Monthly Favourites | April

Nothing like a favourites post to highlight the fact that you have a serious beauty product obsession, is there girls? We're such a fickle bunch, us bloggers - never satisfied - constantly on the hunt for new products to get our mitts into because the substantial collection we already have simply won't suffice! Once you start blogging - there's no such thing as a fixed makeup routine and your bathroom cabinets and dressing tables become over-run with lotions and potions. April saw the weather brighten up a notch or two (although I can't say much for it now - it's raining cats, dogs and goodness knows what else outside my window) - I've found myself reaching for lighter bases, bronzing products and summery-scented goodies the past 3 weeks. Without further ado, I shall give you the run-down on what I've been loving for the month of April...

Barry M | Gelly Hi-Shine Nail Paint in 'Rosehip' | £3.99

April saw me give in to the new spring shades of Gelly Hi-Shine polishes. Like the indecisive, impulsive little tinker I am, of course, I bought all 3. I adore these polishes. The glossy finish, smooth application and amazing pigmentation tick all my boxes for what makes a good nail polish. Admittedly, these spring shades can be a little streaky to apply and I do have to adorn my 'concentration face' in order to get a perfect application, but that I can overlook for the beautiful pastel, milky tones that these provide. My favourite is 'Rosehip' - a gorgeous white-pink shade. I won't harp on about it too much as I have a post on the full spring range here. (I also have a post on the rest of my collection here if you fancy having a read...although I have to say it's considerably grown since...)

YSL Touche Eclat in 'Luminous Ivory' | RRP £25.00*

I'm a massive fan of YSL's Touche Eclat foundation (it's my summer favourite!) and I love the dewy, flawless finish it provides - that's why I had high hopes for the ever-famous Touche Eclat highlighting pen. I was sent this product a while back and I must admit it didn't blow me away like I thought it would.  However, I've been using it quite a bit just recently to highlight my under-eye area and I've found that I've been reaching for it a great deal.  A lot of people believe this product is used for concealing dark circles and are disappointed with the light, sheer coverage it provides. It's actually more of a highlighting pen as opposed to a concealer and works a treat in bringing light and radiance to certain areas of your face. If you use it in the right way, it really is such a wonder-worker! I apply my concealer as normal before dabbing a few dots of this underneath the eyes, near to the tops of my cheekbones before blending out.  It gives such a lovely finish and the peachy tone helps to counteract any darkness that my concealer didn't quite cover. I also use this around my nose and on the centre of my forehead to highlight those areas. Will I purchase again once this one has had its day? I have to say I probably wouldn't considering that the foundation is only a few pounds more than this and there are now many fabulous dupes for it on the high street for a fraction of the price. However, I've been enjoying using it nonetheless and I can see why it receives the praise it does. It makes for a lovely treat now and again if you fancy something luxurious. I have a review of the foundation here.

Guerlain 'Terracotta' Bronzer | £31.00*

Ok. Let's just take a moment to appreciate just how beautiful this packaging is. The camera really doesn't show it up to its best potential but it is without a doubt one of the most luxurious bronzing compacts I've ever laid eyes on. The tortoiseshell-y domed lid, the way it fits so snugly in the hand and the way it clasps shut with a small 'click' of perfection... oh I could go on, I really could.  I'm now choking back tears because a week after I took these photographs, I opened the lid a little too hastily in my half-asleep slumber and it's now broken into two. I could have shed tears...  This bronzer is just divine.  I didn't expect to enjoy using it as much as I have.  The slight warm tone it has and the subtle shimmer would usually equal a bronzing nightmare for me but I have to say - Guerlain have got it just right with this.  The shimmer doesn't transfer onto the face - it just provides a touch of radiance and a slight sheen that awakens the complexion without turning you into a disco ball.  It looks incredibly natural and applies and blends like a dream (I use my Real Techniques Blush Brush with it).  It's perfect for bringing warmth to the face and giving your features that lovely 'sunkissed' look - it's almost impossible to apply too much because it's so light and subtle - but it's also easy to build up. To top it off, it even smells beautiful - it has a slightly perfumed, fresh sort of scent that only adds to the luxurious feel of this bronzer. I'm not sure if it quite overtakes my beloved Nars 'Laguna' in the 'holy grail bronzer' stakes but it is definitely a close second - whereas I'd use my Nars one for contouring and a stronger bronze finish, this Guerlain offering is much better for all over bronzing and 'general dusting' and it really does refresh and awaken the skin for a natural, sunkissed finish.

Bourjois | 123 Perfect CC Cream | £9.99*

Again, another product I didn't really expect to enjoy using as much as I have done. This CC Cream really is as good as everybody says it is. Yep - i'm sorry to say it but I simply must agree with the blogger hype around this one!  It blurs imperfections, smooths out the skin's appearance and feels nice and moisturising to apply.  It actually provides pretty decent coverage to say it's a CC Cream - it's definitely got the consistency and coverage of a light foundation as opposed to a sheer wash of colour. I have to apply a primer or powder over the top to get it to last all day but it's perfect for those days where you don't want to go all out with your base. It's easy to apply with fingers if you're in a rush but it also works really well with my buffing brushes - it gives a subtle, smoothed out effect to the skin without looking and feeling heavy or cakey. It gives a gorgeous dewy effect which I really like as it brightens the complexion and although I do have to use a few dabs of concealer alongside it, it does do a very good job of masking imperfections and counteracting dark circles/signs of fatigue. It also smells really fresh and lovely.  I'll definitely be getting another tube once this one runs out - it's going to be perfect for summer. I speak about this product a little more in this recent post.

Nars Matte Multiple in 'Altai' | £30.00

I won't say too much about this one as I have a full post on it here - i feel as if all I've done all month is harp on about this product. Broken record or what?! All I will say is that it's my new baby. I love it. For me, it really is worth every single penny! It's so versatile and I use it for all over bronzing as well as contouring.  It blends so nicely into the skin and looks so natural - providing that much desired airbrush finish. If you're a fan of contouring products, it is well worth checking out the new range of Nars Multiples. Have a read of my full post if you're thinking of treating yourself to one.

Barry M Lip Liner | £2.99

And the award for 'worst example of sharpening a cosmetic pencil' goes to.... me. Oh goodness - it looks as if I've tortured this poor little pencil within an inch of its life doesn't it?! Somebody needs to invest in a new sharpening tool for their makeup bag... clearly! Slightly wonky appearance aside, this pencil works a charm. I'm not entirely sure what the shade is called because it doesn't seem to have a label, but it's a lovely natural colour that is perfect for everyday wear. It literally goes with anything.  I've quite taken to just filling my lips in with this and popping a little gloss on the top - it's also perfect for outlining the lips and smudging slightly for a very natural 'just bitten' sort of look.  I love these lip liners - for £2.99 they're some of the best high street liners I've ever tried. They stay put and do a really good job of making your lipstick look more perfected as well as helping it to last through the day without bleeding or smudging.

Organic Surge | Moisturising 'Tropical Bergamot' Shower Gel | £4.35*

Organic Surge has fast become one of my go-to brands for all things skin and body care! I really like their range of shower gels as they last forever and lather up really nicely. This one is perfect for this time of year - it smells like Solero ice lollies (yummy!) and is really zingy and fresh. Nothing more I can really say about a shower gel aside from the fact it's stood at the front of my shower shelf all month... always a good sign.

Have you tried and loved any of these products as much as me?!

She Wears Make-up.. So She MUST be Insecure | A Beauty Blogger's Perspective

Okay. So, as a 'beauty blogger', I'm quite aware of the fact that I'm putting myself out there for people to form an instant opinion of me and as fellow bloggers, I'm sure you're all familiar with the whole 'should I tell friends/family?' situation you had to battle with in the early days of writing your blog. Aside from a few jokey comments now and again, my blog has been positively received by my friends, family and colleagues - even the lady who sits with me on the bus on a Thursday evening knows about my blog - for me, it's something I'm proud of and I'd quite happily shout my blog link from the top of the tallest building in my home town and tell everybody that they simply must go and read it (ahaha..okay maybe not THAT proud, but you get the jist..)  People who stumble across my little slice of the interwebs will probably think I'm one heck of a materialistic, beauty-obsessed young female, and that's perfectly fine to think that - but one thing that gets my goat, however, is how people seem to form this opinion of girls (bloggers or non-bloggers) who wear make-up on a daily basis.

We all wear cosmetics for a number of different reasons but show me a beauty blogger who doesn't enjoy the process of testing and trying, and applying and putting on their makeup? If we didn't enjoy doing all of this faffing around, then would we really sit and write about all of these lotions and potions adorning our bathroom shelves? I think not.  For someone who is interested in beauty, it's natural to want to get creative and experiment with cosmetic products and I for one love the process of applying my makeup in the morning - it isn't a chore for me whatsoever and it's something that perks me up for the day ahead.  I hate the expression people sometimes use of 'putting your face on' - it makes it sound like it's some sort of regime used to hide and camouflage what you 'really look like', but for the majority of girls its actually just about extenuating the features you already have - makeup and cosmetics aren't there to hide natural beauty in any way and I know when I put on my makeup, I like it to look as natural as I possibly can - or at least done in a way that it doesn't look 'overdone' or 'false'. I'm sure most of you would agree with this and think of makeup in a similar way yourselves, and from time to time the majority of you have probably also fallen victim to opinionated little sods who notice you have a few flicks of mascara on and label you instantly.

I wear make-up most days. If I'm being totally honest here I never leave it off unless I know I'm staying in the house all day or if I'm on holiday and it's too bloomin' hot to slap anything aside from a dollop of suncream on my face. In summer, I tend to leave the foundation off and ease-up on the eyeliner a little bit but that's about your lot with me! I've never had anyone say anything bad to me about it, but I have had people question me over whether or not I'd ever go out without a face of makeup. My answer is always the same. Yes. But I just wouldn't feel fabulous about it. But not for the reasons people always expect. I'd be telling porkies if I said I felt completely confident without an ounce of make-up on my face (i doubt there's very many girls who could honestly say that too.. if you're reading this and you're one of them - I salute you!), but I just like to make the best of myself - and putting on make-up is my way of prepping myself for the day ahead. After all, you never know what's going to happen. Who says you might not stumble across Mr.Right in Sainsburys carpark (this being said he should fall in love with you with or without a face of slap ;))? Or be offered some form of job opportunity on a whim when having general mosey around town (in this current climate I deem this is highly unlikely, but you have to expect the unexpected - right?) I guess I've always been brought up to believe that first impressions count, and whilst I don't want people to think I'm a dolled up little clown, I also don't want people to think that I can't be bothered with my appearance - in a professional sense, it's always good to look a little polished.  You aren't going to get a dream job by waltzing into an interview with last night's hangover face and a bed head that even Russel Brand would be terrified of, would you?

It just really niggles me that people suggest that girls who wear make up are insecure. Does it not occur to them that maybe they just enjoy to apply it? Or maybe they've been brought up in a household where that's the norm? I see applying make-up as my little morning routine. I get out of bed, shove on my monster feet slippers and shuffle to the bathroom mirror and actually enjoy the process of just 'getting ready'. I'm definitely not a 'shower and go' girl and I never, ever will be. When I was younger, I was always fascinated by make-up and was a typical girlie girl that would steal my mum's lippie and walk around in high heels far too big for my little feet before any of my friends knew what 'eyeshadow' was.  I used to tell everybody at school my dreams of becoming a make-up artist and I loved nothing more than applying cosmetics to my friends faces whilst they sat there bored out of their mind (i must have been a bossy little madam to be friends with back then..)  A few years later and I'm not a make-up artist, but I've always been a creative person (I now study Graphic Design/Illustration and all that jazz) and I enjoy playing around with pretty things and making things look a certain way. I remember taking my make-up off at work once to show one of my colleagues that I actually didn't give a hoot because she made such a big deal about it (although I did put a little bit back on again for reappearing on the shop floor after my lunch hour...)  I guess the point i'm trying to make is, wearing makeup isn't a bad thing and it baffles me as to why some people tar us all with the same brush. We don't all look like drag queens ready for a night on the tiles and heaven forbid we ever do!

I think the key is to establish what is comfortable for you and how you live your life. I certainly never judge a girl who doesn't share the same love for cosmetics and hair-goodies as me.  I sometimes envy those who can just step out of the house and not give a flying monkeys about it, but it's just how I've grown up - I've always been a bit of a girl's girl - I was never one for roughing and tumbling about in the mud with my friend's little brothers when I was younger.  With the pressure put on girls these days to look a certain way, it's hardly surprising that all of us have insecurities and that dolling ourselves up of a morning becomes part of the daily routine, but wearing make-up is often seen as a bad thing by some people - and I just don't think it's fair whatsoever to judge a girl on whether or not she fancies wearing a bit of red lipstick to the office or not. There's no doubt that make-up certainly gives us confidence (if I ever have a meeting, an important day at work, or a presentation at uni, guaranteed I'll always spend an extra five minutes on my makeup that morning because it gives me that extra bit of #GoOnThen), but to assume that a female must be riddled with insecurity simply because she decides to wear a bit of lipstick or adorn a cat-flick with her eyeliner is just a little bit silly and dare I say it, a little ignorant. In the same way that just because I write about beauty and all things cosmetic-related that I simply MUST be ridiculously materialistic..which is probably true in some ways come to think of it..but there's more to my life and things I care about one hell of a lot more than the latest eyeshadow palette.

What are your thoughts on this as fellow beauty lovers?
Have you experienced a similar sort of thing in the past?

How To Follow Bird's Words & Info On The GFC Hoo-Ha

With the whole GFC 'hoo-ha' (or so I like to call it) on Twitter the past week or so, it seems that GFC is no longer the favoured method of following a blog. I've done more than enough research into this and I have somewhat fathomed out that it isn't actually GFC that's getting the boot. It's just google reader - which in no way shape or form effects how you read blogs on your blogger dashboard. So, if like me, you often log on to Blogger and like to have your reading list pop up for you - this won't be changing whatsoever as they're completely different things. Rest assured, your list isn't going anywhere July 1st. GFC isn't going July 1st.

This said, even though there's no solid proof or written word that 'GFC will definitely be going' - it's really sad everyone has stopped clicking the little 'Join this site' button. I urge you all to continue using it as if useage goes down it's going to get heave-ho regardless! Let's fight for the GFC, people! Bloglovin' has now stepped forward as many blogger's main form of following - and I am now making sure to follow on both GFC and Bloglovin - it's better to be safe than to be sorry after all! If you haven't got Bloglovin' - it's majorly easy to set up and you don't even need a blog to do so. So if you're a follower of my blog but don't write one yourself, fear not. Get your Bloglovin' socks on and sign up (it's also fan-dabby-doozily-free and won't cost you a penny).

So - if you've just stumbled upon my little corner of the interwebs and fancy reading more of my rambles, then here's how to follow me:

You can still follow me via GFC over in my sidebar..

  It's not going anywhere and it won't be for some time. Don't let the Twitter panic of last week fool you! But if you do, it's probably a wise idea to invest an extra second of your day in clicking 'follow' on the Bloglovin' button too. This is what i've been doing ever since the 'hoo-ha' and I feel muchos better and safe in the knowledge my lovely reading list won't be dropping off the face of the Earth.

 If you're a Bloglovin' fan - my link is here. 

Or you can click the 'follow this blog' button over in my sidebar. (I'm missing a few hundred of you off there :( Oh noeees..)

Links:
 Bloglovin'

SheSaidBeauty

Twitter - @Beth_BirdsWords

Want to suscribe to my mailing list and receive my posts straight to your mailbox? There's a 'follow by email' option over in my sidebar

 All of these methods of following can be found in my sidebar, but if you want to contact me directly for any reason please send me over an email to birds.words@yahoo.co.uk. Apologlies this isn't a very exciting post - and dare I say a little bit of a cheeky plug for my bloggle. But we must all club together in this and remember we are all in the same wobbly little blogger boat. 

 What have you been doing since the 'GFC hoo-ha? Has it changed the way you follow your favourite blogs? Or do you follow via both platforms like myself?

How to Maintain a Blog/Life/Work Balance | My Tips

When you've lost your blogging mojo, it's very hard to find it again. Especially when you have a deadline looming or a week of late shifts at the office.  One of the things I have found whilst running and writing my blog, is how the flippin'eck to fit everything in to my time! Being a blogger means a lot of your spare time is spent taking photographs, planning and writing posts and tweaking every last inch of your little corner of the interwebs until your hears content.  I love blogging - I wouldn't change my little hobby for the world and I'd quite happily spend all my time tapping away on my little laptop - for me, it's something I jolly well enjoy and I see it as a big part of my life - but sometimes, other things can get in the way of my precious blogging time.

When I started my blog I had a full-time job. A few months down the line and I decided to go to university - which meant balancing writing my blog with deadlines, essays, coursework and all that jazz.. also having a part time job on top of all of that became a massive juggling act. Sound familiar? You aren't alone! I'm certainly no expert with this, but managing my time around my blog, uni work, jobs and actually managing to have a life has been something I've had to discover along the way - and I thought I'd share some hints and tips with those of you who might be going through a 'tough spot' - we've all been there, I'm sure. Think of this post as a way of having a natter about our time management woes.. after all, juggling the blog/life/work balance is pretty impressive. We must be super humans, us bloggers...

1. Photograph your stuff 'in bulk' 
Whenever the 'I really fancy making a mess and photographing some products' feeling arrives, I jolly well make the most of it! I take my photographs in bulk - if there's a few things I've been wanting to review for a while - I simply take the photographs all in one go.  I'm very fussy with my photos and I take hundreds in one sitting, so doing it 'here and there' doesn't work well for me. If you load them all onto your computer and place them in some sort of organised folder, then it's a weight off your mind knowing that should the urge to write a post crops up, you already have a library full of products rearing to go.

2. Schedule/plan your posts 
If you have a particular tough time at work coming up (in my case it was the summer holidays - manic isn't even the word!) or an exam or important deadline looming, schedule your posts!  It makes life so much easier and means that your readers will still be able to keep up with your blog and what you've been loving (or loathing) just recently.  Sometimes, it's hard to sit and write posts in one sitting but if the moment strikes you, or if you feel particularly 'chatty' one day - make the most of it and schedule a few for the next week or so. This way, your blog won't be neglected, and you have time to concentrate on other things for a week or so. Of course, your loyal readers will forgive you should you not schedule posts anyway - but if you're like me and are a massive routine freak - the option is there to get some posts in the bank!

3. Have a routine 
Notice when you have free time, and set aside that day to concentrate on your blog. I take all of my photographs on Sunday morning so I have a stash of content ready for the week ahead.

4. Don't get stressed over it! 
Blogging is a hobby, not a chore. It isn't work. It isn't the be all and end all and at the end of the day, if you prioritise realistically there are a few things that should come before it. Your readers will forgive you if you go a few days without posting or if there's a dip in your normal routine. Just think - when your next post pops up on their reading list they will be as happy as larry!

5. Keep a notebook or blogging journal 
The best blogging ideas strike us at the most inconvenient of times. That amazing idea you get will most certainly pop into your head when you're half way around Tesco doing your weekly shop. Fear not - I always have a trusty little notebook handy. Or if you can't find a suitable place to scribble any notes (leaning on a shelf on the 'frozen meats' section isn't exactly the best of ideas, is it?)- simply jot it down in your phone's notes or text it to yourself.. I'm the most forgetful person ever - so trust me on this one. It works. I also place post-it notes on my bathroom mirror if there's something I need to do so I will see it in the morning when I go to do my makeup.

6. Make the most of your lunch hour 
I used to sit and do uni work on my lunch hour - or make notes for posts. If you're feeling creative, don't waste it staring at the walls of your tea room - as much as that poster on company fire-safety policies is fascinating - use your noggin and use your spare time effectively! I've been known to jot an idea down on a paper towel before! (JK Rowling dreamt up Harry Potter on a napkin, don't you know?!)

7. Get your work done first
In other words, prioritise.  I will hold my hands up and openly admit I don't always do this - but I do try to.  If there's something that needs doing - if you're behind on your work or need to phone some chap about your car insurance - just get it done. Then you have all the time in the world to sit down and enjoy your blog related things rather than having that nagging feeling in the back of your mind that you aren't doing what you should be doing!  I sometimes say to myself 'i'll do some work up to this time, then have an hour doing this' - stick to those promises to yourself. If you don't you're on a slippery slope to getting in a right kerfuffle!

8. When you don't 'feel like it' - accept it
Sometimes a lack of 'inspo' ruins all of this. If you're not feeling particularly chipper, or if you've had a bad week or if you aren't too happy with your layout - sometimes you just don't feel like blogging. Accept it. I've made the mistake of trying to post when I'm not feeling like it before and I ended up never clicking publish. If you just haven't got the 'blogging feeling' - don't blog. Simple as that. Your readers will pick it up in an instant and it won't solve the problem. Just sit back, twiddle your thumbs and wait for your 'oomph' to come back - i find reading blogs and switching up my cosmetic routine works wonders! If you're lacking inspiration - bloody well find some! :)

9. Sit somewhere else to the norm
I usually just sit on my sofa when I blog - slippers on, cuppa tea, feet up - the lot. But if you find you're getting distracted then sit somewhere else.  I find if I sit at the kitchen table or at some form of desk - it's easier to concentrate on what I'm doing and what I'm writing.

10. Realise that hobbies are important
I hate calling blogging a hobby. A hobby is something prospective employers ask you to determine what kind of person you really are or something you have to explain in 'show and tell' at primary school - but blogging is a hobby nonetheless and one that shouldn't be ignored. If you love doing it, then don't give up! Work shouldn't take over your life so much that there is no time for the things you enjoy doing - and if blogging fulfils your life like it does mine (ahh cue the tears and inspirational blogger 'quotes') then it should stay as part of your life.  If you feel overworked, give yourself a break - you should never feel the need to have to 'give up' what you love for a your job.

Truth is, there isn't a 'how to'. There's no rulebook to how your manage your time as a blogger or as to how often you write. Just do what works for you and allow yourself time to step away if you ever need it. When your hobby becomes a chore, you need to re-asses. I'm sure these are tips most bloggers will tell you - but hopefully something in there has helped you in some way if you're going through a bit of a cruddy time with the whole 'life balance' thing.  Blogging around the 9-5 isn't easy, and blogging when you have a tonne of uni or college work on your shoulders isn't fabulous either - but set yourself aside some 'me' time and you'll find you can slot it in somewhere or somehow! Just remember most bloggers have been there, and will forgive you if your normal bloggery-habits slide a little. Give yourself a pat on the back and realise that being a blogger shouldn't mean 'stress'. Stress shouldn't be part of your blogging vocabulary...

How do you maintain your blog/life/work balance?

Big Clothing Haul | River Island, ASOS, Topshop, Primark & More

Hiddely-ho ladies! I do hope you've all had lovely weeks - you may have noticed I've gone a little bit 'off schedule' with my blog recently (I usually post on the same 3 days each week).. I do hope you can forgive my higgeldy-piggledy-ness (hows that for a mouthful?) the past couple of weeks or so but I'm currently doing my Final Major Project at uni and it's taking up a great deal of my spare time. I shall be sure to post some photos and a link to my 'graphic design-y' blog when I'm all done and dusted for those of you who might fancy a nosey! Anyway.. excuses and explanations aside, I thought I'd kick off this week with a clothing haul - because, lets face it, who doesn't love a good nose through people's shopping bags?! I know I do...

I was online shopping on Topshop recently because I needed a simple little black cami (i haven't photographed it but I picked up this one) and before I went to the checkout i spotted this little 'bunny ear' styled scrunchie. I thought it was so cute and I always shove my hair up in ponytails and buns when I'm around the house so this will add a touch of girlie-ness to my hair when I want to wear it up.

I've been after some more jewellery for a while to wear with t-shirts and high necked tops - this little pack from H&M was a bargain (around the £10 mark) and there's something there for every occasion and outfit. H&M do some fabulous jewellery - and I can't wait to head back and grab a few more pieces from there.

I'm in love with this little red number! I have no idea where I'm going to wear it yet - I think it's quite a versatile piece and it can work for day or night. I might wear it to uni soon with a little black cami underneath and some patterned tights. The colour is just so pretty - such a vibrant red.. (think Mac's 'Lady Danger' lipstick in clothing-form!) and I shall be adorning this for a night out in the near future I'm sure!

I picked up the lace dress a few weeks ago now - they were out of stock of my size everywhere but I was determined to get it. Luckily, one came available on ASOS and I put it in my shopping basket sharpish! I haven't worn it yet but as soon as the sun comes out I'll be wearing this everywhere - I'm just completely and utterly in love with it.  The v-neck bodysuit is also from ASOS, and I've bought this to wear on a night out in the next week or so with my disco pants and killer heels! The shoulder pads add some statement detail and make it perfect for a night out on the tiles - i'm always wearing dresses out in the evening and I very much fancied a change!

H&M had a cracking sale on! So i picked up a couple of blazers - this hot pink one being my favourite! I've wanted a fuchsia blazer for ages now and I was superly-duperly chuffed to grab this one in the sale for just £7! I get so much wear out of blazers - they just add a bit of 'professional chic' to any outfit.  The shift dress is such a staple item in my wardrobe and I also have it in black (if you like something you must buy it in every single colour after all!) It's one of those items that will take you from 'office to bar' in the blink of an eye and at £19.99 it didn't break the bank either.

The bird jumper from New Look just had to be mine... I have no excuse or justification for buying it really..apart from the fact it has bird print all over it and therefore it would have been criminal if i'd not took home to the safety of my wardrobe where nobody else could get their little mitts on it...  I saw the 'eyelash cardigan' on LLMLRS's YouTube and knew I had to have it. It looks amazing with leather trousers and a plain top and just adds a bit of texture to an outfit. It's really snuggly and warm and will take me through to Spring. It was also reduced to £25 in the sale - fandabbydoozy if i don't say so myself!

And last but not least, no shopping trip is complete without a shuffle around Primark! I picked up the selection of jumpers a while back now as they were only £6 each and I get so much wear out of things like this - they're perfect for wearing with disco pants or leggings, or with jeans on my 'slobby days'. The peplum top is my favourite buy - seeing it on the hanger just doesn't do it justice though and I must make a point of doing an Outfit post with this pretty soonish! It's so figure-hugging and flattering and looks lovely with my Topshop Leigh jeans (and was a complete bargain at just £7!)

What have you been buying lately? Anything here take your fancy?!

Chanel Rouge Coco | 20 - Rose Comete

Chanel Rouge Coco | Hydrating Creme Lip Colour in 20 'Rose Comete' | £24.00

Forgive me for the photographical overload here girls, but my first ever Chanel lipstick deserved some camera time.  After becoming a huge fan of Chanel's ever popular 'Bronze Universal' a few months back now, I decided that for Christmas, I'd ask Santa for one of their lipsticks - being a complete and utter lipstick-a-holic, i simply had to own one. I decided on the shade 'Rose Comete' after much debating. As much as I'd adore a classic red shade, I wanted to own a neutral shade that I could wear on a day to day basis and one that would compliment all kinds of makeup and outfits - after all, if I'm going to whip out a Chanel lipstick on my travels, I want to be able to whip it out on a regular basis don't I?! Rose Comete is a lilac, pink shade with a frosted finish. It has beautiful little flecks of 'seashell' pink shimmer running through it and has a gorgeous cool-lilac undertone to it that is both flattering on my skin tone and unbelievably wearable. It's also unlike any other lipstick I own.

Colour aside, the packaging is just what dreams are made of (slightly poetic I know, but it really is!). It feels weighty. It looks classy. And it applies so smoothly from the bullet. The gold accents to the lipstick casing and the ever-so delicate 'Chanel' writing inscribed in the side is just the perfect finishing touch (and I must admit I'm slightly uneasy about the fact that one day, I shall undoubtedly wear the lipstick down to this point - *sobs*) 

The application is really lovely - the dome shape of the lipstick itself makes it very easy to achieve a smooth, even line around the edges of the lips, as the tip is very thin and easy to work with. The frosted finish is very noticeable, so it's not for everyone - I find I do sometimes have to apply a gloss over the top if I'm having a 'dry lips' day as it does have a tendency to settle in lines slightly.. Aside from this, the colour is just stunning, and is perfect for those days when you want a little bit of glam in your life but don't want to overdo it on the colour.  Wear time is also impressive - for a lighter, sheerer wash of colour, I've not had any problems with having to over-apply.  I really want to try some of their moisturising lip colours now, as well as their Rouge Allure's - I definitely need a Chanel red in my life.. who doesn't?!

Have you tried any Chanel lip products? Which colour shall I invest in next?

♥

50 Random Facts About Me | Tag

Hiddely-ho folks! So. I've seen this '50 random facts about me' thing going on just recently and I thought it was about time I got my teeth into a little personal/life related post! I really struggled thinking of 25 let alone 50! But nevertheless I persevered, racked my little brain and I got there in the end.. You may have also seen on Twitter that I got to the end of this post and accidentally deleted every single word of it like the complete clumsy little elf I am.. So I've had to think of 50 facts about me, twice over! A task and a half I'm sure you can imagine..

1.  My hair is naturally poker straight.

2. I've always had fairly light hair and I had white 'barbie' hair up until the age of about 10/11.

3. I love watching prison documentaries. Or anything with Louie Theroux in. If a programme has a title containing something along the lines of  'the world's worst prisons' then the record button is most certainly pressed. And well, if Louie Theroux is presenting said programme then Oh My Goodness it's a dream come true.

4. I have a teeny-tiny mole underneath the ridge of my bottom lip that always gets mistaken for a biro mark. 

5.  I used to really want to be an air hostess. Up until the age of 11 when i decided half-way to Florida that I was actually scared of flying.

6. Which brings me on to my next point... I'm fascinated by all things travel related. If I hadn't gone to uni to study graphic design I would have probably pursued a career in travel & tourism. There's just something that's really captured me about travel from a very young age - I even went to great lengths to get a work placement in a travel agent at 15! I think working abroad would be an amazing experience.

7. My favourite colour is blue.

8. I love ice hockey. Watching it. Not playing it.

9. I'm an only child. Although I wouldn't describe myself as a 'typical only child'.

10. My lucky number is 4.

11.  I made my best friend watch 'Bend It Like Beckham' with me over and over again when we were younger simply because Jonathon Rhys Meyer's accent made me swoon.

12.  I love elephants. I adore them. I think they're beautiful. I'd have a pet one if it was physically possible.

13. When I was a very young child I used to carry a toy hoover around with me everywhere. (wahhh strange..) I used to love my wooden toy farm and Polly Pockets were the best thing since sliced bread!

14. My first crush was on Leonardo Di Caprio and me and one of my school friends used to sit and watch 'The Beach' everytime we had a sleepover. What a dish.

15.  I'm terrified of cockroaches. The way they move, the way their little whisker things flail around in the dark and how evil they look. They disgust me.

16.  I hate it when people speak in overly posh accents like they're the queen or something. It's almost like they put it on and it really annoys me. Unless of course they are actually the Queen. That's fine...

17. I love cats. All of them. Even the grumpy ones.

18. I have a weakness for Chinese takeaways.

19. I have a massive sombrero hat underneath my bed. I bought one thinking it was hilarious when on holiday. I obviously didn't think about the practicality of bringing it home again..

20.  I love cheesecake. Any kind but vanilla is best! The Cheesecake Shop is my favourite sweet treat.

21. I could watch the TV series 'Benidorm' on repeat. I don't know why I love it so much. I guess it's because it's easy watching!

22. I can't wait to have my own place to decorate. Going to IKEA is my idea of a smashing day out.. even if it is for the free pencils and a hot dog at the end.

23. I love airports. When i was little I remember my parents taking me to the airport cafe so I could sit and listen to the 'airplane' noises for a little while.

24. I kept a diary every day when I was in year 8. I still have it and sometimes have a read back through it for jokes and giggles. Every single page is either about boys or my hatred of PE lessons as I was completely useless at it (i once twisted my arm attempting to do a 'vault' over a tiny little stool and I knocked down the entire high jump and landed in a heap on the gym floor - PE was definitely not my forte!) Funny how not being able to hit the ball in rounders was the only thing I had to worry about back then...

25.  I'm a bit of an art geek. I could happily spend a whole afternoon trawling round art galleries and having arty-farty conversations with strangers...

26. I really want to get into Graphic Design or Illustration when I finish uni. I want a job I enjoy doing for a living.

27. I don't drink a lot of alcohol. It just doesn't agree with me. I stop drinking once I feel tipsy and move onto soft drinks! I just can't take my drink very well... who says you can't have a good night out on Sprite!?

28. I hate mayonnaise. I cant eat anything with it on. Even if it's just a little droplet of the stuff.

29.  I collect children's books as I love the illustrations in them. My favourites being 'Where The Wild Things Are' and 'The Tiger Who Came To Tea'. 'The Rainbow Fish' doesn't go a miss either...

30. I hate people listening to me on the telephone if I'm having a full blown conversation!

31. I hate horror movies. Or anything overly 'jumpy' - they bring on my panic attacks! Give me a rom-com any day...

32. I loved English Language at school and I used to look forward to any creative writing lessons. Actual Swot.

33. I once dyed my hair black on a whim because I love Mila Kunis' hair. It looked effing awful and I kept it for all of 12 hours. It took ages to get it back to a half decent colour.  One of the worst beauty mistakes I ever made.

34. My car's name is Mirabelle. Whenever I go anywhere I tap her on the steering wheel before I get out as if to say 'thankyou' for being such a good car! Ahaha.. weirdo..

35. I love crisps. I'd eat them over chocolate anyday and will happily sit and scoff packets one after the other.

36. I am so forgetful. I forget everything and anything. I have post-it notes all over my bathroom mirror and I even have to put them on the back of my iPhone so I remember things.  I almost always still forget. I've heard it gets worse as you get older.. so at 22 I have no hope!

37. If something annoys me I find it very difficult not to speak up. I'm not a confrontational person at all.. in fact - I hate arguments. But if I'm really against something or if I have something to say I like to speak up for myself.

38.  I'm addicted to buying bikinis! I buy ridiculous amounts of them and as a result now have to dedicate a whole drawer in my bedroom to them.  It's silly really seeing as I only ever wear them when i'm abroad.. but they're something I enjoy buying and I have one for every single mood and 'level of tan' possible!

39. I used to ask Santa Claus for a donkey every year when I was little. Never got one.

40. I love summer and sunny days put me in a reet good mood in an instant!

41. I hate coffee. I hate the smell of it on people's breaths and I find the taste awful! I like the smell of it when it's in the mug though..

42.  I love perfumes. I have a drawer full of them!! and yes.. i use them all!!

43.  I struggle to say the word 'squirrel'

44. I am the biggest home bird you will ever meet.  I love being cosy at home and it's very rare I will venture out of my house once the pyjamas have gone on. I much prefer nights in to nights out!

45. I've become a secret fan of watching Question Time. But it often gets my back up!

46.  I love Greece. I love it's simplicity and the whole culture surrounding it. I think it's very endearing and it holds a special place in my heart.

47.  I have a fascination with abandoned places. There's an abandoned theme park near me and I used to go there when I was a child. There's not much left of it now - it's being built on in the near future but there's something a bit spooky about places that used to be full of people that are now completely deserted. I'm still yet to find someone who wants to go with me. Suppose it is a bit strange though .. 'oh hey.. fancy taking a trip to that huge expanse of un-used land with me?' hmmm..

48. I'm crap at maths. But i'm pretty snappy with percentages! I must have been very selective with what I learnt in Maths lessons.. I'm a whizz when it comes to working out how much discount i'll get off something in Topshop. Sod algebra! 

49.  I love reading books about crime and grisly stuff! I think I secretly want to be a member of CSI...

50.   I love wearing heels. I wear them most days.. even if it's just a little one... I lack in the height department so an extra bit of tall-ness allows me to feel like I mean business!

A massive pat on the back to you if you actually made it to the end! Do i share any of these random things in common with any of you?!

 ♥ 

Meet My Advertisers | February

Hi girlies! Today I thought I would share with you all my fabulous advertisers of the month of February! Hopefully you will find yourself a few new blogs to add to your ever-growing reading lists and discover a little more of what our lovely little bloggosphere has to offer. You can also head on over to my sidebar for some more amazing offerings - including an array of beauty bloggers, fashion bloggers and even a jewellery shop this month! Grab yourselves a cuppa, get cosy and pop on over to say hello... :)

My Exclusive Advertiser this month is Lucy from LucyRose

I'm a 20 year old obsessed with anything beautiful! After being hooked on YouTube videos and blogs for over a year I took the plunge in 2012 and set up lucyrosex. My blog is all about beauty, fashion and occasional lifestyle posts. You will find hauls, OOTD's, reviews, empties and tags! I have loved the past few months watching my little corner of the blogging world grow and have really enjoyed getting to know lots of lovely fellow bloggers - this community is the best and I hope to stick around for a very long time! So if you like the sound so far, come and say hello!

Lots of love 

xxx

Blog - www.lucyrosex.blogspot.co.uk

Twitter - @lucyrosegreen

Instagram - @lucyrosegreen

 Emily from Love-X-Beauty

 Love Beauty -x- is a blog written by a student living in the midlands. It will feature regular updates and honest reviews about beauty products, exciting trends and general chat. Follow my journey!!

Blog - love-x-beauty.blogspot.co.uk/

Twitter - @LovexBeauty91 

Bloglovin - LovexBeauty 

Rendee from Beauty By Ren
 

 Hello my name is Rendee. My love for makeup, and all things girly started as a little girl. Something about all my mom's pretty lipsticks fascinated me.  After years of following blogs I finally got the courage to start Beauty by Ren in May 2012. My blog mainly consists of reviews, hauls, favorites, wishlists, & FOTD/OOTD posts. Occasionally I try to post more personal posts so you can get to know the girl behind the keyboard a little more! I'm currently finishing my last year in a Bachelors degree nursing program, planning a wedding, & starting my fantastic 6 year old in sports.

I love interacting with my followers, so be sure to pop over and say hi.

My blog: beautybyren.blogspot.com

Twitter: @BeautyByRen

Bloglovin: BeautyByRen

Email: beautybyren@gmail.com

Charlie from Eat Play Shop Love

 Hello I'm Charlie, Eat Play Shop Love is my little corner of the web which I use to talk about anything and everything. Originally set up in April 2012 to convey my love for cosmetics, it has quickly developed into my online journal.  I love to write product reviews, show you my recent splurges and talk about what i've generally been getting up to and taking pretty pictures along the way.  I'm no make up artist or fashion guru and I can't tell you the secrets to life but if you have a love for cosmetics and are a complete foodie then my blog is for you.

I love going out for meals, curling my hair and painting my nails to suit my mood.  Skincare is my weakness; I'm constantly on a mission to find products which will give me flawless skin.  I wish I was a little bit smaller so I could get away with wearing sky high hells without looking like a giant.

I absolutely love blgging and the community that comes with it so if you love to chat here's where to find me:

Blog - eatplayshopove.blogspot.co.uk

Twitter - @eatplayshopBlog

Instagram - misscharlieb_xx

Bloglovin - eatplayshoplove

Hello Cotton - eatplayshoplove

She Said Beauty - charlie_epsl
Email - Charlie_epsl@hotmail.co.uk

Katie from KatieLewLa

I'm Katie, a little blogger with big ambitions :) Currently studying an MA to be a Dramatherapist at University of Derby which will hopefully fund my beauty addiction better! Blogging is a lovely little hobby for me to share with you my nails and anything else which is interesting me. Meeting and chatting with all my readers is a great added bonus so please say hello.

Blog - www.katielewla.co.uk

Twitter - @katielewla 

YouTube -  KatieLew90

Bloggers -  KatieLewLa

Hello Cotton - katielewla

Pinterest - katielewla

Instagram - katielewla

I hope you've managed to find some new blogs to read - pop on over to my sidebar and say hello to these fabulous ladies and do let me know if you've found yourself a new favourite! If you'd like to be featured here next month then you can view my advertising packages here. All you need to do is send me a little email and I shall reply as soon as possibley!

 ♥ 

 

Advertising on Bird's Words

I've been running my blog for just over a year now, and by no means am I the biggest fish in the blogging pond, but I take blogging very seriously and it is part of me and my everyday life.  I understand some people are a little 'iffy' when it comes to bloggers offering advertising, and that's fine. But Bird's Words is all i do in my spare time - it is more than a hobby for me and naturally, I want to see it develop and grow more. I have 4 packages, all available to other blogs and small shops, and have tried to reasonably price them compared to other blogs of a similar size to mine..

If you wish to take a look at my advertising slots and packages then click here
Since it's my first month offering advertising, i've lowered my prices as an introductory little offer - my cheapest package this month is just £2.

If you wish to book a slot for February then send me over an email and I shall do my very bestest to get it all sorted for you!

♥