! Hopefully I can get back to a more regular posting shedule once my internship is over and I can focus more on personal projects. 

I've spent the last 10 days, however, taking a well deserved break in the Peak District with my family. I suppose my parents' house isn't really the most exotic and exciting of destinations but to me it was definitely a holiday. I spent a lot of time out in the sunshine, strolling along the river and eating ALL of the food (for a taste of my holiday food diary see my other blog). I thought I'd pop this post up today in honour of a few lovely products that I've really enjoyed while I've been away.

Una Brennan Super Facialist: Neroli Firming Cleanser

I've been using this product on and off for a little while and this is my second tube. If I'm honest its never been my No1 go-to cleanser and I've tended to favour Elemis and my Micellar waters over it in the past but, for some reason, it's been a hero product this last week and a half. It smells so fresh, gets rid of makeup and leaves my skin feeling really clean and supple. I think a full review will be on the cards soon. 

GOSH  Pressed Powder in Warm Sand

My other powder compact managed to get smashed during the journey to Derbyshire so this was an emergency Superdrug purchase on arrival, but one I've been very impressed with. I don't usually rave too much about powders as I don't always use them and find them a bit unremarkable but this one has a lovely, soft finish and sets my foundation really well. 

Sleek Powder Blush in Life's a Peach

This blush is well established on this blog but, for some reason, it got a bit lost during my last house move and I only found it again recently so thought I'd take it away with me. It gives the most gorgeous, warm, peachy glow which is perfect for sunshiny days. 

MUA Velvet Touch Lip Lacquer in Halcyon

I'm loving the recent trend for matte lip colours and you really can't go wrong with the MUA offering at £3! I actually have ALL of the shades (which will be coming to you in a swatchfest post very soon). I find this particular shade extremely versatile and a great day-to-night colour. 

Lavera Cosmetics Quattro Eyeshadow in 01 Oriental Brown

I only discovered that Lavera did cosmetics very recently. I'd seen their skincare in Holland & Barrett but wasn't aware of them other than that. Their range is organic and gluten-free. This palette is a great combo to take away on holiday as you can go as subtle or as smokey as you like. I especially love the deep green shade. 

Superdrug Solait Wear Off Bronzing Mousse (Medium/Dark)

Couldn't not include a couple of Superdrug staples, could I. I love their Solait tanning lotion so I grabbed this mousse version to take away with me as it said it was longer lasting. I only had to apply it twice over the course of the week and it dried really evenly. Great colour pay-off too so I'd definitely recommend this as an affordable product to top up your holiday tan. 

Superdrug Caring Coconut and Sweet Almond Shampoo/Conditioner (Dry Hair)

I hate coconutty scented things as a rule. Hate hate HATE! My heart sank when I found that Superdrug's offering for dry hair was a coconut scent but.... guess what.... It's really not all that bad! The almond seems to bring it down a bit. This was another emergency purchase as I arrived at my parents' to find that I didn't have any shampoo there (I usually leave some there so I don't have to cart it around in my suitcase). It did leave my hair lovely and soft with a shine to it. 

*****

Those were a handful of products that I've loved while I've been away. It's nice to be able to mix old favourites with new finds and rediscover products that I hadn't appreciated fully until now. 

What are your holiday beauty staples?? 

OCC Lip Tar: Divine

Today is a happy happy day!

After admiring them for so long but never actually getting round to actually ORDERING some, I've finally got my hands on some OCC Lip Tars! They were my little post-exams treat. I haven't bought any new lipsticks since I went Vegan as I find it a bit of a minefield with searching ingredients and can't always tell what's legit and what isn't, but then I was reminded that OCC are completely cruelty free AND vegan and my mind was made up. I needed summer lip colours and I needed them NOW! I ordered a couple of shades but I'm here today to tell you about Divine...

Believe me when I say that these photos don't do this colour justice. It's more in-your-face in the flesh, but not too much so. It's a gorgeous mid-toned summer pink with just a hint of a coral touch to it. I had already heard tales of the pigmentation of the Lip Tars and they were definitely accurate. You only need the slightest blob on the end of the brush for a single application. As someone who isn't used to applying lippy using a brush, it took a little getting used to but I love it. 

As I said before, this colour seems to have mellowed in front of my camera lens. It is a little brighter in the flesh. Quite similar to MAC Viva Glam Nicki, but slightly more peachy. It will be perfect with a summer tan or toned down by mixing with a nude shade for more everyday wear (which I do happen to have and will be featuring in a future post). I'm a bit obsessed with it. I'm finding the Lip Tars to be pretty long lasting too. They take a couple of minutes to truly dry properly but, after that, you're good for a few hours. The finish has a slight sheen to it but isn't glossy. I'll be interested to try their newer matte shades at some point as well. 

I purchased my Lip Tars at cocktailcosmetics.co.uk where they retail for £11.95 each. They also stock a range of OCC brushes, pigments and other cosmetics (all vegan and cruelty free, cos that's how OCC roll). Considering how little product you need, I think the Lip Tars are extremely good value for money. I must have them ALL!

What are your favourite Lip Tar shades?? Are you a fan?? What's your perfect Summer lip colour??

Superdry Pop Eyes Palette

Spring has almost sprung!! We've had some glorious sunshine over the last few says in South East London so I thought I'd bring out this little beauty of an eye palette by Superdry Beauty to get you all into the colourful, Spring-y frame of mind. I've been holding off on this one for obvious reasons... I haven't been able to bring myself to swatch it due to its prettiness and have been using it as an ornament for the last fortnight. Superdry definitely know how to package their cosmetics. 

Superdry Beauty Professional Pop Eyes Palette* - £15 superdry.com

This eye-catching polkadotty palette consists of 9 shades in a combination of shimmer and matte finishes. It is a great selection for Spring with eye catching brights, neutral greys and subtle yellow/gold tones. I haven't reviewed an eye palette in ages. In fact, I haven't worn much eyeshadow at all during the winter months so now is the perfect time to give me a kick up the backside and take me into next season. 

Top Row L-R 

Thistle, Navajo White, Asphalt, Shocking Pink, Product Orange.

Bottom Row L-R

Shallow Teal, Blue Smoke, Sunflower, Somber Grey.

These shadows have a lovely texture! Really buttery and soft, with the exception of Product Orange which I had a bit of a job to build up. The pigmentation is also generally very good. The polkadot detailing doesn't really alter the shades in any way and is gone with the first brush stroke (sad face) but the colours themselves really are beautiful. My initial favourites on first impressions are Thistle, Shallow Teal and Blue Smoke and I'm sure that Navajo White will bring a gorgeous highlight to any look created from these shades. I'm going to try using a pop of colour on my lower lash line whilst keeping the upper lid fairly neutral. I feel a Spring eye makeup post coming on in the near future!

I was pleasantly surprised by the price of this palette. I was expecting it to be more but I think £15 for these 9 shadows is entirely reasonable and I'd be happy to pay that for it. Superdry Beauty packaging is really quirky and different and their products would all make great gifts for anyone who loves 'pink and quirky'. I've been really impressed with all of the Superdry Beauty products I've tried recently (if you missed my previous Valentine's Day makeup post featuring Superdry click Here).

Do you rate Superdry Beauty?? Do you go mad for Spring Brights?? What looks would you create with this palette??

Valentine's Day Makeup with Superdry Beauty

There seems to be a LOT of pink going on on this blog of late. Today's post is no exception. I've got my hands on some gorgeous Valentine's Day themed items by Superdry Beauty and, seen as though I haven't shown my face on the blog in a while, I thought I'd put together a Valentine's makeup look to share with you. I've had so much fun playing with all these amazing products. 

Products I used...

Superdry Beauty Powder Blush - Rapture Pink*

Superdry Beauty Professional Lip Paint - Electric Pink*

Superdry Beauty Professional Volumising Mascara - Jet Black*

I also received the cutest makeup bag I've ever seen in my life (Valentine's themed or otherwise) and a great size kabuki-style face brush. I'm such a fan of the Superdry Beauty packaging and the products are really rather good! Back in September I posted about my Bento Beauty Box by Superdry which was every bit as cute and quirky.

I wanted to create a really simple, soft look for Valentine's Day, but also one that is super wearable for the upcoming Spring season. The blush really is perfect for that as it gives a really subtle pink flush to the cheeks. I had to build it up a little on myself as I'm quite medium-skinned but this would be an ideal shade for fair skins. I love the colour.

Croyde Crew Neck Cable Knit* - £44.99 Superdry (Link)

All emphasis with this look was on the lips. Electric Pink really is the star of the show. As a result I kept my eye makeup almost non existent and opted for just the Superdry Volumising Mascara. It's definitely more of a daytime look but all you'd need would be a slick of eyeliner and a dusting of a neutral eyeshadow to take it into the evening. That pink lippy though.... The shade is gorgeous and extremely wearable. The formula is hydrating and really comfortable to wear.

And, finally, I can't not mention this beautiful cable knit. It's the jewel of my Spring wardrobe so far! Perfect for all this in-betweeny weather we've been having. I'm going to absolutely live in it. I've been wearing it with my acid wash Topshop Joni jeans today but can't wait to dress it up with a black skirt, opaques and Chelsea boots.

You can browse the full range of Superdry Beauty Products at superdry.com.
 They have a fantastic range including makeup, nail polish and a range of mirrors and nail tools to go with them. I'm definitely a fan. I have more Superdry Beauty to share with you in the run up to Spring.

Have you discovered Superdry Beauty yet?? What are your favourite products?? Does Valentine's Day make you think pink??

NEW: Avon Continuous Care Lipstick

As promised, some more Avon loveliness today. This time I've been playing around with their NEW Continuous Care lipsticks. I've been experimenting more with darker lipstick shades during the Winter months and was thrilled when I received these two shades to try. Continuous Care is a new range by Avon formulated with collagen, Vitamin E and added SPF to create the ultimate in hydrating lipsticks which continue to care for your lips even after you've taken it off!

Avon Continuous Care Lipsticks in Coffee Creme* and Smooth Plum* - £5

I love both of these shades. Coffee Creme is very similar to my beloved Rodial Glamstick in Thrill (a favourite from last year). Smooth Plum seems to be a dupe for MAC Rebel, but I'll have to get back to you on that as I haven't examined them closely yet. These lipsticks are seriously creamy and you can really feel the conditioning power right straight away from the application which is brilliant, considering the current weather conditions (urgh). Finish-wise the formula gives off a lovely, glossy shine and is very photogenic. It almost has a plumping effect. 

(apologies for the fuzzy lip swatches, my DSLR battery died and I had to take them on my iPhone)

The pigmentation of these colours is really great and they didn't take much building. The texture is soft and easy to apply. In terms of longevity, I was pleased that the colours seemed to linger on the lips, even after the sheen has started to wear. To be honest though, Smooth Plum is a shade that I'd want to touch up regularly anyway. Coffee Creme is a great shade for if you're thinking of dabbling more into darker lip colours. It's a 'safe' nude shade, but dark enough to be noticeable. Smooth Plum is pretty full on in the 'glam' stakes and is truly a gorgeous colour. Perfect statement shade for a night out or special occasion to attract a bit of attention. Continuous Care as a whole includes 10 shades and there's something for everyone. From soft, baby pinks to corals to reds to.... well... Smooth Plum. It's definitely the star of the show for me. Some great shade inspiration for Spring/Summer too!

I'd highly recommend taking a browse through Avon's online brochure. These lipsticks are currently available for a special price of £5 (will eventually be £8) so get in there quick if you want them. They're worth every penny!

Browse the full shade range at www.avon.uk.com

TLC's Stars of 2013: Makeup

Time for the final installment of my Stars of 2013 Trilogy. I've already done Skincare and Haircare... Now onto the Makeup! I'm not gonna lie, 2013 wasn't a spectacular year for me in terms of buying makeup. I didn't go crazy buying lipsticks and eyeshadow palettes like I did in 2012. In fact, I didn't even WEAR as much lipstick and eyeshadow in general compared to previous years. There are a few clear Stars for the year though. Here's a selection of my favourites...

NARS Sheer Glow Foundation - Santa Fe

2013 was definitely the year I set out to find my Holy Grail Foundation. In fact, I found a couple. My drugstore choice (seriously, I will never purchase another drugstore foundation ever again) was definitely Bourjois Healthy Mix, but my ultimate favourite high end foundation product for the year has to be Sheer Glow. I had high expectations for it from the start and it certainly lived up to the hype. Due to the price, I've always kept it reserved for more special occasions than everyday wear but I love the texture, the finish and how it feels on my skin. WINNER!!

DHC Perfect Pro Liquid Eyeliner* in Black - dhcuk.co.uk

Last year was definitely a year of Holy Grail product finds for me. This one found ME! You'll notice that I haven't included any eyeshadow products in this year's favourites and that is because I've mainly opted for bold liner, lashings of mascara and a neutral lip. This liner is seriously the easiest to control, picks up a TON of product (gives a good coat on both eyes without having to double dip), really well pigmented and produces a clean black line. I will NEVER be without this product again. Ever! DHC were a new brand discovery for me in 2013 but I've been seriously impressed with their products. 

Benefit Hello Flawless Powder Cover-Up in Honey

This one was another event discovery, and one that I have since repurchased TWICE! I use it in a multitude of ways. It's fantastic on its own in the summer when you don't want a heavy liquid foundation on your skin (works really well with a BB cream too) while, in the Winter, a dusting over my regular foundation helps to set my makeup and keep it in place. It is also a good one to take in your bag on a night out for quick bathroom touch ups. Just a great all rounder. (This photo was taken when it was all new and shiny - the one I have now has hit pan and definitely not ready for its close up haha)

Rodial Glamstick in Thrill* - rodial.co.uk

I didn't go mad for bold lippy at all in 2013. There were a couple of exceptions, including MAC Rebel at Christmas, but I generally opted for neutrals and nudes. This particular lipstick has been my best friend during the colder months especially as it has amazing moisturising properties, almost like a lip butter. Of course, because it's Rodial it's really nourishing to the lips. The colour is neutral, but noticeable. Sadly, it's a little out of my price range and I'm not sure I'll be able to repurchase it any time soon but I've really loved it as a product. 

Benefit Dallas Boxed Powder

I'm not exaggerating when I say that I can't remember the last time I used a blush that WASN'T this one. I have worn this blush religiously ever since Autumn came knocking. It's my favourite of all the Benefit boxed powders (the runner up being Coralista in the Summer months). It's just a perfect, rustic shade that also adds a contoured effect with zero effort. I keep saying this but it is soooo underrated compared to other Benefit blushes and I don't feel it gets enough attention. I urge anyone to give it a go. It's such a versatile shade. 

Bourjois Twist Up The Volume Mascara* in Black
I've tried a few new mascaras this year but this is the one that I have stuck with. I am a huge fan of a lengthening mascara and it was love at first use with this one. I've never actually tried twisting it down and using the volumising wand. I don't really need thicker lashes. This post could so easily have turned into a Bourjois Appreciation Society Newsletter as I have thoroughly adored almost everything they have brought out this year. I can't wait to see what they have up their sleeves for 2014!

So that wraps up my Stars of 2013. It's taken the best part of a month to get them all out there but I really hope you've enjoyed having a peep at the stuff I loved the most last year. If you missed either of the other two editions of this series you can find my Skincare picks Here and my Haircare favourites Here. Time to work on finding some new favourites for 2014, although I won't be letting go of this little lot any time soon either.

What makeup products did you love last year?? Any brands in particular stand out for you?? Did you notice yourself favouring a particular makeup look like I did??

Christmas Lipstick Love: MAC Rebel

Last year's Christmas lipstick choice was a roaring success for me. I felt so festive rocking my Ruby Woo throughout last year's festivities. This year, however, I fancied something a bit darker and you all know I'm going a bit bonkers for darker berry shades this season. Then along comes Rebel.... 

I've always struggled with purple tones. I have no idea why because I have green eyes so (in theory) it should be a match made in heaven. Purples always seem to drain me somehow and the yellow tones in my skin always seem to overcompensate. However, after seeing several swatches online I knew I had to have Rebel (Satin). MAC's description of this shade was music to my ears. They define it as a midtonal cream plum which means that it should work with most skin tones, even mine! I was so convinced that I swept into Selfridges this week and bought it outright without even swatching it (which also had something to do with the fact that Selfo's MAC counter happened to be CRAMMED with people and I couldn't get anywhere near the lippy rack). 

I loooooooooove this lippy! It's a gorgeous deep berry purple shade with just enough red in it to cancel out the corpse-effect. It's also dark without being too dark (ie. my dad didn't tell me I looked like a Goth when I walked off the train wearing it this afternoon). My usual Satin finish grumble does apply here: It's not my favourite and I find it to be the dryest of the MAC finishes, but it gives good coverage and lasts a long time. I had to scrub this swatch off my arm with washing up liquid and a scourer! 

I can't wait to share my Christmas FOTD with you all! I plan to team Rebel with MAC Nightmoth pencil, just like I do with Ruby Woo (which will no doubt also be making a reappearance over the holidays). 

If you haven't found your perfect Holiday lip colour yet, don't despair! I've just had a nosey on the MAC Website and you still have until 3pm on Friday for guaranteed Christmas delivery! Get on there and have a nosey... Go on, it's CHRISTMAS!

www.maccosmetics.co.uk

What's your favourite Festive lip colour??

Bourjois Happy Light

This may quite possibly be one of the product launches of 2013 that got me the most excited. You all know I go BONKERS for Bourjois, especially their foundations. Healthy Mix has always been my go-to when it comes to drugstore foundation. However.... when I found out Bourjois were launching Happy Light with it's innovative formula, I almost fell over myself to get at it!

My Happy Light collection isn't actually complete yet. I have yet to pick up the primer but I suspect that curiosity may get the better of me and I am likely to go in search of the Mattifying version in the near future. I am lucky enough to own TWO shades of the Happy Light Foundation* and the concealer* to go with it. 

Here's what Bourjois have to say about the Formula...

- Translucent pigments selected for their perfect affinity with the skin.

- Concealing power that enhances the radiance of your complexion, concealing whilst being light in texture.

- Absorbs then reflects the light creating a radiant finish to the skin.

- 16hr hold.

- Ultra fine, soft powders that melt into the skin for a velvety feel.

Before I tell you what I think of the product, it is definitely worth mentioning that the foundation shades are a shade DARKER than those of Healthy Mix. So if, like me, you normally take a #53 in HM then you will need a #52 in Happy Light to get the same colour match. There are a total of 9 shades. 2 fair (Vanille), 4 medium (Beige) and 3 dark (Hale). I'm actually mixing Happy Light #52 and #53 at the moment as I'd felt for a little while that my #53 Healthy Mix wasn't quite dark enough (plus I've got a bit of fake tan on). I've swatched below to demonstrate the differences.....

Now.... the foundation itself.
I do really like it. It is a pleasure to apply and really does just meld into the skin with very little working in needed. I usually apply with my Sigma F80 or Real Techniques Stippling brush (depending on which one is clean that day haha). A couple of pumps does a whole face and I've been finishing it with Bourjois Java Rice Powder* to add a bit of extra radiance. This foundation photographs EXTREMELY well. It gives a velvety, soft focus effect. The only pictures I have of it so far are in false light so I haven't included one in this particular post, but plan to feature it in an upcoming Winter FOTD-type post I'm working on so you'll see it in all it's glory. I did feel that my skin didn't seem as hydrated as it does with Healthy Mix. It felt a little bit tight towards the end of the day. However, this was not reflected in the finish which stayed true and lasted well.

The concealer, although I haven't thoroughly road tested it yet, held up very well under my eyes the first time I tried it and compliments the foundation extremely well. It's only a tiny compact though so I'd imagine if you were using it every day you would run out quite quickly.

All of the Happy Light products Launched in October and are available NOW from all the usual Bourjois stockists such as Boots and Superdrug. You can also pick them up online via Boots, Superdrug, Amazon and very.co.uk

Happy Light Foundation RRP: £11.99
Concealer: £8.99
Serum Primers (each): £10.99

Do you go bonkers for Bourjois?? What is your ultimate drugstore foundation?? Will you be trying the Happy Light collection??