My Autumn/Winter Blush Wardrobe

I must confess that I'm a bit of a blush hoarder.  If there's anything I tend to experiment with aside from my lip shade - it's the colour I dust on my cheeks of a morning!  I love that something so simple and quick can completely bring together a make-up look in an instant and brighten up your entire complexion.  I've had a bit of a make-up overhaul recently and thought I'd introduce you to my Autumn/Winter 'blush wardrobe' - because for a beauty blogger, it doesn't stop at swapping your cami tops for polo-necks does it?! Ohh no - I've swapped around my entire cosmetic collection and placed some of my more wintery shades within grabbing distance.  It's time to put the bright corals to bed! Without further ado, here's 7 of my 'go to' shades for the autumn/winter season and why I'll be reaching for them over the next few months...

Illamasqua | 'Tremble' // The Winter Bright //

I must admit, I'm really not a big fan of pinks - I find that I need a bit of warmth in my blush colour due to my skin-tone but Illamasqua's 'Tremble' is probably one of the only bright pink shades I can get away with. It's showing up a little more cool toned on camera but this is seriously bright - it's not for the faint hearted but when applied lightly it gives such a lovely flush of colour to the cheeks. If you're a fan of Illamasqua's 'Lover' blush (it's one of my all time summer favourites) this is like its pink, wintery cousin... it still has the same brightness to it but looks a little more natural and flattering on dull, winter skin.  I love Illamasqua's blushes - they always look so immaculate and flawless on the skin and are incredibly long lasting. If you're looking for pigmentation - look no further.  I have an ancient review of Tremble here.

Deborah Milano | 'Spicy' // The 'Any Season' Coral //

I know I said I've put my corals to bed but this is the only one I find myself reaching for all year round.  Trust me when I say that this little compact is well loved! If you're looking for a versatile, year-round colour then this shade will be right up your street.  It looks just as flattering on my winter skin as it does when I have a tan - it looks so natural. It's the perfect coral because it isn't too orange or bright - it works whatever the weather, whatever your skin tone and whatever make-up you've applied.  I love the texture of the powder too - it applies so smoothly and effortlessy and it's really nicely pigmented - I've used this to death for around a year and I've barely worn down the surface - well worth the money! I have a full review of it here.

Nars | 'Orgasm' // The Perfect Healthy Glow //

Ooo Beauty blogger classic alert (just look how battered mine is - the poor thing!) Although I can't say this blush is one of my all-time favourites, it's one that I find myself reaching for through the winter months.  It's got a bit of shimmer running through it so it's perfect for those days when you just can't be bothered to highlight as it brings a healthy, natural glow to the face - killing 2 birds with one stone, as they say! I like to use this colour when I'm feeling a little bit under the weather - rosy pink blushes are actually proven to help counteract dull tones and dark shadows under your eyes, and 'Orgasm' does a fabulous job of making me look bright eyed and bushy tailed even when I'm far from it. Its rosy appearance does a fabulous job of brightening the skin and gives a naturally 'blushed' appearance. It's definitely one of my more understated blushes (despite the shimmer) - it's the type of blush I'd pop on for a quick flush of colour if I'm off for a winter walk somewhere.

Nars | 'Deep Throat' // The 'Everyday' Winter Staple //

Oh crikey me - Nars and their naughty names make me blush even before I've swept them on to my cheeks! Despite it's 'out there' name, this blush really is such a great everyday staple. It's like a slightly lighter, less shimmery version of 'Orgasm' with a hint of peachy pink.  I must admit I was never sold on this until I had it applied on me by an MUA in Space NK - it looks completely different once you have it on your cheeks and gives such a healthy flush of peachy-pink to the cheeks. If, like me, you lean towards corals and oranges and want something suitable for the season, I really recommend you check this one out.  It's a lovely 'in-between' sort of shade - I can wear this all year round because it has a good bit of warmth running through it.  It's a good option for paler skin too as it's not overly pigmented - it's very buildable.  I have a full review and photographs here.

Benefit | 'Rockateur' // The Subtle Touch //

I really didn't expect this to become one of my autumn staples, but it has! I actually find this to be quite similar to Nars' 'Deep Throat' blush - just a slightly lighter version.  Again, it's peachy-pink hints work really well on winter skin and the satin finish is really flattering.  It has a subtle hint of shimmer which gives such a healthy glow - another fabulous option if dull skin is your main concern. I find this blush works well for layering becuase it's quite subtle. It's formula is very buildable and if you wish to achieve the colour in the pan, you can, but I actually really enjoy using this alongside Benefit's 'Majorette' - layering this on top of a bright coral works really well. I have a full review here.

Mac | 'Blushbaby' // The 'Depths of Winter' Flush //

Again, this isn't one of my all-time favourites but I really enjoy using this shade in the winter months.  It's a gorgeous, natural shade with a slight hint of mauve - a little more cool-toned than what I usually reach for but with the right make-up it looks so beautiful. I always pop this on if I'm wearing a darker lip colour or if I've opted for a mauve/purple toned lip. It swatches a little warmer than it looks in the pan - it's definitely got a hint of 'brick' running through it (have a nosey at the swatches, you'll see what I mean!) Think bobble hats, cosy knits and hot chocolates - this shade really is my 'depths of winter' blush - perfect for snowy days. I love the matte finish - it works really well with a flawless base and a teeny fleck of highlighter on the tops of the cheekbones.

Mac | 'Harmony' // The Sculpting Shade //

I adore this shade.  It's so multi-functional as it works as a contour shade as well as a blush. It's a cool toned 'brick' sort of colour - very difficult to explain but one that works incredibly well at softly sculpting the cheeks. If you're new to contouring, I really recommend this - all you need to do is sweep some of this onto your cheeks and et voila - instant cheekbones. If I'm in a rush, I'll quickly dust some of this on using a blush brush, but i find that it works really nicely if you use a slightly smaller tapered or 'domed' brush and place the colour on your natural contour line.With 'Harmony', it's so easy to achieve that sculpted appearance without the fuss.  As with most Mac blushes, it's really soft and easy to blend - but isn't so overly pigmented it's difficult to work with. Definitely a staple shade in my collection. I have a full review here.

Swatches L-R | Illamasqua 'Tremble' / Deborah Milano 'Spicy' / Nars 'Orgasm' / Nars 'Deep Throat' / Benefit 'Rockateur' / Mac 'Blushbaby' / Mac 'Harmony'

So there we have it - my Autumn/Winter blush wardrobe. I also love Benefit's 'Majorette' and Illamasqua's 'Lover' blush - but the shades I've featured are definitely the ones I'll be reaching for when the weather really does take a turn for the worst!  My ultimate favourites have to be Deborah Milano's 'Spicy' and Nars' 'Deep Throat' - and Mac's 'Harmony' really is a winter contouring must-have if you're a fan of a sculpted cheek like me.

What's in your autumn/winter blush wardrobe this season?

Monthly Favourites | September

Happy October my fellow birds! Ok. I have to admit. Even though I'm really not an autumn/winter person, I have to admit that I really do enjoy October. There's something about turning the clocks back and the slight chill in the air that makes it quite a 'cosy' month before real winter-y weather sets in.  There is nothing like coming home from work, snuggling up in a baggy jumper with a cup of tea, and putting on your fleecy reindeer print leggings. (yep..that's right. Who said it's too early?! As soon as John Lewis whip out the Christmas baubles, I bring out the festive attire in a swish)!.  September has been a bit of a hectic month for me.  I'm now into my final year at uni which has also meant a big step up in workload and a little extra stress on my shoulders.  There's no more room for 'mistakes' now - what I get for my modules this year is what will determine my degree. Yikes. But even with all my essays (yep, they threw one upon us on our first day back for jokes and giggles...), lectures and overflowing to do lists, I have still managed to find time to try new beauty products. A beauty obsessed female will always find the time to discover new cosmetics, right!? Here's what has been floating my boat in September...

Loreal Ever Riche | Nourishing and Taming Conditioner.

I'm now on my 3rd bottle of this stuff.  My motherbear actually introduced me to this range a few months ago now, and I've been a fan ever since (big thumbs up, Ma!).  One of it's biggest plus points, is that it contains no sulphates.  If you haven't heard of the benefits of using a 'sulphate free' shampoo/conditioner then it's worth having a look into - it's much more gentle and healthier on your scalp, which in turn can help to reduce hair fall and increase volume and condition of the hair.  I'm such a big fan of this conditioner - my hair has been so dry and brittle of late, and due to the thick consistency, I find this one to be extremely moisturising and rich. It gives me that 'deep conditioned' feel without having to leave it on for much time at all.  It also smells divine.  Really worth the money and works wonders on hair that feels a little 'parched'.

Maybelline | Brow Drama - Brow Mascara in 'Medium Brown'

Now then, I've heard mixed reviews on this one.  But I'm very much in the 'love it' camp.  I love brow gels - and I do prefer them to have some sort of colour to them (Mac's Beguile is my go-to brow gel) due to my eyebrows being so light!  The 360 degree wand allows for a really good application of the colour through the brows and is slightly easier to use when compared with Mac's version.  The colour isn't as intense, but the staying power is pretty much just as good, and it manages to keep my brows looking defined and in place for a good few hours.  A really good finishing touch if you're looking for some extra definition for your eyebrows.

Arran Cosmetics | Lavender and Tea Tree Facial Gel Wash*

A face wash I hear you say? Well - yes. I didn't expect to be raving about a face wash this month either but this product is one of my new additions to the skin care routine.  I received this in August's LoveMeBeauty box (post here) and I've been really enjoying using it.  I'm not the biggest fan of lavender, but I find using this before bed really relaxing, as the mix of the tea tree and with the floral hint works so well together and creates a wonderful, spa-like scent.  You know when you stay in posh hotels and you get a lovely luxurious face wash and a fluffy bathrobe? THIS is that product!  The consistency is quite unlike any 'run of the mill' face wash and the gel texture feels very cooling and refreshing on tired skin.  It also has tiny little beads in it that gently exfoliate but it isn't harsh at all. In fact, you can hardly feel them - but the end result is skin that feels soft and smooth. I've noticed my skin feeling a lot more 'calm' since using this - I really do like it!

Shu Uemura | Essence Absolue Oil*

I've already reviewed this product this month, so I won't bore you by repeating myself.  It's basically my favourite oil of the moment and I will without a doubt be repurchasing in a flash.  It's the only oil I'm able to use on both wet, damp and dry hair and my hair has never felt so soft.  You can find my review here along with a 20% off discount code if you fancy giving it a whirl!

Deborah Milano | Natural Blush*

Again, I've already reviewed this product over the course of the month (link) but it's become my favourite blush of the season.  It has completely blown all my other coral/peach blushes out of the water and I'm finding it really suitable for the time of year due to the slight dusky undertones.  It doesn't look too bright or false, and the texture is so incredibly soft and blendable.

Lord & Berry Kissproof Lip Liner in 'Blossom'*

My trusty Estee Lauder lip liner in 'Spice' is reaching an end *sheds tear*, but I've found my perfect replacement for the time being.  It's a lovely shade to line the lips with - and it is one that compliments my natural lip colour and enhances it slightly.  I use this with a variety of my 'everyday' lipsticks and find it so easy to wear.  It's also incredibly pigmented, soft and long lasting - just what you want from a lip liner!

Hugo Boss |'Jour'

I'm not usually one for including perfumes on my blog as they're such a personal thing and simply impossible to review due to how unique they turn out to be on each individual.  But I couldn't leave this little beauty out.  I adore Hugo Boss fragrances.  'Orange' is my signature scent (i'm now on my 4th or 5th bottle) and I always find their fragrances to be really feminine and sophisticated.  'Jour' is such a stunning fragrance - and it smells gorgeous even when it begins to wear off after the day is done. It's light, slightly musky but incredibly soft and gentle and just has such a calming effect on me.   I won't sit here and continue to throw fancy adjectives at you in order to sell it to you - I don't think that would be of any use - but if you're a fan of Hugo Boss 'Orange' or are looking for a sophisticated, luxuriously smelling fragrance for everyday wear, then i'd really recommend giving this a sniff! Your nostrils will thank you for it...

And so there we have it! Another month, another bunch of beauty stuff!  I just want to thank those of you who took part in my 'Anxiety' survey for my new design project at uni over the weekend.  It's been overwhelming to see the response and it will come in so handy for my design development - I suffer with panic attacks and it's been really useful to see the responses.  Everyone's experience of anxiety really is completely unique - so it is fascinating to see the results pop up on my little analysis chart (wow I don't sound like a geek at all do i?! Pass me the nerd glasses!).  I will be taking the results and using them mid-week, so if you still fancy helping me out (it's just 10 questions, all completely anonymous) all you need to do is head on over >> here << :)  

What products have you been loving this month?

The Perfect Autumn Coral | Deborah Milano Natural Blush in 'Spicy'

Deborah Milano | Natural Blush in '04 - Spicy' | £6.90* | Link

I'm partial to a peach blush or two, me.  I find that I suit warmer peach and coral tones much more easily than cooler pinks, even throughout winter.  My new go-to blush is this little beauty from Deborah Milano and it's been the perfect addition to my collection.   I've previously had the chance to try one of their Moisture Shine lipsticks (review here), so was really looking forward to trying their 'Natural Blush' in Shade 04 - 'Spicy'.  I would describe the colour as a mid-toned dusky peach with a slight orangey pink tone throughout. The photographs pick it up to be slightly brighter than it is due to the lighting - but the swatch is a little more true to colour.  I'm a big fan of Illamasqua's 'Lover' blush, but I sometimes find that it can be a little too bright for my autumn/winter skin, and the orange tones in it bring out any dark circles I might have - this is why I've been loving 'Spicy' just recently.  It's a little more forgiving on paler skin, isn't as bright and looks that little bit more natural due to it's slightly pink undertone. Really flattering and the perfect compliment to any makeup look.

What I love about the blush is how soft and smooth it is - it blends out effortlessly and gives the skin a lovely gentle flush of colour.  The subtle contours of the product in the pan make it easier to pick up on a fluffy blush brush, and even the tiniest amount transfers as a lovely, even colour on the cheeks.  It looks fabulous with a subtle highlight and contour, and finishes off my every day makeup perfectly.  The blush contains a tiny bit of sheen - as you can see in the close up shots - but it doesn't transfer much onto the skin - giving it a satin/almost matte finish that looks lovely and natural - not a hint of 'glitterball' in there whatsoever!  My perfect kind of coral blush.

Deborah Milano say that their 'Natural Blush' is enriched with precious gem dust and contains minerals that are good for the skin (including Mother of Pearl, Coral, Amber and Jade to name a few) whilst being suitable for even the most sensitive of skin types (that's me!).  It really has become my go-to blush and can imagine I'll be wearing this well into autumn/winter - it's not so bright that it belongs solely in your summer makeup bag but gives your skin a warming pop of colour that brightens the complexion and looks flawless in finish. A very good little all-rounder that will be perfect for all seasons, in my opinion! The compact does come with a little tiny brush - it's always a nice touch for on-the-go but personally I find it blends better with a bigger, fluffy blush brush (the Real Techniques one works extremely well with it!).  For £6.90, it easily beats some of my drugstore favourites and the quality and wear time are up there with the best.  Totally worth the price tag and I won't be hesitating to pick up another shade in the near future!

You can find the Natural Blushes on the Deborah Milano website here. 

What shade have you got your eye on? Do you like the sound of these blushes?

Deborah Milano | Shine Creator Lipstick

Deborah Milano | Shine Creator Lipstick in Shade 7 'Shiny Cyclamen' | £8.50* (link)

I love a good lipstick me.  I think every beauty obsessed female has a 'thing' for a certain type of product, don't they? I'll often throw a lippie into my basket on a stroll through Boots and if I'm ever going to splash the cash on anything cosmetic then it's usually in the form of a lip colour. It's a sure fire way of changing your entire look in a flash - or swipe of a lipstick tube! Deborah Milano is a brand I'd never heard of before I had the chance to try it - but BOY am I glad I have now! Before I even got to try the lipstick I was really impressed with their website and the array of products on offer - I certainly have my eye on a few other products in the range...

I was sent their Shine Creator lipstick in the shade 'Shiny Cyclamen' - a beautiful raspberry pink shade. I'm usually one for reds and corals, so it was a refreshing change for me to receive something different to what I'd have probably picked myself. I found I actually quite like the raspberry tone - I must admit it suits me better now that I have a tan (and I was also pretty chuffed to find it matches one of my blazers...you've got to love matching outfit/lipstick combos!)  What I love though, is the texture and the finish.  Now, I'm a big fan of the Revlon Lip Butters (Lollipop and Creme Brulee being firm favourites of mine - if you're interested ;)!) so I was enticed very much by the 'Shine Creator' lipstick.  It feels very smooth and buttery to apply - slightly thicker in consistency to Revlon's offering. I have to say I was impressed by the staying power. Anything with 'shine' in the name often suggests a limited wear time - but the Shine Creator actually stays put pretty well.  It doesn't smudge too easily and has a non-slip formula - it's very much a buttery, glossy lipstick. After a while, it wears off to a subtle stain - the photograph above shows the gloss finish when first applied, and then the stain after a short while of pottering around the house (excuse cruddy bathroom photograph - it often gets the best light - needs must!). Even though the gloss wears off after a while, the lipstick still has a slight sheen and isn't at all drying. The colour pay-off is quite subtle but noticeable and true to the colour seen in the tube - you can layer it up for a more intense finish or slick one layer on for a more subtle, soft effect. It's worth mentioning that the lipstick also contains SPF15 which is a lovely little addition for this sunny weather we are having recently, as well as being hypoallergenic. Bonus!

Overall, I really like the Shine Creator lipstick and am intrigued to try out a coral shade... (me and my corals - obsessed much?)  It's a really good 'everyday' kind of lipstick to have in your collection. I wore this shade to an interview the other day and it looked like a nice pop of colour without being overdone. I currently have my eyes on their 'Milano Red Lipsticks' (link) which are a more pigmented option from the range of lip products on offer - definitely will be treating myself to one of those soon!  You can find the range on the Deborah Milano website here - see what you think girls! Definitely have a nosey if you're a fellow lipstick magpie like myself...

Have you tried anything from Deborah Milano? What shade tickles your fancy?