Monthly Favourites | August

Erm...where did summer go?! We aren't even a week in to September yet but I'm already swapping my corals and pastels for berry shades and autumnal tones... and dare I say it, but the heating has most certainly been switched on the past couple of days. I've definitely found a few new faveys recently, although to be honest, not much has changed since my June Favourites post (here). I'm still loving my Jane Iredale palette (I don't know how I ever lived without it), and I don't think a day has gone by that I haven't had a quick swish of Benefit's Hoola bronzer either. I'm still utterly obsessed with my Mac lip liner and my Tanya Burr 'Chic' lipgloss remains a full-time resident in my handbag. However, being a beauty obsessive, there's always room for more, right?! So without any more rambling, I'll introduce you to last month's favourites...

Loreal Infallible 2-Step Longwear Lipstick 24 Hour Colour in 'Pink Spice' 

Crikey - what a mouthful! I've been after a lip stain for a while now as I don't actually own a lot of long-wearing lip products. I'm currently on placement for a while and as much as I love my lippie, it's not exactly professional to top it up at my desk every hour.  This lip stain does the job perfectly and lasts all day - it fades very gradually and doesn't flake or chip off which is what I've found with other stain products I've used. The colour is right up my street - a chic, pink toned brown that reminds me a little bit of 'Clueless' (the film from the 90's - I bloomin' love the whole 90s trends right now!)  I tend to apply some of the clear balm first and then let that sink in whilst I do my makeup, and then I'll apply a bit of my Mac 'Spice' lip pencil (which is a perfect match!) before finishing with the stain. It's very easy to apply and goes on like a lip gloss.  The glossy finish does wear off after half an hour or so and it can be a little drying, however, it's so easy to carry around with you and I simply apply some more of the balm every so often to keep any dryness at bay.  I've used this when I've been out for drinks and when I've been on some serious shopping trips and each time it hasn't let me down. If you're after a long-wearing fuss free lip colour for work or nights out, I really recommend these.

Ofra | Eyeshadow in 'Bliss'*

I received this little beauty in lasts month's LoveMeBeauty box (post here) and I've fallen head over heels in love with it.Honestly, it has to be one of the best singular eye shadows I've used for a long time and I'm definitely going to check out the rest of the Ofra collection. It's so buttery soft and creamy, whilst being ultra blendable and smooth to apply.  It has just the right amount of shimmer and I've taken to using it as an inner-corner colour to brighten up my eyes or all over the lid for a quick wash of colour. It lasts amazingly well even without a primer and there's a little mirror concealed underneath the pan. I cannot explain my love for it! 

Stargazer Blush in 'Shade 8'

I won't say too much about this as I featured it already in last month's 'Summer Saviours' post (you can read that here) but It's still my favourite blush to use right now, despite the weather being slightly less lovely than it was last month! Although it looks absolutely terrifying in the pan, it's so easy to apply and is super blendable (providing you don't go too heavy handed!) and it's also one of those colours that instantly awakens your complexion.  I can imagine I will start to phase this out this month now that the weather is turning colder and my summer tan is long gone, but I'm going to milk it for all it's worth - I love orange tones and I shall get away with it for as long as I can...

Seventeen | Instant Glow Bronzer in 'Medium Bronze' | £4.49

Again, I won't say too much about this as I wrote a little review about it in my latest beauty haul here. It's honestly the best drugstore bronzer I think I've ever used and for the price, it's absolutely amazing. I'm so tempted to pick up the cream version too!  It's definitely best for overall bronzing as opposed to contouring as it's quite warm in tone (definitely not orange though), but the matte finish means it works well for subtle definition anyway.  It's such a lovely bronzer and I'm definitely going to repurchase as soon as I hit pan. Well done Seventeen *seal clap*

Lord & Berry Lipstick in 'Brick Lip'

I actually received this in one of my LoveMeBeauty boxes last year (post here) and hadn't really used it much - up until now.  I've only recently discovered my love for brown hues and spicy pinks/brick hues so I had a little root around in my lipstick drawer and found this little gem.  It's been a firm favourite of mine all month and I'm totally in love with it - from the shade, sleek packaging and the formula of the lipstick.  It's so pigmented and smooth to apply and lasts pretty amazingly too - I'd liken the formula to Mac's amplified formulas.  I have to say I really do like Lord & Berry - they have a lovely selection of products.

Origins Peace of Mind Sensory Therapy Balm

I have to admit, when my parents bought me some of this for Christmas I was rather sceptical. I've tried so many things for anxiety in the past and never expect miracles anymore but this has to be the best thing I've tried so far - hands down!  It's essentially a minty scented balm that you simply pump onto the skin (i tend to use it on my pulse points, particularly my wrists) and inhale when you're feeling a little wobbly.  I've been using it a lot recently as I've been travelling around for job interviews and meetings - it takes the edge of the nerves and seems to help keep panic attacks at bay.  It's quite discreet so it's easy to keep in your handbag and use when you're on the go.  If you're feeling a bit worried or anxious about anything, it's well worth picking some of this up. You only need the tiniest bit and the minty scent really does work wonders at kicking panic attacks up the bum! I don't know what it is - but it just works instantly!

  
Jimmy Choo Perfume

I love Jimmy Choo perfumes. I've recently made a repurchase of my favourite 'Flash London Club' (post here) which I was sent a while back.  When that one ran out, I turned back to the orignal scent and rediscovered my love for it.  It's such a glamorous, girly scent and I like it because it isn't too sweet or too spicy - it's perfect for day or night and it's so sophisticated.  I love the fact that it lasts so well too - I can literally spray it a couple of times before dashing out of a morning and it's still lingering when I get home.  If you're after a good, long wearing perfume, I really recommend having a look at the Jimmy Choo scents.  How gorgeous is the bottle too?! Definitely one to pop on your dressing table! It's a beauty!

Swatches L-R | Stargazer Blush | Seventeen Bronzer | Ofra Eyeshadows | Lord & Berry 'Brick' | Loreal 'Pink Spice |

What have you been loving this month? Do any of my favourites tickle your fancy!?

Loreal Liners | The Favourite 3

Swatches L-R / Ultra-Precision | Midnight Purple | Perfect Slim

I've realised that I'm actually pretty loyal when it comes to eyeliners, especially those of the liquid kind.  I've tried a number of different varieties and I always end up back with my old favourite - the Loreal Super Liner.  It comes as no surprise really - it is after all one of the ultimate all-time blogger faves and it might as well have 'holy grail' written all over it. Loreal don't half make a smashing eyeliner, let me tell you! It occurred to me the other day that I've never actually blogged about my liquid liner favourites, but when the inevitable happened and 2 of them both ran out at the same time (typical much?) I thought it was about time I dedicated some bloggy space to them (and because there's nothing like brand new 'straight off the shelves' packaging to photograph is there, fellow bloggers?!)  So without further jibber-jabber, I shall introduce you to my little Loreal trio...

Super Liner Ultra-Precision Black | £6.49 | Link

With its beautiful gold exterior and sleek, thin lid - this liner certainly looks the part.  It doesn't stop at the packaging either - it ticks every single box for what I look for in a liquid liner.  The thin, slightly flexible nib picks up just the right amount of product and distributes it in an even, opaque line across the upper lash line. With just a slight change of pressure, it's easy to go from a thin, precise line to a dramatic cat flick in seconds.  Not only that, but it lasts all day.  It doesn't matter if I've been at work all day running up and down stockroom stairs or if I've been on a flight - you name it - it's still going strong at the end of the day! I like the fact that it gives a slightly glossy finish - it makes it even more striking on the eyes and adds so much definition.  There's no flaking or smudging, and it doesn't fade throughout the day. It's not waterproof, so don't expect miracles - but overall I really cannot sing this liner's praises enough and If you're after a new liquid liner, I really recommend this one! It's the ultimate of ultimate faves!

Super Liner 'Midnight' in 'Purple | £6.49 | Link

I can't really say much about this one as it's basically the exact same as the Ultra-Precision, just with a little bit of colour!  Yes - it's purple but it doesn't look like you've tried to go all 'Disney Princess' when you wear it.  There is a very subtle hint of a purple hue in there that can be seen when it catches the light - but appears almost black when worn on the lash line.  I use this when I'm off on a night out and fancy something a bit 'spesh'. I have green eyes so I find the purple really does help to accentuate my eye colour and it looks really flattering when worn with a simple gold, neutral eye.

Super Liner Perfect Slim | £6.99 | Link

I bought this when I couldn't find my beloved 'Ultra Slim' and have actually managed to find myself a new favourite.  I've been wearing this constantly just recently and am now on my second tube of the stuff.  It's much more like a 'felt tip' sort of liner, and it a little more matte in finish than the ultra-precision.  I really love the nib of this one - it really is super easy to use and it's essentially fool proof.   I find it easier to grip than the ultra-precision and it's much easier to use if I'm in a rush of a morning.  I actually find this one more 'user friendly' than the ultra-precision - I find creating cat flicks and dramatic lines much more easy and it's such a good all-rounder.  I really recommend this one if you're after an easy to use, everyday liner with more of a 'felt tip' kind of feel to it.

So there we have it. My Loreal faves.  At just under £7 each they're really worth the money and last forever.  Many a time I've treated myself to a new eyeliner only to find it doesn't cut the mustard when it comes to life-span but these little beauties will last you ages! 

What's your current favourite liquid liner? Do you love Loreal's offerings as much as me?

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?

My 'Go-To' Face Base | Loreal Studio Secrets Professional Primer

Loreal Studio Secrets Professional Smoothing Resurfacing Primer | £14.29 | Link

You know those typical 'holy grail' items you have in your makeup bag? The ones you forever repurchase that get so embedded in your daily routine that you simply cannot live without them but often forget how much you rely on them? This is one of those items.  It occurred to me the other day that I've actually never spoken about one of my most used products on my blog.  I've been asked a few times what I use for a base before I apply my foundation as I've mentioned in  a few reviews that I don't really have problems getting my foundation to stay throughout the day and a lot of the time I really believe it's down to my primer. Without further jibber-jabber, I shall introduce to you to Loreal's Studio Professional Smoothing Resurfacing Primer (try saying that after a few - crikey!) I have had more than my fair share of these little pots - I believe I might be on my fourth or fifth so trust me when I say it's a well loved favourite. 

Now, I know primers are very much like foundation - what one person swears by, another one hates. It is a very personal thing and your skin type/moisturiser/foundation you use is all going to effect how your primer works.  For reference, I have fairly normal skin with a slightly oilier t-zone, and at certain times of the year my cheeks get a little dry - but nothing overly difficult apart from the odd pesky spot on my chin now and again.  The consistency has a very velvety, soft feel to it - and almost feels like a thick, whipped mousse when applied.  What I love about it is the fact it leaves no greasy residue on the skin - many primers I've tried feel quite greasy and I often feel a bit funny applying them to my skin - with this one, there's none of that.  It instantly makes the skin feel smooth to the touch - almost masking over any 'dodgy' uneven areas and helping to disguise any pores.  I apply it with my fingers, working from the middle of my face and outwards, concentrating on around my nose, my chin and my forehead.

I've never experience any breakouts with this product - it doesn't make my skin feel greasy and after smoothing out with my fingers it's undetectable - aside from the fact my skin feels one heck of a lot smoother! I then apply my foundation as normal.  I haven't yet found a foundation that doesn't work with this primer - it is the ultimate dream team with my beloved YSL Touche Eclat foundation. I know a few people said that they weren't too fussed about the wear time with this foundation when it was launched - but personally it lasts all day on me providing I use this beforehand and a dusting of powder afterwards.  It really is a little miracle worker for me - and I can honestly tell when I've forgotten to apply it.  It helps no end on holiday or in the summer when my makeup needs a little extra helping hand to stay in place and I hardly ever get any patchiness when I've applied it. I've actually used it as an emergency eyeshadow primer on holiday! If you're a fan of lighter, dewy foundations like me, then you'll know a good primer is a must-have in order to get it to stay put. There's no doubt that primers are a very personal thing, and they're very much a love or hate product - but if you've never tried a primer before or stay away from them purely because of the greasy residue a lot of them leave behind - then give Loreal's a whirl.  I even love the packaging - the little glass pot feels much more luxurious and considered than your average squeezy tube! It's worth every penny for me and it's worked better than some higher end options I've tried in the past. I love it. Holy grail status well and truly achieved.

What's your 'holy grail' primer? 

April Favourites

It's the beginning of another month. Which can only mean one thing. Favourites time! I do hope you have all been enjoying the rare occurrence that has been this wonderfully sunshine-y bank holiday! For those of you who are blessed to live in sunnier climes (lucky devils, you), it is simply an unwritten rule that whenever the sun decides to show itself in the UK, everybody, everywhere across the whole country must adorn their summer wardrobes, dust down their flip-flops and herd to the nearest watering hole. And stay there. Even when the sunlight is fading for the day and a mere strip of light on the pavement is all that remains of the excitement of the past few hours, we stay there. Until every last ray that we can possibly squeeze from the day has disappeared.  And even then, by heck are we taking our sunglasses off!? I love it when the sun comes out - it's amazing how much happier it makes you feel and even the simplest things like going for a walk and queueing for a Mr Whippy feel like the most exciting thing you've done since forever.  The pubs are full of bare beer bellys and football shirts galore, and the air is filled with many a whiff of BBQ's from every single garden on the street.  I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a red-hot summer now (even if red-hot simply means that we remain in decent double figures for more than the one week of nice-ness we usually get..)  Anyway, typical British rambles aside...here are a selection of my monthly loves..

| Moroccan Oil Treatment |

After using my mother's sample size of the Moroccan Oil treatment, it's safe to say I'm hooked. So much so I now have a fuller version.  You may have seen my post a while back on my love for hair oils (here), and my love very much remains the same.  I can't say I can tell a huge difference between this and my Macadamia Oil, but the smell of the Moroccan Oil is just divine. Honestly. I urge you to sneak a little sniff of this beauty if ever you get the chance. It's just what dreams are made of.  Yes, it's pricey. But it's worth every penny and a bottle like this would last you an absolute age! It leaves your hair feeling incredibly soft and nourished and I will never ever wash my hair again without applying some form of oil to the ends. Honestly, trust me on this - never again will conditioner simply be enough.  I really want to try their shampoo and conditioner now - my mum uses them and loves them to bits so I'm definitely on the hunt for some to try for myself now!

| Mac Turquatic Perfume |

The sun came out. So it's only fair that this little beauty came out too. If you have never copped a sniff of this summer-staple, I urge you to do so right away. Seriously, go knock yourself out and drown yourself in it. It's beautiful. Now, I'm no good with describing scents whatsoever, but I shall try to nonetheless. Imagine sitting by a pool somewhere tropical, cocktail firmly in hand and the sound of the sea gracing your ears. It sounds obviously cheesy, I know, but conjure up an image of your ideal sunshine getaway and this perfume is exactly what it would smell like. Right down to the tropical fish swimming around your ankles.

| Benefit High Beam |

I wrote about this product briefly a while back when I reviewed Benefit's Coralista set (here) and I've always enjoyed using it.  Ever since I first sampled 'Sun Beam' a while back it's safe to say I've had great admiration for these highlighters. The past month, I've been using this over all of my powder highlighters (my Nars 'Albatross' has taken a firm backseat for now) and I just love the dewy glow it gives.  You don't need a lot at all, and just a few dots of it along your brow bone and your cheek bones blended into the skin with a small fluffy brush gives such a gorgeous bit of dimension to the face without being glittery.  I find it looks a lot more natural than my powder highlighters and it's perfect for the slightly warmer weather we are having - I love that it looks dewy and glowy without looking false. It looks like your own skin. No glitterball-face in sight!  I even pop a few dabs on my chest area if I'm going out - it's such a versatile product, and one that I guess I didn't realise just how good it was until just recently. I'll definitely be buying the full size bottle once this runs out - and I really want to try Moon Beam now.

| Nyx Cream Blush in 'Natural |

This blush is one of my spring/summer staples (I actually have two pots of it so I have back-up!) and I included it last year in my 'Top 5 Summer Blushes' (you can have a nosey at that here). I have another shade of theirs and absolutely adore the consistency.  I'm really not a fan of cream to powder blushes as I find them drying - so this one is perfect because its moisturising enough to feel silky smooth on your cheeks but not so heavy that it slides off. Nyx have got the creamy texture spot on the mark and I get a good few hours wear out of them before they fade.  They don't go patchy either.  I simply love the shade - it's a perfect pinky-nude shade, making in the perfect summer companion. 

| Loreal Super Liner Perfect Slim Liquid Liner |

OOf. What a mouthful! I'm a big fan of liquid liner. And a big fan of Loreal's.  I usually use their ever-famous Super Liner Carbon Gloss, but on a recent makeup spree I decided to throw this one in the basket instead.  I wasn't instantly fussed but now I find I'm reaching for it quite a bit and I really quite like it! It's different to the Carbon Gloss due to the slightly thinner, and less flexible tip that makes it more of a felt-tip styled liner.  It's slightly less glossy and looks a little more matte in finish. What I love is the the fact that you're able to vary the weight of line effortlessly, and cat-flicks on the outer corners of your eyes are much easier to achieve. I really like it. Stays put all day, a doddle to apply and a offers a little more precision than other liquid liners I've tried.

| Mac Lipstick in 'Freckletone' | 

I've just realised I have no photograph of the lipstick in the bullet, but I've actually taken photos for a compilation of my nude lipstick collection to be posted soon so it will be included there.  This lipstick deserves a lot more recognition. If you're a fan of Shy Girl - then you will love this. It's a beautiful glossy mid-peach/nude shade that looks very flattering on both pale and darker skins. It's also rumoured to be a favourite of Kim Kardashian and Beyonce. Who can argue with that!? It's a lustre finish so wear time can be a little disappointing, however I can overlook this. It's such a gorgeous, glossy shade and one that I've been wearing almost every day since I bought it.

Also, before I tottle off to paint some more pictures for my children's book (the end is in sight!) I thought I'd be a little bit cheeky and mention the Cosmo Blog Awards. If you're a regular reader or somebody that enjoys reading my blog, it would mean one heck of a lot if you hopped over and voted for me here (it only takes a second or too..I promise)! My category is 'Best Established Beauty Blog'. I shall give you the biggest virtual hug ever if you decide to drop little old me a mention :)

What have you been loving in April? Anything here take your fancy!?