Top 14 of 2014: The Beauty Edit

In true beauty blogger style, I thought I'd sum up 2014 with a few beauty favourites consisting of products I've discovered throughout the year.  It was a tough task indeed - I've certainly uncovered a few new favourites the past 12 months but there's a select few that really do stand out to me.  Originally, I was going to pick one product for each category, but when I discovered that not much has changed from last year and the fact that I've got 4 bronzing/contouring products I've enjoyed using - I thought I'd just go ahead and narrow it down to my 'Top 14 of 2014' instead. All products featured have been new additions to my makeup collection this year and the majority of them all have full reviews or features on my blog.  I've included links to all separate reviews (where you'll find swatches - sorry for not including any in this post but my arms are only so long!) as well as handy shop links.  Here's my Top 14 of 2014 in no particular order...

1. Illamasqua // Sculpting Powder Duo // Review // Link

This Illamasqua palette has been a firm favourite throughout the year and is perfect for any contouring addict like myself! The cool toned bronzer gives the most intense yet natural sculpted look to the cheekbones, and the champagne highlight is simply stunning worn on the cheeks, brow bone and even in the corner of the eyes. Both powders are incredibly pigmented, soft to the touch and easy to blend.  I shall be repurchasing for sure... 

2.  Seventeen // Instant Glow Bronzer // Review // Link
By heck - have Seventeen pleased me this year! This powder bronzer is a fabulous every day product that blends really well and gives a subtle sun-kissed look to the complexion.  The matte finish gives such a natural appearance, and the colour pay off is really impressive - a complete drugstore gem of a bronzer that warms the complexion and gives the perfect 'just got back from my jollies' look.

3.  Jane Iredale // Daytime Palette // Review // Link

The palette of the year for me.  These 5 matte, super pigmented shades became my ultimate 'go to' in 2014. Easy to travel with due to the slim, lightweight packaging - it's so handy and the perfect companion for a neutrals lover like myself. It has featured heavily on my blog the past few months and for good reason too - I can't wait to invest in more of these eyeshadows. They've seriously impressed me.

4.  Benefit // Gimme Brow // Review // Link

I love the dinky little wand and ease of application of these brow mascaras - I've tried my fair share and I have to say these are the best I've tried in terms on longevity, formula and ease of use. I use them as a 'finishing step' once I've filled in my brows and they just give such a defined, perfected finish. I tend to use the lighter one in the daytime and the darker one for nights out when I want a slightly more defined appearance. My eyebrows stay perfectly groomed and in place all day.

5. Anastasia // Dip Brow // Blonde - Review // Medium Brown - Review //  Link

2014 will always be the year I discovered Dip Brow! It's one of those products that I genuinely have no idea how I ever lived without.  I have the shades 'Blonde' and 'Medium Brown' and use both together in order to create a natural, defined finish. My eyebrows always look perfectly in-tact at the end of the day and I've had so many compliments.  If you want a professional 'HD Brows' finish, I really recommend looking into these pots!

6. Tanya Burr // Lipglosses // Review // Link

I'm usually not a lipgloss person whatsoever but Tanya Burr's range really did change my mind this year - I can't be without a tube now! I loved using these particularly through summer and I was completely addicted to the red shade on holiday - it sets off a tan like no other! They're pigmented enough to wear on their own (very similar to a lip laquer) and they're perfect to just throw in your handbag for on the go.

7. Mac // Lipstick in 'Half n Half' // Review // Link

2014 was the year of the 90s nude and Mac's 'Half n Half' was my go-to shade.  It's a gorgeous medium toned brown, very similar to the infamous 'Velvet Teddy' but with a slightly more glossy finish and more creamy in consistency.  It's very easy to wear as an everyday lipstick and it just goes with any makeup look at any time of the year.  I love it! It featured in my recent favourites here as well as my Mac Lipstick Collection post.

8.  Benefit // Hoola Bronzer // Review // Link

2014 saw me fall head over heels in love with this Benefit Box 'o Powder! Hoola is the perfect shade for contouring the cheekbones and the handy little brush it comes with is just the right size - I don't usually use brushes that come in compacts but this one is lovely and soft.  In my opinion, it's the perfect shade for subtle contouring - it deepens a tan, sculpts the face and just gives a naturally defined look to the cheeks. 

9. Bourjois // CC Cream // Review // Link
This CC Cream has to be one of the best discoveries of 2014 for me.  The coverage is seriously amazing and it just gives the most natural dewy glow to the skin.  It instantly awakens a dull complexion, helping to counteract dark circles and cover any redness - whilst smoothing out the skin and blending seamlessly for a natural yet flawless finish.  It always feels so refreshing to apply too. One of my favourite bases and perfect for daily wear.

10.  Seventeen // Falsifeye HD Mascara // Review // Link

This mascara really wow'ed me this year - it separates and fans out the lashes, instantly creating a fuller appearance.  As well as holding a curl really nicely, the wand coats even the smallest of eyelashes, making them appear so much more volumised and incredibly defined from root to tip.

11.  Stila // Smudge Stick in 'Damsel' // Review // Link

This eyeliner has fast become a holy grail product for me  - I'm going to treat myself to the black version very soon but this year - I've really enjoyed using this dark brown shade.  It looks beautiful with a subtle, neutral eye and lasts really well both on the top and bottom lash line and on the waterline. It doesn't run and stays put all day. I love it.

12. Mac // Lip Liner in 'Spice' // Review // Link

I've been using this lip liner all year and I just love it.  It's so long-lasting and is the perfect companion for all of my trusty brown toned lipsticks.  I also like to wear it on it's own with a touch of gloss on top. I went even more crazy for it when the 'Kylie Jenner lip' hype hit the bloggosphere...

13. Nars // Matte Multiple in 'Altai' // Review // Link

2014 saw me really get in to contouring using cream products.  I adore the Nars Matte Multiple in the shade 'Altai' and it went everywhere with me this year.  I just love the shade of it - it creates a lovely natural sculpted look without dulling the complexion and it blends like a dream. I also use it as an all over bronzer - incredibly versatile and a complete must-have for me.

14. Benefit // Porefessional Primer //  Review // Link

I use this primer daily and I have to say I think it's the best one I've ever used.  It creates the perfect base to apply my foundation and my makeup always lasts incredibly well because of it.  It really does help to smooth out the skin, blur imperfections and camouflage pores in order to create a flawless finish to the skin.  Well worth investing in. 

What have been your favourites of 2014? 

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?

8 High End Products I Can't Live Without...

Why is it that all of your more expensive make-up must-haves always run out at the same time? Seriously - it happens to me every single bloomin' time and this month has been particularly cruel to me to say the least.  As I'm currently on a bit of a budget and am trying to curb my beauty product-spend-age, it's been difficult to justify splurging on high-end replacements. For some, I've managed to find good cheaper alternatives (see my recent 'drugstore gems' post here), but I've come to realise that there's a few high-end products in my collection I simply cannot live without.  Of course, as a blogger, I often end up treating myself to the odd luxury or two but there's only a small handful of them that I'd say hold the 'cannot live without' status.  I thought it was about time that I dedicate a post to my high-end 'holy grail' must-haves...

Nars / Sheer Glow Foundation / Link

Ever since I first purchased this foundation, it's never been out of my makeup collection.   It's a medium to full coverage foundation (in my opinion, more on the 'full' side) and always provides me with such flawless results.  It stays put all day and the formula is so easy to apply and blend out with a buffing brush. It's not dewy but provides a gorgeous subtle glow to the skin.  I particularly like this for nights out and events because it contains no SPF (no ghost face!) and I've also taken this away on holiday for use in the evenings and it's never let me down - it's so long-lasting. I have a full review here.

Mac / Mineralise Skinfinish Natural / Link

This powder has featured so many times on my blog - but for good reason! I'm still yet to find another powder that quite matches up.  It looks so natural and gives the skin such a smoothed out, 'soft focus' sort of finish. It controls oil and shine without looking cakey (even if you over-apply of a morning...) and doesn't cling to dry patches - it also doesn't darken or adjust the colour of your foundation underneath.  As well as controlling shine, it also sets your makeup and keeps your base locked in place for much longer - I notice such a difference when I don't use this (which isn't very often as it's a daily must-have for me!)  I can be out all day and after a few hours my makeup looks pretty much freshly applied - If i ever need to 'touch-up' it's very minimal.  I have a review here.

Estee Lauder / Double Wear Concealer / Link

I doubt I will ever find a concealer as good as this one!  It's expensive but lasts such a long time so it's price tag is perfectly justified to me considering I'd probably go through about 4 or 5 drugstore versions for just one tube of this.  It instantly covers dark circles, pigmentation and blemishes with a tiny dab - the full coverage is amazing yet it never looks caked or over-applied. It has a beautiful creamy consistency which is a dream to blend and it never sticks to dry patches.  This really is an unsung hero of the beauty world...

Nars / Matte Multiple in 'Altai' / Link

My contouring dreams came true when Nars released their Matte Multiples.  I much prefer contouring with cream products (and then add a dash of powder product to strengthen the effect afterwards once it's set) - i just find it gives a much more natural, sculpted finish as it's blended into your foundation as opposed to sitting on top of it. 'Altai' is a lovely colour for contouring as it adds a touch of warmth to the face without looking too bronzed.  My cheeks always look so defined after I've used this and the fact it's so long lasting means I can have perfectly contoured cheekbones all day long. I have a full review here.

Benefit / 'Hoola' Bronzer / Link

This is such an all-rounder which is why I love it so much.  It works as an all over bronzer if applied with a fluffy brush but also works perfectly as a contour shade.  As mentioned previously, I apply some of my Nars Multiple and then, once I've set with Mac's MSF, I'll dust a small amount of this along the contour line with the brush that comes in the compact. It intensifies the effect but still looks super natural.  I love the fact that it's matte too. I have a full review here.

Clinique / Bottom Lash Mascara / Link

Ever since I first started wearing makeup I've struggled with my mascara smudging below my bottom lash line. However, that all changed when I began purchasing Clinique's Bottom Lash Mascara and I haven't used anything else since. I swear by it.  I never get panda eyes anymore and my bottom lashes always look so defined and separated thanks to the tiny little wand. It coats every single lash with ease, doesn't flake or smudge (even if there's a few tears - tried and tested ;)) I talk a little more about it in this favourites post.

Shu Uemura / Art of Hair Essence Absolue Oil / Link

If you've been reading my blog for a while, I bet you're sick of hearing about this product by now - but seriously, I adore everything about it and I definitely think it's helped towards hair growth.  My hair has never felt in such good condition since I started using this and I use it every time I wash my hair.  It doesn't weigh the hair down at all yet provides such intense moisture. I sometimes apply it to dry hair to revive my style if it's gone a little bit frizzy (perfect for rainy days) and I've also used it on extensions to help them stay soft and shiny for longer.  SUCH a wonder product. I have a full review here.

Harley Street Skincare / Spot Buster Solution / Link

As far as spot treatments go - this is by far the best I've ever used.  Again, i've spoken about it quite a bit on my blog but I really do think it's the bees knees and it's worth every single penny. If I ever have a breakout, it clears it within a couple of days and helps to prevent scarring/marking after the blemish has gone.  Unlike other spot treatments, this one doesn't leave a residue so it's perfect if you're applying makeup afterwards - you can't tell it's been applied at all.  Because it's a spray, you can apply it easily over larger areas too. Without a doubt the best anti-blemish solution I've ever tried. It featured in my skincare routine post here.

What are your 'can't live without' products?

Drugstore Gems | Recent Finds...

As a blogger, it's very easy to get sucked in to the luxury product hype - swishy packaging and the lure of a glitzy high-end counter certainly have the power to sway a purchase.  Whilst I'm not denying that you do sometimes get what you pay for (some of my high-end favourites simply cannot be beaten in my opinion) - I do think there's plenty of 'drugstore' products out there that perform just as well as - if not better than some of the high-end brands. I've become such a bargain hunter just recently (just call me David Dickinson) and I seem to have uncovered a small selection of fabulous 'drugstore' products that I absolutely love - I've been on a roll!  Of course, I often find cheaper products I enjoy and use on a regular basis, but these 6 most recent finds have seriously impressed me -  they're much more than fleeting favourites.  We're a fickle bunch, us bloggers, so to say that this little collection of my latest 'drugstore gems' top the mark as some of my most recommended is saying something! Here's why I think they're jolly good contenders to rival their higher-end versions...

Seventeen | Falsifeye HD Mascara | £6.99 | Link

I'll kick off with my most favourite shall I?!  If you've been reading my blog for a while, you'll know I'm rarely impressed with mascaras - I'm ridiculously fussy.  I've been using Maybelline's 'The Falsies' for a good 5 years or so now and I never really vary from this (Benefit's 'They're Real' is my only other 'go to' but I use this as more a 'treat' because it's quite expensive). It's fair to say I'm very stuck in my ways when it comes to mascara.  However - I think I may have discovered my new obsession in the form of Seventeen's Falsifeye HD Mascara.  It's seriously amazing. First impressions were good before I even left the store as it actually comes in a box - and we all know how much bloggers love their boxed products... It didn't stop there though.  I was blown away as soon as I applied it - it coats every.single.lash. The wand doesn't look anything special but trust me, it works a charm at coating even the smallest eyelashes and it's so easy to use. Usually, with volumising 'false lash effect' mascaras, the wands can be quite cumbersome but this one is just perfection.   It reminds me of a simplfied version of Benefit's 'They're Real' whilst being easier to use. 

The formula doesn't clump at all - I can easily apply 3 coats without my lashes clumping together and it also holds a curl really nicely. My lashes look fuller than ever and incredibly defined, and even though it's not waterproof, it doesn't smudge, flake or crumble.  I must admit I don't use it on my bottom lashes as the only mascara that doesn't smudge on me is Clinique's 'Bottom Lash Mascara' - but I can't sing this product's praises enough. I definitely think it's a good rival for Benefit's 'They're Real'. I think I'll be buying this from now on instead of the Maybelline one I've been using for 5 years... that's how much I adore it.

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

Seventeen really have upped their game the past year or so! I'm loving the brand at the moment and their new image is definitely a winner in my books. This is another one of my recent purchases but as it's already featured twice on my blog so I shan't get in to it too much - you're probably sick of the sights of it! I picked this up on a whim at the airport before a holiday and my goodness, am I glad I did! It's such a good 'all rounder' bronzer and works so well for all over bronzing and subtle contouring. It's the perfect shade to add warmth to the complexion and even though it's pigmented, it's virtually impossible to over-apply as it blends like a dream.  I've been applying it even though my skin is paler now and it just gives the most incredible healthy glow without looking like I've piled on a shed load of bronzer.  I really loved Guerlain's 'Terracotta' bronzer earlier this year but I have to admit this one has had much more use.  It's matte so it provides a really lovely, natural finish and gives a nice bit of definition to the facial features.  I posted about it in a summer beauty haul here, and also in a recent favourites post here.  My love for it is still going strong...

MUA | Power Pout Lip Crayon in 'Rendezvous' | £3.00 | Link

I had to re-use a photograph I've taken of this product for a past post because my camera ran out of battery just before I'd finished this one - but trust me - this lip crayon is very well loved.  It's lived in my hand-bag since the day I bought it and it's not making a move out of there any time soon! I really love MUA's lip crayon offering - this colour is just the perfect every day shade and I've been using it over some of my Mac favourites just recently.  It's super moisturising, yet long-lasting and easy to apply on-the-go. I really don't think you have to spend the earth if you want a good quality lip crayon - I can't see why this one isn't just as good as some of the more expensive versions I've seen on the high-street.  I have a full post about the product here.

Collection | Illuminating Touch Brightening Concealer | £4.99 £3.99  | Link

Currently on offer for just £3.99, this concealer is my most recent discovery.  Now, I have to admit that my ultimate holy-grail favourite is Estee Lauder's Double Wear Concealer and I don't think I'll ever find anything else to rival it - but since it's so expensive (£21.00 a pop!) I wanted something to use under my eyes on those days when I'm not wearing a great deal of makeup.  I wanted something a little more brightening than Collection's 'Lasting Perfection' (another drugstore gem) as I mainly use concealer underneath my eyes to conceal dark circles. I've been blown away by this one! I was so amazed at how well it hid my dark circles - it's literally like a brightening version of their Lasting Perfection. The formula is quite thick (similar to L.P), so it's a little more hard-wearing than other brightening concealers I've tried before.  I've also used YSL's Touche Eclat in the past and prefer this cheaper version by a mile!

Bourjois | 123 Perfect CC Cream in '32 - Light Beige' | £9.99* | Link

I was actually sent this product a while back but as soon as this tube runs out (and it's getting rather low) I'll be purchasing another straight away.  As much as I love my Nars Sheer Glow foundation, it can be a little heavy for everyday wear and I sometimes crave a slightly lighter coverage. My high-end 'go to' for a dewy base is YSL's Touche Eclat foundation but for a cheaper alternative, this Bourjois offering is fantastic. It does everything it promises - the colour correction really does seem to work and I instantly look more awake when I've applied this.  The coverage is so impressive and comparable to a light-medium foundation - so don't let the fact it's a CC Cream as opposed to an actual foundation base put you off.  If i'm ever having a 'dry skin day'  I use this because its a little more hydrating than an average foundation.  It evens out the complexion in an instant and looks virtually undetectable, especially when I've applied it with my RT Buffing Brush. I have a review of it here, and it also featured in a favourites post here.

Look Beauty Eyeshadow | Shade 13 - 'Luxe' | £4.00 | Link

Ok. So this isn't exactly a recent find - I've had this shade in my collection for quite some time now but it's definitely a re-discovery! If you're looking for pigmentation, 'Look' Statement Eyes Eye shadows really are amazing - they put some high-end brands to shame. This eyeshadow has to be one of the most pigmented shades I own and it gives that statement metallic lid look - perfect for the upcoming festive season. It's so creamy and buttery-soft to the touch and the gorgeous antique-gold colour is so flattering. Admittedly, due to the fact it's so pigmented you do get a little bit of fallout but it's easy to overlook- I just protect my under-eyes with a tissue and 'dab' the shadow on with an eyeshadow brush. 

Swatches L-R // Collection Concealer | Bourjois CC Cream | Seventeen Bronzer | Look Eyeshadow | MUA Crayon

So there we have it, some recent drugstore finds that I've been seriously impressed with.  Of course, I have plenty of other favourites but these are products I've discovered in the past few weeks/months.  Do let me know if you'd like me to do a post on some of my other drugstore gems - I have a fair few that definitely rival their higher end versions.

Have you found any drugstore gems recently? Let me know!

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!?