Monthly Favourites | February

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ted Baker Makeup Bag // Similar Here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monthly Favourites | December

Evenin' all! I do hope you've all had an amazing Christmas. I don't know about you but it's gone far too quick for me. I love the whole build up to the big day and the past few weeks really do seem to have flown by - I don't feel as if I've had chance to fully take it all in.  It's always over in the blink of an eye.  We're now onto the dregs of the Quality Street tin (the ones that nobody likes) and I can't help but feel slightly sad that I won't be able to pop into Costa for a cheeky orange hot chocolate anymore. Anyway, post-Christmas glum-ness aside, I thought I'd put together my final favourites post of the year. I wasn't going to do a December favourites this month considering I'm in the process of typing up my '2014' collective posts, but it seemed a shame not to to sum up the final month of the year with a few bits and pieces...

Chanel // Soleil Tan De Chanel 'Bronze Universel'  // £32.00 // Link

I adore this product - it's one that I always go back to.  It's such a nice little touch of luxury to have in my collection. I've been using it as an all over bronzing base recently and it just looks so much more natural as opposed to a powder bronzer.  I've been buffing this into the skin (after applying my foundation) using my Real Techniques Expert Face Brush and it just gives the most amazing, smooth and flawless finish.  I concentrate it around the outside of my face - buffing into the sides of the forehead, temples and outer cheekbones to give a naturally bronzed and sculpted look.  

Mac Lipstick in 'Half n Half' // £15.50 // Link

Oo not another 90s inspired nude lip! Although I'm a big fan of the infamous 'Velvet Teddy' lipstick, I much prefer the constancy of 'Half n Half' and think it's very much an unsung hero of the Mac lipstick world.  It's virtually the same shade - maybe slightly lighter - but is much creamier and glossy due to the 'amplified' finish. I adore it.  For a closer look, head on over to my 'Mac Lipstick Collection' post here. 

Boutique at Sainsburies Lip Gloss in 'All the Tea in China' // £6.00 //

You've got to hand it to Sainsburies - they've got an absolutely smashing lip gloss here! It's more akin to a lip laquer in terms of application and pigmentation - the colour is almost opaque (if you've ever tried Tanya Burr's range I'd liken it to those) and is so understated and classy.  I bought this a few months ago and it looked far too 'foundation-y' on my summer skin, but now that I'm paler it works a treat.  It works well on its own, giving a beautifully glossy nude appearance, but also works well layered on top of brown toned lipsticks.  The taupe hint really compliments brown undertones and looks very on trend for the season. 

Arran Aromatics 'Honey and Lemon' Lip Balm // £3.50* // Link

I've already featured this product in a recent post here, but I just had to include it again. It's become my bedside staple! I apply it every night before bed and let it work it's magic overnight.  I'll also apply it in the morning before I apply my makeup as it sinks in really nicely, instantly making the lips feel smoother and perfectly prepped for further product.  It gives a lovely glossy appearance to the lips and works well over lipsticks if you're applying it through the day.  The scent is so soothing and gentle, and the screw-top pot is so handy and lightweight - I've thrown it into my handbag on a couple of occasions and much prefer this over a typical lip-balm stick (they're often too waxy for my liking).  This one is super quenching and treats dry lips in an instant.

Illamasqua Powder Blush in 'Lover' // £21.50 // Link

I really didn't expect to see this blush popping up on the bloggles anytime soon considering it's one of my summer favourites.  However, a year or so ago, I remember really enjoying it through the winter months.  I'd wear it to my uni lectures in a bid to make myself look slightly more awake (even if i felt far from it!) and I just find the finish of it so lovely.  It's a gorgeous bright pastel-y peach which works so well on both tanned and pale skin - the matte finish is also really flattering and gives that perfect 'flawless' finish.  I have to say this is one of my most loved blushes ever - it might even be my all-time favourite.  There's something about it that just works for me and despite being quite a bright, unique shade - i find it so easy to wear.

Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Highlighter / Illuminator (LE) 

Ahh I hate featuring Limited Edition products in posts because there's no way of providing links (sorry!). This was actually a summer product released a couple of years ago so I apologise for the lack of availability.  I never actually used it when I first got it (my mum gave it to me) simply because I didn't think it was my sort of shade - however, I've really been enjoying it recently. I've mainly been using it on my décolletage for evenings out as it just makes your skin look so delicate and perfected. It looks lovely on the tops of the cheekbones though, especially when worn with a matte blush and subtle bronzer.  The rose gold colour is really pretty at this time of year and not to mention the packaging - the matching rose gold compact is just beautiful.

Jane Iredale Pure Pressed Blush in 'Whisper' // £17.25 // Link

I won't say too much about this blush as I already have a full post here - but I adore this gorgeous pinky-coral shade from Jane Iredale.  The blush has a slight sheen running through it which is really fab for dull winter skin.  I've been alternating a lot between this shade and my Illamasqua blush, often applying it over my Benefit 'Majorette' cream blush which I featured in last month's favourites.  

Swatches L-R // Chanel Bronze Universel // Illamasqua Lover // Jane Iredale 'Whisper' // Elizabeth Arden Illuminator // Mac 'Half n Half' // Boutique Gloss in 'All the Tea in China'

Have you tried and loved any of these products? Is there anything here that tickles your fancy!?

Monthly Favourites | November

I love writing favourites posts - it's a fab way of sharing exactly what I've been loving lately and I always look forward to seeing what other bloggers have been using (as well as sneakily adding to my ever-growing wish list - I'm sure we're all guilty of that?!)   I haven't written a favourites post for the past couple of months because I completely missed the boat - so this month is a bit of an accumulation of the past 8-12 weeks... Considering that next month's favourites will probably be replaced with a '2014' favourites (where has this year gone?!) I thought I'd get one typed up sharpish! I've rediscovered a contour favourite from earlier in the year, changed my mind about cream blush and discovered my new holy grail mascara (it's also on offer right now...) Without further chit-chat, I'll introduce you to my November favourites...

Illasmaqua // Sculpting Duo // £26.00 // Link

This Illamasqua Duo has to be my favourite winter contouring product.  It's perfect for the colder months as the ashy toned bronzer 'Heliopolis' creates the perfect contour on paler skin, whilst the cool-toned champagne shade, 'Lumos', gives a stunning glow to to the tops of the cheekbones.  The bronze shade creates the appearance of natural shadow and gives such a natural, sculpted look.  Both powders are amazingly pigmented and soft to the touch, and blend into the skin with ease.  The highlight shade really is incredible and also works well in the inner corners of the eyes for a brightening effect. I have a full review and photographs here.

E.l.f // Small Tapered Brush // £3.95 // Link

Although I usually use my Real Techniques contour brush for powder products, I've quite taken to using this small tapered brush from E.l.f with my Illamasqua duo. It picks up just the right amount of product and the slightly more pointed end means that its much easier to hollow out the cheekbones precisely.  At £3.95 it isn't the best brush on the market but I've been using it daily and I'd really recommend it if you're new to contouring and want to experiment with powder products.  It's so easy to use.

Seventeen // FalsifeyeHD Mascara // £6.99 £3.49// Link

I won't say too much about this mascara as it's already featured in my 'Drugstore Gems' post here (if you want to see the brush and packaging in more detail it's worth a look).  It's such an amazing mascara and makes my eyelashes look so full and defined. It lasts all day and holds a curl really nicely whilst being easy to apply - it instantly fans out the lashes and coats even the tiniest ones in the inner corners of the eyes.  I recommended this to my mum and she's since tottled off to Boots to nab one (she also thinks its fab!)  It's knocked my all-time favourite off the top-spot so trust me when I say that this is an absolute gem of a product! It's currently on offer for £3.49 at Boots which is an absolute bargain.

Barry M // Lip Liner // £2.99 // Link

This has been my staple lip liner since April - waaaay before the Kylie Jenner hype (it featured in my beauty haul here, along with a similar shade if you want to see it in more detail).  I've enjoyed using it throughout the year as it's the perfect natural lip shade with a hint of brown - it's the perfect everyday lip liner and I adore it.  I sometimes use it on it's own with a bit of gloss on the top or I'll use it with Mac's Velvet Teddy for that true 90s inspired look.   It's seen me through summer, it's seen me through a summer holiday (perfect to wear around the pool to cheat fuller lips without anybody knowing) and I have no doubt it will see me through winter.  I'm definitely going to pick up a back up soon as mine's getting a little bedraggled...

Stila // Smudge Stick - Waterproof Eyeliner in 'Damsel' // £13.00 // Link

This liner came with Stila's 'In The Light' Palette (review and swatches here) and I've loved it ever since. It's the best eyeliner I've used in terms of longevity - it never runs and stays put all day long.  It looks freshly applied even after a number of hours.  The dark brown shade is slightly more forgiving than a standard black and as the name suggests, it also works well when smudged out for a smokey look.  It's not as precise as a standard pencil liner but its still so easy to apply - I just press it into the upper and lower lash-line and I'm done. I'm slightly gutted as I don't seem to be able to find it sold separately so please do let me know if you've seen it anywhere...

Collection // Illuminating Touch Concealer // £4.99 // Link
I've already spoken about this product on my blog in a recent post here, so I won't say too much - but this concealer has become my saviour for dark circles. Honestly, I've never found another brightening concealer that knocks out shadows like this one. It offers a lovely thick coverage whilst remaining creamy and super blendable. I ran out of it the other day and actually took a drive down to my nearest Boots to grab another straight away - that's how much I love it.

So Susan // Dual Brow Powder // £11.95 // Link

Although I do swear by my Anastasia Dip Brow and HD Brow Palettes, I've recently been using this duo on 'lazy days'.  Although I didn't expect much, I actually really like it.  It's decently pigmented and the shades work really well for my brows.  I've quite taken to using the darker shade as an eyeshadow too.  It's great for popping into my handbag for touch-ups because I really hate carrying around my HD Brows (it's too precious to lose) - it's just such a handy product to have and it's one of the best affordable brow powder duos I've come across.

Benefit // Majorette Booster Cream Blush // £23.50* // Link

Again, like a lot of other products in this post, I already have a full review of this blush here.  I really didn't think I'd take to it too much simply because it's such a summery product - I must admit I was slightly confused when they launched it at the beginning of Autumn but it actually really works for the season.  I'm really not the biggest cream blush fan and I usually hate cream to powder finishes but there's something about this one that I really do love.  I apply it with my stippling brush after my foundation and set using powder.  It looks lovely and bright - it really perks up my skin and I instantly look much more put together and fresh-faced.  It blends easily, is amazingly long-lasting and still looks perfectly applied at the end of the day. OO, and it also smells beautiful! It's what my cream-blush dreams are made of...

Barry M // Nail Paint in 'Raspberry'// £2.99 // Link

You have to hand it to Barry M - nobody does budget nail polishes quite like them! Glossy, pigmented and easy to apply, they're a popular choice in my nail polish collection.  I've been wearing the shade 'Raspberry' almost constantly the past month - I've finally put my pastels to bed and have really been enjoying wearing a darker look.  This shade is super classy and only takes 2 coats for a fully opaque look.  I love the deep red/burgundy shade - it's so striking and is perfect for the festive season.

Swatches L-R // Benefit Majorette // Illamasqua Duo 'Lumos' & 'Heliopolis' // So Susan Dual Brow Powders // Stila 'Damsel' // Barry M Lip Liner // Collection Concealer

So there we have it, my favourites for the month of November.  I'm planning on doing a big 2014 collective favourites post at the end of December/beginning of January - I'll be taking a look back on what I've been loving for the past 12 months so if you want to see what made the cut - keep your eyes peeled! (If you want to have a nosey at 2013's, click here for the makeup edit and here for hair, bath & body...)

Have you tried any of the products featured in this month's favourites?

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!?

Monthly Favourites | June

Bit late on the ol' monthly favourites bandwagon but I since I missed it completely last month, I thought it was about time I hopped back on it again.  With a trip to London and a holiday to Greece both happening in quick succession throughout July, it's fair to say I've been a typical blogger storming through the aisles of Boots and beauty counters - 'girl on a mission' game face on and swatches a'plenty up my arms.  My makeup routine has definitely switched up recently - the warmer weather we've been having has led me to try a few new bits and bobs and all of a sudden I seem to have developed a bit of a thing for lipgloss (I'm usually a lipstick girl through and through so this is groundbreaking news)... without further ado, I shall jump right on in. 

Tanya Burr | Lipgloss in 'Chic'

I feel like these lipglosses are appearing quite a lot on my blog just recently - I've currently got about 3 scheduled posts featuring these bad boys but it's for good reason, I promise!  I'm really not a lipgloss girl whatsoever but there's something out Miss Burr's range that has me hooked.  Not only do they smell absolutely delicious (like strawberries and cream) but they're also impressively pigmented and last incredibly well without the dreaded sticky feel.  I wouldn't say they're completely non-sticky, but it's just about bearable for me and as lipglosses go, they're very comfortable to wear and add so much dimension whether worn alone or on top of a lipstick.  My favourite has to be 'Chic' - and it definitely lives up to it's name! It's a beautiful bronwy-pink nude shade - very sophisticated and classy and one that adds definition to the lips.  It's not a shade I see talked about much but if definitely deserves more recognition - for me, its the perfect 'every day' shade and it literally goes with anything.  I wear this on it's own most of the time simply because there's no need to wear anything underneath it - the pigment shows up perfectly and it actually applies more like a lip lacquer. I love this - it's been living in my handbag since the day I bought it and I doubt it's going to come out anytime soon (unless maybe to hop into my suitcase...)

Sinful Colors 'Snow Me White | Barry M in 'Nude' | Leighton Denny Crystal Finish Top Coat

Ok. So these three actually count as 1 favourite - they've become my go-to trio for french manicures of late! Now, back in the day at school, I used to love doing french manicures and I used to spend ages shaping and filing my nails - people used to think I'd had them done professionally! Skip forward a few years and uni work took its toll on my poor talons - I started nibbling away with stresses and strains. However, I managed to kick the habit and have started re-kindling my love for a classic manicure.  The photograph shows one of my first attempts - it isn't at all perfect because I'm waiting for all of them to grow to the same length (come on little finger nail - get yer' skates on!) but I've really enjoyed trying my hand at painting them this way again.  It was a bit of a spur of the moment thing so I didn't plan what colours to use too much but Barry M's 'Nude' is perfect because it's slightly sheer - giving a more natural appearance. Leighton Denny's Crystal Top Coat is one of my newest discoveries and I love it so much - so many people have complimented me on how shiny and glossy my nail polish looks and it's all down to this baby.  Honestly, if you're after a super-shiny top coat look no further!  I'm thinking of doing a tutorial on this once my nails have all grown to the same length and I can shape them properly - so do let me know if this is something you'd be interested in!

Benefit | Hoola Lipgloss

I won't say too much about this one because I've already done a full review along with swatches of it on the lips, but it has to be the most wearable lip gloss I've ever used - hands down.  It feels like a lip balm just with the added benefit of the glossy-ness and is the most comfortable lip gloss I've tried.  It's quite sheer in colour so it works best when worn on top of lipsticks but it really is the bees knees. I love it.  You can read my full review here.

Benefit | Hoola Bronzer

Again, I won't say too much as I've already reviewed this on my blog (you can have a read here).  This bronzer is my new contouring companion and I was seriously wow'ed with it.  The colour is beautiful as it's super natural and gives the illusion of perfectly sculpted cheekbones.  I even loved the brush that comes in the box and I actually use this over any of my 'proper' ones - it's such a good size for sculpting the face and works really well for precise application. It's soft, blendable and really well pigmented and I can honestly see why it receives the praise it gets.

Jane Iredale | Daytime Palette |

Oohhhh my goodness. I'll openly admit now that I didn't really expect to love this as much as I do.  As an avid fan of Urban Decay palettes I was unsure as to what this palette could really offer to me but boy was I mistaken! I've used this daily for the past month or so and I took it to London with me on my 6 day trip.  It really is perfect for travelling with as it has everything you could possibly need for both day and night. I went to a design exhibition and networking event where the days were very long (8-9 one day!) so I wanted my eye shadows to deliver in the longevity stakes.  I was certainly not disappointed and I used every single shade in there - it's going to be the only palette I pack with me to go to Crete this week!  I simply wore the first 2 shades in the daytime (i love the peachy nude one - its so pretty!) and then added a sweep or two of the chocolate brown or touch of black using the little travel brush if I was going out in the evening for a meal or a few drinks.  It's so versatile and is super handy to have in my collection - I really don't know what I'd have done without it this month. It's lightweight, slim and easy to pop into your handbag and the rose-gold packaging tops it off nicely. I have a full review here in case my rambling hasn't convinced you already!

Barry M | Blush in 'Peaches and Cream'

It might look a complete mess but this blush has been my go-to for a healthy, dewy finish this month.  It's a lovely, light coral shade which actually leans more orange as opposed to pink.  It looks lovely at this time of year as it adds a subtle flush of colour to the cheeks without looking too full-on.  The orange tone looks gorgeous if you have a light tan but it would definitely suit paler skin tones more due to the fact it's so light and subtle.  It doesn't show up on me once I have a 'proper' tan so I'll probably be moving on to something a little darker in the next couple of weeks but it's been a firm favourite just recently what with all the early mornings and late nights I've been having.  It contains a dusting of shimmer but it's not overly jam-packed with it - there's just enough to give your cheeks a healthy, dewy glow and it definitely helps to brighten and awaken the skin.

Anastasia | Dip Brow Pomade in 'Blonde'

Again, I won't say too much about this as you probably heard enough about it in my rave review earlier this week (you can read it here).  I will certainly be taking this to Greece with me as the longevity is incredible and it gives such an amazingly professional finish.  If you're jetting off to a warmer environment and want something that's going to stay put - it's well worth looking into this beauty.  Alternatively, if you just fancy trying something a bit different and favour the HDBrows look - I'd seriously recommend it.  It's probably one of the best beauty finds I've ever come across and I will re-purchase in a heartbeat!

Mac | Lip Pencil in 'Spice'

One of my more recent finds.  I've written about it in a post here, so I won't say too much, but it's become my go-to lip colour of the moment. It's a gorgeous deep brown nude shade (oo I do love a good browny-nude don't i?!) and is definitely a nod to the 90s! It's not for everybody but I personally love it and the wear-time is flippin' fantastic! It adds so much definition, is soft and gentle to apply and lasts a good few hours without need for re-application.  I'll definitely be buying more of these pencils in the future - they're perfect to wear on their own or underneath a lipstick - I'm all for a good versatile product!

Swatches L-R | Tanya Burr 'Chic' / Benefit 'Hoola' Gloss / Benefit 'Hoola' Bronzer' / Barry M 'Peaches & Cream / Anastasia Dip Brow - 'Blonde' / Mac Lip Pencil - 'Spice' /

Any of my favourites tickle your fancy this mont?

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?!