Bourjois Bronzing Products | Contouring Powders & Gold Shimmer Compact

Although summer is most certainly on it's way out, bronzing products are something I tend to use all year round.  I always find that a subtle glow through the winter months really brightens up my face and keeps my complexion looking healthy and fresh - provided I take it down a notch from my summer bronzing regime! I've been a fan of Bourjois' 'chocolate' bronzer for quite some time now. For me, it was always my go-to winter bronzer because it's a little lighter than some of my darker summer favourites.  That's why I was rather excited to see 2 new versions of the much loved 'chocolate' bronzer released this year. 

Bronzing Powder and Highlighting Duo | £7.99* | Link

I do love a good contouring product -  especially when it's something I can use when I'm on the go.  This duo is perfect for subtle contouring and sculpting - the highlighter provides a gorgeous flash of shimmer to the cheekbones, whilst the matte finish of the bronzing powder creates a nice, natural appearance.  I like it because it adds a touch of warmth to the face and works well as a subtle contour as well as an all over bronzing product. I like these powders because they're pigmented but not so much so that its difficult to blend - its so easy to use and it's definitely something I'd recommend for somebody new to contouring.  It's not something that's going to give you a strong 'chiselled' appearance but it's perfect for everyday use and for adding a quick bit of definition. It's something I'll be throwing in my handbag from time to time - it's lightweight and compact, and the '2 in 1' bronzer and highlight feature is just perfect for travelling with.

Gold Bronzing Powder | £7.99* | Link

I was a little unsure about this product at first - I usually hate bronzers with too much shimmer and this one is most certainly packed with the stuff! However, the name is a little misleading - this isn't really intended for sweeping all across your face but more as a 'second step' in your bronzing routine.  Instead of a normal highlight, the gold shimmer in this product emphasises your tan and adds a healthy, natural looking bronzed glow to your face and body.  I've quite taken to using this on my 'decolletage' (i always feel so posh and well-spoken when I use this word...) and also very lightly on my face. However - it doesn't really work as a highlight! I swept this across the tops of my cheekbones and instantly regretted it as it's quite dark! I use if more for adding a glow to the cheeks - in a similar way you'd apply a shimmery blush.  I've found it works much better when I've got a bit of a natural tan or a touch of false tan on beforehand - I've continued to use this now my skin seems to be getting paler and it definitely doesn't look as flattering without a bronzed base to begin with.  It's well worth popping a subtle fake tanner on the night before, bronzing your face as usual in the morning and then using this to emphasise the colour you've achieved as it can look a little false if not.  This is definitely one of those 'summer' products to pack in your suitcase however, if you fake tan now and again, its subtle enough to be used any time of year provided you don't go overboard with it!

Overall, 2 fabulous releases from Bourjois.  I really wish I'd had the shimmery powder earlier on in the summer as it would have been perfect for my holiday! Both products have that lovely 'chocolate' scent that the original bronzers have - I personally really like the subtle fragrance and chocolate inspired packaging and appearance. 

Have you tried any of these bronzing products? What will you be using now that autumn/winter is coming around the corner?