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?

Winter Warmers from Arran Aromatics

The Festive season is well and truly upon which can only mean one thing - it's time to indulge in some pamper products! Arran Aromatics is a brand I've featured quite a bit on my blog over the past year or so - I adore their indulgent spa-like scents and luxurious, unique product ranges - their 'After the Rain' range has to be one of my most loved.  They offer an array of treats - from skincare and body butters (their Lavender and tea tree facial wash is one of my all-time faves), to candles, bath products and hair goodies.  Since it's coming up to Christmas, I thought I'd give you the low-down on some of their more 'wintery' products. Perfect for the season and super affordable, they make for lovely stocking fillers or wintertime treats.

Honey & Lemon Lip Balm / £3.50* / Link

This has to be one of my favourite products from the selection.  The honey scent is particularly noticeable in my opinion and lingers on the lips slightly after application.  It's great for this time of year as it's quite thick and creamy in consistency - it's a great one to have on your bed-side table for leaving to soak in overnight.  The little pot is a lovely size and the formula makes a nice change from typical lip balm sticks which can be a little too waxy for me at times.  This one really does feel 'quenching' to apply and looks lovely and glossy.  

Honey & Oatmeal Vegetable Soap / £2.75* / Link

I'm not the biggest soap fan ever but I do like the Arran Aromatics ones simply because they're quite moisturising and this one contains little flecks that help to exfoliate the skin gently.  It's budget friendly so it makes for a nice little stocking filler for those who like their natural pamper products. Arran Aromatics' soaps are triple milled so they're extra soft and cleanse the skin without leaving it feeling dry. 

Ultimate Fig Scented Candle / £5.00* / Link

This little candle smells seriously amazing.  I'm not the biggest candle fan but I do like to have a few dotted around for decorative purposes and this one smells so comforting and relaxing.  It's not necessarily a scent I would have picked for myself but after trying this, I think I'm converted.  It's difficult to describe but it just reminds me of cosy, winter evenings and festivities - it's so soothing and rich, and the delicate aroma fills the room so nicely.  I've featured Arran Aromatics on my blog a few times over the past year or so - and I have to say nobody quite does spa-like scents quite like them.  I'm a big fan of their 'After the Rain' collection (I must recommend the body butter) and I just love how each and every one is so unique and sensual... this one is no exception and it's just the perfect winter comforter.

Sandalwood and Lavender Bath Oil / £12.50* / Link

This has to be my favourite of the bunch for me.  I love my bath products and throughout the winter months, I'm very partial to a luxurious pamper product or 3.  I've used bath oils and elixirs before but this one has to top the mark as the most moisturising one I've ever used.  It's very much a true oil - it takes a while to fully dissolve into the water but doesn't leave it feeling greasy or heavy.  It's a really relaxing and calming blend - I'm a big fan of products that are targeted towards de-stressing and relaxing the mind, and something like this is perfect to use before bed. The sandalwood is particularly noticeable but it's not overpowering - it's just a lovely, gentle scent.  It's perfect to use if you haven't got time to moisturise much afterwards as it leaves your skin feeling so soft and smooth - the delicate fragrance also lingers slightly for a few hours after leaving you feeling pampered, soothed and altogether more relaxed.  I love the size of the bottle too - you really don't need much at all so it's bound to last quite a while.

Chamomile & Honey Barrier Cream / £7.50* / Link

This thick, nourishing cream contains beeswax, vitamin E, pure honey extract and essential oils of chamomile to sooth dry, chapped skin.  I've taken to using this after shaving my legs as during the winter, my skin can feel quite dry afterwards - particularly around my knees.  It creates a lovely layer of moisture and helps to calm any irritation.  I've been using this as a hand-cream mostly though - it's quite lightweight considering its so moisturising - almost like a light mousse similar to that of a whipped body butter -and I like that it doesn't leave a film on the skin.  I must admit I'm not sure I'm entirely keen on the scent of this one - but it's a great multi-use, versatile product nonetheless.

Overall, a fabulous selection from Arran Aromatics.  My personal favourites have to be the Sandalwood and Lavender bath oil and the Perfumed Candle - although I must admit I'm also slightly addicted to the moisturising qualities of the Honey & Lemon lip balm. It's become a must-have for my bedside table!

Have you tried anything from Arran Aromatics?

The Autumn/Winter Lip | My Berry Lipstick Collection

It was only last winter-time that I really found myself throwing caution to the wind and working the 'vampy' lip look.  I think it's one of those trends that takes a while to master but once you find that one shade that works for you, you're well away. As I've had a bit of a 're-jig' of my make-up drawers recently, swapping things around for the new season, I thought I'd share my collection of berry toned lip products.  If you're a lip-product-aholic like me and have been thinking of picking up some new winter shades, hopefully this post might give you some inspiration or give you an idea as to where to begin. I have a mix of tones, ranging from subtle berry hues perfect for daytime wear to deeper statement shades - I definitely have a select few favourites of the bunch too. So if you're at a bit of a loss as to where to begin when it comes to the A/W berry/vampy lip - hopefully this will be a jolly good starting point! I've divided them in to 2 sections (us bloggers and our categories eh?) just to make it a little easier depending on what sort of product you're after... I thought I'd kick off with the 4 that I'd class as being a little more on the 'tame' side...

// The 'Every Day' Berry Tones // L-R //

Collection Deluxe // 'Prohibition' 

Probably my most used berry shade ever - this little beauty has to be my winter favourite.. I wore it to uni, I wore it on nights out, I wore it on shopping trips, I even wore it for an quick evening mooch around the aisles of Tesco - yep, I kid you not, I literally wore this everywhere. I actually bought a back-up in case they didn't stock it this year (fear not, they do). It's just the perfect berry hue - it's super creamy, pigmented, lasts me all day with minimal touch-ups and instantly finishes off my make-up. I don't know what it is, but the undertones in this lipstick really work with my skin tone - even if I'm having the dullest skin-day, I instantly look fresh, dewy and awake as soon as I apply this. It's perfection. Want to see it on? I have a full review and lip swatches here.

Rimmel Kate Moss // '107'

Ohhh the infamous '107' - how I hunted the shelves for this! Slightly cooler in tone than 'Prohibition' and slightly more matte, this shade really is one of the most raved about berry lipsticks in the bloggosphere. With good reason too I might add! It looks darker in the bullet than it does on the lips, but if you're after a statement shade that isn't too dark - I'd really recommend this one.  I have an ancient review and swatches here.

Topshop // Beguiled

And so I introduce you to the first 'vampy' lipstick I ever purchased... Topshop's 'Beguiled' is a gorgeous deep maroon/wine sort of colour with a satin finish. I sometimes struggle to get it to work for me - but it's a great one to have in my collection nonetheless. I find it quite similar to Kate Moss '107' - just a slightly more glossy version. I doubt they still stock this exact shade but I've seen so many variations from Topshop since this one was released - they probably have an almost identical shade under the same name. I featured it in my 2012 'Top 5 Autumn Lip Shades' post here.

MUA // 'Shade 1'

Probably the most pigmented of the four, this gorgeous maroon shade has to be another one of my favourites - it has to share the top spot with 'Prohibion'.  Shade 1 is a beautiful deep red which is super rich and creamy in finish, as well as being completely opaque.  Despite it being quite a dark shade, the red tones in it make it so wearable for daytime and makes for a nice, wintery twist on the classic red lip! I adore this one - everything from the shade to the formula is just bang on - and it's only £1! 

// The 'Vampy' Tones // L-R //

Mac // 'Paramount' 

A slightly different shade and one that's going to be very 'love it or hate it', but my most recent Mac purchase has to be my Autumn staple.  It's a gorgeous deep brown shade with a brick-like tone to it, described as a 'reddish brown' by Mac.  With the right make-up, this looks truly stunning but it really is quite 'out there' - it definitely has a 90's feel to it due to the brown undertone.  A statement shade to opt for it you're after something a little bit different from the norm. It's featured in my Mac lipstick collection post here.

Mac // 'Dark Side'

Another one of my winter faves! Dark Side is described as a 'deep burgundy' and has an amplified, pigmented finish.  It swatches exactly how it looks in the bullet. I love the slightly purple/red undertone to this colour - it works really well with my skin tone and makes my lips look incredibly defined and polished.  It really is the perfect statement shade if you're looking for something with a slightly 'gothic' vibe... It featured in my Mac lipstick collection post here, and I also have a full review post with photographs and swatches here.

Collection Gothic Glam // 'Revenge'

As you can see from the swatches, this is a similar match for Mac's 'Dark Side' (and I reckon its quite close to Mac 'Diva' too). Although it's much more maroon toned, it definitely gives the same look and feel to the lips - it's amazingly pigmented, glides on to the lips with ease and is very creamy and opaque. It's like a slightly amped up, more vampy version of MUA 'Shade 1' and I absolutely love it. It looks lovely if you're wearing white - it creates a fabulous bold contrast (it also works really well if you're wearing a neutral, slightly shimmery eye make-up look)

I'm Wearing | Collection 'Prohibion' lipstick & Revlon 'Embellished' lip gloss (post here)

And so there we have it - my current winter 'vampy' lipstick collection. I'm sure I'll end up expanding it at some stage - I already have my eyes on Mac's 'Diva' and really want to invest in some lip-crayon versions (I'll be sure to post about any additions over the next few months).  If I had to pick my top 3 I'd have to go with Collection's 'Prohibition', MUA's 'Shade 1' and Mac's 'Dark Side' - I reckon these 3 are my top 'staple' shades from my selection!

What's your favourite 'vampy' lip shade?

My Autumn/Winter Blush Wardrobe

I must confess that I'm a bit of a blush hoarder.  If there's anything I tend to experiment with aside from my lip shade - it's the colour I dust on my cheeks of a morning!  I love that something so simple and quick can completely bring together a make-up look in an instant and brighten up your entire complexion.  I've had a bit of a make-up overhaul recently and thought I'd introduce you to my Autumn/Winter 'blush wardrobe' - because for a beauty blogger, it doesn't stop at swapping your cami tops for polo-necks does it?! Ohh no - I've swapped around my entire cosmetic collection and placed some of my more wintery shades within grabbing distance.  It's time to put the bright corals to bed! Without further ado, here's 7 of my 'go to' shades for the autumn/winter season and why I'll be reaching for them over the next few months...

Illamasqua | 'Tremble' // The Winter Bright //

I must admit, I'm really not a big fan of pinks - I find that I need a bit of warmth in my blush colour due to my skin-tone but Illamasqua's 'Tremble' is probably one of the only bright pink shades I can get away with. It's showing up a little more cool toned on camera but this is seriously bright - it's not for the faint hearted but when applied lightly it gives such a lovely flush of colour to the cheeks. If you're a fan of Illamasqua's 'Lover' blush (it's one of my all time summer favourites) this is like its pink, wintery cousin... it still has the same brightness to it but looks a little more natural and flattering on dull, winter skin.  I love Illamasqua's blushes - they always look so immaculate and flawless on the skin and are incredibly long lasting. If you're looking for pigmentation - look no further.  I have an ancient review of Tremble here.

Deborah Milano | 'Spicy' // The 'Any Season' Coral //

I know I said I've put my corals to bed but this is the only one I find myself reaching for all year round.  Trust me when I say that this little compact is well loved! If you're looking for a versatile, year-round colour then this shade will be right up your street.  It looks just as flattering on my winter skin as it does when I have a tan - it looks so natural. It's the perfect coral because it isn't too orange or bright - it works whatever the weather, whatever your skin tone and whatever make-up you've applied.  I love the texture of the powder too - it applies so smoothly and effortlessy and it's really nicely pigmented - I've used this to death for around a year and I've barely worn down the surface - well worth the money! I have a full review of it here.

Nars | 'Orgasm' // The Perfect Healthy Glow //

Ooo Beauty blogger classic alert (just look how battered mine is - the poor thing!) Although I can't say this blush is one of my all-time favourites, it's one that I find myself reaching for through the winter months.  It's got a bit of shimmer running through it so it's perfect for those days when you just can't be bothered to highlight as it brings a healthy, natural glow to the face - killing 2 birds with one stone, as they say! I like to use this colour when I'm feeling a little bit under the weather - rosy pink blushes are actually proven to help counteract dull tones and dark shadows under your eyes, and 'Orgasm' does a fabulous job of making me look bright eyed and bushy tailed even when I'm far from it. Its rosy appearance does a fabulous job of brightening the skin and gives a naturally 'blushed' appearance. It's definitely one of my more understated blushes (despite the shimmer) - it's the type of blush I'd pop on for a quick flush of colour if I'm off for a winter walk somewhere.

Nars | 'Deep Throat' // The 'Everyday' Winter Staple //

Oh crikey me - Nars and their naughty names make me blush even before I've swept them on to my cheeks! Despite it's 'out there' name, this blush really is such a great everyday staple. It's like a slightly lighter, less shimmery version of 'Orgasm' with a hint of peachy pink.  I must admit I was never sold on this until I had it applied on me by an MUA in Space NK - it looks completely different once you have it on your cheeks and gives such a healthy flush of peachy-pink to the cheeks. If, like me, you lean towards corals and oranges and want something suitable for the season, I really recommend you check this one out.  It's a lovely 'in-between' sort of shade - I can wear this all year round because it has a good bit of warmth running through it.  It's a good option for paler skin too as it's not overly pigmented - it's very buildable.  I have a full review and photographs here.

Benefit | 'Rockateur' // The Subtle Touch //

I really didn't expect this to become one of my autumn staples, but it has! I actually find this to be quite similar to Nars' 'Deep Throat' blush - just a slightly lighter version.  Again, it's peachy-pink hints work really well on winter skin and the satin finish is really flattering.  It has a subtle hint of shimmer which gives such a healthy glow - another fabulous option if dull skin is your main concern. I find this blush works well for layering becuase it's quite subtle. It's formula is very buildable and if you wish to achieve the colour in the pan, you can, but I actually really enjoy using this alongside Benefit's 'Majorette' - layering this on top of a bright coral works really well. I have a full review here.

Mac | 'Blushbaby' // The 'Depths of Winter' Flush //

Again, this isn't one of my all-time favourites but I really enjoy using this shade in the winter months.  It's a gorgeous, natural shade with a slight hint of mauve - a little more cool-toned than what I usually reach for but with the right make-up it looks so beautiful. I always pop this on if I'm wearing a darker lip colour or if I've opted for a mauve/purple toned lip. It swatches a little warmer than it looks in the pan - it's definitely got a hint of 'brick' running through it (have a nosey at the swatches, you'll see what I mean!) Think bobble hats, cosy knits and hot chocolates - this shade really is my 'depths of winter' blush - perfect for snowy days. I love the matte finish - it works really well with a flawless base and a teeny fleck of highlighter on the tops of the cheekbones.

Mac | 'Harmony' // The Sculpting Shade //

I adore this shade.  It's so multi-functional as it works as a contour shade as well as a blush. It's a cool toned 'brick' sort of colour - very difficult to explain but one that works incredibly well at softly sculpting the cheeks. If you're new to contouring, I really recommend this - all you need to do is sweep some of this onto your cheeks and et voila - instant cheekbones. If I'm in a rush, I'll quickly dust some of this on using a blush brush, but i find that it works really nicely if you use a slightly smaller tapered or 'domed' brush and place the colour on your natural contour line.With 'Harmony', it's so easy to achieve that sculpted appearance without the fuss.  As with most Mac blushes, it's really soft and easy to blend - but isn't so overly pigmented it's difficult to work with. Definitely a staple shade in my collection. I have a full review here.

Swatches L-R | Illamasqua 'Tremble' / Deborah Milano 'Spicy' / Nars 'Orgasm' / Nars 'Deep Throat' / Benefit 'Rockateur' / Mac 'Blushbaby' / Mac 'Harmony'

So there we have it - my Autumn/Winter blush wardrobe. I also love Benefit's 'Majorette' and Illamasqua's 'Lover' blush - but the shades I've featured are definitely the ones I'll be reaching for when the weather really does take a turn for the worst!  My ultimate favourites have to be Deborah Milano's 'Spicy' and Nars' 'Deep Throat' - and Mac's 'Harmony' really is a winter contouring must-have if you're a fan of a sculpted cheek like me.

What's in your autumn/winter blush wardrobe this season?

A Festive Cuppa | Teapigs 'Spiced Winter Red Tea' (& 20% off!)

Teapigs | Spiced Winter Red Tea | £4.49* for 15 bags | Link

Yep.  I just hung a tea bag from a Christmas tree.  Something I never thought I'd do but blogging doesn't half make you do some weird things.  If it isn't hanging tea bags from random decorative ornaments, it's swatches half-way up your arm or trying to balance a selection of products in your 'claw hand'... Moving on - bit of a different post from me today.  Sorry to the loyal coffee fans out there - or those of you who simply don't drink tea, but I love a good cuppa. I must admit I'm a bit of a tea belly. I have one every morning when I'm doing my makeup and it's something I reach for when I'm in need of a bit of a perk up.  I can't say I'm the most adventurous with my tea - it's usually just milk, no sugar (more on the 'builders' side than weak and pale...let's get specific here...) with the odd green tea thrown in for good measure when I fancy a bit of a detox.  So when the lovely people at Teapigs asked if I fancied trying some of their festive tea - I was quite intrigued to say the least.  I'm a sucker for a Christmas drink - something about the cold weather and twinkly lights has me reaching for the kettle like a crazy tea lady. So, as soon as this adorable little box arrived in the post, I whacked the kettle on and settled into the sofa almost straight away. But what did I reckon?

First off - the 'Spiced Winter Red Tea' is like Christmas in a mug. No word of a lie. Just as it says on the box, it really is 'log fires, happy cats and old movies on the telly'. It's the smell of wintery comfort! As soon as you pop the boiling water in, the cinnamon, orange and warming spices hit your nostrils and the water turns a beautiful deep shade of maroon.  You simply pop a tea bag in and let it infuse for about 3 minutes.  I don't pop any milk in because I quite like it as it is - but the box comes with little hints and tips to make your own latte - it even recommends a teeny bit of brandy if you're feeling particularly festive!  I thought it would be too strong for me at first - the smell when it's infusing is undeniably quite strong. But once you sip it, it's actually quite a gentle, soft taste with just a hint of spice. I love the fact that there are tiny bits of the leaves left in the mug after you remove the bag.  They really have captured everything about the festive season in a teabag.

It's not something I'd usually review on my blog, but I couldn't resist! I'd definitely recommend having a look at the Teapigs website if you're a bit of a tea belly like myself. They have some fab flavours to try - the 'popcorn' tea sounds like a winner to me! Definitely a place to go to if you fancy a little tea treat.  Their whole company ethos is really lovely and all of their packaging is beautifully designed (geeky graphic design-y side of me coming out to play there...apologies!) They also use whole leaves in their tea bags - meaning that none of the flavour is lost through being overly processed or chopped.  I'll definitely be trying some more of their tea in future - if you know someone who is a fellow tea-fan then it's worth having a look at their website here.  They have a little Christmas gift shop on there at the moment if you're after a last minute stocking filler! A little selection would make a lovely gift! (not hinting at all)... 

I currently have a little discount code for you all which is valid until the end of December - so still plenty of time left to give Teapigs a try! For 20% off (excludes cheeky deals, mix & match and match kits) simply enter 'XMAS13' at the checkout :) 

Have you tried Teapigs?  What's your favourite festive hot drink?

Top 5 Autumn/Winter Reds

Swatches Top to Bottom | Rimmel Kate Moss '107' / Collection 'Prohibition' / Mac 'MAC Red' / MUA 'Shade 13' / Revlon 'Red Laquer' /

Autmn/Winter is the perfect time of year to really experiment with berry tones and statement reds.  A red lip is timeless and classic - and once you've found 'the one' (or in a beauty blogger's case - a fair few) you'll never look back.  A pop of red on a dreary winter's day always looks striking, and the whole build-up to Christmas is the perfect excuse to get festive with your lip colour.  Berry tones and pillar-box reds are my preference for the winter months, and I tend to lean towards orangey-reds in summer.  If you're a 'red lipstick newbie' it's worth baring in mind that what might look amazing on you in winter, might look a bit dull on you in summer and vice versa. So, this in mind, I thought I'd give you a run-down of my current Top 5 'wintery reds' in no particular order... I have worn the majority of these in different posts so I've linked those into the mix as well if you want a more in-depth look at the shades.

Rimmel | Kate Moss '107' 

Ohhh Kate Moss. Your lipsticks sent beauty bloggers across the globe into a berry lipstick frenzy last year. A year later and I'm still addicted to the infamous '107'.  This is the darkest shade of the bunch and is a dark berry red with hints of purple.  It's very much a gothic twist on the classic red, and although it appears scary in the tube, it looks beautiful once on the lips.  It very much reminds me of Topshop's 'Beguiled' (post here) and is amazingly pigmented.  It's quite matte - so it isn't for the faint hearted but it's a lovely colour all the same.  Want to see what it looks like on? You can find my previous post on the shade here.

Collection | Deluxe in 'Prohibition'

I have written a whole post on this little beauty including a snap of it on the lips here if you want to read more.  This shade is my most reached for lipstick at the moment and has to be my current favourite.  I actually prefer this to '107' - although almost identical in shade, this one is a touch lighter and is much more glossy - although it's still strongly pigmented.  It's just the perfect consistency in my opinion and I find it so easy and comfortable to wear. I don't find it drying in the slightest (107 has a tendancy to be a bit drying) and I've been wearing this in both the day and at night - it looks lovely with a simple, neutral eye and a slick of liquid liner.  It's the lipstick I'm wearing in my current Twitter picture, if you're interested! I shall be doing some sort of post on the look soon so keep your eyes peeled!

Mac Lipstick in 'MAC Red'

This lipstick is an absolute classic in my eyes.  I love it.  It's a true 'pillarbox' red shade and looks so striking when worn. It's quite a bright red and looks amazing on the lips as it makes such a statement.  The satin finish and vivid colour it provides are just the perfect combination.  It leans slightly blue without being overly cool in tone, and instantly makes your teeth look whiter.  It applies like a dream and stays put for ages - it looks so classy and timeless. If you're after a classic, true red - look no further than Mac's 'MAC Red'.  I have to say Mac's Red lipstick selection is second to none. There's something there for everyone.

MUA | Shade '13'

THIS little beauty is my red staple and has to be one of my all time favourite reds.  I wear this in the day (I even wear it to Uni) and on nights out and every single time somebody will ask me what shade of red I'm wearing.  Every time I tell them it's a £1 special from Superdrug their little eyes light up with delight (I should really stop telling them shouldn't I? - I'm giving away my MUA secret!) It's extremely pigmented - probably the most pigmented of the bunch - and is so soft and creamy to apply.  It's a lovely, instense bright red and I like it because it isn't too orangey - it suits me in both the summer and the winter time without fail and if MUA ever discontinued it I would bulk buy a lifetime supply quicker than you could say 'product rave'.  True love right there.

Revlon | Red Laquer

This shade is perfect for those days where you don't want to be too 'OTT' but fancy a little pop of colour.  Similar to Revlon's 'Candy Apple' lip butter but slightly brighter, this shade is such a lovely, subtle orangey-red that is just perfect for every day wear.  You don't need a lip liner to wear it, you don't need to spend 5 minutes in the mirror pulling your 'concentration face' and you don't need a special occasion to pull it off - it's just the perfect understated red.  The orangey tone brightens the complexion without looking too sickly - and it feels glossy and smooth to apply.  I think of it as a watered down version of Mac's 'Lady Danger' with a glossy, buttery finish.  If you're interested as to what it looks like on, I wore it last Christmas in this FOTD.

You've got to love a red lipstick, right?  I'm addicted to buying them! My collection must house an entire spectrum of crimson shades now and one day I shall have to sit down and photograph them all because that would just be extremely satisfying....  I shall be sure to keep you posted if there's any more additions - I currently have my eye on Mac's 'Hang Up' but I reckon I might pop that on the Christmas list...

What's your favourite winter red? Any of these tickle your lipstick taste buds?!

My Love For.. Soap & Glory's The Righteous Butter

Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter | 300ml £10.50 (here) | 50ml £2.50 (travel size)

One thing I really enjoy using as part of my shower routine is body butter.  I have had a copious amount of tubs over the years, and have tried so many different brands and variations; my poor motherbear must get very annoyed at how many lotions and potions of mine adorn her bathroom shelves! I have recently rekindled my love for a very well known product - Soap & Glory's Righteous Butter.  I was recently sent the travel size in a giveaway win from the lovely Natalie over at youralmostalice (thankyou so so much I owe my re-discovery of this product to you!), and remembered how much I adore the scent of it (so much so it's sat in my handbag for a multipurpose little cream and for daily sniffing purposes - wow that makes me sound like an addict!). If you have never tried Soap & Glory then this would be the first thing I'd recommend to you - it's fabulous for all year round (I used to buy the travel size for taking away on holiday with me as it's really soothing).. but I usually use it after I shower to lock in moisture and to keep my skin smooth and soft in the winter.With 'softening shea butter and aloe vera' it's deliciously creamy and sinks in amazingly quickly to say it's a rather thick in consistency. It leaves your skin feeling smooth all day and I can still smell the scent hours later.

'Relax and take in the wonderful aroma's of leafy greens, bergamot and mandarin, with a floral and fruity middle note that makes your nose tingle a little, followed by soft, sexy, musk, oakmoss, amber and woody notes'.

I'm still yet to find a body butter than keeps my skin moisturised for as long as this one. It's not greasy, sinks in like a dream and is easy to massage - it's really rich and creamy and smells good enough to eat. I really recommend this for dry skin - it's instant nourishment in a tub.  I'm so chuffed to bits Natalie sent me the travel size - I've certainly rediscovered the love for The Righteous Butter - it really is pampering heaven!

What's your favourite Soap&Glory product right now?
♥