Sunday 30 December 2012

Gold and Turquoise Shimmering Eyeshadow Effect


For a gorgeous Arabic inspired shadow effect, try a shimmering gold across your eyelids, fading into a rich turquoise. So Princess Jasmine. Here's how I got a look fit for Aladdin's finest cave...

How-to
1. Sweep a warm gold shade across your eyelids.
2. Add a few dabs of Benefit Sun Beam Illuminator below your brows and blend down into the golden shadow
3. Now apply the turquoise. Start in the far corner and gradually blend into the gold. The turquoise should be darkest at the very corner of your eyelid. A good eyeshadow brush makes this look a gazillion times easier.
4. Complete the blend with a few sweeps of gold into the blue shades. Voila, prettier than a butterfly!

Top tip: Notch up the drama of this trend by extending the turquoise out into a delicious feline point.

Eyes by Topshop in Gold, Maybelline Cream Gel Shadow in Tenacious Teal, Benefit Sun Beam Illuminating Lotion, Eyeshadow brush from The Body Shop

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3/4 Wigs: Cheat Your Way to Glam Hair!



It's a big occasion. You're already late. Your extensions won't curl properly, AGAIN. Frustrations are rising, the heat of the curling irons has melted your make-up. A strop is imminent. We've all been there... it's a truly hideous state of affairs. 

I have long since given up on the stress of clip-in extensions. Instead, I wear Annabelle's Wigs 3/4 range. Easy to put in, reasonably priced, and they stay exactly the same all night (no danger of dropping curls, huzzah!) 

All you have to do is pull forward the first two inches of your hair (i.e. your fringe) then slide the upper grip along your hairline. Take the lower side grip and tuck that underneath all the rest of your hair (thus stopping random short bits from poking out!) The wig feels nice and secure once in place. To cover the seam, you can clip your own hair over it, or wear a little head band... whatever tickles your fancy. 

These 3/4 wigs work best if you are root-free (for optimum blendability) and will last for a good few nights out, obviously depending on just how wild your nights are. Annabelle's Wigs also provide next working day delivery for UK customers, always good for last minute parties!


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Tuesday 18 December 2012

Pout Out Proud in More! Magazine


If you turn to the 'Beauty Addict' page of this weeks' More! Magazine, then you'll see my top beauty essentials. Hope you like them!

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Sunday 16 December 2012

My Beauty Week on Instagram #48


It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Featured (from top left): 1. Fairisle hat and scarf, available in Topshop 2. Advent Calendar, mmm festive treats! 3. Red Sparkling Nails, with Barry M Glitter Nail Paint 4. Festive Candle holder 5. Rituals Lipstick in Manderin 6. The cutest Christmas jumper EVER from Miss Selfridge 7. All ready for the work Christmas party! 8. Reindeer socks (too adorable!)

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The Only Way is Flirty False Lashes!



The work Christmas do... The best excuse for raising the glam factor by at least ten notches, dancing all evening and making the most of that dangerous free bar. 

For extra impact and allure, I wore the Amy Childs strip lashes in 'Flirt'. Pictured above (note: picture was taken before mascara or eyeliner application) you can see that the lashes are reasonably natural looking, yet add great length and fullness. 

The best thing about these lashes is the fact that they actually stick down at the edges, as let's face it, there's nothing more irritating when you're getting ready for a big night out than an unruly false lash. They base of these lashes is really fine, so you can place them really close to the base of your own lashes. They stayed put all evening, even during some wild Christmas party dancing... that's no mean feat let me tell you!

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Tuesday 11 December 2012

Bye Bye Blemish: Benefit Erase Paste Brightening Concealer



Christmas parties, mulled wine, late night shopping... I, for one, LOVE the fabulous festivities. However, upon examining my face in that oh-so-telling bathroom mirror (you know the one I'm talking about, the one that you avoid at all costs when you have a horrendous hangover) I've come to realise that all this festive cheer has left me looking, well, a touch haggard. Dark circles have set up shop for the long haul, alongside little bags and tired eyes.

There is a saviour out there, ladies and gentlemen! Banish those imperfections with Benefit Erase Paste Brightening Concealer. It eradicates those pesky booze-induced blemishes in an instant, keeps unsightly dark shadows at bay, and generally helps to create the illusion of constant perfection. Hurrahs! Mulled wine for everybody!

This little pot may be a bit of a splurge, but a little goes a long way. The paste is really concentrated and quite thick, so it stays put all day long. Use a concealer brush to apply before foundation.

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Monday 10 December 2012

Wintery Delight: Cranberry and Honey Scrub by Original Source

Original Source's new shower gel release, a Daily Scrub with Cranberry and Honey, £2.50, available from Tesco, is my latest must-have for body wash luxury. And priced at just £2.50, it's a luxury that's totally guilt free. This shower gel really does have the feel of an expensive product, as it's subtle fragrance leaves skin smelling lush. The gentle exfoliation of the cranberry seeds isn't harsh on skin (as you'll do more harm than good by over exfoliating), while the honey is wonderfully nourishing and soothing. 

If you want a little treat that doesn't break the bank, then this is the one for you!

Skin Nourishment: Rituals Skincare Range


A perfectly primed base is essential for a radiant complexion. I've been using the Rituals skin care range for one month, and my complexion has visibly improved. If you're still using face wipes as your staple make-up remover, then you really need to have a re-think. They dry out your skin and don't penetrate deep enough into your pores to remove dirt, which will eventually cause bad blemishes.

For a glowing complexion, your skincare regime should contain:

Cleanser - Removes make-up and daily dirt whilst gently hydrating
Toner - Removes any excess cleanser to stop it from clogging up your pores
Serum -  Penetrates deeper into the skin layers due to the finer molecules. It's not essential to use a serum and a moisturiser, but a serum might be for you if your skin needs extra nourishment. Apply after toning but before moisturising. Some serums can dry out the skin, so should be followed by a moisturiser (after allowing to absorb into the skin for ten minutes)
Moisturiser - Rehydrates skin. Even if your skin is oily, you should be using a tailored moisturiser. Apply serum/moisturiser at night, as that's the optimum time for the skin to repair itself.

Mild Facial Cleansing Milk, £9.50, available from Rituals.com (pictured)
It's gentle and hydrating, perfect for slightly dry or irritable skin. It smells fresh and clean, without being overly fragranced. The consistency is lovely and smooth, it leaves skin soft and renewed.

Vitality and Energy Mask, £14.50, available from Rituals.com (pictured)
The perfect remedy for tired, dull skin. I lather this mask on after a heavy (and yes, slightly boozy) night out, for instant TLC and rehydration. This mask penetrates into the pores and lifts deep-seated dirt. Glorious!

Active Moisture Lotion, £22.50, available from Rituals.com (pictured)
A perfect daily moisturiser, it absorbs fast and leaves skin super soft. It smells beautiful, but it's not so heavily perfumed that it irritates the skin. It's a lovely, rich product.

Pssst! I also love the Rituals Foundation with pure minerals and natural amethyst, I wear it in the day time as it's a gorgeous light coverage and it doesn't leave the skin feeling clogged or greasy.

Wednesday 5 December 2012

Christmas Presents: Top Ten Stocking Fillers

It's almost Christmas, which can mean only one thing (aside from the birth of Jesus...)

Gorgeous, glorious, glittering, gifts!


I'm writing this blog post mainly for the men out there, who are currently unaware of the great importance that these little packages hold. The men who will be plummeted into a frenzied panic around the 22nd December, frantically tearing through the Argos catalogue, the risk of a paper cut almost definite, in the vague hope of inspiration.

Fellas, little do you know that your delightful other halves have spent months planning the perfect arrangement of gifts. Hours deliberating over the perfect shade of that crisp Ted Baker shirt. An agonising hunt to find that perfect card, an everlasting token of affection.

So here are my top ten stocking fillers (those little extra treats make all the difference!) which are guaranteed to fill your partner with glee on that magical Christmas morning...

1. Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Luminous Matte Lip Colour, £25
It's beautiful and classic, girls love this little luxury lippy! I'd recommend #33 La Distinguee (a lovely pink) for those who stick to lighter colours, or #38 La Fascinante (a bold, glamourous red) for those who aren't afraid to make a statement with a beautiful red lip.

2. Ted Baker Nail Duo in Cherry Bomb and Sugar Rush, £8.50
Glitter-fest nails are so in fashion this festive season, and this really cute set by Ted Baker looks every inch an absolute treat. The colour is amazing, with or without the top glitter coat. Serious want!

3. Benefit Hoola Bronzing Powder, £19.97
This bronzing powder is fabulous. Perfectly matte and lasts for ages! It's wonderfully subtle yet can be layered up for a darker finish.

4. MAC Cosmetics Powder Blush in Fleur Power, £17.50
This is possibly the girliest blush in the World. It's a really feminine pink shade, perfect for enhancing those cheekbones. It's also extremely pigmented. Trust me, a little goes a long way. It's the gift that just keeps on giving.

5. Marc Jacob's Daisy Eau So Fresh, £40.80 for 75ml
Perfume really is a girl's best friend. Daisy Eau Do Fresh is a light, fruity, floral scent. Plus it's a new release!

6. Moroccanoil Oil Treatment for All Hair Types, £12.85 for 25ml
All girls want Moroccanoil for their hair. It's glossy sleekness in a bottle. Such a treat!


7. Nails Inc Polish in Basil Street, £11 for 10ml
Nails Inc are the cream of the crop when it comes to a gorgeous little treat. A bit expensive for a self-indulgent splurge, so this varnish is a great gift to receive. I love the Basil Street shade, classic nude nails are always in fashion.

8. Benefit High Beam Luminescent Complexion Enhancer, £18.50 for 13ml
Delicious pearly drops of radiant complexion? Erm, yes please.

9. Topshop Wine Fairisle Socks, £5
The Fairisle pattern is so on trend that it would be a crime not to buy these gorgeously festive socks, perfect for a little stroll on Christmas day. Pure delight.

10. HD Brows Palette, £20.95
This set is practically brow-perfection in a handy little compact. All girls want well-groomed brows, and this is by far the best product to achieve them. Buy the Bombshell palette for medium to fair hair, or the Vamp palette for darker shades.

Psssst... You can send this blog to people as a handy little nudge in the right direction!

Benefit Hervana Good Karma Face Powder



This multi-tonal blush has just the right balance between soft pinks and warm, shimmering coral. The Lucky Shell shade adds a pearly glow, while the Divine Peach has a great golden shimmer which adds a healthy warmth to your skin. The pinker shades, Heavenly Rose and Berry Delight, are feminine and flattering on the apples of your cheeks.

I like to use the palette combination together on initial application (with a good blush brush) and then use the Lucky Shell as a highlight. 

The great thing about Benefit's Face Powders is how long they last. They're really compact, so although you don't get tons for your money they do go the distance. I had my last box for about 12 months! Well worth spending those extra pennies in my opinion. 

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Monday 3 December 2012

Chanel Rouge Allure in 112 Fantasque: Available Spring 2013



Ladies and metro-men, I present to you the most fabulous lip-wear available to mankind. Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Intense Lip Colour. It is achingly sophisticated. Effortless class. Iconic luxury. And, joy to the beauty world, there are four brand new shades about to become available in January 2013.

I had the pleasure of reviewing the gorgeously sheer, shimmering pink, 112 Fantasque. The colour is very feminine and complimented my skin tone fabulously, the slight golden tones bringing out a natural warmth. This lippy left my pout nicely hydrated and soft, and stayed put after application.

At £25, this lip-wear may be a bit of a splurge. But it is beautiful.


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Get Flawless: MAC Studio Sculpt Foundation SPF15


I've made that ever-so dangerous move. I visited the MAC counter in Selfridges and asked for their recommendations. And now I want EVERYTHING. I'm not entirely sure just how this happens, but when you sit in that mildly uncomfortable chair, close your eyes and allow the MAC make-up artist work their wonderful magic, you may as well give them all of your savings, right there and then. 

'But it really is worth it', you will utter as you hand over your weekly food allowance in lieu of some Mineralize Skinfinish Natural (which is, coincidentally, one of the best products for enhancing facial contours whilst still looking natural)

So yes, I made the leap. And yes, I am now a MAC foundation convert. I purchased the Studio Sculpt SPF 15, £24, available from MAC cosmetics, as I wanted a medium coverage which still has a luminous, glowy appearance as opposed to matte.

Studio Sculpt has a really thick liquid consistency, it's a gel based foundation which is fantastic for dry skin, which is best applied with a foundation brush. It's also buildable, so you can layer the application to create a high coverage. Here's a before and after picture, featuring my dear friend Anna...


I would recommend leaving the foundation for a couple of minutes before applying any powder to the skin surface, as it does set after you apply it. I'd recommend buying the complimenting Mineralise Skinfinish Natural powder, £21, to apply over the Studio Sculpt for an utterly flawless finish.

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#TodayImWearing...


Skin Prep
Rituals Active Moisture Lotion, £22.50, available from FeelUnique.com
Make-Up: Base
Benefit Erase Paste, £19.50, available from FeelUnique.com
MAC Studio Sculpt Foundation SPF15, £24, available from MAC Cosmetics UK
Make-Up: Cheeks
Benefit Hervana Good Karma Face Powder, £23.50, available from FeelUnique.com
Benefit High Beam Luminescent Complexion Enhancer, £18.50, available from FeelUnique.com
Make-Up: Eyes and Brows
HD Brows Palette in Bombshell, £19.95, available from HD Brows stockists
Benefit They're Real Mascara, £18.50, available from FeelUnique.com
Rimmel London Glam Eyes Professional Liquid Eyeliner, £5.29, available from FeelUnique.com 
Make-Up: Lips
Chanel Rouge Allure in Fantasque (112), available in January 2013 (Chanel Spring Collection)

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Sunday 2 December 2012

Product Pick: Benefit 'They're Real' Mascara



If you're looking for a new mascara, I would definitely recommend the latest offering by Benefit... Just a few strokes creates instant lash wonderment. Thicker, fuller and longer lashes, hooray! 

The best thing about this lash wear, in my opinion, is how it stays put all through the day. No smudges and no flakes. I just HATE it when you go for an afternoon mirror-check to see a smattering of black specks have set up shop across your cheeks! 

Benefit's They're Real, before and after:


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