Barbara Daly Velvet Touch Bronzer | A New Contouring Favourite

Oh hello there! Long time no see. I know everybody rolls their eyes when a blogger apologises for being away for a while but I simply had to address the elephant in the room - because let's face it - it's a big'un! I haven't blogged in over a month now - which, considering i haven't gone as much as a week without it since I began a few years back, is quite a big deal for me (it feels like even longer since my January posts were scheduled since Christmas) I just wasn't feeling entirely chipper about blogging in general and I needed some time away from the interwebs (in all honesty, i still don't feel quite up to spending as much time on Twitter so on a little side note, I do apologise if my feed is in a bit of a 'tumbleweed' state for a while)  I also started my new job right at the beginning of January which was a big shake up to the ol' routine - it's going very well and I really do love it, but I must admit I totally underestimated just quite how much it would impact me - a new job is a big thing isn't it? It's taken me a few weeks to settle in and generally just feel a bit more relaxed with my new little venture in life.  Couple this with the fact I've recently met a very nice young man (i think somebody needs to re-assess this post) I just felt that I owed it to myself to have some time away to enjoy life without the pressure of keeping up my blogging schedule.  It's amazing how much your life can change within a matter of weeks. I can honestly say I really do feel the happiest I have done in quite some time and with that, I think it's finally time I got my blogger hat back on.  It's been getting rather dusty... 

I thought I'd kick things off with one of my new found favourites - Barbara Daly's Velvet Touch Bronzer in 'Natural Bronze'.  If you've been reading my blog for a while then you'll know I'm a complete contouring junkie.  I always enjoy experimenting with sculpting products and when I caught a glimpse of this shade, I knew I had to have it in my collection.  The shade 'Natural Bronze' leans quite cool - with a slight reddish/brick hue and a subtle greyish undertone.  I've recently hit pan on my beloved Benefit 'Hoola' and I have to say, this makes for a fab replacement and I've been reaching for it every day since I bought it.  It sculpts the face amazingly well without dulling the complexion thanks to the slight touch of warmth.  It really does carve out the shape of the cheekbones and gives incredible dimension to the face.  

The Velvet Touch bronzer definitely lives up to its name - it's so incredibly easy to blend and so soft to the touch (honestly, I was amazed at how creamy and smooth the texture is) - even the slightest tap of a brush picks up so much pigment.  I enjoy using it with a small, soft bristled tapered contouring brush (the RT Contour Brush also works very well with it) - I apply starting at the top of the cheekbones before blending inwards along my natural contour line towards the centre of the face - taking care not to be too heavy handed (you do have to be careful not to pick up too much product).  I also dust a little around the sides of my forehead and along my jawline - it creates an instant naturally-sculpted look.  The texture of the powder really is perfect - it gives a beautifully soft, airbrushed finish to the skin.

The packaging is quite large - although it's a good one for travelling with as it contains a large mirror as well as a small, flat brush contained underneath the pan.  Usually, I don't like using the brushes that come in compacts as I find them a bit naff, but this one is perfectly shaped and actually comes in quite handy for on the go.  

Overall, this is an amazing bronzer to have in your collection and I'm so glad I stumbled upon it.  It's incredibly versatile as it's great for contouring/sculpting but also works well as an all over bronzer (i can imagine it will be amazing in summer!)  Because the pan is so large it would also work well for dusting over the décolletage as it's easy enough to pick up enough product.  Shade wise - this could look muddy on some skin tones and because it's so pigmented, you do have to be quite careful, but personally - i love it! The pigmentation is incredible and the buttery texture blends like a dream. For the price, it's better than some high-end bronzers I've tried in the past and totally worth every penny.   Sadly, I can't find a link online but you can find Barbara Daly products in Tesco stores - priced at £6.00. Bargainous! 

Have you tried any Barbara Daly products? I'd love some more recommendations!

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!?

Glowy Winter Skin | Jane Iredale Blush, Bronzer & Highlighter

Jane Iredale is a brand I've become quite familiar with the past year.  Her 'Daytime Palette' fast became one my everyday staples (full post on that here) and I instantly fell in love with the amazing pigmentation and blendable, neutral shades.  Just recently, I've been using her 'Moonglow' bronzing compact along with the Purepressed Blush in 'Whisper'.  I must admit, I've been using these face products on and off over the summer, but it's only recently that I've really fallen in love with them.  It's around this time of year that I begin reaching for the glowy highlighters, subtle bronzers and brightening blush shades - anything to help combat dull, flat-looking winter skin - and these products seem to tick all the boxes for the perfect winter combination.   Firstly, I have to say how much I adore Jane Iredale packaging. It just feels so luxe. The brand is so simple and pretty - and the smooth rose gold accents make for a lovely addition to my dressing table - especially at this time of year.  

Jane Iredale / Quad Bronzer in 'Moonglow' / £29.48* - Link

Now, I have to say that I'm really not one for shimmery bronzing products.  However, there's something about this quad that I really do like and it's been a dream to use now that winter has well and truly arrived.  It's quite versatile as as you can swirl the shades together to create a mid-toned golden shade (see swatches below) or use them all individually depending on what you're after. There are 2 warmer toned powders which lean more gold, and 2 cooler tones which appear more like champagne/bronze sort of colours - each pair contains a lighter shade and a darker shade. 

Personally, I've preferred to use them on their own - the two lightest shades work really well as highlighting shades and I took to using the gold-toned one over summer. Now that winter is here, the paler, more cool-toned 'champagne' shade is my go-to favourite and I've been using this on the tops of my cheekbones for a subtle glow.  The two darker shades work well as bronzers, but instead of using them on their own, I find that applying my matte bronzer first and then layering a small amount of either one over the top (towards the tops of the cheekbones and up to the temples) works much better for a more natural appearance. It just helps to prevent my face from looking too 'flat' and gives a little bit of dimension.  I've also taken to using these 2 shades on my decolletage - it gives a beautiful subtle sheen to the skin and looks lovely if you've recently fake tanned.  It's not your average, everyday bronzer but its such a versatile little compact and I've really enjoyed using this - it will definitely come in very handy over the festive season and the fact that there's a good mix of warm and cool toned shades means it's a nice product to have in your collection year round.

Jane Iredale / PurePressed Blush in 'Whisper' / £15.53* - Link

Ahhh anyone who knows me knows that I'm like a magpie to a milk-bottle top when it comes to coral blushes! I use them throughout the year despite them being much more of a summer sort of shade simply because i find them much more brightening on the skin.  This one has a little bit of shimmer running through it but not so much that it's entirely noticeable (if you've used Nars 'Orgasm' you'll know what I mean) - it's just the right amount for providing a subtle, healthy glow.  The colour is simply stunning - a gorgeous coral peach which looks amazing on both tanned and pale skin.  The consistency is what makes this blush for me though - it's just so creamy and soft - even the tiniest tap of a brush provides so much pigmentation whilst remaining ultra blendable and soft.  It gives such a flawless finish to the skin and buffs in like a dream.  Although I enjoyed using it through summer, I have to say I much prefer it now that my skin is a little paler - it just gives it that much needed 'lift' and makes my complexion appear much healthier.

Swatches L-R // 'Whisper' Blush // 4 individual shades in 'Moonglow' // All shades mixed in 'Moonglow'

Overall, another impressive selection of products from Jane Iredale.  It's a brand I've really become quite fond of and one that I really wish I saw more of on blogs.  If you're looking for some lovely everyday 'neutral' products, the range is fantastic.  You can find Jane Iredale products on BeautyBay here, and also on AllBeauty. Jane Iredale's website also has some fab information on all product ranges.

Have you tried anything from Jane Iredale?

The Balm | 'Bahama Mama' Bronzer

Aloha! Is it me or does it feel all summery up in here?! There's something about The Balm's 'Bahama Mama' bronzer that makes me feel like adorning a pair of sunglasses, grabbing myself a coconut-y cocktail and setting off in my flip-flops for the nearest beach.  They've certainly nailed it when it comes to quirky, feel-good packaging and although it's not to everybodys taste, it worked like a charm on me and it's the thing that drew me in to trying my first product from the brand (marketer's dream, aren't i?).  I've always heard good things about The Balm - and after my beloved Nars Laguna decided to crumble and wear thin around the edges right before I'm set to jet away on holiday, I thought it was about time I grabbed a new bronzer and 'Bahama Mama' seemed to tick all my boxes.  Although I promised myself I'd save it for my jolly-holidays, I couldn't resist using it straight away (it would take willpower of steel not to what with the glorious weather we've been having) so I thought I'd give you the low-down on exactly why I'm loving it and why it's earned itself a space in my holiday makeup bag...

First off - like I've mentioned above - the packaging was the first thing to lure me in. It isn't exactly the most classy of them all but it earns tip-top marks for being bright, quirky and fun - it definitely lives up to its snappy name!  The design-geek in me can't help but find the decorative sleeve and 'slide-out' mechanism rather satisfying - and since I bought this to take on my travels, it's so handy that Bahama Mama is really thin and compact - they haven't skimped on a mirror either.   Appearances aside, it's actually a really good bronzer.  The pigmentation is amazing and you literally need the smallest sweep of a brush on the surface to pick up colour.  It's definitely on the darker end of the scale when it comes to shade but this is exactly what I was looking for.  Through summer, I do tan quite easily and my skin gets noticeably darker - I wanted something that would still be beneficial to use even if I'm already quite tanned and I also wanted something I could use when I'm paler to use as an all-over bronzer.  This is perfect as it contains virtually no shimmer, has a lovely, natural looking olive undertone and instantly gives that sun-kissed feel.  I've been using it all week at a design event in London and I've had no false tan on - in fact, I've been quite pasty (thanks, lack of sleep!) and this has really helped awaken my complexion and has kept me looking healthy and glowy even if I've felt far from it!  It's not so pigmented that it's difficult to work with - and it also doesn't appear at all orange - so don't let the darker colour scare you off!  I've been using it for all over bronzing as opposed to contouring (although i bet it would work a treat!) and it's so easy to work with - I simply use my Real Techniques Blush brush and work into the temples, outer cheekbones, chin and down the centre of the nose to help give that naturally bronzed look.

One thing that struck me was how similar it actually is to Nars Laguna.  It's maybe ever so slightly less creamy and slightly more matte in finish, but they're undeniably very close when it comes to shade, undertone and overall quality.  I struggle to find anything similar and I often find bronzers far too orange (i'm very fussy with this) but The Balm definitely has that much coveted 'olive' tone to it and it has seriously impressed me. I'd actually say that The Balm's offering is ever so slightly darker compared with Nars - but that's exactly what I was after - it's probably the darkest bronzer I own. If you need something that's going to actually show up on your skin when you have a tan, or similarly give you the appearance of a natural, olive glow then look no further than 'Bahama Mama'. It isn't for everyone and it might have the tendency to look muddy on paler skin, but if you're in the market for trying a good quality, matte bronzer which packs a bit of a punch, then I'd really recommend it.  It's definitely not going to be an all-year-round bronzer if you're wanting something incredibly versatile but I'm in love with it already and I think it's the perfect companion for anybody wanting to enhance their summer tan! It's one of the best bronzers I've used in a long while, that's for sure.

I bought mine from Feel Unique here when they had an offer on. It's currently £13.50 which is pretty good going to say how good the quality and pigmentation is - I reckon it's going to become my 'go to' summer bronzing product from now on. I adore it!

Have you tried 'Bahama Mama'? What's your favourite summer bronzer?

Beauty Buys | Summer Holiday Haul!

There's nothing like getting a holiday booked is there? Not only does it instantly make you feel much more chipper but it's enough to cause any sane woman to go crazy amongst the 'summer beauty' aisles of Boots.  Which is exactly what I did as soon as I knew. All of sudden, you realise just how much stuff you haven't got. And when you're a beauty blogger - let me tell you we ain't just talking the basics of sun cream and a tub of aftersun. Oh no. We're talking the right shades of concealer, the right lip colour, the right powder to keep our makeup in place on those warm, balmy evenings and the right combination of hair products to keep summertime frizz to a minimum (anyone else have the same issue as Monica from Friends as soon as they step off the plane? *for those of you who get this reference - gold star for you >*) Anyway, rambling aside, I thought it would be the perfect excuse to shove together a holiday-themed haul. If any of you are jetting away soon, it might give you a few ideas. If not - well, I hope you enjoy having a nosey at what's been thrown into my shopping basket of late anyway...

Mark Hill | Va Va Voom Mousse (travel size) 

Me and this mousse get on like a house on fire. Honestly, if you skip through the past 3 years of my blog you'll probably see it pop up a fair few times - I've never really used any other (true love right there). It's thick enough to make a difference with volume but its light enough not to weigh it down - it also never seems to turn my hair into straw.  I'm sure it's not the best mousse ever, but for me, it works and I always make a beeline straight for it whenever I need a new one.  It's hard to track down the travel sizes as they always seem to be sold out - so I actually grabbed two! One for my holiday and one for a trip to London next week. I cannot be without it.

Scwarzkopft | Got2B Beach Matt Texturising Salt Spray

This was actually on offer and I got it for less than £2! To be honest, Im not sure if I'll be able to take it away with me as I'm usually bang on my weight limit (typical over-packer) - I could probably do with a smaller size but either way, I really wanted to try a salt spray again.  I used a Tony & Guy one last year and i found it came in so handy over the summer months - I can't wait to see what this one is like as I've always got on well with Got2B products! Bargain!

Garnier | Ambre Solaire Tan Maintainer

If you buy one thing this summer - make it this! I've been recommending this product on my blog for about 3 years now - I go through countless tubes of the stuff every year and I'm yet to find anything quite as good (If you don't like the hint of fake tan element then I'd recommend Lancaster Tan Maximiser - my other must-have!).  People always ask how I maintain my tan after a holiday and it definitely has something to do with this. If you want to find out why I love it so much I speak about it in a favourites post here. I also give it a mention in my 'tan maintaining tips' post here.  It's around £8 in Boots but I found it on offer in Tesco for 2 for £8 - so shop around!

Soap & Glory | Flake Away (travel size)

I always exfoliate before I go away so that my natural tan will last longer. I bought my favourite Soap & Glory scrub in miniature form to pop in my suitcase. I usually use it as soon as I get there just to give myself maximum tanning possibilities (is that sad? ahaha)  If you've never tried this scrub you honestly don't know what you're missing.  It makes the chore of exfoliating seem a breeze! And a very sweet smelling one at that!

The Balm | 'Bahama Mama' Bronzer

Now then.  You can only imagine my disappointment when I realised my beloved Nars 'Laguna' is almost completely gone right before I go away on holiday.  Sods law, isn't it? The thought of purchasing another made me wince a little - so, in true blogger style, I took this as my chance to try something new.  I spent ages looking online and settled on this one from 'The Balm' - I've always quite fancied trying some of their stuff and the packging really caught my eye. As well as being rather eye-catching, it's also really neat and compact and fits perfectly in the palm of my hand - something I always try and look for when I'm taking products on holiday with me as I aim to cram in as much as physically possible. It's actually slightly darker than Nars Laguna - which to be honest is perfect for me as I really do tan quite a bit on holiday! I'm planning on doing a full post on this soon along with a Nars comparison so keep your eyes peeled for that!

Bourjois | Bronzing BB Cream

I wanted to try this ever since I used Bourjois' Bronzing Primer last year (review of that here). When I'm on holiday I usually don't wear a scrap of makeup in the day as I find it so uncomfortable, but I thought this might be quite nice if I go on a day-trip somewhere and want to give my skin some coverage without completely masking it.  I'm not opening it until I'm there so I shall let you know my thoughts as soon as I'm home but I'm predicting that it might just become a summer staple... We shall see!

Urban Decay | 'De Slick' Makeup Setting Spray (travel size)

I've wanted to try one of these sprays for aaaages now! I finally caved and bought the travel size - perfect for popping in your suitcase. This one is said to help combat shine, absorb oil, keep your skin looking matte and your makeup in place all night.  When I'm abroad I always struggle to keep my makeup looking flawless in the evenings and I don't even have oily skin! I've been road testing this the past few days and I have to say I've noticed such a difference.  I went to powder my face half-way through the day and realised I actually didn't need to - which is saying something to say how muggy it's been just recently! I shall be doing a full review of this when i'm home - i already have high hopes for it.

Estee Lauder | Double Wear Concealer

OK. So I didn't actually buy this for the sake of my holiday but it's my holy grail concealer and I simply cannot live without it.  It covers blemishes, dark circles and pigmentation with ease and it lasts all day without fail. Even if you do top up through the day its so creamy that it never goes cakey - I adore it.

Elf | Complete Coverage Concealer Palette

I just realised I didn't photograph this separately but you can spy it in the collective image at the top.  This is a re-purchase for me and for less than a fiver, this kit really is the bees knees. What I love about it is the fact it has 4 different shades - there's 2 shades with peachy undertones (perfect for under eye circles which is my main area of concern) and 2 which lean more yellow which work for general sprucing up and blemishes.  I actually ran this palette down to the pan last time I bought one so it just goes to show how much I love it. It doesn't last all day but it's perfect for a quick fix and the colours are very creamy and very well pigmented. Because my skin is going to get darker in the sun, it's handy to have the slightly darker shades in there as well. I have a post on it here so you can see the colours in more detail. 

Mac | Lip Pencil in 'Spice'

After my beloved Estee Lauder Lip Pencil in 'Spice' ran out - I set out on a mission to find something similar.  I stumbled upon this Mac pencil with the same name and it was love at first swatch.  This is incredibly long lasting and is the perfect browny-nude - very 90s chic so it isn't for everyone but I find it works really well with my skintone.  I find it a fabulous, long lasting alternative to lipstick and it's much more versatile.  When I go away, I always pack far too many lipsticks so I'm thinking of picking up a few more of these as they're much more makeup bag friendly.  If you're not a fan of the finish then gloss on the top looks a-ma-zing! (for the record... Benefit's 'Hoola' lipgloss looks stunning with this - together they've become my new dream team!)

Barry M | Eye Liner in 'Kingfisher'

What is this?! COLOUR?! On the eyes?!?! Was I feeling alright?! I never wear colour on my eyes so to say this is pushing it for me is an understatement. Blame Pinterest. I saw someone use a colour like this on their bottom lash line and I instantly wanted to give it a go. Personally, I think with a tan and a smudge of peachy-gold eyeshadow on the upper lid I might be able to pull it off. If i don't, it was only £3 anyway but it's such a beautiful colour - just look at it, looook atttt ittttt...

So there we have it.  My latest beauty buys. It's fair to say I feel as if I need a break away this year - 11 nights of relaxation and time to ponder over the next chapter of my life whilst digging my toes into the sand in Crete seems like just the ticket right now. If you've been reading my blog for a while, you'll know I live for holidays and trips away so I really do love this time of year! I'm also planning on grabbing a late deal on a few days away in Marbella with my best friend but I'm not sure my savings account can take it... Who knows though, I might just have a 'YOLO' moment ;) We haven't been away together since we were 19 (I'm now almost 24) so some quality best-friend time in the sun is waaaay overdue!

What are you holiday 'must haves'? Have you tried any of these products before or is there any that you'd like to hear more about? Let me know!

My New 'Go-To' Bronzer | Benefit's 'Hoola'

Benefit | Hoola Bronzer | £23.50* | Link

Hold the phone.  I think I may have found my new favourite bronzer.  Big claims there, I know, but Benefit's 'Hoola' has become my new 'can't live without' item in my makeup drawer and let me tell you it was love at first sweep.  Bronzer is without a doubt one of my summer must-haves - I never feel quite complete without a dusting of it here and there and I always find my skin looks much healthier as soon as I've applied it. Let's delve straight in then, shall we? Firstly, I LOVE the colour of the powder.  It has just the right amount of warmth without being at all orangey - it looks so natural - in fact, I'll throw it out there, Hoola is probably the most natural looking bronzer I've ever tried.  It's completely matte - so there's no shimmer or un-natural sheen added to the skin. When dusted on top of your foundation it blends into the skin effortlessly whilst adding a gorgeous, sunkissed glow.  Which brings me on to my next point...It's almost impossible to apply too much because it's so easily blended. Even though Hoola is very pigemented, it really does smooth out with ease. It looks like skin and doesn't have that typical powdery finish.  I even love the little brush that comes in the package.  I'll admit that I usually hate miniature brushes that come packaged with products and I often end up taking them out and never using them - however, Hoola's brush is so soft and is the perfect size if you're a contouring nutter like myself.  The fact I actually use the brush only adds to the product's appeal for me - it makes for the perfect travel companion and I have no doubts that this will be jetting away with me on holiday in July - it will certainly save me some space in my brush roll!  The packaging is also very lightweight and fairly strudy to say that it's cardboard - I have no worries about popping this in my suitcase.

To apply, I simply apply my foundation as normal and pop some powder on top to set, before sweeping the little brush across the pan and tapping off any excess.  I'll then place the brush directly where my natural contour line is (if you aren't sure where - the trusty 'fish-face' trick should do it) Because the brush is so neat and compact it really does fit perfectly in that area - and the gentle, soft bristles help to prevent picking up too much product.  I sweep a line downwards and use gentle upwards sweeping motions to blend the line out (which is incredibly easy due to how blendable the powder is - if you're scared of looking too chiselled then Hoola is certainly worth a shot!) It instantly makes my natural cheekbones stand out without looking like I've tried to fake it - honestly, I just can't get over just how natural it looks.  Maybe it's just the shade that works perfectly with my skin tone - I'm not sure - but I'm intrigued to know if other girls find the exact same thing as I've been seriously wow'ed!  To complete the look, I apply a little bit across the top of my forehead and along the jawline before using whatever is left on the brush to dust over the bridge of my nose and chin to give that much desired sunkissed effect.  Sometimes, I'll brush a little on the sides of my nose if I'm going for a more defined look.  I do all of this using the brush that comes in the box as it seems to work so well for me, but I've also used my Real Techniques Blush Brush if I'm going for a more subtle, all over coverage.

Overall, I think it's fair to say that Hoola is a winner for me.  I wasn't expecting to love it half as much as I did. I genuinely thought it would just be a standard bronzer and it's the reason why I've never caved into it in the past, but it really is so much more than that.  It's so versatile because it works when used as an all over bronzer or as a contour - usually, I use two different bronzers depending on what I'm going for but this one ticks all the boxes. The shade has just the right amount of warmth to awaken the complexion but it definitely has a touch of grey/cool brown to it that stops it from looking orange - it still provides that 'just stepped off a plane look' but the lack of orange means it works well for sculpting. If you're more of a shimmer fan, then Hoola might not be for you, but if you like a matte finish, a good bit of pigment and a more defined look then it's well worth having a swatch in store. The packaging is also perfect if you're after something to pop in your handbag or if you're travelling because it's so lightweight - another plus point for me.  Of course, I've only had this a short while so I'm not sure how well the cardboard will fair if it takes a bit of a battering - but if you're mindful of it, I really can't see it being a problem and it's much sturdier than you might think.  For £23.50, it isn't the cheapest of bronzers on the market but it's one that I'll definitely purchase again and I'd say it's well worth it's price tag. It's won so many awards and it's easy to see why.  I've had a read through of the reviews on the website and so many girls hold the same opinion as me.  Have a read for yourselves and have a nosey at the Hoola bronzer on the Benefit website here.

Have you tried Benefit's Hoola? Did you love it as much as me?

New Favourite | Nars Matte Multiple in 'Altai'

 Nars Matte Multiple in 'Altai' | £30.00 | Link

As soon as I heard of the new Nars Multiples, I knew it was going to be a challenge and a half to resist them.  Nars have to be one of, if not my actual favourite brand. Oh yes that's right - I went there - a  BIG statement to make for a beauty blogger who's favourites change like the wind - but there's something about Nars that really appeals to me and I'm yet to be disappointed with any of their products.  I strolled into SpaceNK with the ever so innocent intention of just having a look at the newbie multiples and, lo and behold, I waltzed out 10 minutes later with a new cosmetic treat, a rather guilty grin on my face and a whole £30 lighter. Was it worth it though? Of course it was! Undoubtedly, there's been a few mixed reviews and I have to hold my hands up and admit I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with their 'Copacabana' highlighting multiple, however, this little beauty has completely shaken up my makeup routine and it really was love at first swatch.

Now then, I'll get my little bug-bear out of the way first and tell you that Nars have been very naughty with their new multiples. The matte range is exactly the same price as the originals, however, you get considerably less for your money.  They're notably smaller in size, and contain 7.5g of product compared with the originals which contain 14g - quite a whopping bit of difference there if I don't say so myself. This being said,  I actually find the smaller size works in the product's favour and I find it easier to apply straight from the bullet as it's a little more dainty. I also find the matte ones to be incredibly pigmented - much more than the original ones - so you could also argue that you're using less. Although slightly annoying, I can let the crafty little downsize slide...

If you've been reading my blog for a while, you'll know I'm a big fan of contouring and bronzing/sculpting products are often tip-top of my wish list! I've used this product every day since I got it and I'm addicted to the effect it gives - I adore it! I've used it for both subtle bronzing and for contouring purposes and I love the finish it provides - it's matte but it doesn't look powdery or flat at all (the reason i usually stay away from matte products).  I use Nars' Sheer Glow foundation and I have to say it makes for a lovely combination - the products mesh so well together and give such a flawless, airbrushed finish. There's no shimmer whatsoever so it's perfect for getting a good bit of 'sculpt' going on around your cheekbones, and it's also amazingly buildable. It's very pigmented, but don't let that scare you off - you can go as sheer or as strong as you like with this beauty! Colour wise, 'Altai' is perfect for my skin tone. It might be a touch too dark for those with very pale skin tones but for me, it works a treat.  It warms up my complexion and gives my skin a healthy appearance that I struggle to get from powder products - it really is quite hard to describe.

There are a number of ways you can apply the product.  After speaking with the sales assistant about the best application, she showed me a variety of ways to use it and applied it to my cheekbones using a flat foundation brush.  This method is one that I haven't used before with my previous multiples but it's a lovely way to get an airbrushed finish - I would never have thought of trying it this way if she hadn't showed me.  You can dampen the brush so it's easier to sheer out, or you can just 'dab' the brush onto the stick and apply in sweeps to the cheekbones - I personally prefer a dry brush. If you want a stronger contour or flush of colour, it's actually quite easy to apply straight from the bullet (before or after your foundation!) and although it's scary at first to essentially draw the colour onto your face, it's very very easy to get a professional, perfectly blended finish. I've taken to applying my foundation, and then placing a small amount directly from the bullet to the very tops of my cheekbones and blending out, before taking some on the flat brush and sweeping gently down the face where I don't want the contour to be as strong. This method works a charm! The brush I use is by Lola (pictured below) - it's lovely and soft and is such a lovely size for working with the cheekbones (I featured it in my recent haul and speak more about it here - it's fab!)

So, as you can see, it is more of a bronzer as opposed to a true contour colour but there is no reason why you can't use this for scultping (the assistant in SpaceNK recommended it for contouring and I personally think it's lovely for this purpose). I've used grey toned contour colours in the past and I've found that they can make me look a little 'dead' if I'm not careful - so the fact that this has some warmth to it really is a plus point for me and it isn't orange or overly red toned either. It's such a nice shade for the upcoming warmer weather.

SO, needless to say, the new Nars Multiples get a massive thumbs up from me! I'm definitely in the love it camp... In fact, it's made me fall back in love with my highlighting multiple in and the two look amazing paired together.  I'm not sure if I'm drawn to the blush shades as much but with sunnier weather (hopefully) on the cards for summer, I'm sure I'm going to get a lot of use out of this beautiful matte bronze. It's definitely going to be packed away in my suitcase should I actually manage to get away this year... (one can but hope)  You can find the Nars Matte Multiples on the SpaceNK website here.

Have you tried the Nars Matte Multiples? What did you reckon?

Best of Makeup 2012 | This Year's Favourites

With the New Year almost upon us and not much to do today other than scoff the remainders at the bottom of the Quality Street tin, I thought it would be a fabulous idea to spend my Sunday completely raiding my makeup drawers!  I thought I would pick out a few items that have been 'can't live without' makeup products for the past 12 months of my life... 

Best Lipstick

Ok I just HAD to cheat with this one. There's no other way around this and I hold my hands up and admit that I am an absolute lipstick addict. It was impossible to pick a winner and a runner up simply because I wear different colours and shades depending on the time of year. So I picked 4 of the best additions to my collection this year.. (it's the only time I cheat throughout my whole post..promise!)

YSL | Rouge Volupte Perle in '114' - 2012 saw me purchase my first ever YSL lipstick. And the second. And the third..  Wonderfully pigmented and deliciously soft, these lipsticks simply melt onto the lips with ease. This one was gifted to me for my 22nd birthday and it's the most beautiful fuchsia pink complete with teeny tiny shimmers. If you wish to see a swatch click here.
Mac | Costa Chic - My most worn lipstick throughout the summer months and a must-have for trips abroad. Looks fabulous with a tan and is amazingly pigmented.
Mac | Shy Girl - The newest addition to my lipstick collection. I will wear this all year round without a shadow of a doubt as it's the most perfect everyday lip colour for me - a wonderful muted peachy nude (click here for a review).
Maxfactor | Ruby Tuesday - The perfect red for me. These lipsticks provide just the right amount of moisture yet don't compromise on pigmentation or wear time. (click here for a swatch and similar shades)

Best Everyday Lip Product

Winner: Burt's Bee's | Replenishing Lip Balm - I won this in the lovely Jodie's giveaway and it's been my go-to lip balm everyday since. I apply this in the morning before my makeup alongside my moisturiser and carry it in my bag for top ups throughout the day. (review here)
Runner-up: Revlon | Lip Butter in 'Creme Brulee' - A very wearable everyday lip shade that's moisturising enough to feel like a lip balm but pigmented enough to look like a lipstick. The best of both worlds. (to see my collection click here)

Best Powder

Winner: Mac | Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in 'Medium' - I'm sure this will be top of the list for a lot of you. Sets my makeup without dulling my foundation and provides a natural finish which lasts all day long (review here)
Runner up: No7 | Pressed Powder in 'Medium' - A very good powder for taking away any shine and I found this came in very handy on holiday when humid nights sometimes get the better of your makeup!

Best Blush

Winner: Illamasqua | Powder Blush in 'Lover' - I would place bets on this being in my next year's favourites too. It's just my all-time favourite blush and I wear it all year round. Amazing pigment, soft to the touch and brightens up my complexion in an instant. (for similar shades click here)
Runner Up: Revlon | Photoready Cream Blush in 'Pinched Peaches' - This was my go-to blush for the summertime and holidays abroad this year. It's quite sheer but buildable, and the consistency for a cream blush was just right for me. Not too sticky or greasy, and easily applied.

Best Bronzing Product

Winner: Nars | Powder Bronzer in 'Laguna' - Predictable? Yes. Fed up of seeing it? Maybe. But there is no denying that this little beauty is the gem in a lot of blogger's makeup bags around the world. It's natural, versatile and lasts an age.
Runner Up: Chanel Bronze Universal - A fairly new addition, but one that I cannot wait to get more use out of this summertime. I use this as a cream contour for my cheekbones. It buffs into the skin like a dream and still looks freshly applied at the end of the day. If you wish to see the product in more depth I did a post a little while back here.

Best Priming Product

Winner: Loreal | Studio Secrets Professional Smoothing Resurfacing Primer - The best primer I have used - I even preferred it to Benefit's Porefessional. It just seems to work for me and is the only primer I've found that doesn't feel greasy on me.
Runner Up: Urban Decay | Eyeshadow Primer Potion - I don't use this everyday but I use it on a regular basis. If I'm going on a night out or need my eyeshadow to last longer I won't apply my eyeshadow without it - it works amazingly well and makes your shadow apply smoother.

Best Eyebrow Product

Winner: Sleek | Brow Kit - I've just had to grab myself a new one of these hence why it looks a little..new!? I use the light or the dark version depending on how defined I want to go with my brows. Does the job and provides a very good colour pay off. I sometimes just use the powder on it's own. (I have a review of the light kit here)
Runner Up: Mac | Brow Set in 'Beguiled' - This is a fabulous product but one that took a lot of getting used to. I know for a fact a lot of people don't like the coloured brow sets (you can get a clear version) but i personally like how this one defines the eyebrows at the same time as setting any wax or powder I've applied previously. I have an in-depth review of it here.

Best Concealer

Winner: Estee Lauder | Double Wear Concealer -  Provides a heavier coverage without looking cakey, even when reapplied and lasts me all day. Fabulous for under-eyes and blemishes. My all time favourite concealer.

Runner Up: Estee Lauder | Disappear Smoothing Creme Concealer - My summer concealer for all-round concealing goodness. It's slightly lighter than the double wear but lasts just as long and smooths out areas of unevenness as well as covering blemishes (review here)

Best Foundation

Winner: YSL | Touche Eclat Foundation - Smooths out my skin and feels light and fresh on the skin. I have a review of this foundation along with swatches here.
Runner up: Maybelline | Fit Me Foundation - Never have I found such a perfect match in a drugstore foundation and I have been so impressed with the Fit Me foundation. I have a review of it here if you wish to have a read about it.

Best Powder Highlighter

Winner: Nars | Highlighting Powder in Albatross - Slightly controversial since I received this for Christmas. But I've wanted it for ages and own lots of the Nars powder products and they're just such good quality. Look out for a review and swatches coming soon!
Runner-up: Sleek | Contour Kit - I've used this for a couple of years now and it's always served me well. It's not the most long lasting highlight and I always have to build it up on my cheekbones but a very flattering and natural shade and one that I will continue to go back to I'm sure.

Best Singular Eyeshadow 

 Winner: Nars | Eyeshadow in 'Mekong' - My first Nars eyeshadow and it certainly shall not be my last. This has to be the most pigmented shadow I own and you only need the tiniest touch of a brush to provide amazing colour. This one is fabulous for smokey eyes but also can be used for a slightly more defined daytime look.

Runner-up: Maybelline | 24 Hour Colour Tattoo - SHAMAZING! Pigmented eyeshadow that last all day and all night without fail yet also acts as a base underneath powder shadows. A wonderful versatile little pot of product and one that has been used constantly throughout 2012.

Best Palette

Winner: Urban Decay | Naked2
Runner-Up: Urban Decay| NakedBoth palettes have been a staple in my makeup collection ever since they were first released and will continue to be a daily necessity for me. The Naked 2 just tops the mark slightly as I find it has a wider range of shades suitable for both day and night. You can see my comparison of the two in this post here if you wish to view the shades in greater detail.

What has been your favourite product of 2012?
♥