The Glamour Spring Beauty Edit Box

When I heard through the grapevine about the new Latest in Beauty 'Glamour Spring Edit' box - I knew it would be a good'un.  With contents totalling a whopping £99, there was bound to be some beauty gems in there - and I wasn't wrong.  There's definitely some big names in the Spring box - Moroccan Oil, Nuxe, Kiko and Revlon to name a few.  It's safe to say that I couldn't wait to get my mitts into this one...

Packaged in a pastel coloured box and wrapped in dotted tissue, the Spring Edit box  is a pastel, girly treat containing 9 different products. Here's what I received in my box:

• Model Co Creme Rouge Cheek & Lips in Just Peachy
• Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask - 75ml
• Beauty UK High Brow Kit
• Rimmel Oh My Gloss! Lip Gloss in 'Snog'
• Revlon Colorstay Nail Enamel in 'Full House'
• Revlon Colorstay Gel Envy Diamond Top Coat
• Nuxe Creme Fraiche De Beaute Mask, 50ml
• Kiko Long Lasting Eyeshadow Stick in 07
• Elie Saab L'eau Couture Perfume sample

A delightful mix of hair, makeup, skin and nail goodies I'm sure you'll all agree! The box also comes with a 12 month subscription to Glamour magazine discounted by 62%...all for £16.99*.  I have to say I reckon this might be the best Latest in Beauty box yet... I've bought a few of them in the past and I've never been disappointed but this one really does top the mark for me!  As far as beauty boxes go - Latest in Beauty have to be my 'go to'... Yes, you loose the element of surprise slightly but you're never left feeling disheartened and there's always a fabulous variety of products to try.  I often check the website to see what's coming up...

I won't go into detail of each individual product as I'm still working my way through trying and testing all of them - let's face it, there's a lot to get through (i predict there might be a couple popping up in a monthly favourites sometime soon...) Personal favourites so far have to be the ModelCo Creme Cheek and Lip tint in 'Just Peachy'.  It's a stunning bright coral-red perfect for the summertime - I reckon this will be a holiday favourite for me.  As I'm thinking of booking a holiday abroad soon I'm sure I'll get plenty of use from this over the next few months.  I love a good versatile product too so the fact that it works well on the lips to is a nice fruity bonus!  

I'm also a fan of the Rimmel 'Oh My Gloss' lipgloss.  It's so smooth and glides onto the lips easily with next to no stickiness at all. I love the shade as it pairs well with my '90s' nude lipstick shades - I love it over Mac's Velvet Teddy at the moment! It just adds a bit of dimension and the pink hue is really flattering.

The Moroccan Oil Intense Hydration mask is also a winner in my books.  I love a good hair product and I'm always reaching for deep conditioners and masks like this one - I'd like to do a full review of this soon so for now I shall keep it short and sweet - but it's made for a very welcome addition to my hair cupboard.  I'm also super excited about the Nuxe Creme Fraiche De Beaute Mask. I've heard amazing things about this face mask, and after reading a few reviews of this box it's clear that it's been the star of the show. I can't wait to see what it does for my skin - I've been burning the candle at both ends just recently so to say it could do with a bit of pampering is an understatement...

I was also chuffed to see Kiko make an appearance in this box - i've always wanted to try something from the brand so this lovely champagne toned eyeshadow stick will make for a nice introduction. As for the other products, the BeautyUK eyebrow palette is a must-have in my collection. I actually already have this from a past beauty box but I've got a tonne of use out of it so it's nice to have back-up ready and waiting.  The Revlon polishes are a lovely addition too - I particularly like the blue shade as I think it's going to look amazing with tanned skin through summer.

Overall, I'm so happy with this box.  There's not a single thing in there I wouldn't use and I think it's been the best LIB box so far for me.  The mix of products is really well thought through and I like that the shades of the products are quite neutral - meaning i'll get plenty of use from them on a daily basis.  You can grab the Glamour Spring Beauty Edit box on the Latest in Beauty website here for £16.99*.

Have you got your mitts on this box yet? What was your favourite product?

Beauty Haul | Mac, Zoeva, Stila & Pixi

It's been ages since I posted a beauty haul over on the bloggles.  I must admit I've been quite controlled with the ol' purse strings over the past few months even though I'm waaayy overdue a little splurge, but I still seem to have accumulated a few bits and bobs (I'm a beauty addict after all).  On a recent weekend away in Liverpool/Chester, me and the boy ended up having a mooch around the Cheshire Oaks shopping outlet.  I'm not sure if any of you have ever been (really recommend!) but I was very much a fat kid in a sweet shop around the beauty store they have there.  They had lots of discounted beauty goodies including the likes of Mac, Bobbi Brown and Smashbox to name a few - and I have to say I really did have to restrain myself.  I think i deserve a pat on the back as I only walked away with a couple of Mac bits but let's just say - if I hadn't have had a little inward chat with myself about my bank balance, the results could have been disastrous! Anyway, here's some of the newest additions to my makeup stash this month...

Mac // Pro Powder Blush Pan in "Taupe' // Link

I'm swiftly running out of my beloved Illamasqua Contour palette and have been after a similar shade of blush for a while now.  I saw Mac's Taupe and knew it would be the perfect replacement. Again, I picked this up cheaper than the £15.00 it costs normally so it was a complete bargain!  It's a gorgeous contour colour which is just perfect for carving out those cheekbones and I know I'll get a tonne of use from it.

Mac // Eyeshadow in 'Woodwinked' // Link

Why on earth I haven't owned this shade before now I will never know - but Woodwinked is such a cult beauty blogger favourite and I'm chuffed to bits to finally have it in my collection.  I bought this to create a brown smokey eye look with on a recent evening out in Liverpool and it's so perfect. It's a lovely antique gold sort of shade which brings so much definition to the eye area.

Mac // Pro Longwear Paint Pot in 'Groundwork' // Link

I got this for £10 instead of the usual £15.50 at Cheshire Oaks.  I have to say it's never really been a main item on my wish list but after a quick swatch, I knew I had to have it in my life.  It's a gorgeous neutral beige/taupe colour with just a hint of sheen and is the perfect shade for everyday wear.  I've used this non-stop since I got it and I can just tell I'm going to get a tonne of wear from it.  It's so versatile too as it can be worn completely on its own or as a base for a smokey eye or to keep powder shadows locked in place for longer - which is exactly why I love the Mac paint pots, they're so long-lasting!  It's great to use on days I'm at work as it's so quick and easy to apply - I don't even need a brush as all it takes is a quick smudge/blend motion across the eyelid and I'm sorted for the whole day. Love it!

Zoeva // Luxe Petit Crease Brush // Link

I've had my eye on this brush for ages now.  It's perfect for creating precise definition in the crease of the eye and it blends eyeshadow like a dream.  It's so soft and easy to use.  The Zoeva brushes have received quite a lot of praise for a while now and I can totally see why - I really can't wait to purchase a set of them! I love the fact that each individual brush you buy comes in a little pouch too - so handy if you're taking them away with you on holiday.

Stila Smudge Sticks in 'Stringray' & 'Lionfish' // Link

After my smudge stick in 'Damsel' finally died a death, I set about finding a replacement as I simply cannot live without it.  It's more or less impossible to find the shade in the UK unless you purchase the 'In the Light' palette which is how i discovered it in the first place.  'Lionfish' seemed the closest match - a lovely dark brown with a hint of gold sheen running through it.  Usually I prefer a matte finish to my liners but to be honest, you can hardly see the shimmer in it once applied so it works really well for me and I'm totally in love with it.  I also picked up 'Stringray' - the matte black shade - as I'm partial to a black liner when I'm going for the smokey eye look.  I really do love the Stila smudge sticks - if you're after an eyeliner which doesn't fade, bleed or make you resemble a panda at the end of a long day then I really recommend giving them a whirl.

Pixi // Endless Silky Eye Pen in 'Black Cocoa'  // Link

Like i said previously, I've been on the hunt for a replacement for Stila's Smudge Stick in 'Damsel'. Pixi is by far the closest match I've found - it's a beautiful deep brown/black shade.  I love shades like these for the daytime as it's just slightly less harsh than black and seems to work better with my skin tone.  It's the first time I've tried these Pixi liners and I have to say I'm completely hooked! They're so incredibly soft and smooth to apply - super pigmented and really long-lasting.  They resist smudging really well too.  Worth every penny - I'll definitely repurchase.

Swatches L-R //  Mac Groundwork // Mac Taupe Blush // Mac Woodwinked  // Stila 'Lionfish' // Stila 'Stingray' // Pixi 'Black Cocoa'

So there we have it - just a few little treats I've picked up this month. The best purchase by far has to be Mac's 'Groundwork' - it's one of those products that doesn't look much in the pan but once you have it, you question how you ever lived without it! 

Have you tried and loved any of these products?

Topshop Makeup at Feel Unique | A Few New Favourites...

I've always been fond of Topshop Makeup.  I reckon part of it is down to their quirky, monochrome packaging (such a design geek) but I've definitely found a few gems since they launched their cosmetics a few years back now - I really do think they hit the nail on the head when it comes to affordable, unique and on-trend makeup.  They're constantly updating their range and whenever I'm in town I always pop in to have a little nosey as to what's new.  However, as I no longer work in the town centre, I don't get as many chances to pop in for a browse.  This is why I was a very very happy bunny to discover that the Topshop Makeup range is now stocked on FeelUnique - as I don't get as many chances to shop in town anymore, it's very handy for me to be able to stock up my beauty bits online! I was lucky enough to get my mitts on some of their new additions just recently and I have to say, I've found a couple of new favourites... Without further ado, I'll give you the low-down on some of the latest Toppyshoppy offerings...

Topshop Beauty | The Concealer Palette | £12.00* | Link

I love concealer palettes like this.  I find them very handy to pop into my handbag or to take away with me thanks to the variety of shades all in one place, but I rarely find one that ticks all my boxes - good quality packaging, a creamy consistency with a good bit of staying power and a good mix of shades for different purposes.  I've tried my fair share (Soap & Glory, Elf and Makeup Altier Paris to name a few) but Topshop's version has to be my favourite - hands down. The palette contains 3 shades of creamy concealers as well as a handy setting powder and mirror all contained in a nicely designed, slim case.  The concealers are all super creamy and provide such good coverage.  The middle shade is absolutely perfect for covering dark circles of a morning - the peachy undertone helps to cancel out dull tones and the thick yet smooth consistency means that it stays put on the skin, instantly covering imperfections and blending into the skin with ease.  I sometimes find that thicker concealers can be too cakey and slightly drying but Topshop really have got the texture just right.  My main concern has always been dark circles and this palette really does blow the others i've tried out of the water in that respect.   I think they work best applied with fingers and dabbed onto the skin - the warmth from your fingertips helps to blend out the product and makes for a more seamless application. My only quibble is that I seemed to have hit pan rather quickly - but then again I may have been over-applying at the beginning whist I was getting used to the consistency. Overall though - if you're after a good quality concealer palette which will help camouflage dark circles, discolouration and imperfections then I really do recommend this. I'll definitely be grabbing another one of these!

Topshop Beauty | Cheek Jelly in 'Sibling' | £7.00* | Link

The concept of a cheek jelly really intrigued me as it's something I've never really used before.  I do love a cream blush but this product just offers something a little different - it's like a stain but in a more subtle, sheer and blendable form akin to that of a lip stain in a pot.  I have the shade 'Sibling', and although it looks rather terrifying in the pot, it's much more wearable when swatched.  I've tried this on a couple of occasions now and I'm not sure I'm entirely sold on it just yet.  I'm not sure whether or not it's just the shade that doesn't quite work for me but I much prefer a standard cream blush.  I've actually started using it as a lip stain just patted on throughout the day for a 'just bitten' look - I can't deny the fact that it's a fun and versatile product but I think i'll take a little more convincing with this one.  I can see these being a winner through summer when I want something very lightweight and sheer to wear on hot days so for now I shall reserve judgement...

Topshop Beauty | Lip Polish in 'Gallery' | £8.00* | Link

I absolutely adore this colour.  I feel as if I've got to start weening myself off the vampy reds now that spring is coming around the corner, but I refuse to put them down just yet.  Especially now that this little beauty has landed in my collection! 'Gallery' is a beautiful deep burgundy shade with a gothic edge. Topshop's lip products have always impressed me anyway but I really have enjoyed their 'lip polish' formula.  It has a buildable, slightly glossy finish which provides amazing pigmentation along with a gel-like texture that simply glides onto the lips.  It feels so moisturising and smooth to apply.  Once swatched, the colour isn't as dark as it appears in the bullet but oh-my-goodness - it's gorgeous! Its like a slightly glossier, less full-on version of my beloved Mac Dark Side lipstick. You do need to use a lip liner with it as the colour can bleed slightly through the day, but once the colour is on it's so long lasting and even if I don't top up through the day, it's still visible after I've finished work.  I have to say this has been another winning discovery for me and I really can't wait to stock up on some summery shades.

Swatches L-R | Concealer Shades - Palette | Cheeky Jelly 'Sibling' | Lip Polish 'Gallery'

Overall, a fab selection of products from the Topshop range.  I reckon I'll be stocking up on some more bits as soon as pay-day rolls around - I'm dying to try some of their highlighters and a few of their lip crayons so keep your eyes peeled for some more things popping up on my blog very soon! Do leave me your recommendations as I really do seem to have fallen back in love with the brand just recently.   You can find a wide range of Topshop Makeup on FeelUnique.com. 

What's your favourite product from the Topshop Makeup range? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Monthly Favourites | February

Crikey - it feels like forever since I've put together a monthly favourites post and I'm even slightly late on the bandwagon with this one...but better late than never, as they say! Although I've been away from blogging for a little while, I've still been your typical blogger testing and trying everything within reach - you can take the girl away from the blog, but you certainly can't take the blogger out of the girl! I've been in my new job about 2 months now and I've definitely seen a bit of a change in the ol' routine.  My focus has mainly been on getting out of the door as quick as possible of a morning so I've been reaching for products which are quick and easy to use.  February saw me fall in love with a couple of past favourites and, as usual, I seem to have gone a little bit blush mad! Here's what I've been loving the past month...

Mac Blush in 'Harmony' // Full Post // £18.00 // Link

I forgot how much I adore this blush! A cult beauty blogger fave, this colour enhances the cheekbones and helps to sculpt the face in just a quick sweep.  Although I'm a big contouring fan, I just haven't got the time of a morning to concentrate on it but this blush makes it so quick and easy to achieve a naturally sculpted look in an instant.  I dust the colour onto my cheekbones and up towards my temples and it instantly makes my face look more defined.  The matte finish is perfect as it gives a smooth, natural look, and the muted rose tones it has to it means that it provides a slight touch of warmth to the face too.  It's somewhat like a hybrid of a blush, bronzer and contour all in one and it's a must-have in my makeup collection. I swear by it! It also featured in my Autumn blush post here.

Nyx Cream Blush in 'Natural' // £5.50 // Link

Ever since I used Benefit's 'Majorette' blush, I've become quite addicted to cream formulas. I love this Nyx offering because it's very creamy and gives the skin a gorgeous, dewy glow.  The pink colour is really flattering at this time of year and awakens dull skin - something I've really been struggling with just recently as I've been burning the candle at both ends! It does have a slightly sticky consistency but it works so well and is super easy to blend - I've taken to using it with a stippling brush, applying it over my foundation before setting with powder.  It really does last through the day and what's more - I've even taken to dabbing a little bit onto my lips to finish off the look.  

Benefit Blush in 'Rockateur' // Full Post // £23.50* // Link

I've already spoken about this blush in quite some depth on my blog - I have a full review and it also featured in my Autumn Blush feature here.  I've been layering this on top of the Nyx cream blush in order to get a longer-lasting colour and the two work so well together.  It brightens up the face thanks to the subtle shimmer and instantly makes you appear much more fresh faced and healthy. I'd class it as a seashell pink sort of shade - it's a beauty!

Bobbi Brown Eyeshadow in 'Toast' // £17.50 // Link

A new favourite of mine, this eyeshadow is perfect for using in the crease or for blending out darker shadows.  It provides the perfect base for a smokey eye and is also the perfect daytime colour when worn on it's own. I'll often wear this for work blended through the crease with a touch of highlight in the inner corner and I'm sorted for the day. It brings a touch of warmth to the eye area and also looks beautiful when blended into a mid-brown shade - it's so versatile.  I have a full review coming soon so I won't say too much, but i really do love this shadow - Bobbi Brown has really impressed me with this one! 

Ted Baker Makeup Bag // Similar Here

This baby pink and a rose gold Ted Baker Makeup Bag has been a firm favourite of mine the past couple of months.  I adore Ted Baker goodies and I was lucky enough to be gifted this for Christmas after spying it in House of Fraser.  As I've been away from home quite a bit recently, it's come in so handy for keeping my essentials all together.  It's big enough to contain everything I'll need but small enough that it doesn't take over my handbag or suitcase. It's so easy to wipe clean if I get any mucky finger prints over it and it still looks as good as new despite the fact I've used it so much.  The rose gold bow is so adorable and I love the milky pink shade - its so girly and it's always a nice one to pull out of your handbag when you're in need of a touch-up.

Benefit // Lolli Tint // Full Review // £24.50* // Link

I'm constantly on the lookout for products which will last me throughout my day at work without the need for touch-ups.  Lolli-tint has become quite the 'go to' the past couple of months.  It's a gorgeous lilac-pink shade which looks a bit scary when swatched but sheers out to a gorgeous petal-pink flush. I've been using it with a stippling brush and applying it onto my cheeks, but I've mostly been enjoying it as a lip stain.  It really does last all day and any touch-ups I need are always very minimal. I'm really wanting to get 'Lolli Balm' to go alongside it as I do find my lips can get a bit dry when I've applied this, but it's such a good layering product if you want to apply a gloss or lipstick on top.  

Barry M Nail Paint in 'Red-Black' // £2.99 // Link

Yes, we might be well on our way to spring but I'm still addicted to vampy shades when it comes to nails at the moment. I've had so many compliments on this shade just recently - it's a gorgeous deep burgundy. You can't go far wrong with Barry M nail paints in my opinion! 

Oriflame // E-Collagen Eye Cream // £10.95 // Link

I received this product in a beauty box quite some time ago and I've really enjoyed using it.  It's targeted towards wrinkles and smoothing out the eye area - not something I would have opted for had I chosen it myself but I heard that starting out in your 20's is the way forward?! I just find it really moisturising and refreshing to apply thanks to the cooling roller-ball application and it's so nice to apply of a morning.  It gives my under-eyes a dose of moisture at the same time as helping me to feel more awake and bright-eyed.  Dark circles have always been the main issue for me and although i haven't noticed a great deal of difference just yet, it certainly does help to awaken the eye area of a morning as well as prepping my skin nicely for a touch of makeup.  It's so gentle and soothing and it's one of the nicest eye creams I've tried so far.

Swatches L-R // Benefit 'Rockateur' // Nyx 'Natural' // Mac 'Harmony' // Bobbi Brown 'Toast' // Benefit 'Lolli Tint'

Have you tried and loved any of these products featured too? 

A New Favourite: Zoeva Luxe Colour Blush in 'Shy Beauty'

Zoeva really have taken the bloggosphere by storm this past year.  I've had my beady eyes on their stunning brush sets for ages now (haven't we all?!) and I reckon I might be making a purchase as soon as pay-day rolls around, but to keep me going until then, I decided to treat myself to one of their Luxe Colour blushes.  As a bit of a blush addict, I really couldn't resist - the sleek black packaging and gorgeous colour selection had me all of a flutter and after much debate, I finally settled on 'Shy Beauty' - a light peachy coral.  

Described on the website as a 'universal light peach brown with an ethereal matte finish', Shy Beauty is a fabulous all-rounder set to suit the majority of skin tones.   I have to say this has fast become one of my favourite blushes - I just adore everything about it.  The powder itself is velvety soft to the touch, incredibly smooth and super pigmented.  Enriched with Apricot oil and vitamin E to nourish and soothe the skin, the blush is an absolute dream to apply and gives the most beautiful airbrushed finish to the cheeks.  It blends easily, and the 'fade proof' formula ensures a long-lasting finish - just a quick sweep of a brush is all you need to last you all day.  The matte finish gives such a flawless appearance yet doesn't dull or flatten the skin - the colour really does define the cheeks and gives that 'lit from within' sort of look.

I love the peachy pastel colour - it's right up my street and actually not too dissimilar to Illamasqua's 'Lover' blush which happens to be one of my all time favourites (featured here).  I find Zoeva's slightly more wearable at the moment as it's just a touch more subtle and the undertones compliment my winter skin.  It instantly awakens the complexion and i always look so much more fresh and healthy when I apply it.  

Needless to say, I'm completely blown away by the quality of this blush.  I cannot wait to add more to my collection and I'll certainly be doing so in the next few weeks - there's a beautiful range of shades!   Some of the more brighter, vibrant shades will be perfect for the summer months and I currently have my eye on 'Gentle Touch' - a light pastel pink.  Priced at £6.95, Zoeva Luxe Colour Blushes can be found on the BeautyBay website here and also on the Zoeva website here.

Have you tried anything from Zoeva? What would you recommend?

Neal & Wolf | 'AURA' Hair & Body Fragrance

When it comes to haircare, Neal & Wolf have to be one of my favourite brands.  I fell in love as soon as I first tried their 'Harmony Intensive Conditioning Treatment' a while back now and I use their Heat Guard spray on a daily basis.  My hair has never felt so soft after styling! As much as I love their products and think they work a treat, one thing I do enjoy is the 'Neal & Wolf' scent.  It really is so unique and my hair is always left smelling salon fresh and totally gorgeous after I've used their products. Seriously - it's just divine! I've had a fair few people comment on it actually and I often wished they would create a hair perfume of some sort so I could keep the scent going for longer. Well, the hair-care fairies certainly answered my prayers when I heard that Neal & Wolf had released their 'Aura Hair and Body Fragrance'* - I was a happy girl indeed. Their fragrance is very much a signature scent and I know that so many people adore it - me included. I couldn't wait to get my mitts on it.

Packaged in a sleek box, the Aura fragrance is presented in a gorgeous glass bottle - it all feels very luxury.  The scent itself is very musky and identical to the smell of Neal & Wolf's other products. If you aren't familiar with it, it's described as being a 'blend of delicate blossom, white thyme and saffron combined with lily, ylang ylang and vanilla' - a truly beautiful blend which smells so sophisticated and luxurious.  It's not incredibly long lasting (around the 5 hour mark I'd say) but if you're a fellow Neal & Wolf fan like myself and you 'layer' it up with their other haircare products - the scent is somewhat intensified and lasts much longer.  Like i said, I use their Heat Guard spray on a daily basis so my hair tends to smell very much like it to begin with - if i use the shampoo and conditioner to go with it then the scent lasts even longer. The perfume doesn't effect the condition or texture of the hair and doesn't dry it out - my hair feels perfectly soft even after a few sprays.   What's more, it also doubles up as a body spray - I always spray a little around my neck/décolletage area to finish off. 

Overall, an amazing product from Neal & Wolf.  If you're a fan of their products and adore the unique scent like I do, I guarantee you'll love this perfume.  It's become quite the must-have for me.  It retails at £20.95* - so it's a little indulgence but well worth it considering you don't need to use much at all.  You can find out more about it on the Neal & Wolf website here - keep your eyes peeled for this one! It's sure to be a winner.

Do you love Neal & Wolf as much as me? What's your favourite product?

2015 Beauty Wishlist

I don't often post wish lists on my blog but as I've recently started my new job, it's got me thinking about all the beauty bits and bobs I've been wanting to try for a while and it seemed like the perfect excuse to put one together - who isn't partial to a pay-day treat or 3?!   I've resisted very well the past year (*pat on the back*) but I do think it's about time I treated myself.  I certainly won't be buying my entire wish list (that would be rather extravagant) but I'll certainly be taking my pick amongst these gorgeous goodies that happen to be on my ever expanding beauty wish list.  I thought I'd share with you a few things I've had my eyes on... Sharing is caring after all!

Charlotte Tilbury // Filmstar Bronze & Glow // £49.00 // Link

If you've been reading my blog for a while, you'll know I'm a complete contouring addict.  It's just something I enjoy experimenting with and this compact is right up my street. The shades look so delicate and natural, and the luxurious packaging sends me all of a flutter... *swoooon*

Hourglass // Ambient Lighting Palette // £56.00 // Link

A girl can dream, right? I don't know if i could ever justify the price tag for this as admittedly, I'm not the biggest highlight junkie and I stick to what I know - but either way, Hourglass as a brand has really grabbed my attention and I'd quite like to try something from them. This is without a doubt an absolutely stunning palette.  I'd love to try one of their blushes or a singular compact maybe but there's something about the trio of shades that really does tickle my fancy...

Tarte // The Sculptor // $24.00 // Link

I'm gutted that this product isn't easily available in the UK, but I think it's a really great concept.  This contouring crayon is perfect for controlled sculpting of the face and is said to be great for areas like the nose and chin.  I need it in my life.  As a fan of the Nars Matte multiples, this seems like a fabulous option for a slightly more controlled application.  

Estee Lauder // Double Wear Lip Liner // £15.30 // Link

I adore these lip liners. I used to have the shade 'Spice' and I'd love to re-purchase it this year as I really do miss having it (a perfect K-Jenner shade if you're interested, by the way!).  I have to say it was probably one of the most long-lasting liners I've ever used and the fact they're so creamy and smooth to apply made them all the more dreamy. I'm tempted to grab a mauve sort of shade too. Boots Advantage Card points?! Prepare to be spent!

Giorgio Armani // Luminous Silk Foundation // £35.50 // Link

I'm definitely going to be treating myself to this beauty come pay day! It's often raved about and is said to provide a flawless, long-lasting coverage which photographs well and applies like a dream.  I love trialling foundations so I can't wait to give it a whirl.

Nars // Radiant Creamy Concealer // £17.50 // Link

I absolutely adore Nars Sheer Glow foundation and although I've read mixed reviews on this concealer, I'd love to give it a go.  I love Nars as a brand and always seem to get on very well with their products.  I'm drawn to the 'radiant' claim too - it's something I look for in a concealer as I mainly use it underneath my eyes.

Becca // Lowlight Sculpting Perfector // £32.00 // Link
I discovered this product in SpaceNK a couple of weeks ago and it's something I'd never heard of before until I saw it.  I used to love the Mac Contouring Creams a while back and was rather sad when they were discontinued, so this seems like the perfect replacement for my trusty Mac contour shade.  I always find it easier to contour with a cream consistency (and i also think it looks more natural) so this is very much my kind of product. The dark colour sheers out so it isn't as scary as it looks in the pan. I think this may be my first Becca purchase...

Nars // Audacious Lipstick in 'Barbara' // £24.00 // Link

I don't own a Nars lipstick but as a brand, they have to be one of my all time favourites.  I really like the look of this creamy brown/pink shade - right up my street! I'll be nipping into SpaceNK for a cheeky swatch very soon. I have to say I've never been tempted by Nars lippies before but the Audacious ones really do appeal to me...

Charlotte Tilbury // Eyeshadow Palette // £38.00 // Link

Do I need an explanation for this? I feel as if I've committed a crime against the blogging world simply for not owning one of these quads.  I'm not sure if I really need any more palettes in my collection but I'll definitely keep them on my radar... A possible birthday treat maybe?

Nars // Blush in 'Douceur' // £21.50 // Link

I adore Nars blushes and have wanted to try 'Douceur' for ages - I believe it's actually been discontinued so I'll have to be quick off the mark if I want to snap it up.  Its a gorgeous pink-brown sort of shade which is said to really enhance the cheekbones.  I adore Mac's 'Harmony' blush which is said to be similar so I'm pretty sure I'll get along like a house on fire with it!

Stila // Smudge Stick // £13.00 // Link

I loveeee my Stila smudge stick in 'Damsel' which I received with the 'In the Light' palette. It made its way into my 2014 favourites and I just think it's one of the best liners I've ever tried. Not the best for precision but the lasting power is incredible - even in the waterline.  I've decided I want to treat myself to the black version, as well as another brown shade and possibly a coloured version for summer.

Zoeva // Rose Gold Brush Set // £56.95 // Link

It's going to be a good day when I get my hands on these brushes.  I've been craving them for aaaages.  I'm particularly interested in the 'petit crease' brush and the 'Silk Finish' - but I'd love them all I'm sure.  The little hold-all bag the set comes with is the perfect finishing touch.  I might actually pick one of these up for my mum too - she would love them! 

So there we have it - some things I have my eye on for the new year.  I won't be splurging on all of it but there's a couple of gems in here that I cannot wait to get my mitts on - the Zoeva brushes and Armarni Luminous Silk are top of the list, closely followed by my re-purchase of Estee Lauder's lip liners and Becca's Lowlight Sculpting Perfector.   If you want to have a nosey at what other beauty bits and bobs I have my eyes on, I regularly update my beauty wish-list on Pinterest.  You can find that here.  Do send me yours if you have one! 

What's on your 2015 beauty wishlist?

Laura Mercier Lip Glace Collection

Laura Mercier is a brand that's always tickled my fancy - I've heard so many amazing things and as a result, I have a fair few of her products on my never-ending blogger wish list.  Before Christmas, I was lucky enough to recieve one of the Laura Mercier Mini Lip Glace Collection* sets containing 5 travel sized versions of the popular Lip Glace glosses.  Ranging from a milky, pale nude all the way to a bright pink-red, this particular set really does have a good variety of shades to try.   As someone who experiments a great deal with lip colour, a set like this was the perfect addition to my collection and I've really enjoyed using it over the festive season and well into the new year.  Although it's difficult to get your hands on these sets now that Christmas is well and truly over, I thought I'd go into a bit of detail about each shade and the overall appearance and performance.  If you're a lipstick-aholic like myself, I reckon you might be tempted to get your mitts on one of these...

Angelic is exactly the sort of shade you'd expect it to be from the name.  This is the palest colour from the 5 and I'd describe it as being a very milky pale pink-nude.  It transfers onto the lips quite sheerly so it makes for a nice layering gloss for use over lipsticks.  It is slightly too pale for me to wear on it's own but it's actually quite a nice one to dab onto the lips for a little bit of dimension if you're wearing a pale shade to begin with.  

Bare Pink is a little more 'me'.  It's still very pale but the slight coral hint to the pink compliments my skin-tone a little more and for this reason it's much easier to wear.  Again, it is slightly more sheer but this really does work in its favour as it's a good one to layer over lipsticks, making it much more versatile.  It works well over Mac's 'Shy Girl' lipstick or any similar shade.

Pink Pop is a mid-pink shade with a hint of brightness to it. Although it's a slightly more vibrant shade it's not over the top and it still looks really sophisticated and pretty.  It brings a lot of focus to the lip area and adds a touch of brightness to the complexion. Very flattering and one of the favourites from the set.

Tulip is a slightly more toned-down, cooler version of 'Pink Pop'.  With a slight lilac/purple hint, it's one of the more pigmented shades of the set and looks beautiful worn on its own.

Wildflower is the favourite of the bunch for me! It's almost in-between a lipgloss and a lip laquer - it's the most pigmented of the bunch and has a slightly more opaque finish.  Again, like the rest of the set, it's perfect for layering over lipsticks but this one in particular works amazingly well on its own.  Its a gorgeous vibrant berry red shade with a slight hint of raspberry pink - very brightening on the complexion.

Swatches & Order of Photographs:  Angelic // Bare Pink // Pink Pop // Tulip // Wildflower

Each gloss has a beautiful, vanilla-like scent which only adds to their appeal for me - I do love a yummy fragrance and it makes them all the more luxurious and pleasant to apply. Consistency wise, they are slightly sticky but definitely not gloopy or thick - just the right sort of texture for a nice, longer wearing lip gloss.  You can feel them on your lips but they aren't unbearable - I just apply a thin layer as I'm quite fussy when it comes to glosses! They're very easy to apply thanks to the doe-foot applicator and smooth texture - making them the perfect product to throw into your handbag for on-the-go application.

Overall, a lovely little set from Laura Mercier.  Like I said, I'm not entirely sure you can get your mitts on these collection sets now the Christmas is over, but if you're a lip product fan and fancy treating yourself, I really recommend taking a look at these glosses.  If you're fussy about consistency, they might not be for you, but if you're after a good quality, longer wearing lip gloss with a luxurious edge then these are the perfect treat (I've had a little mooch around at other reviews on various websites and they do seem to receive quite a bit of praise!)  Priced at £19.50* each, they certainly aren't cheap, but well worth a swatch if you're a gloss fan! You can find a good variety of shades on the Urban Retreat website here (i really like the look of 'Daiquiri' and 'Garnet'!)

Have you ever tried these lip glosses? What would you recommend from Laura Mercier?

Getting the Most Out of Your Post: 6 Tips

I'm sure that any blogger will say that there really isn't a set of rules for writing a blog.  We'll all agree that what's right for one person isn't for another and ultimately, the key is in making it yours - the beauty of the blogosphere is that everybody approaches it in a slightly different way and the reason blogs are blowing the glossy magazines out of the water is simply because they're written by real 'everyday' people with different (and honest) opinions and approaches.  There's no right or wrong and part of the fun of it is just learning as you go. However, one thing I really have had to grasp along the way is how to get the most out of my blog posts. There's definitely been a shift in blogging the past couple of years - even though I've only been doing this 3 years I've noticed such a change in that amount of time. People expect much more from blogs these days - everything's become much more visual, there's more pressure to get everything right straight from the get go and ultimately, social media is the key to getting your content out there (when i first started blogging - I didn't even have Twitter - shocker!)  I thought I'd share a few simple tips I've learnt along the way when it comes to getting people to click that 'read more' button...

1. The 'intro' image

First impressions count for everything - and it's no different in the blogging world! The first image you place in your post will have a big impact on whether or not your readers choose to click the 'read more' button. Blogging is very visual and the header image can totally make or break a post, no matter how well written and informative it is.  The majority of readers will make up their mind on whether or not to read a post on the cover image alone. I always spend some time considering which image out of the 4 or 5 I'll usually use within the post is the strongest.  Composition of a photograph often has a lot to do with it. Do you want to place some text on the image? Therefore you might want to choose one that has a good bit of 'blank space' ... or possibly one where the product isn't central in the photograph so there's room for a snazzy title. If it's a 'collective' sort of post (such as a 'haul'), you might want to pick one where you can see all of the products clearly or choose not to give everything away by using one taken at an angle with some products out of focus.  If it's a review, you might want to pick a more 'obvious' image.  I used to post my images in a logical order, for example - the product in the packaging or box first.  Although it can make for a nice image, especially if it's a luxury item and the packaging is quite sleek, I often find that using a photo of the product open/in use where you can clearly see the colour in the pan is much more interesting and enticing than a neatly packaged box.  It all depends what you want your post to look like. 

2. The post title

Similar to the header image, the way you word your title will also have a large baring on whether or not people choose to read your post.  Try to get a bit creative with your titles.  In my earlier blogging days, I simply used to type the name of the product and the word 'review'. Although it's obviously appropriate to feature the name of the product, try and think about what else you can say to gather a bit of intrigue. For example 'the perfect winter blush | *product name*', or 'a new found favourite... | *product name*' It just makes things a little more interesting and hints towards what you're going to discuss in the post.   People will want to know why this product is your new favourite and are therefore more likely to read your post. Collective posts or hauls are always the perfect excuse to get a bit creative with your titles too...

3. Day and time

Throughout my years of blogging, I've become quite 'in-tune' with the best times to publish my posts.  This can differ for everyone depending on what your blog is about, who your audience is and where in the world your main audience is from - but in general, I'd say the best days to post are always Sundays or early to mid-week.  Timing wise, early evening seems to work best for me (around 7.00 - 8.30) as that's when the majority of people are home from work or school and have sat down on the sofa with a cuppa! If I post on a Friday or Saturday night, I always find that my post is a slow burner because that's the time when a lot of people are out socialising. It's well worth getting Google Analytics, having a gander at your stats or posting at different times to judge what's working best for you and your blog. Posting at the right time can make a huge difference as to how many views your post gets.   

4. Length and layout

Ok. So they've clicked onto your post - how do you keep them reading? I don't think there's any right or wrong answer for this one simply because everybody has a different preference, but it's well worth considering how you're going to lay out your post.  If it's a short and snappy review, it's often nice to have a couple of paragraphs together after a couple of photographs, with maybe a swatch at the end.  If it's a haul or favourites styled post, I find it best to break up the text with individual photographs of products just to give the post some pace and make it easier for people to dip in and out as they please.  In some instances, your reader might only want to find out about one particular item so this layout style comes in very handy.  If you already have a full review of a certain product you've featured in a collective post then it's always good insert a link to it so they can easily find out more. In general, large blocks of text can put people off and it makes readers much more likely to skim read. A lot of people will skim-read regardless, especially if they're not a regular reader - so have a think of ways to keep their attention. Maybe pop the price of the item and a link in bold at the beginning, or think of a few sub-headings to break up the text - think about where you're inserting a line break. All in all, It's your blog and you make the rules but it's well worth thinking about what keeps you reading when you click on to other's blogs.

5. Sign it off...

It's always nice to try and encourage people to interact with your post and your blog.  A good way of doing this is asking a question at the end of the post (but only if you're genuinely interested at what others have got to say and only if it's appropriate!) If I've tried something from a certain brand and liked it, I might ask people what else they could recommend from the same brand.  I might be interested to know if other people have had a similar experience or have found a better version.  Similarly, if I've not enjoyed a product, I'm always intrigued to know if others have found the same problems or niggles and how they might have overcome it or used the product in a different way.  Blogging is a fab way to discover products you might never have tried before and I'm always amazed at how helpful and chatty other bloggers are. It's always good to start a discussion.  

6. Promote, promote, promote!!!

I'm the worst for this one and it's one thing I really want to concentrate on more in 2015 - promoting your post is so important. When you've spent time and energy tapping away, taking and editing photographs and putting a post together (if you're a blogger you'll know that even the shortest of posts can take hours of work from start to finish) you want to promote it as best you can in order to get it seen! Twitter and Instagram are probably the best ways for doing so (personally, I don't use Instagram but blogging has definitely shifted in favour of it the past year or so) As soon as your post goes live, pop out a tweet to let your followers know.  Drop in a link and the #bbloggers hash-tag - and if you've got a particularly good header image, why not tweet a picture too? Beware of over-promoting though - as this can do the exact opposite of what you intend to do, but it's well worth tweeting about it a couple of times over the next few days in order to gain more exposure to your post from different groups of people. Readers may have missed your update in their Bloglovin' feeds so Twitter is a fab way of making sure you get it out there and maximising your potential exposure.

Have you got any top tips for getting the most from a post? Sharing is caring! Let me know :)

Longer Lasting Makeup | 10 Tips

1. Leave enough time for your moisturiser to sink in.

I always leave a good 5 minutes for my moisturiser to sink in before I even think about applying my base.  Even though I use one with a fairly light consistency of a morning, I always leave it just that little bit longer before I go in with primer even if it does feel as if it's fully absorbed.  Try doing something in between - like putting your rollers in for example - and allow the product to fully absorb into the skin and settle.  If you're applying makeup right on top of a moisturiser, it's going to be more likely to slip off during the day.  

2. Consider what moisturiser you're using.

If your morning skincare is slightly more thick in consistency or has a tendency to be a little heavy or greasy, it might be worth saving it for the evening and trying to find something a bit  lighter.  If your skin is particularly dry and you simply can't get away with a lighter texture - just use a tiny 'dab' of the heavier one on the problem areas (for me it's my cheeks) and use a lighter consistency everywhere else.  Similarly, if your skin is oily it might be worth searching for a moisturiser with 'mattifying' benefits.  

3. Primer. Primer. PRIMER!!

So many people I know never use a primer and consider it a bit of a pointless step in their makeup regime. Honestly, if you want your foundation to last through the day then it's well worth taking some time to find a primer that works for you.  Personally, I do think some primers on the market are a bit of a gimmick and don't actually have any 'staying power' benefits - which could be the reason why so many people give up - but do your research.  My ultimate favourites have to be Benefit's Porefessional (review here) and Loreal's Smoothing Resurfacing Primer (review here) and I use either one depending on what my skin needs (Loreal's is slightly heavier). I never apply my foundation without a primer first and it's such a key step in my makeup regime - it makes the world of difference. 

4. Applying your primer.

Instead of applying your primer in a similar way to moisturiser, try using pressing motions instead of sweeping motions - particularly around problem areas like the nose.   This will ensure your primer is absorbed into the skin properly and settled into all the nooks and crannys instead of simply sitting on top. It also helps prevent your foundation from settling into pores.

5. Foundation: Less is more

Finding a foundation that 'sits right' with your skin is important, but no matter what you use, if you apply it in a slap-dash manner it's not going to want to stick around as much.  I actually spend quite some time applying my foundation - I buff it in slowly working from the middle of the face and blending outwards.  I'll apply a very light layer first and then leave it to settle before applying another layer if I want a fuller coverage or want to further cover up any problem areas instead of using one thick layer.  

6. Buff it in.

This is just personal opinion but I definitely think my foundation lasts longer when I've applied it with a buffing brush instead of my fingers or a standard foundation brush.  I hardly ever use another tool aside from my trusty RT buffing brush to apply my foundation as I just find it offers the best coverage at the same time as helping it to sit on the skin much better.  Instead of 'painting' the product on you're essentially buffing it into your skin - not only does it look much more natural and flawless but it will give your makeup a much better chance of lasting all day.

7. Find a good setting powder.

I used to stay away from powder because my skin isn't overly oily and I didn't think my skin  really needed it - but find a good one and you'll find that powders can offer so much more than just oil control.  I use Mac's Mineralise Skinfinish Natural (review here) and it's the perfect finishing step in my base routine. It sets the foundation, prevents shine and also makes my skin look much more polished. It softens the appearance, blurs imperfections and means that any powder blush or bronzer you apply on top will sit much better and blend more easily.  Mac's offering really does effect the longevity of your makeup and I use it daily - it makes the world of difference to my foundation and keeps it looking freshly applied for much longer.

8. Use a setting spray for extra staying power.

I like to use Urban Decay's Setting Sprays (review here) if I'm going on a night out or if i've got a long day ahead in order to boost my makeup's staying power.  I don't use it daily as I don't think it's really a 'must-have' but it definitely does help your makeup last longer.  I use this after I've completed my makeup - eyeshadow, eyebrows, blush - the lot... it just helps to lock it all in place.

9. Keep your mitts off!

This is easier said than done and it's a fairly obvious one to mention, but try your best to keep your hands off your face!  You're probably not aware of just how much you actually do it but try your best to stop yourself when you become conscious of it.  It really doesn't do your foundation any favours!  When I'm sat at a desk all day, my makeup comes off quicker than if I've been shopping all day - which sounds a bit stange but it's all because of bad habits.  

10. Touch-ups.

If all else fails, carry a little touch-up kit with you.  No matter how hard you try, problem areas like the nose and chin are going to show a little bit of wear through the day.  Instead of just piling on another layer of foundation (which isn't going to look exactly fetching in an hour or so) you're much better off carrying a powder and small concealer which matches your foundation shade.  Before you even apply any product, try blending the makeup you already have on your face to cover the problem area - if it's just not going to work, apply a small amount of concealer or simply blot the area and blend some powder over the top.  Tiny touch ups work better than trying to overhaul the whole face!

What are your favourite products to use for getting your makeup to last longer? Anything else you can recommend?