tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5994510601376831322024-02-02T06:57:11.761+00:00Magic's in the Make UpNicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.comBlogger413125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-28076421061919879132015-11-30T20:25:00.000+00:002015-11-30T20:25:05.079+00:00Recipe: Lemony Lentil Soup<div style="text-align: justify;">
Since changing up my diet, reading cookery books and food blogs has become part of my daily routine. Some of my favourite blogs of the moment are <a href="http://www.thefullhelping.com/">The Full Helping</a>, <a href="http://ohmyveggies.com/">Oh My Veggies</a> and <a href="http://cookieandkate.com/">Cookie and Kate</a>. One of my favourite books which I've pulled many of my favourite recipes from is <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Modern-Way-Eat-Anna-Jones/dp/0007516703">A Modern Way to Eat</a> by Anna Jones.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3PxszYTMXwvQh2WkXM9jC3-9EE72jHYn0PyI-cSCavGEMgSVGT7nqgYpfIe68nPmi9_IqZiY96U3z58Wh-XCqQXTwODoJgcT4ASfVeZQPppbnDrCayFELgX-YutF6WjTsFlDGHVIBwBg/s1600/IMG_2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3PxszYTMXwvQh2WkXM9jC3-9EE72jHYn0PyI-cSCavGEMgSVGT7nqgYpfIe68nPmi9_IqZiY96U3z58Wh-XCqQXTwODoJgcT4ASfVeZQPppbnDrCayFELgX-YutF6WjTsFlDGHVIBwBg/s640/IMG_2521.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
A Modern Way to Eat is a vegetarian recipe book with many of the recipes naturally being vegan or can be easily adapted to being vegan friendly. If you are looking for an amazingly easy to make but really tasty dinner, I recommend trying Anna's <a href="http://annajones.co.uk/recipe/tomato-coconut-cassoulet">Tomato and Coconut Cassoulet</a> *drool*. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
One of the first recipes that caught my eye was the <a href="http://annajones.co.uk/recipe/lemony-lentil-crispy-kale-soup">Lemony Lentil Soup with Crispy Kale</a>. Coming from a small town in Ayrshire, Scotland, I was raised on lentil soup. I'm sure most Scots will proclaim that either their mum or grannies lentil soup is the best...but honestly Alison Carr's lentil soup beats all others ;). I was interested to see how adding lemon to red lentil soup would work so eagerly tried it. I've shared the recipe from Anna's website below.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdfn59nGlaKKSE6g7WvXe_tgx6p69c5A-XuAjprueCqghTLpECIC_HXBLA8nGJTJAdFJgurFPm2mZYzqeMBmXoFwNmaRY3CkvwqO6sHFL9zBE0P4f1CihCyaGWmJoRrRPAnGEVr1LGxNI/s1600/IMG_2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJlz_5AWHmqUK8UoYxL6h06Fny1uarA1fa7-TEh1v3jY_oEz9AyTC6dRxcos53Cle7gdawiRxJBBEw9EfamZfgNa0-gJPXzmiGqp0vl4CCZlH2sqHtHbKEX0BW_189Yj9cGEpqjJNhgug/s1600/IMG_2512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJlz_5AWHmqUK8UoYxL6h06Fny1uarA1fa7-TEh1v3jY_oEz9AyTC6dRxcos53Cle7gdawiRxJBBEw9EfamZfgNa0-gJPXzmiGqp0vl4CCZlH2sqHtHbKEX0BW_189Yj9cGEpqjJNhgug/s640/IMG_2512.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', sans-serif; font-size: inherit; letter-spacing: 1px;">Ingredients</span><br />
<span style="color: #555555; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', sans-serif; font-size: inherit; letter-spacing: 1px;"><br /></span>
A splash of olive of rapeseed oil<br />
1 leek washed, trimmed and finely sliced<br />
1 teaspoon turmeric<br />
2 teaspoons of ground cumin<br />
2 teaspoons of mustard seeds<br />
2-3 lemons<br />
250g red split lentils<br />
1 veg stock cube<br />
4 handfuls of kale, washed, trimmed and shredded<br />
<br />
To Serve<br />
Yoghurt stirred with a little sea salt<br />
<br />
Get a large pan on the heat. Add a little oil and turn the heat to medium. Add the leek and fry for a couple of minutes until it has softened and smells sweet then add the spices and fry for another couple of minutes. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon and stir around to lift the spices from the bottom of the pan.<br />
<br />
Next, add the lentils, 1.5 litres of water and the stock cube and allow to bubble away for 25-30 minutes until the lentils have cooked and the soup has thickened.<br />
<br />
Turn of the heat and if you like, blitz the whole lot to a thin dhal consistency, then squeeze in the juice of the other two lemons, tasting as you go to make sure it doesn't get too lemony. It may seem like a lot, but you really want the lemony tang to come through.<br />
<br />
Just before you're about to serve, saute the kale in a little olive oil until it slightly softens but begins to crisp at the edges.<br />
<br />
Ladle into bowls and top with the salted yoghurt and crispy kale.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7cx4DssOimyFi5rqCXjsUt8bCVO4SSQ_a92YniNoYfXwlM09W7nDRHplg7mLeBFWrq_mkMVTBKnff3Ic5-4S71fRPh1cga8XBTWWue-m5otHXOfgiGq3hcAljkYL3DPErqaXABw3qA0/s1600/IMG_2516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7cx4DssOimyFi5rqCXjsUt8bCVO4SSQ_a92YniNoYfXwlM09W7nDRHplg7mLeBFWrq_mkMVTBKnff3Ic5-4S71fRPh1cga8XBTWWue-m5otHXOfgiGq3hcAljkYL3DPErqaXABw3qA0/s640/IMG_2516.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This soup is <u>delicious.</u> The lemon juice makes it taste fresh and light which is helped by blitzing the soup in a blender making it quite thin in consistency. As you can see in the photographs above, I haven't made the crispy kale. I make this soup to take to work for lunch and it's easier to just take the soup in a flask without bringing along a bag of crispy kale. However, if you're eating this at home...MAKE THE KALE. It's beautiful.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have recently became addicted to Food Matters TV and love finding out more about what is in my food and what health benefits particular ingredients promote and this soup is packed with health promoting ingredients:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Turmeric</u> - I've been introducing more and more turmeric into my diet. It has a high amount of beautiful anti-inflammatory properties and has a powerful antioxidant effect along with a whole host of other health benefits (google it, you'll be amazed). Basically, include more turmeric in your diet.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Red Lentils</u> - I love lentils and probably eat them in some form every day. Red lentils are low in calories but high in nutrition. They are a good source of protein and iron, help lower cholesterol, promote heart and digestive health and are an excellent source of slow-releasing energy.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Kale</u> - It's the most nutrient dense food on the planet! Kale is full of vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C + K, magnesium, calcium, beta-carotene and antioxidants. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you're looking for a new soup to try for lunch, I highly recommend trying this! I would love to know what some of your favourite lunch ideas are - I always struggle to think of creative lunches!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love Nicola</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
<br />Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-79315238978195310772015-11-28T15:23:00.001+00:002015-11-28T15:28:14.295+00:00Yoga & I: A Lesson in Cultivating Compassion, Gratitude and Empowerment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
If you had told me a year ago I was heading towards becoming a cruelty free, non-meat eating, yoga practicing person I would probably of laughed in your face. What a difference a year makes. This summer, while on holiday with my family I got a message from a friend asking if I wanted to go to a free yoga class at a studio that had recently opened in Glasgow. The class was only 30 minutes long and so I agreed, having done very little yoga previously (mainly via You Tube in the comfort of my own home).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlqvWtYxnmn12rtDDU1aB0GXMnVZ1RUx1EU2FK7wjcP09yfmMijXtM5P1PD5Tk_6qGqwIPfCQY8J4bHoppf2W0DWVf_qYsehl5j9CEBCjBSH3Bu7-uvZzGspjWdXecZCwtjnYwV71LBs/s1600/12305637_10201169743962055_603619680_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlqvWtYxnmn12rtDDU1aB0GXMnVZ1RUx1EU2FK7wjcP09yfmMijXtM5P1PD5Tk_6qGqwIPfCQY8J4bHoppf2W0DWVf_qYsehl5j9CEBCjBSH3Bu7-uvZzGspjWdXecZCwtjnYwV71LBs/s640/12305637_10201169743962055_603619680_n.jpg" width="612" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Fast forward to the day of our class and my friend had to cancel last minute (Don't feel bad if you're reading this Helen!). It's important to note that at this point, anxiety and panic attacks ruled my life alongside a daily battle with serious body confidence issues. I instantly spiralled into a pit of self doubt: there was no way I could walk into a room where I didn't know anyone and take a class that was completely foreign to me. I spent the whole day in a state of panic. It would of been the easiest thing to just hit the cancel button however I couldn't escape a feeling in the pit of my stomach that I needed to go this class. I somehow forced myself to listen to my gut and found myself outside of the studio with my boyfriend practically pushing me out of the car. Once inside I couldn't even bring myself to speak to anyone, my voice just disappeared. I hid at the back of the class and I practically ran out of the room as soon as the class was over however...I FREAKING WENT AND FINISHED!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9lCNhyclOUMh638T9WwPx1eWCNvv1rxkHNdu6EzC3cC49X3tcHXZeqhyU1Zdwa1eY6fo0q5jhS6eoQ2fJddppALKa5gPDM0lYDcRPQkV_302txObUfXDXPyrqid45CbJBAupvxjfXnsc/s1600/12277266_10201169743842052_1138672510_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9lCNhyclOUMh638T9WwPx1eWCNvv1rxkHNdu6EzC3cC49X3tcHXZeqhyU1Zdwa1eY6fo0q5jhS6eoQ2fJddppALKa5gPDM0lYDcRPQkV_302txObUfXDXPyrqid45CbJBAupvxjfXnsc/s640/12277266_10201169743842052_1138672510_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Almost five months on, I am now a member of the most beautiful yoga studio <a href="http://www.kalicollective.com/">The Kali Collective </a> and I'm practicing yoga almost daily. I've attended a six week mindfulness course which has introduced me to meditation, taken various workshops that have really expanded my mind and completed a 30 day yoga challenge. It hasn't been easy and I've cried on my mat more than times that I can count but the differences I've felt both in my body and my mind have made it all worth it. Here are the three main things I've learned through my practice:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">Compassion</u>: I've changed a huge amount in the last year and this can be contributed greatly towards my decision to live a more compassionate lifestyle. However, I would often forget to practice compassion towards myself. Being mindful of how I talk to and about myself has really opened my eyes to how destructive I could be towards my own self worth. This in turn has huge implications towards my panic and anxiety. Think about how you speak to yourself - would you talk that way to or about other people? I know I never would. Replace thoughts like 'I can't do this' (which I'm the queen of) with the acknowledgment that trying something new can be scary or difficult and think 'I'm going give this my best try' and if you don't succeed at first, <b>that's ok</b>, you tried your hardest.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yoga has given me the time and space to start peeling away the layers of self doubt and anxiety that prevented me from discovering my true potential; practicing self compassion has been key to this.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAFN5FwsSDuND238G1UdP5Lc6j_yx6-mtGZMHP5gPKWi_nI51vnN-r-VROTklfx7ZcfViC1CvBLS8GXKBvYffJ1p64d0vdd7YuI5xptZP1eZkse5XnO-O2Pj13R1u0wEnZ42FJ6ckYOk/s1600/12286065_10201169743682048_2048475008_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAFN5FwsSDuND238G1UdP5Lc6j_yx6-mtGZMHP5gPKWi_nI51vnN-r-VROTklfx7ZcfViC1CvBLS8GXKBvYffJ1p64d0vdd7YuI5xptZP1eZkse5XnO-O2Pj13R1u0wEnZ42FJ6ckYOk/s640/12286065_10201169743682048_2048475008_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">Gratitude:</u> In the first week of my mindfulness class, we focussed on gratitude. I started writing a gratitude journal which has really helped begin to change my mind set. It can be the tiniest of things, (like today I am grateful for my huge Vego bar) however learning to appreciate the gifts that life has given me has allowed me to open my mind towards the possibilities that I may have previously let slip by due to fear. Practicing gratitude has equipped me to better deal with the shitty situations life throws up. An example is how I deal with panic attacks. With each panic attack (which are getting fewer and fewer) I get better equipped at dealing with them. I'm given the opportunity to put what I've learned into practice.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Leading on from this, yoga has taught me to be grateful for my body. I've struggled greatly with body confidence issues. I was diagnosed with PCOS this year and for a long time felt like my body was working against me, I'm a serial yo-yo dieter, my weight fluctuates up and down, dragging my self confidence along with it. I've found that with each new pose I learn, each time I twist a little deeper or stretch a little further, my focus shifts from how my body looks to what it can do. The more consistent I am with my practice, the more my body craves movement. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">Empowerment</u>: This has come from practicing at The Kali Collective whose ethos is 'empowered movement'. Yoga has empowered me to explore my mind/body connection. It still amazes me that I can twist my body into a particular pose which in turn invokes an emotional response (I cry practically every time I'm in pigeon pose for example). Yoga has given me the chance to take back control of my body and thoughts. My practice gives me the time to take a moment to work on myself which can be scary, exciting and empowering all at the same time. I vividly remember the first time I was taught camel pose. I had the most intense thumping in my chest which for the longest time was the first signal of a panic attack. However, I had created this feeling through movement and it felt amazing. I finally felt like I was regaining control of my body again and for that, I will be forever grateful.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymGXAtjiBC79cJg8MKyQP_-4kOY5uPYR-jZNqef2JIpHgO2MZbMcimbg4MlNFcFUxlGXQ9kfkT5Ph2ntpNgcyW5sMu9v-W-NopdyWr_yu52O64w6ZLRYNdrcSzvCizk6TXguieNrw96U/s1600/12305829_10201169743802051_854640623_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymGXAtjiBC79cJg8MKyQP_-4kOY5uPYR-jZNqef2JIpHgO2MZbMcimbg4MlNFcFUxlGXQ9kfkT5Ph2ntpNgcyW5sMu9v-W-NopdyWr_yu52O64w6ZLRYNdrcSzvCizk6TXguieNrw96U/s640/12305829_10201169743802051_854640623_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So here I am, five months later crying while I write this for the girl at her first yoga class, who felt completely lost and overwhelmed by a ball of panic. If only she could see herself as I do now, one of the bravest people I know. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lots of Love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nicola</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-24111874230629090502015-07-29T22:36:00.002+01:002015-07-29T22:36:24.981+01:00Smellin' Sweet: Current Perfume Favourites<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZKeUlw8yFx81dh4gXj1M_-rJsVFDuQhZBHEvv3fq2TOvaIxIsZPBkIW7bn1lHX2Rxz-CKad79kgt626px15UU86BW1YwDYMRjIML7durpm8v93WgBkbduc7BsvMdPZCJVE5TJJRimTBU/s1600/IMG_2877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZKeUlw8yFx81dh4gXj1M_-rJsVFDuQhZBHEvv3fq2TOvaIxIsZPBkIW7bn1lHX2Rxz-CKad79kgt626px15UU86BW1YwDYMRjIML7durpm8v93WgBkbduc7BsvMdPZCJVE5TJJRimTBU/s640/IMG_2877.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: justify;">I love perfume. It's probably the one question I ask the most: 'What perfume are you wearing?' Imagine my horror when I discovered that out of all</span><b style="text-align: justify;"> </b><span style="text-align: justify;">of my favourite perfumes, none were cruelty free. I took to google to research cruelty free perfume and two names consistently came up: Pacifica and Lush. Both were inexpensive compared to what I was used to paying with lots of scents to choose from and available close by. This cruelty free perfume business didn't have to be as hard as I first thought!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Mediterranean Fig</u></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYFOrIrSB_M-e9CfX_BYjpEyiquZVpnQyHrRgI-PGFYIN0yAGbabyaPHYDaralskSf9UBMJqV_xzcL4abZyTyADRW35JRfSD3lA-X33HW6B_YwJdrw3Ywoqve9Z2-TmFRKUd8QCtFEzNM/s1600/IMG_2888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYFOrIrSB_M-e9CfX_BYjpEyiquZVpnQyHrRgI-PGFYIN0yAGbabyaPHYDaralskSf9UBMJqV_xzcL4abZyTyADRW35JRfSD3lA-X33HW6B_YwJdrw3Ywoqve9Z2-TmFRKUd8QCtFEzNM/s640/IMG_2888.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Pacifica isn't a brand I was familiar with until I started to research cruelty free companies however they always seemed to get good reviews whenever I read about them online. I found a good range of Pacifica perfumes in Whole Foods, coming in both a roller ball (above), a spray and a solid perfume form. As a rule, all Pacifica products are 100% Vegan and cruelty free. As a brand they are extremely environmentally aware which I love and are passionate about producing natural products that perform well. All of their liquid perfumes are made from a natural grain alcohol while their solid perfumes are coconut and soy wax based.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Fig scents are one of my favourites so I was naturally drawn to 'Mediterranean Fig'. The scent is fresh yet earthy with notes of fig, palm, cyclamen, moss and clove with a base of sandalwood. It's the perfect everyday scent. The one let down of this perfume is it's longevity, I definitely need to reapply if I want to smell it throughout the day. I have wondered if this is because it's a roller ball. I'm used to a spray bottle which allows a more generous application. I've found Pacifica's spray perfumes on <a href="http://www.feelunique.com/brands/pacifica/spray-perfume">Feel Unique</a> for £19 for 28 ml. Once I've used this roller ball up I think I'll definitely purchase a spray bottle!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Karma</u></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzU2DJzK65OiFNg-QUSvJPyTP_nm_1ARNKMJF4epQlieI_HaghVwc7Bc-oa1ghpTgUq932ZKSt_5EDOBGTZ8yYWJis42xYw6LJ8EfNIIK923utTz_Co8vvblKVLdu2FK-V9-aAPJ4-7w/s1600/IMG_2895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzU2DJzK65OiFNg-QUSvJPyTP_nm_1ARNKMJF4epQlieI_HaghVwc7Bc-oa1ghpTgUq932ZKSt_5EDOBGTZ8yYWJis42xYw6LJ8EfNIIK923utTz_Co8vvblKVLdu2FK-V9-aAPJ4-7w/s640/IMG_2895.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Despite being a huge Lush fan, I had never really paid any attention to their perfumes. My sister bought me 'Karma' as a birthday present and I <b>love</b> it although it really seems to be a scent that divides people. It layers orange, patchouli, lavender, lemongrass, elemi and cassie. I've found that I need to let 'Karma' settle as it can be a little overpowering when first sprayed (I think on account of the patchouli). However, when it settles it's a bright citrus scent that I've described as sunshine in a bottle. 'Karma' is a far more herbal scent than I'm used to but I really love it. One or two sprays at the most is all that is needed for the whole day (honestly more is less with 'Karma'). You can buy 'Karma' from Lush stores and online, retailing at £24 for 30 ml.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have a couple of perfumes on my list that I want to try. I have recently discovered a company called <a href="http://www.edenperfumes.co.uk/">Eden Perfumes</a> that create organic, vegan versions of high end perfumes. From Tom Ford to Chanel Eden have it, for a much more purse friendly £15 for 30 ml. I'll be sure to update you all!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lots of Love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-41840260949039334882015-04-11T20:39:00.001+01:002015-04-11T20:39:18.723+01:00Travellin' in Thailand: The City<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you follow me on <a href="https://instagram.com/carrsky/">Instagram</a> (which y'all should), you will know that I've just came back from holiday in Thailand. To help fight the Thailand blues, I decided to do a mini series on MITMU all about my time in Thailand. I've split it into three parts: The City, The Jungle and The Beach.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We spent three days in Bangkok and if I'm honest, I approached my time there with a little trepidation. I had the impression that Bangkok would be intimidating, overcrowded and dirty. Within a couple of hours I realised that I shouldn't have worried...I loved Bangkok. While it was a little overwhelming at times, I have never been in a city where people have been as friendly. As soon as people saw us with a map, they offered to help with directions.<br />
<br />
We must of looked a little lost one day while trying to find somewhere to eat. A woman approached us and gave us directions to the shopping centre she thought we were looking for. When she found out we were looking for somewhere to eat, she ushered us into a tuk tuk, haggled the local thai rate and directed us to apparently one of the best restaurants in Bangkok. The fact that we were two veggies in a seafood restaurant was beside the point, it was the thought that counts. I guess some things get a little lost in translation!<br />
<br />
<u>Accommodation</u> - There are <b>so </b>many hotels in Bangkok to choose from which really works in your favour as you can get amazing room rates (I really recommend using <a href="http://www.travelpony.com/">Travel Pony</a>). We stayed in two different hotels while we were in Bangkok - <a href="http://bangkok-sathorn.anantara.com/">Anantara Bangkok Sathorn</a> and the <a href="http://www.uhotelsresorts.com/usukhumvitbangkok/">U Sukhumvit Bangkok.</a> I would recommend either to anyone visiting Bangkok.<br />
<br />
Rooftop bars are popular in Bangkok. The U Sukhumvit has a rooftop pool with bar which was an amazing place to chill out in the evening (and the cocktails were amazing). The sun sets around half 6 in Thailand and you get amazing views of this from the rooftop bars.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37UCFJ9t3IhU6mIc94kIl_ojB_LoeLDSmqXh36Ixt9mGjUjO6qheVUwpiurwRJBoP-T3npMN4WZG85XW2a9L0AXKba1lqlINPi3sqjMj9hYCSvk1mixKqUhB_gmK8IyQYYRJLUGHkGXE/s1600/U+Hotel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37UCFJ9t3IhU6mIc94kIl_ojB_LoeLDSmqXh36Ixt9mGjUjO6qheVUwpiurwRJBoP-T3npMN4WZG85XW2a9L0AXKba1lqlINPi3sqjMj9hYCSvk1mixKqUhB_gmK8IyQYYRJLUGHkGXE/s1600/U+Hotel.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
However, Zoom sky bar and restaurant in Anantara stole the show. 37 floors up you get the best view of the Bangkok skyline, amazing music and even better food.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOFoCtHxeq0Lo-DfQ21v-dkgtELlryzm5vyjRfAf2F7dIWMO0ZDlFIvWJfQAS0wHDu3sYQGjGMvABihF17klxerNOhIigCgpbc9WwqMqs1UQ_HXEV-JBqJ5bihgGyQxeX4JYEBaAVJY8/s1600/Anantara+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOFoCtHxeq0Lo-DfQ21v-dkgtELlryzm5vyjRfAf2F7dIWMO0ZDlFIvWJfQAS0wHDu3sYQGjGMvABihF17klxerNOhIigCgpbc9WwqMqs1UQ_HXEV-JBqJ5bihgGyQxeX4JYEBaAVJY8/s1600/Anantara+2.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiLm91-UX7vSA4QEqRxhsdM4uCxslp3JRjpOCkM5GeUxgD5wwcW4GCQIt7Csixuj-JA28RaPbAahyndu8O4cbmBOGqysIHAB4AmkxHZlwmPvxaGcMw9FBnia3z-EcR12xXuYQqQB21Wx4/s1600/Anantara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiLm91-UX7vSA4QEqRxhsdM4uCxslp3JRjpOCkM5GeUxgD5wwcW4GCQIt7Csixuj-JA28RaPbAahyndu8O4cbmBOGqysIHAB4AmkxHZlwmPvxaGcMw9FBnia3z-EcR12xXuYQqQB21Wx4/s1600/Anantara.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<u>Things to do.</u> We spent one day in Bangkok visiting Wat Arun and the Grand Palace. Unfortunately, Wat Arun was being refurbished at the time so there was quite a lot of scaffolding. However it was still amazing to see. We were humbled by getting blessed by a Monk with Sacred Thread, which symbolises luck and fortune.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjYVR8Kws4r2RuitZBJeaLkszuy9LmJyCBJnRpm9OuzMPcs5PeaeCoJrlWn-RytEHxKOB9EauvoilqzLuLXJSaUj5CK1M6TrturqbYRf293GM4Yx4cTgmidJ5VSUHtUxMS43aRiA1RZGU/s1600/10407195_10200396413749283_9144248409099491237_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjYVR8Kws4r2RuitZBJeaLkszuy9LmJyCBJnRpm9OuzMPcs5PeaeCoJrlWn-RytEHxKOB9EauvoilqzLuLXJSaUj5CK1M6TrturqbYRf293GM4Yx4cTgmidJ5VSUHtUxMS43aRiA1RZGU/s1600/10407195_10200396413749283_9144248409099491237_n.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINmoMfo5lcSSxG_HyA5UXTOxUmek1uTPcOT93-JHSz-FskQ-P16VwhFna7LLDdrNLv1292OtIJgRQUZbSaVa0KIfFpksjXlLpysDA8KtPjY-zss0qB_F7YK3X306GviqlWJaqhaLce2E/s1600/Wat+Arun+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINmoMfo5lcSSxG_HyA5UXTOxUmek1uTPcOT93-JHSz-FskQ-P16VwhFna7LLDdrNLv1292OtIJgRQUZbSaVa0KIfFpksjXlLpysDA8KtPjY-zss0qB_F7YK3X306GviqlWJaqhaLce2E/s1600/Wat+Arun+7.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MUDV1NeSr8dcRBgnrjj7WSjTzPBltStInXKuZ2m2eQ7QZ9HAmAvH2Sv4It7pPWZlNApoCCdat0Nltl9-wMjB7EpsQEnUGqat5FQMZ9PBB5cQlQzqcNNkBNjgesCIK8f4-woYYeqgwCk/s1600/Wat+run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MUDV1NeSr8dcRBgnrjj7WSjTzPBltStInXKuZ2m2eQ7QZ9HAmAvH2Sv4It7pPWZlNApoCCdat0Nltl9-wMjB7EpsQEnUGqat5FQMZ9PBB5cQlQzqcNNkBNjgesCIK8f4-woYYeqgwCk/s1600/Wat+run.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwUAxd9aGB741zhVyO1QH710aHYNNjdwQxQAgsD4r5i04qOZVqovpSsgG7QinBXriHy3VosMrqaVURmyAoezSFgsD9yOMcvkEaGWA5l8ba0mRl9PlnIH60ZdAlKsEjIIrLBfyTC3DGkZ4/s1600/Grand+Palace8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwUAxd9aGB741zhVyO1QH710aHYNNjdwQxQAgsD4r5i04qOZVqovpSsgG7QinBXriHy3VosMrqaVURmyAoezSFgsD9yOMcvkEaGWA5l8ba0mRl9PlnIH60ZdAlKsEjIIrLBfyTC3DGkZ4/s1600/Grand+Palace8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglTBo_Ve_hqLAizek52t5y-sK_K3U4UpPOE5p171Qc5amVVJL6oCiY4qP0FiduCVRtOispYWFnX9fdtr-0L0WtgbRrV0ymr5VPlGGM4BqGhYsNlvmN4eMY3Mz8URNe7ju3k1YugkOgmuA/s1600/Grand+Palace+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglTBo_Ve_hqLAizek52t5y-sK_K3U4UpPOE5p171Qc5amVVJL6oCiY4qP0FiduCVRtOispYWFnX9fdtr-0L0WtgbRrV0ymr5VPlGGM4BqGhYsNlvmN4eMY3Mz8URNe7ju3k1YugkOgmuA/s1600/Grand+Palace+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a><br />
The Grand Palace was absolutely breathtaking to see. It is split up into several different buildings and gardens. Although it has been partially opened up to the public, it is still an operating palace.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwUAxd9aGB741zhVyO1QH710aHYNNjdwQxQAgsD4r5i04qOZVqovpSsgG7QinBXriHy3VosMrqaVURmyAoezSFgsD9yOMcvkEaGWA5l8ba0mRl9PlnIH60ZdAlKsEjIIrLBfyTC3DGkZ4/s1600/Grand+Palace8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwUAxd9aGB741zhVyO1QH710aHYNNjdwQxQAgsD4r5i04qOZVqovpSsgG7QinBXriHy3VosMrqaVURmyAoezSFgsD9yOMcvkEaGWA5l8ba0mRl9PlnIH60ZdAlKsEjIIrLBfyTC3DGkZ4/s1600/Grand+Palace8.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglTBo_Ve_hqLAizek52t5y-sK_K3U4UpPOE5p171Qc5amVVJL6oCiY4qP0FiduCVRtOispYWFnX9fdtr-0L0WtgbRrV0ymr5VPlGGM4BqGhYsNlvmN4eMY3Mz8URNe7ju3k1YugkOgmuA/s1600/Grand+Palace+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglTBo_Ve_hqLAizek52t5y-sK_K3U4UpPOE5p171Qc5amVVJL6oCiY4qP0FiduCVRtOispYWFnX9fdtr-0L0WtgbRrV0ymr5VPlGGM4BqGhYsNlvmN4eMY3Mz8URNe7ju3k1YugkOgmuA/s1600/Grand+Palace+2.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_dzdYbPiyrwQUFjYFA9Y4ztwd7zOWdhs_tlZVMy2ci33hZUAurvrnnsYxNTJPTINQ5TXV4KJ6hJRbp7D5amP8hv3TA50XgY6XVLyqYYpaauy4a1WThuGpvdsME3APZXEIzK5aB1TTbhk/s1600/Grand+Palace+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_dzdYbPiyrwQUFjYFA9Y4ztwd7zOWdhs_tlZVMy2ci33hZUAurvrnnsYxNTJPTINQ5TXV4KJ6hJRbp7D5amP8hv3TA50XgY6XVLyqYYpaauy4a1WThuGpvdsME3APZXEIzK5aB1TTbhk/s1600/Grand+Palace+3.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwWmrCTrHJdjWxjk7xXWpOYehqn-FinU9exFIxhiZIInaUNpLA-iyKZE9aYDceV9rfiZq173JdtJKp6EGKZNJv-2SORSsItUcWjmECK996tygfSsOcw5RhXW74S1L686mmAE3xySFxV1U/s1600/Grand+Palace+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwWmrCTrHJdjWxjk7xXWpOYehqn-FinU9exFIxhiZIInaUNpLA-iyKZE9aYDceV9rfiZq173JdtJKp6EGKZNJv-2SORSsItUcWjmECK996tygfSsOcw5RhXW74S1L686mmAE3xySFxV1U/s1600/Grand+Palace+4.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIPz-pauNT7ekNJW4v9TJNAFL2FC4Trgu3lbMsmpTewZoEbb-daTMilHNQidLZPAwUMvH3SIbxREGr1AQQPVSSbEBRDTD7FU4tbFJn3OMm_5cmBjFFei8i-HQG0bi0nj7H6jSjCJMD1Q/s1600/Grand+Palace+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIPz-pauNT7ekNJW4v9TJNAFL2FC4Trgu3lbMsmpTewZoEbb-daTMilHNQidLZPAwUMvH3SIbxREGr1AQQPVSSbEBRDTD7FU4tbFJn3OMm_5cmBjFFei8i-HQG0bi0nj7H6jSjCJMD1Q/s1600/Grand+Palace+6.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWGZqc1UjXxeKykVOnsLcAZ61czbGz0UQtdeJ3rfo4lHx_RnGy5gNOvNK8gf5Cv5bfRHmO4C8NHJha1w7HOTcLHhyphenhyphenwPSkd70e2u49-NoUh64S_Uzh3QnOiIW-x66UkgAdgEs3GPLFwkQ/s1600/Wat+Arun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWGZqc1UjXxeKykVOnsLcAZ61czbGz0UQtdeJ3rfo4lHx_RnGy5gNOvNK8gf5Cv5bfRHmO4C8NHJha1w7HOTcLHhyphenhyphenwPSkd70e2u49-NoUh64S_Uzh3QnOiIW-x66UkgAdgEs3GPLFwkQ/s1600/Wat+Arun.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3O8xsVTJ8wUyEmN62Q9XEt-puzjUnQr_EnWTmZ_RMWKGRFCEuYzkl-WCbAI3wGXkT6WCfHJj54qCLLpXy-pxqYRO43WcoGRn8zKVcN9Z5JAto7Z6HbNCaHwGcIZ3nq0Vl_oTfioXl-C8/s1600/Grand+Palace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3O8xsVTJ8wUyEmN62Q9XEt-puzjUnQr_EnWTmZ_RMWKGRFCEuYzkl-WCbAI3wGXkT6WCfHJj54qCLLpXy-pxqYRO43WcoGRn8zKVcN9Z5JAto7Z6HbNCaHwGcIZ3nq0Vl_oTfioXl-C8/s1600/Grand+Palace.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
My one tip for visiting the temples in Thailand is to ensure you behave and dress respectfully. The dress code for the grand palace is stricter than others, a scarf covering your shoulders won't do, you need to be wearing sleeves that cover your shoulders. You can rent cover ups within the Grand Palace however the queues can get quite long. Also, when you are within the temple, make sure you take off your shoes and under no circumstances take any photographs!<br />
<br />
Another must see in Bangkok is the MBK Centre. It's a huge shopping centre with seven floors and believe me, if you want it, you can find it in the MBK Centre. Each floor has a 'theme' - electronics, clothes, beauty etc. My one big tip for the MBK Centre...HAGGLE!<br />
<br />
MBK is in the same district as Siam square which was amazing to wander around with lots of amazing independent shops and stalls. We also spent some time in Khao San Road, a huge road home to lots of backpackers. Here you can get cheap drinks, food, clothes and beauty treatments. We got a manicure and pedicure for less than £20!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabt3wM2aZMS4DYPs0jdb2khsobSf_mh_bSmSkFIGo5ILa-2VQEMATb5xefUBwh0D-1jZepZI9SIE9gOUiIM-E4aQzPnSQ54j76Qpj2YnjXucn3T-WqIQ1UrLkpIHMvnJnEDFmiEy8xv4/s1600/MBK+Centre.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabt3wM2aZMS4DYPs0jdb2khsobSf_mh_bSmSkFIGo5ILa-2VQEMATb5xefUBwh0D-1jZepZI9SIE9gOUiIM-E4aQzPnSQ54j76Qpj2YnjXucn3T-WqIQ1UrLkpIHMvnJnEDFmiEy8xv4/s1600/MBK+Centre.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<u>Getting Around</u>. Getting around Bangkok is incredibly easy. There's the sky train, which is the cleanest, and best air conditioned train I've ever been on. It's quick, cheap and easy to use.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZQvehZNSdTqNGOV1o18CxEHZGI6XycoeBH3AWkWgCH-jiIsi3ZwM7TZooWtG7PUG6Ri20uJ3Tet58G3jtzbgp8-z-JtgB-PCjteQztmtKBMdS3Mck6jd59ZObksLLE0Ok2NnkhHuKsM/s1600/Sky+Train.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzZQvehZNSdTqNGOV1o18CxEHZGI6XycoeBH3AWkWgCH-jiIsi3ZwM7TZooWtG7PUG6Ri20uJ3Tet58G3jtzbgp8-z-JtgB-PCjteQztmtKBMdS3Mck6jd59ZObksLLE0Ok2NnkhHuKsM/s1600/Sky+Train.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Getting a tuk tuk is probably the most fun way to travel in Thailand, though at times it can be a little scary; I don't think lanes are a big thing on Bangkok roads! It's best to agree a price before you get in and again don't be scared to haggle! There are also taxis everywhere in Bangkok which are quite cheap, but always ask to use the meter or you could end up paying a lot more than you need to (we found this out the hard way!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdz3vl3MuD-N9SxRulxBP5zUfrKVd-UoIOtlcPsheHTwus0HaIGVan8RI39Z7cr8RVfc6x6de2jaozBbbrUY-86GsDXl0pLnUCat1o0zwoarOhRAwIAa7jfNofnXmh4x8QZU3gaiQohFc/s1600/Tuk+Tuk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdz3vl3MuD-N9SxRulxBP5zUfrKVd-UoIOtlcPsheHTwus0HaIGVan8RI39Z7cr8RVfc6x6de2jaozBbbrUY-86GsDXl0pLnUCat1o0zwoarOhRAwIAa7jfNofnXmh4x8QZU3gaiQohFc/s1600/Tuk+Tuk.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I can't wait to write my next post on the jungle - elephants, tents and sustainable tourism!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-91316739043159957052015-04-04T18:34:00.005+01:002015-04-04T18:34:56.849+01:00Cruelty Free Hair Care<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA9svHOw7STK_5OAOvvv9e-r91bQ8ZTcTLsFP6nOrqN7golBrI9s2GRIoZPC7JMKFHjsXNA0xdyRdmmDBS6OXAzh4999hn6SBWF8nq6ppeGF4_Bx2HvYjvTuIZaOA_FF6XzOjvGSgFNts/s1600/IMG_2840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA9svHOw7STK_5OAOvvv9e-r91bQ8ZTcTLsFP6nOrqN7golBrI9s2GRIoZPC7JMKFHjsXNA0xdyRdmmDBS6OXAzh4999hn6SBWF8nq6ppeGF4_Bx2HvYjvTuIZaOA_FF6XzOjvGSgFNts/s1600/IMG_2840.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When I decided to go cruelty free, hair care was one of the first areas in my beauty routine I changed up. I instantly turned to one of my favourite brands, Lush and haven't looked back. I love how easy it is for me to shop in Lush, all I have to do is look for the Vegan symbol on the front of the packaging and I'm good to go!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://www.lush.co.uk/products/rehab" style="text-decoration: underline;">Rehab</a> Shampoo has to be my favourite product I've discovered since going cruelty free. It combines a number of different fruit juices (pineapple, papaya, kiwi and mango) with olive oil, jojoba oil, sea salt, seaweed and peppermint. My hair seems to <i>love </i>this combination: the fruit juices have a gentle clarifying effect, the oils add some much needed moisture and shine and the sea salt gives volume. My hair has been <b>so</b> shiny since using Rehab, without leaving my hair feeling 'slippery'. What I love about Rehab is while giving my hair shine, it is also volumising. Importantly, it leaves my hair smelling delicious - the perfect balance of citrus and peppermint.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have previously tried a couple of hair conditioners from Lush; if you're a long time reader of MITMU you might remember my obsession with American Cream a couple of years ago; one of the best smelling hair products on the planet but sadly not Vegan. I was recommended <a href="https://www.lush.co.uk/products/veganese">Veganese</a> by a member of staff and have since repurchased it three times. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Veganese is not the most heavy duty of conditioners, but is perfect for everyday use. If you have a coarser hair type, it may be a little too light for you . Veganese combines agar agar gel (derived from Seaweed) with rosemary, lavender and lemon juice and oil. Perfect for my fine hair type, Veganese doesn't weigh hair down and works well with Rehab as it doesn't compromise the volume created by the shampoo.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAKpsFJ2_KiENWGP2740iXC503eAXioVuITwPjCXCnxaEgH7_ZPJUYFpUdJT4zNOrJ3axl-gdfhFKg8LHoxn4R3_dRX3RvWwHUKNf-bTKX6bp6BuM4wEjHVdLBAzlMe2ANLN1bL7t-FVU/s1600/IMG_2858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAKpsFJ2_KiENWGP2740iXC503eAXioVuITwPjCXCnxaEgH7_ZPJUYFpUdJT4zNOrJ3axl-gdfhFKg8LHoxn4R3_dRX3RvWwHUKNf-bTKX6bp6BuM4wEjHVdLBAzlMe2ANLN1bL7t-FVU/s1600/IMG_2858.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That being said, once a week I like to give my hair a deep conditioning treatment and for the last couple of months I've been using <a href="http://vitacoco.com/uk/products/coconut-oil/">Coconut Oil</a> as an overnight treatment. I heat a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil in the microwave and apply it to the ends of my hair before popping on a shower cap (I never said you were going to look glamorous). I have quite oily hair which is why I avoid my roots, however if you have a drier hair type definitely apply it to the full length of your hair. Coconut oil has been an amazing addition to my hair care, my hair feels stronger, softer and shinier.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love, Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-27366588571442760462015-02-03T21:11:00.005+00:002015-02-03T21:12:50.736+00:00Illamasqua's Matte Veil and Skin Base Foundation<div style="text-align: justify;">
When people find out I blog about beauty in my spare time, the number one question I get asked is 'can you recommend a good foundation?'. I feel ya sisters, finding the right foundation can feel like an impossible task. I wanted to share a base product combination that has really been working for me: Illamasqua's 'Matte Veil' and 'Skin Base' foundation.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjuntchsIFd0ryNqJP9ZomZIJgUZWudhEChGrnEEZhQIhNq1RB2COaSVhvNeCj0mYzzER-MTp9_3c3Y-DFfrQfPoarVw_MQEdKomAPXJkNmpL06np6skja_d7_1RefbjiUPoUwRRd6pM/s1600/IMG_2415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjuntchsIFd0ryNqJP9ZomZIJgUZWudhEChGrnEEZhQIhNq1RB2COaSVhvNeCj0mYzzER-MTp9_3c3Y-DFfrQfPoarVw_MQEdKomAPXJkNmpL06np6skja_d7_1RefbjiUPoUwRRd6pM/s1600/IMG_2415.JPG" height="396" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Matte Veil (£30)</u> - On their website, Illamasqua say to use 'Matte Veil' before primer and foundation to achieve a long lasting, matte base. However, I've been using 'Matte Veil' as my primer and it works amazingly well on its own.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sS9k4i-siJL_H2l5KKd30Nuh7derwasA_xiX85Ba7DulUZgaz1N04ETUqboWNH7Hykc7nHiGPly9mt1yef6XZxCW3diFwDJ8kX2Jmv8r2tG3qnWEaaq_oC7Vd824wNURgB3TqIelv2I/s1600/IMG_2421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sS9k4i-siJL_H2l5KKd30Nuh7derwasA_xiX85Ba7DulUZgaz1N04ETUqboWNH7Hykc7nHiGPly9mt1yef6XZxCW3diFwDJ8kX2Jmv8r2tG3qnWEaaq_oC7Vd824wNURgB3TqIelv2I/s1600/IMG_2421.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
'Matte Veil' is unlike anything I've used before. It's very thin in consistency and feels very cool when applied to the skin. I need the tiniest amount of product to cover my whole face and the miniature spatula really helps dispense the right amount of product as well as helping keep pesky germs at bay. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfseJ_QNoiOJP8C2P-wAzQcm9aZL_nuOzZlidm92KlpHAP5XJXu_4h9LvQ6oT-kec639LjFuIpsWWN23FCX4q6WyHBtowrAQr9yJ-wgeQN1FjYSmqQRGZ98wzMalMuyLImC3CF194xfbc/s1600/IMG_2428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfseJ_QNoiOJP8C2P-wAzQcm9aZL_nuOzZlidm92KlpHAP5XJXu_4h9LvQ6oT-kec639LjFuIpsWWN23FCX4q6WyHBtowrAQr9yJ-wgeQN1FjYSmqQRGZ98wzMalMuyLImC3CF194xfbc/s1600/IMG_2428.JPG" height="444" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What I love most about 'Matte Veil' is how quickly it sinks into the skin. Unlike other primers I've tried, it feels undetectable on the skin on account of how thin it is. However, this has no adverse affect on how the primer works. My foundation lasts a full work day (10hrs+) without needing to touch up which is pretty much unheard of for me! I love how sleek and sturdy the packaging feels - I've chucked into my make up bag when travelling and the product hasn't leaked.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Skin Base Foundation (£32).</u> I've blogged about 'Skin Base' before, however I was previously matched to the wrong colour which really affected how I felt about it. Now, 'Skin Base' is back in my life with the right colour and I <i>love</i> it. 'Skin Base' is a buildable foundation with a satin finish. It lasts all day on my skin, particularly when I use 'Matte Veil'. To get the best from 'Skin Base' I apply in very thin layers which helps it sit beautifully on my combination skin without ever looking heavy or cakey. The one big drawback I've found is the products tendency to cling to any dry patches. Using a primer definitely helps with this but should be taken into consideration if you have a drier skin type.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBZB1WqF3L611Oy8degG2VRf9vnasvURe328HllRUNSu1u3MStMcGM0YLIm2ErFGEpdJuKZOQIYMmoE-mvt91lVTml_JE6eNXZI9I6-h0pth-yq3VyEbUCeWCOEy__J_8bKMp9-_vLOs/s1600/IMG_2436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBZB1WqF3L611Oy8degG2VRf9vnasvURe328HllRUNSu1u3MStMcGM0YLIm2ErFGEpdJuKZOQIYMmoE-mvt91lVTml_JE6eNXZI9I6-h0pth-yq3VyEbUCeWCOEy__J_8bKMp9-_vLOs/s1600/IMG_2436.JPG" height="508" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As someone who comes from a history of full coverage foundation, 'Skin Base' is a nice break from the norm. It provides just enough long lasting, natural looking coverage to make me feel comfortable</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSkT05a-Y7rp4n8hj16qeXlyTrJH2UII-K8HfORnQR4kpmHihhDp5bu6-2zSy-m9I9m1rQHrM_FWigf9Q5N6sqPTJJUVKi45VyoGStw8_UdGLfTuBr2l8yOJ4d8CBrZBWPqUZuUYYOGA/s1600/IMG_2370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSkT05a-Y7rp4n8hj16qeXlyTrJH2UII-K8HfORnQR4kpmHihhDp5bu6-2zSy-m9I9m1rQHrM_FWigf9Q5N6sqPTJJUVKi45VyoGStw8_UdGLfTuBr2l8yOJ4d8CBrZBWPqUZuUYYOGA/s1600/IMG_2370.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Have you tried either of these products? I'd love to hear your thoughts!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Love Nic</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
xx</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-2990961365689316342015-02-01T00:20:00.001+00:002015-02-01T00:20:04.448+00:00Magic's in the Make Up Goes Cruelty Free!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Woah! It's been a <b>long</b> time since I've sat down and written anything blog related; five months to be exact. There's a big reason for this, 2014 was year full of changes and to put it simply, my attention has been diverted elsewhere...</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have you ever fallen into a You Tube black hole? It's a regular occurrence for me: one minute I'll be watching compilation videos of baby animals to hours later, through a complex web of related video clicking, I find myself watching a demonstration of the most natural way to glue a toupe onto your head (spoiler - there isn't). Little did I know that one such You Tube black hole would change my life. I stumbled onto a video narrated by Paul McCartney called 'If Slaughterhouses had Glass Walls'. You can imagine the content of this video and immediately afterwards, I vowed to never eat meat again.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the last ten months, I have done a huge amount of research, research that has made me question how I want to live my life. I had already cut meat from my diet but what about the uneasiness I felt about the dairy and egg industries? As a beauty product lover, could I live with the fact that 90% of the products I used daily had at some point been tested on animals? It wasn't only animal welfare on my mind - the benefits of a vegan lifestyle on the environment and human health quickly became indisputable to me.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This January I took part in <a href="http://www.veganuary.com/">Veganuary</a>, a campaign that encourages people to go vegan for the month of January. In this last month, I've given away the majority of my make up collection (and managed not to cry!) replacing what I needed with cruelty free alternatives. I got excited by cooking again and in the process lost 12lbs. I have been motivated to start exercising again and have generally felt lighter in body and mind. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, where does this leave me? Now Veganuary is over, I am going to continue transitioning into a more compassionate lifestyle, with Magic's in the Make Up forming a big part of this. I will still be blogging about beauty however from now on, everything I feature will be cruelty free. You'll also start to see more lifestyle posts popping up which I'm really excited about.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Welcome to the new Magic's in the Make Up.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FnwmoSn0C8FvrE1-F67lH8mcYSbcPaVR71UN0M716nZWoOFvX8q7sm2j8bseiUgvdZUgO3Y8d_uXrTF1liMQjMHrM_CJj2RFe9dFzFdd81LMJEJNA7wRPovKAVqWsgnZi3odLi4zt-I/s1600/10896854_10152906347768672_7478561196702301278_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FnwmoSn0C8FvrE1-F67lH8mcYSbcPaVR71UN0M716nZWoOFvX8q7sm2j8bseiUgvdZUgO3Y8d_uXrTF1liMQjMHrM_CJj2RFe9dFzFdd81LMJEJNA7wRPovKAVqWsgnZi3odLi4zt-I/s1600/10896854_10152906347768672_7478561196702301278_n.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span id="goog_1534621229"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lots of love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nicola</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-52217787534059362162014-07-17T20:48:00.002+01:002014-07-17T20:51:36.132+01:00Lightweight Foundations for Every Occasion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqeCJQxdiiThrkQrkg3EZw9II3XdRgXGMlkOAORjoQRKBkOFEnzcVcIFYTbNXUSKVZbsy11aSisogb-X6iHRohGxmUgIhzrAQ58khTUZKYVtex6rvBU2ZxS0QThkVA4uhbjpl1NSNatc/s1600/P1030956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqeCJQxdiiThrkQrkg3EZw9II3XdRgXGMlkOAORjoQRKBkOFEnzcVcIFYTbNXUSKVZbsy11aSisogb-X6iHRohGxmUgIhzrAQ58khTUZKYVtex6rvBU2ZxS0QThkVA4uhbjpl1NSNatc/s1600/P1030956.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am, and always will be, a foundation girl. I've tried to love BB creams, CC creams and tinted moisturisers, however there's always something not quite right; I put this down to my oily skin type. If previously asked to list my favourite foundations, you would of found a group of heavy, full coverage formulas: Estée Lauder's Double Wear, M.A.C Studio Fix Fluid, Laura Mercier Silk Créme (still a firm favourite). However, I recently realised there's been a shift in the typical formulas I've been drawn to: I now tend to favour lightweight foundations that still offer good coverage. Here is a list of my favourite four lightweight liquid foundations for every occasion.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u>When spending time in the sun.</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz620zy8TDOKuzUs4NHKWoFrd29pRYY_TPy2V-EYz15Xd-ZoTR0mIB9gZDQvtHxEHN7Xbqqb0JfAZ2ioybibvpvygj0FSE7_Ii4j7XbQp5W-90NcOiQUgGRa1Z__GxA5kPhjjCpixJb5E/s1600/P1030965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz620zy8TDOKuzUs4NHKWoFrd29pRYY_TPy2V-EYz15Xd-ZoTR0mIB9gZDQvtHxEHN7Xbqqb0JfAZ2ioybibvpvygj0FSE7_Ii4j7XbQp5W-90NcOiQUgGRa1Z__GxA5kPhjjCpixJb5E/s1600/P1030965.JPG" height="518" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFBkHp4IUKunAbXqCaNoYJr56r1P4hJzi0voAC2bhxspJUzoj7FEuRUNjGOg08XwkngqIXkA0wMOJZ62EOWaq64Z2iPUjJSeVWXB59QFVLI4VpgLFo9GOZxWX2ZamO4jcTj1OTFtXmBXY/s1600/P1030964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFBkHp4IUKunAbXqCaNoYJr56r1P4hJzi0voAC2bhxspJUzoj7FEuRUNjGOg08XwkngqIXkA0wMOJZ62EOWaq64Z2iPUjJSeVWXB59QFVLI4VpgLFo9GOZxWX2ZamO4jcTj1OTFtXmBXY/s1600/P1030964.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Shiseido's 'Sun Protection Liquid Foundation' was one of my favourite discoveries of last year. It is very thin in consistency making it very lightweight and comfortable to wear. It blends into the skin seamlessly, leaving a beautifully natural, matte finish to the skin. As the foundation is so thin in consistency, I was surprised at what great, buildable coverage it provides. What's best about Shiseido's 'Sun Protection Liquid Foundation' is the fact that it's water, perspiration and oil resistant making it the perfect choice to wear in the sun. I've had this foundation last a full day in the sun which for my skin type, is amazing!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I really love that the packaging is so compact, making it perfect for taking on holiday. I do think it is important to note that although the foundation contains an SPF 30, Shiseido recommend you apply an additional sun screen before exposure. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>When getting your photograph taken.</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadusgFw46CsXpI81kXEPJz7yl3GqmJh-wXWRk1J4Q62xSL0m77z_BQJAGnJdljfuMJV-eL4vymxxyBlLmXhih_Gy2XnESA95TQXjdbURSKgR8WH_H7sA-maygKkBpxDzcbg4uBAu9WvQ/s1600/P1030971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadusgFw46CsXpI81kXEPJz7yl3GqmJh-wXWRk1J4Q62xSL0m77z_BQJAGnJdljfuMJV-eL4vymxxyBlLmXhih_Gy2XnESA95TQXjdbURSKgR8WH_H7sA-maygKkBpxDzcbg4uBAu9WvQ/s1600/P1030971.JPG" height="640" width="628" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEianLJMNmm_8HSjq7fnr3jTFibedWrnVyINZ0wiIZFZVPKnbGStBiy7KOPmA_P_4e3hACF_9UhLKOT7TZrR94XVSBtK2hCIem-nZ8USzYSnN5vfNycs-OluIKngDJu62iHF5q5iZ-kkb1w/s1600/P1030973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEianLJMNmm_8HSjq7fnr3jTFibedWrnVyINZ0wiIZFZVPKnbGStBiy7KOPmA_P_4e3hACF_9UhLKOT7TZrR94XVSBtK2hCIem-nZ8USzYSnN5vfNycs-OluIKngDJu62iHF5q5iZ-kkb1w/s1600/P1030973.JPG" height="562" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Giorgio Armani's 'Luminous Silk' Foundation will always be my first choice if I know I will be getting my photograph taken (nights out!). Wonderfully light weight, it buffs into the skin quickly, giving my face a glowing, airbrushed appearance. The fact it contains no SPF makes the foundation ideal for flash photography. 'Luminous Silk' is oil free, leaves a luminous finish to the skin, and has a medium buildable coverage. One major downfall for this foundation is its longevity: I need to use a primer, powder and Urban Decay's 'De-Slick' setting spray to make the coverage last all night.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>When you want a natural base.</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFb-bHgukr0tWOSWD2V4zmKAH0hiilICFGWroiw1ZSsa2NoPz3MOYa-SoCFBc-JPzis4gi8w-_hKEYl45Z-TnogZ03o8PMokzJdCi4cmUc2Zm6H39JLIZvd7Rl_Z9aDa8h4WkpcEaaC1w/s1600/P1030967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFb-bHgukr0tWOSWD2V4zmKAH0hiilICFGWroiw1ZSsa2NoPz3MOYa-SoCFBc-JPzis4gi8w-_hKEYl45Z-TnogZ03o8PMokzJdCi4cmUc2Zm6H39JLIZvd7Rl_Z9aDa8h4WkpcEaaC1w/s1600/P1030967.JPG" height="578" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWgqToCr-18FLQcLoKlDPCU3-nTkP5Mha4aEPkkw0EFk27K2UZL0BRr2Q-Rf5wVDlLEO5_afQ7509LqqIZlmcPmOhUzMkqtHeGMcgfh2_ZIwEruZ7FxCNfu2tqSxzXA2UfU5cv14VffQ/s1600/P1030969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWgqToCr-18FLQcLoKlDPCU3-nTkP5Mha4aEPkkw0EFk27K2UZL0BRr2Q-Rf5wVDlLEO5_afQ7509LqqIZlmcPmOhUzMkqtHeGMcgfh2_ZIwEruZ7FxCNfu2tqSxzXA2UfU5cv14VffQ/s1600/P1030969.JPG" height="408" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Chanel 'Vitalumiére Aqua' is about as light a coverage as I feel comfortable in (for me it is dangerously close to the tinted moisturiser border). Similar in fluidity to Shiseido's 'Sun Protection Liquid Foundation', 'Vitalumiére Aqua' is oil-free, water based and offers an extremely natural, sheer coverage. Perfect for days I want to look fresh faced, 'Vitalumiére Aqua' I've found applies best using my hands rather than a brush. Unfortunately, for oily skinned girls like me, the formula is not the best at controlling my natural oil; blotting is a must.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>When you need a little something extra.</u></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXK8beLWdT5ObQ-bVaCZ8OsIZJ37z8jKXpVbeB6GYHMxvhB8sENt4bjj6Mnn-fv02NhoDqJypKwKksXs1965BZKYwb2WXT0qskNYy0brB6YxjiWZLRuD0akdyQ9L-QwgymvgggA5q_D0/s1600/P1030960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXK8beLWdT5ObQ-bVaCZ8OsIZJ37z8jKXpVbeB6GYHMxvhB8sENt4bjj6Mnn-fv02NhoDqJypKwKksXs1965BZKYwb2WXT0qskNYy0brB6YxjiWZLRuD0akdyQ9L-QwgymvgggA5q_D0/s1600/P1030960.JPG" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvYJrKO7UUkVy4slXi4AREXiJhbKcQISxmca-7dYIpQt6Vz8B7ON2kU2HuEvLP8ggPJsCVPjWw6-ufnRrGA6tJrMn1lWvcqL7iLB3Rpz7NXqtFHXApQf1fMumgy8sOe02dUlsIlcQFm8A/s1600/P1030962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvYJrKO7UUkVy4slXi4AREXiJhbKcQISxmca-7dYIpQt6Vz8B7ON2kU2HuEvLP8ggPJsCVPjWw6-ufnRrGA6tJrMn1lWvcqL7iLB3Rpz7NXqtFHXApQf1fMumgy8sOe02dUlsIlcQFm8A/s1600/P1030962.JPG" height="490" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The heaviest of the four, Lancome's 'Teint Idole Ultra 24H' foundation is my most recently purchased and loved foundation. Despite being heavier in formula, 'Teint Idole Ultra 24H' is a full coverage, long lasting foundation that is remarkably light weight in comparison to others in the same category. It gives a beautiful, flawless appearance to the skin and paired with primer and powder lasts a full work day. Perfect for those who love a good coverage but hate the feeling of wearing a heavy foundation. It takes a little time to set so I tend to apply my foundation and then style my hair before finishing the rest of my face which is probably one of the only complaints I have! I've got a full foundation review coming soon with a couple of other Lancome products that I've recently been loving! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>I would love to hear what some of your favourite lightweight foundations are!?</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-81002084054349217002014-05-07T19:00:00.000+01:002014-05-07T19:00:51.239+01:00Karora Instant Tan Wash Off<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdlyiK-2VHptb0nNDV-cDj_c-D9Al1UMag5ScCQdMhwWJV5xlSIv2DFU74WmzMudKylCZuB9el1_IyUnujoJ3j-5-31GussEntAjbdQ-vH7st1fHRaspN7dmDg5SqfP0v7TkvjB4cAqP8/s1600/P1030935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdlyiK-2VHptb0nNDV-cDj_c-D9Al1UMag5ScCQdMhwWJV5xlSIv2DFU74WmzMudKylCZuB9el1_IyUnujoJ3j-5-31GussEntAjbdQ-vH7st1fHRaspN7dmDg5SqfP0v7TkvjB4cAqP8/s1600/P1030935.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've always had a love/hate relationship with instant tanning products. I love that instant tan allows you to change up your look quickly, without the hassle of tanning overnight. However, I've struggled to find an instant tanning product that wears well, looks natural and is water resistant...there is nothing worse than having rain spots on the back of your legs on a night out!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://boutique.baobella.com/">Boabella Boutique</a> offered to send me <a href="http://boutique.baobella.com/karora-instant-tan">Karora's 'Instant Tan <i>Wash Off</i>'</a> to try and I was really excited to see how it fared against other instant tans I've tried. Boabella Boutique is a members members only online shop that is free to join and offers amazing discounts for members. Each deal is only available for a certain period of time and often, the discount is so good that a product sells out before the deal expires - if you see something that catches your eye, it's a good idea to buy it straight away! You can read more about how Boabella Boutique works <a href="http://boutique.baobella.com/how-it-works">here</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXW3hWUY3Ee3nxy3wrs_AvVqJNe8sql_9ZtSktmuLA_CD4ao6k-UGcIGUKEvvdZ1htlr9R_ul2fg1BIkm4_BE9jBBeffXYzjUBWKq7Er8QqhobiOPQesVLOO87LOl_roKkdf4x5sbNeAY/s1600/P1030939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXW3hWUY3Ee3nxy3wrs_AvVqJNe8sql_9ZtSktmuLA_CD4ao6k-UGcIGUKEvvdZ1htlr9R_ul2fg1BIkm4_BE9jBBeffXYzjUBWKq7Er8QqhobiOPQesVLOO87LOl_roKkdf4x5sbNeAY/s1600/P1030939.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Karora's 'Instant Tan' is by far the best of its type I've tried. When I first applied the tan, I felt a little apprehensive as it looked extremely dark. However, after working it into my skin, it blended out flawlessly, giving my skin a beautiful, golden appearance. It dries very quickly and doesn't feel sticky to the touch. I've also found that it's transfer resistant and fairly resistant to water - it stayed opaque when I splashed some water on my arm and only began to fade when I held my arm under the tap. It does have a faint herbal scent which is far more appealing than the digestive biscuit smell typical of a developing tan.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFWld6uPz95D-L7OApTJgHsFPf7pYPWhA_GIp0dOTj_xrrQlq-A1bToJkVcsBA046bOKiMfPu0V8GJKaSxPzpCSmRIUWzGqZXf6XWV3RaddH5N7KKIXB3Mhgywvm0JtzjWxyKGv0Cn91I/s1600/P1030940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFWld6uPz95D-L7OApTJgHsFPf7pYPWhA_GIp0dOTj_xrrQlq-A1bToJkVcsBA046bOKiMfPu0V8GJKaSxPzpCSmRIUWzGqZXf6XWV3RaddH5N7KKIXB3Mhgywvm0JtzjWxyKGv0Cn91I/s1600/P1030940.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
What I love about Karora's 'Instant Tan' is it has a perfecting effect on the skin, which makes it perfect to use on the legs. I've found it helps disguise bruises, veins and other imperfections and leaves a beautiful luminous look to the skin - I think it's going to become one of my must have products of the summer! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH3kFrZIZ-UL1LddrjCOvBWUwb-QQoN6g4Hk-oM-celmF6dbeWL19TeFo_4e1NFxVk5GegucjoIfFGNk_m3yYQ7BXjU6NO-DTPviTPBcMWB5oSIsoz7-qbgOYBNXR7tKf9jdaGgvB9Sw8/s1600/Desktop5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH3kFrZIZ-UL1LddrjCOvBWUwb-QQoN6g4Hk-oM-celmF6dbeWL19TeFo_4e1NFxVk5GegucjoIfFGNk_m3yYQ7BXjU6NO-DTPviTPBcMWB5oSIsoz7-qbgOYBNXR7tKf9jdaGgvB9Sw8/s1600/Desktop5.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I would love to know your experiences with instant tans?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lots of Love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nic </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-48225308199093169552014-03-16T19:25:00.000+00:002014-03-16T19:27:59.548+00:00Orange lips three ways<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDN-1fQ6YVuwpKQBDuPWAUUXIsfjokhEOezGxv45oVDUM4zVQ3kaP7275i01i177qkczuf1u_UjiW2qhTAjKfbqigiiUFvYuNZhcxfOTA-D1n9PqVMAr4hHFa9OOBWCMiKu00moouDW6A/s1600/P1030914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDN-1fQ6YVuwpKQBDuPWAUUXIsfjokhEOezGxv45oVDUM4zVQ3kaP7275i01i177qkczuf1u_UjiW2qhTAjKfbqigiiUFvYuNZhcxfOTA-D1n9PqVMAr4hHFa9OOBWCMiKu00moouDW6A/s1600/P1030914.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Orange lips are one of my favourite make up trends as the winter seasons begin to change, however it's not always the easiest look to carry off (take <a href="http://carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.co.uk/2010/05/orange-y-fotd.html">this pos</a>t as an excellent example). I've found starting off with a peachy-orange and working my way up through the shades has been the easiest way of finding what works. Through trial and error, I always pair orange lipsticks with minimal eye make up and bronzer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>The peach orange</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL6-WCBBJ0pluV5nYFjgsnijQQlTxkCU7DUSjTo6ubXjWa-9YFYjz_wTHZISKBC_UDlbc5PVxrxoDUCSCLJnFXayRrvMt7E5floQKPAzRy_KONZq9CxXMcNDunT5oypUzhlrQW4Xl90U/s1600/P1030921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL6-WCBBJ0pluV5nYFjgsnijQQlTxkCU7DUSjTo6ubXjWa-9YFYjz_wTHZISKBC_UDlbc5PVxrxoDUCSCLJnFXayRrvMt7E5floQKPAzRy_KONZq9CxXMcNDunT5oypUzhlrQW4Xl90U/s1600/P1030921.JPG" height="494" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOL8odkZLIo8Rnq9XowbpaPPDw8pK3qAY1EOD99-9_OaM6YYits5lZ7bhydvcKdIA7xKzKvvRvCNPKfL0VhskcV8FStpDTp0_nzYkFzAIOb9hgHMGPhatKfzXphqa9YiyR9V7ubVdavQ/s1600/P1030879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOL8odkZLIo8Rnq9XowbpaPPDw8pK3qAY1EOD99-9_OaM6YYits5lZ7bhydvcKdIA7xKzKvvRvCNPKfL0VhskcV8FStpDTp0_nzYkFzAIOb9hgHMGPhatKfzXphqa9YiyR9V7ubVdavQ/s1600/P1030879.JPG" height="522" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Topshop's 'Peach Sundae' is the perfect hybrid between coral and nude, making it an amazing introduction to the world of orange lips. For a nude shade, 'Peach Sundae' is extremely pigmented and has a satin finish. Despite its satin finish, 'Peach Sundae' does have the tendency to highlight any imperfections on the lips, nothing a little lip balm can't fix. 'Peach Sundae' is the perfect everyday spring lipstick!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>The red orange </u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQn_HymaxETvV-DeVS40WMOqC2DIqgGXqUv8UIm6mv5ipJid2X8JMZECBdcNC6GCmxtZavawrgCV0aAIhU-9pOGcb0EQv2Z0pFfQN3sKe7hGymB-uh05w-0Qaip4F2cGbuy_HZvPp17rE/s1600/P1030927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQn_HymaxETvV-DeVS40WMOqC2DIqgGXqUv8UIm6mv5ipJid2X8JMZECBdcNC6GCmxtZavawrgCV0aAIhU-9pOGcb0EQv2Z0pFfQN3sKe7hGymB-uh05w-0Qaip4F2cGbuy_HZvPp17rE/s1600/P1030927.JPG" height="490" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJe6eVYRclpcqJwuPUzszSJaWPUlXxdQyuWOpDYfFt_T33rk3e7WUZ9s7zFyaLxtpA8bzlGlyKQ5L6dgHAv8e0Cqu1F91CcSJbrBuRCPDIc3daLbIWUP31M4IShT1-o92JuOVgj0KFwQ/s1600/P1030905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJe6eVYRclpcqJwuPUzszSJaWPUlXxdQyuWOpDYfFt_T33rk3e7WUZ9s7zFyaLxtpA8bzlGlyKQ5L6dgHAv8e0Cqu1F91CcSJbrBuRCPDIc3daLbIWUP31M4IShT1-o92JuOVgj0KFwQ/s1600/P1030905.JPG" height="568" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Lancome's l'absolu rouge in 189 'Rouge Etincelle' is an absolutely beautiful, orange toned red from the 2013 Happy Holidays Collection (Still available to buy from Boots online). First of all <b>snaps</b> to Lancome for the stunning Swarovski encrusted packaging! 'Rouge Enticelle' is a shade pulled from the Lancome vaults and was first produced in 1955. It's an extremely flattering, orange toned red that glides seamlessly on to the lips. It leaves a lovely glossy sheen and feels comfortable to wear. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>The orange orange</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI61m4adsbyWC6t00Ur1zNFeP_U1xx9hy7oXicjC8xpfFdqooAjbPHTetRx1RkoPBJNFVv8zgi2VuyI5y9Ov_stZSatd8Y1QLmULYbIKmLcqo2YAD8pcqL2L2M1lqydV_-Jkbgjk1RUUs/s1600/P1030916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI61m4adsbyWC6t00Ur1zNFeP_U1xx9hy7oXicjC8xpfFdqooAjbPHTetRx1RkoPBJNFVv8zgi2VuyI5y9Ov_stZSatd8Y1QLmULYbIKmLcqo2YAD8pcqL2L2M1lqydV_-Jkbgjk1RUUs/s1600/P1030916.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJO4R3pgnaeUj8eTTaxBGx6xqncMfchblpHHJsAxZAfHciFdDPkfjHd7NoN8uCRiAaS_ijWGbbPSsNrSTB8FPLbpG7JKm6GgAVBDLj2L_h7Ddzwc8cGVi0MllphfyGuR5suuxil-YfOk/s1600/P1030901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJO4R3pgnaeUj8eTTaxBGx6xqncMfchblpHHJsAxZAfHciFdDPkfjHd7NoN8uCRiAaS_ijWGbbPSsNrSTB8FPLbpG7JKm6GgAVBDLj2L_h7Ddzwc8cGVi0MllphfyGuR5suuxil-YfOk/s1600/P1030901.JPG" height="506" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While I have a couple of true oranges I could of mentioned, I wanted to pick a shade that I haven't seen too much written about; Maybelline's Colorsensational Vivid in 912 'Electric Orange'. 'Electric Orange' is a bright, warm toned orange that is deceivingly flattering. It leaves a pretty sheen to the lips and feels very light yet creamy to wear. If you're new to orange lipsticks, 'Electric Orange' would be a perfect first choice. It's affordable, easy to wear and long lasting.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Which is your favourite of the three shades?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-12920421110009301422014-02-09T17:03:00.001+00:002014-02-09T17:07:04.005+00:00Love to Love # 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lZLIf9IUxvRKk5mKCFMvBRH3GsNiBf5ICNOfzzxkR3kMmEJfQFQtXK6Mzs75cqB2IwT32Dbelv_hmSK9OnWeKop050y04VPrXiyF-iP_5y1WMAQGF0-6qDbaP5_6YFCJMYN2C7xQ2nM/s1600/Fotor020916323.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lZLIf9IUxvRKk5mKCFMvBRH3GsNiBf5ICNOfzzxkR3kMmEJfQFQtXK6Mzs75cqB2IwT32Dbelv_hmSK9OnWeKop050y04VPrXiyF-iP_5y1WMAQGF0-6qDbaP5_6YFCJMYN2C7xQ2nM/s1600/Fotor020916323.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>'Skinny' Baking</u>: If you've read any of my 'Operation Disco Pants' posts, you will know my love of a food blog called 'Skinny Taste'. I don't know how Gina does it but she consistently creates naughty tasting food in health conscious way. I've spent my Sunday recreating two of her baking recipes - <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2014/02/amazing-flour-less-brownies.html">Amazing Flour-less brownies</a> (with a secret ingredient, black beans!) and an old favourite, <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2010/05/mango-nut-bread.html">Mango Nut Bread.</a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Dune Dlocket Bag</u>. One of the prettiest bags I've owned, Dune's 'Dlocket' bag feels like it has been surgically attached to me this week. I'm in love with how structured it is and it's beautiful deep red colour. Unfortunately the red version seems sold out everywhere but can still be found in <a href="http://www.dunelondon.com/dlocket-crossbody-frame-bottom-bag-0022500110004167/">navy</a> on the Dune website. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Dance with Dragons.</u> I am a <b>huge</b> 'Game of Thrones' fan and have slowly been working my way through the books. I've found that I've needed to take a small break between reading each book - I started 'A Dance with Dragons' this week and already can't put it down.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Pukka Original Chai</u>. I've been loving Pukka's 'Original Chai' this week - it tastes quite strongly of cinnamon and ginger and went beautifully with a slice of fresh-out-the-oven mango nut bread this afternoon!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Lush Rose Jam Bubbleroon.</u> This has to be one of my favourite products I've tried from Lush in a long time. It smells <i>amazing</i> - just like the Ro's Argan body conditioner and creates a beautifully bubbly bath.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Topshop Blazer.</u> I loved how this white blazer from Topshop looked with my H + M faux fur stole this week.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Watching</u>. I've became addicted to 'American Horror Story' over the last couple of weeks, I'm currently half way through Asylum - have any of you watched it? I think I'm slowly falling more and more in love with <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1404239/">Evan Peters</a>.<br />
<br />
<u>Online.</u> Eden's blog '<a href="http://sugarandcharm.com/">Sugar and Charm</a>' is one of the best online discoveries I've made this year so far. I love the idea behind her blog: 'add a little charm to the everyday'!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6el8IhPnDn0SAnbVpS_j_cTCwJuTpuHuG-L_Zu9vNomkMdUOKtSImRnhdXLCAmxFopjqI4pgQO-hw32d75JgxipZ7pq34DO0HZOXtQEgpSUB-KFJ2tmD0Yu6IydNpiVSvFvb76L5dKw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-02-09+at+16.53.03.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6el8IhPnDn0SAnbVpS_j_cTCwJuTpuHuG-L_Zu9vNomkMdUOKtSImRnhdXLCAmxFopjqI4pgQO-hw32d75JgxipZ7pq34DO0HZOXtQEgpSUB-KFJ2tmD0Yu6IydNpiVSvFvb76L5dKw/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-02-09+at+16.53.03.png" height="356" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lots of Love</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nic</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-78661101241379988122014-02-06T19:38:00.002+00:002014-02-06T19:38:35.421+00:00High End/Low End:Translucent Powders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzD2GMul8jmRGY0n1njklu-f03F2iEVrD0VZVhnFcPrHZ2oODOQnN-NKhzTaZVARsX0C7TVEfjrBsozo0GF9CTAvuyi9hSKUrOEKTr6sgM1mqB4geSd7a6qIeL4eBD2waUqNCH5Jd1xj8/s1600/P1030841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzD2GMul8jmRGY0n1njklu-f03F2iEVrD0VZVhnFcPrHZ2oODOQnN-NKhzTaZVARsX0C7TVEfjrBsozo0GF9CTAvuyi9hSKUrOEKTr6sgM1mqB4geSd7a6qIeL4eBD2waUqNCH5Jd1xj8/s1600/P1030841.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
High end/Low end is a new series I've been thinking about writing for a while and stemmed from the fleeting new years resolution of curbing my spending habits (I've failed miserably already). The aim of high end/low end is to post about two similar products at different ends of the price scale. While the products don't have to be dupes of one another, it's always nice to have a more affordable alternative! Translucent powders may not be the most exciting or glamorous make up product to begin with, I've actually found finding a good powder surprisingly difficult! In a face powder, the three main this I look for is a natural finish (no additional coverage!), decent mattifying properties and comfortable wear.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP92rf1m7dIuQCWmpaR_VSeODA8s87qkjAqOVyEcdD3gCZsPPSot_k4fXHIKPaKUl2IwjEVSlwhsEtkPSk0_qQRsw0p7975A_0Xvk94qP74la0rMj-Qv6g57pvSjHP1IOcFVKXUQw9HDg/s1600/P1030838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP92rf1m7dIuQCWmpaR_VSeODA8s87qkjAqOVyEcdD3gCZsPPSot_k4fXHIKPaKUl2IwjEVSlwhsEtkPSk0_qQRsw0p7975A_0Xvk94qP74la0rMj-Qv6g57pvSjHP1IOcFVKXUQw9HDg/s1600/P1030838.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a><u>High End</u>. Chanel's 'Poudre Universelle Libre' (£36) is a beautiful loose powder. It gives a very pretty, satin finish to the skin yet still manages to mattify and set my make up. I've recommended this powder to numerous people and always describe it as an instant halo for the face! The powder is buttery soft and melts into the skin beautifully. While I mentioned that 'Poudre Universelle Libre' has a mattifying effect on the skin, it is not the longest lasting of finishes and I probably get about 5-6 hours of the semi-matte finish before I have to blot. For this reason, Chanel's 'Poudre Universelle Libre' is my translucent powder of choice for nights out as it adds a lovely, soft finish to my make up and photographs beautifully. I also love to use it as a setting powder for my under eye concealer daily. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Low End.</u> When I need a longer lasting powder, there is one that instantly springs to mind: Rimmel's 'Stay Matte' pressed powder (£3.99). 'Stay Matte' isn't the smoothest of powders (especially when compared to Chanel's offering) however it provides a very matte finish and dramatically increases the longevity of my foundation. It can be a little on the powdery side but despite this, I've never had it look cakey on my skin. If you have a drier skin type however, I imagine there is a higher risk of the powder clinging to drier areas. 'Stay Matte' is the perfect translucent powder for the working day; it's affordable, works well with my skin type and keeps my make up looking fresh throughout the day.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I would love to hear some of your translucent powder recommendations!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lots of Love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<br />Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-42808365524937151092014-02-05T14:46:00.001+00:002014-02-05T14:46:07.276+00:00A Primer for Every Occasion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix10RutE4pZ2GD4yaTi6GeApy4oHxKHJGQ5KaVFXZ-sAYi1bwptM9tRhddRlGHS1eGpkrHxWlK3qQJlCTg2kOPCiZhafUlUa3OuKEkr5sr8szMXLYhaNgxSeTIA6eDrrz6dBe6ljTpo6U/s1600/P1030826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix10RutE4pZ2GD4yaTi6GeApy4oHxKHJGQ5KaVFXZ-sAYi1bwptM9tRhddRlGHS1eGpkrHxWlK3qQJlCTg2kOPCiZhafUlUa3OuKEkr5sr8szMXLYhaNgxSeTIA6eDrrz6dBe6ljTpo6U/s1600/P1030826.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Before starting Magic's in the Make Up, I had never used a primer, in fact I probably wouldn't of been able to tell you what a primer was. Fast forward four years and using a primer has become a necessary step in my makeup routine. Using a primer helps prep the skin for foundation, ensuring the skins surface is clean, the texture is smooth and moisturised. For me, I have fairly oily skin and using a primer dramatically increases the wear of my foundation throughout the day. However, there is a primer out there for all different skin types!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>When your skin feels a little dull.</u> Clarins 'Beauty Flash Balm' is perfect for days when your skin feels a little 'blah' (it's definitely not a product to be used everyday). The Clarins 'Beauty Flash Balm' moisturises, brightens and tightens the skin, and if used properly can be seen to lift and sculpt the contours of the face. The balm shouldn't be massaged into the skin; instead a thin layer should be smoothed gently onto the face, creating a smooth base for foundation and skin that feels youthful and radiant. I think Clarins 'Beauty Flash Balm' is the perfect primer for someone with a drier skin type.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>When faced with a long day.</u> While having an oily skin type has some advantages (delayed signs of ageing being the biggie!) one of the major drawbacks is the lack of make up longevity. Benefit's 'Stay Flawless 15-hour Primer' is designed to help make up last longer, increase the appearance of foundation and refine the skins complexion. While I don't think 'Stay Flawless' helps foundation last for 15 hours, it does help with my foundations longevity. You can read my full review <a href="http://carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/benefit-stay-flawless-15-hour-primer.html">here</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>When you need to tighten the purse strings.</u> I've read a lot of different opinions on Maybelline's 'Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser'. I personally love it, however it took a couple of attempts to become familiar with the products texture and finish. The primer is a silicone based gel and feels extremely slippery when applied to the face. I've found it's best to apply the primer and wait at least five minutes before applying foundation. This will prevent your foundation and concealer slipping but won't affect performance. Rather than completely filling in pores, 'Baby Skin' blurs their appearance and provides a smooth surface for foundation. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>When you need a little something special.</u> My most extravagant primer purchase is Kevyn Aucoin's 'The Sensual Skin Primer'. At £34 for 10ml of product, 'The Sensual Skin Primer' is not for everyday use. Instead, I like to use it for special occasions - it's the perfect night out primer! 'The Sensual Skin Primer' creates a smooth, matte base, minimises the size of pores and feels quite lightweight on the skin. Most importantly, it really helps my foundation last all night, no matter how hot the dance floor gets!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Two of my other favourite primers include Laura Mercier's foundation primer which you can read about <a href="http://carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/laura-mercier-foundation-primer-and.html">here</a> and Smashbox Photo Finish Light which you can read more about <a href="http://carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/smashbox-photo-finish-light-foundation.html">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I would love to hear some of your primer recommendations!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx </div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-56993262996262993342014-02-02T13:48:00.000+00:002014-02-02T13:48:02.041+00:00Love to Love #1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4gNFAr6filhjWMCxvLuAoFaTJ3EAEbA9J4rPW-Ze8DJ7rYCh2fI_EwIqybLYFJt7ic-ukNssEYUlU0UugFXp-s8_g8PSaB-nCkVdCWBG1vAJpAif6_nHAqb-5NnYh5P729Ni9b_OEPE/s1600/P1030859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4gNFAr6filhjWMCxvLuAoFaTJ3EAEbA9J4rPW-Ze8DJ7rYCh2fI_EwIqybLYFJt7ic-ukNssEYUlU0UugFXp-s8_g8PSaB-nCkVdCWBG1vAJpAif6_nHAqb-5NnYh5P729Ni9b_OEPE/s1600/P1030859.JPG" height="494" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sundays are one of my favourite blog reading days, I love everyones weekly round ups. As each week passes by, my beauty wish list grows ever longer and I always find new books to read, new music to listen to and new T.V. shows to watch. I'm so excited to start my own round up series 'Love to Love'.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Jurassic Park T-Shirt.</u> I bought this Jurassic Park t-shirt from Primark this week and I'm in love with it! I bought the t-shirt a size up and wore it yesterday on a trip to <a href="http://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/kelvingrove/Pages/default.aspx">Kelvingrove Art Galleries </a>(one of my favourite places) tucked into skinny jeans and Converse. The perfect lazy weekend outfit!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Miffy Slippers.</u> Another Primark purchase this week, these Miffy slippers are adorable! They have a super cosy lining and are really comfortable to wear.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>The Magic Toyshop by Angela Carter.</u> Angela Carter is one of my favourite authors and I was delighted when Nick bought me this beautiful edition of 'The Magic Toyshop'. It's a magical book that you may have to read a couple of times to fully get its complexity - I can't recommend it highly enough.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Laura Mercier Ambre Rose Lip Glace.</u> I've been loving wearing a bronzed make up look this week and 'Ambre Rose' compliments this beautifully. You can see how it looks <a href="http://carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/loving-laura-mercier.html">here</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Paperchase List Book.</u> This list book from Paperchase has been a life saver. On the right hand side is a larger, lined notebook that allows you to write a more detailed list and on the left, all of the sections are sticky notes. I particularly love the tick boxes!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Dolce and Gabbana Light Blue.</u> I bought 'Light Blue' from Duty Free on the way home from Portugal last year and it has quickly shot to the top of my most worn list. It may not be the longest lasting scent but it's perfect for every day wear. It's citrusy, fresh and amazingly clean smelling. While it may be classed as more of a summery scent, it's really helped to brighten up all of these horrid, rainy Glasgow afternoons.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Watching:</u> 'Her' is one of the most perfect films I've seen in a long time. It's beautifully shot, amazingly written, has a wonderful soundtrack and Joaquin Phoenix is bloody brilliant!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ne6p6MfLBxc" width="560"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Listening</u>. Kitty Daisy and Lewis (Baby) Hold Me Tight</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/cvmOmafw2cs" width="560"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Online.</u> I've been obsessed with <a href="http://www.dailycandy.com/everywhere/">Daily Candy</a> this week. With beautiful photography, regularly updated content and some of the most amazing recipes and beauty ideas I've seen, it has quickly became one of my most regularly checked websites!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgWfvTd2tE7rFPf66Xt7Dgh1xH8cdGdzv9JWOFmYBLGn6UCB-I_Z8NYn-KAKTwFs7FzbFjJrsgqaJcMgdcnrUcPxsd-0uYAm72WbKuDvwZoX29WoK6AioVyLNPKsSOWbGWNZcVMozg8uU/s1600/dailyCANDY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgWfvTd2tE7rFPf66Xt7Dgh1xH8cdGdzv9JWOFmYBLGn6UCB-I_Z8NYn-KAKTwFs7FzbFjJrsgqaJcMgdcnrUcPxsd-0uYAm72WbKuDvwZoX29WoK6AioVyLNPKsSOWbGWNZcVMozg8uU/s1600/dailyCANDY.jpg" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lots of Love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-7835841317161562702014-01-29T19:33:00.001+00:002014-01-29T19:33:18.864+00:00How To Beat the Mid Week Blues<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2l8WipM5H-oUpZcil4V5OOlh3-M4Tekgi_VLmu927KPpY-4QIDMbCTJAOYgthEi8hbmTy-g-xpbHskac2C4gdTVZ11_r1pO5G9g0bpnHXIg8Yk6aIGZOiwMPdl_8937828W8XMnl5d4o/s1600/P1030765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2l8WipM5H-oUpZcil4V5OOlh3-M4Tekgi_VLmu927KPpY-4QIDMbCTJAOYgthEi8hbmTy-g-xpbHskac2C4gdTVZ11_r1pO5G9g0bpnHXIg8Yk6aIGZOiwMPdl_8937828W8XMnl5d4o/s1600/P1030765.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am a long term sufferer of the mid-week blues; with the previous weekend a distant memory and the coming weekend two days away, I can't help but feel a little 'blah'. However, over the last couple of months I've followed the same mid-week evening routine to help ease me into the second half of the working week.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Candles</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppjYXt41AqUs7X5NztdWHlf6HWX9Cws8-q_s4W1d2ORA9H66I0nKZRS_TFDcn0Nyg1ndLuHQ2o8n4aHaoc-Xl31PnJ42u7M56sCfIA-u3733KdQKEwurtrlp54Hgolf78FRf4qYYp3CY/s1600/P1030805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppjYXt41AqUs7X5NztdWHlf6HWX9Cws8-q_s4W1d2ORA9H66I0nKZRS_TFDcn0Nyg1ndLuHQ2o8n4aHaoc-Xl31PnJ42u7M56sCfIA-u3733KdQKEwurtrlp54Hgolf78FRf4qYYp3CY/s1600/P1030805.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9GCkFD5NHzSMOXcmjBektfElRjxrWDcOFHWwVfKXCOA4sqHOjozh_Y1OHdWQm7Y5zhnwuB0sJ6hQN7S1AbzaDzEpvVBfROoYnr2dAe7ZjKk3nsv3Z6Kc70M406eQ82vlzcUYXIglZXrQ/s1600/P1030809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9GCkFD5NHzSMOXcmjBektfElRjxrWDcOFHWwVfKXCOA4sqHOjozh_Y1OHdWQm7Y5zhnwuB0sJ6hQN7S1AbzaDzEpvVBfROoYnr2dAe7ZjKk3nsv3Z6Kc70M406eQ82vlzcUYXIglZXrQ/s1600/P1030809.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Lighting a candle is one of my favourite ways to unwind and really sets the tone for the evening. My favourite of the moment is Sanctuary Spa's 'Daydream' candle from their Sleep range. You may remember I blogged about the Sanctuary <a href="http://carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/sanctuary-sleep-4-in-1-restoring-body.html">'Sleep 4 in 1 Restoring Body Elixir'</a>. I loved the scent so much I purchased the candle to match - I think I've now repurchased this about four times! Similar to the body elixir, the 'daydream' candle reminds me a lot of Tom Ford's 'Black Orchid'. The scent throw is fantastic with the essential oils of ylang ylang, frankincense and patchouli. For the quality, it's an affordable option priced at £12.50.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Skincare</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqNnn9UNR_r891dQc9dRzBvisSlst7gHzf7ECg9N3G8rwSe4rkJMx7kmlhNdcYPRcCHG3PucbWKEOUy1JwRkZWma0GR83egX935DmGPEK0dSMxdDC_noVmfgKmblERvMXhBwGVv9SBYA/s1600/P1030771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqNnn9UNR_r891dQc9dRzBvisSlst7gHzf7ECg9N3G8rwSe4rkJMx7kmlhNdcYPRcCHG3PucbWKEOUy1JwRkZWma0GR83egX935DmGPEK0dSMxdDC_noVmfgKmblERvMXhBwGVv9SBYA/s1600/P1030771.JPG" height="484" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of the first things I do when feeling a little blue is pin my hair back and take off my make up. There's much to be said about the power of a clean face! I remove my make up using Emma Hardie's 'Moringa Cleansing Balm', followed by cleansing with my Clarisonic. REN's 'Hydra-Calm Cleansing Milk' is the perfect accompaniment to my Clarisonic; it's quite thick in consistency and extremely gentle on the skin. A face mask is always a good way to feel pampered and one of my favourites is still REN's 'Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask'. I follow this up with my Origins 'GinZing' moisturiser, No 7's 'Overnight Revitalising Eye Balm' and the Nuxe 'Reve de Miel' lip balm. You can read a more in-depth post about my favourite skin care <a href="http://carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.co.uk/2013/08/my-current-skincare-routine.html">here</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Bath Time</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB8v_TUt26xOBXGZZM04UDbQy8MKlxS2ADftL4ykrGIzzSdG50cUHkdpMHbbh74AFWUGb8-z3MINUbtp3NGD_Gcuwjj6x4F9YoFBit4QfC2rp3jnkoXLCGsM7or8Hxr7nyAkG-e2LpDLg/s1600/P1030784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB8v_TUt26xOBXGZZM04UDbQy8MKlxS2ADftL4ykrGIzzSdG50cUHkdpMHbbh74AFWUGb8-z3MINUbtp3NGD_Gcuwjj6x4F9YoFBit4QfC2rp3jnkoXLCGsM7or8Hxr7nyAkG-e2LpDLg/s1600/P1030784.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcIn-n21IPdPBkFJBpU6NzueTNuIKaXGz10xSLPRkq7nxjXueks_fUQklr6dwxJQnBfrNbD6fdkZf812qS-cwkT7IoT0aIueII3bB8UTTDK3T_ZO1mavmVPgr_nl7NzaqO3vOpzX9MZU/s1600/P1030778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcIn-n21IPdPBkFJBpU6NzueTNuIKaXGz10xSLPRkq7nxjXueks_fUQklr6dwxJQnBfrNbD6fdkZf812qS-cwkT7IoT0aIueII3bB8UTTDK3T_ZO1mavmVPgr_nl7NzaqO3vOpzX9MZU/s1600/P1030778.JPG" height="410" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubW7_SDUuNG4z9u2mRjLZ6JvHY09tfPLaUUFVO3cq28SdRzLoHx7E595M3gUxWNmNir-nLxJe0DSdFuOlFWjOsr3oL7O-Va-4mx1-2hDZHkL0AeKcVqNlxzl0lJb3wk8esXs-zW81ggQ/s1600/P1030773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubW7_SDUuNG4z9u2mRjLZ6JvHY09tfPLaUUFVO3cq28SdRzLoHx7E595M3gUxWNmNir-nLxJe0DSdFuOlFWjOsr3oL7O-Va-4mx1-2hDZHkL0AeKcVqNlxzl0lJb3wk8esXs-zW81ggQ/s1600/P1030773.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Soaking in a hot bath is probably one of the easiest ways to help wind down mid-week. I've become guilty of sneaking out to Lush at Wednesday lunchtimes to pick a new bath treat. One of my newest discoveries is 'Ceridwen's Cauldron' luxury bath melt. You put the whole melt in the bath, muslin bag and all. The cocoa butter, oats and beautiful selection of essential oils (walnut, tangerine, lavender, sandalwood, frankincense,) melt into the water creating quite a milky, moisturising bath. You are left with a bag of oats to use as a wash cloth. The scent is absolutely divine and leaves my skin feeling out of this world!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
While soaking in the bath, I love to use a hair mask. My favourite of the moment is Charles Worthington's 'Moisture Seal Intense Melting Balm'. This is my second pot of the balm; I melt the balm between my fingers, transforming it into an amazing smelling oil before applying it through the length of hair. I normally leave the balm in for around twenty minutes. Once washed out, my hair is left silky soft, nourished and unbelievably shiny!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Clinique's 'Deep Comfort Body Butter' is one of the first body butters that I actually enjoy to use. It melts into the skin well, doesn't leave a greasy residue and is unscented, perfect to use after a perfumed Lush bath!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Nails</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GvtnWURSkdUjwJhO3bzUYX44hgYwSPVWvHuZ28Ch9kOVv5Gm7W6T0dNUpClgQ0wxFTMwkzNgs1Htg60Lenc06ACrvl5lxOtPlddG-_M5HPKPbFYaRRp0OMwJIo5c8cDzHBTU3ONf3To/s1600/P1030792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GvtnWURSkdUjwJhO3bzUYX44hgYwSPVWvHuZ28Ch9kOVv5Gm7W6T0dNUpClgQ0wxFTMwkzNgs1Htg60Lenc06ACrvl5lxOtPlddG-_M5HPKPbFYaRRp0OMwJIo5c8cDzHBTU3ONf3To/s1600/P1030792.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
A sure fire way of instantly perking me up is to paint my nails a bright colour. Sinful Colors do an amazing range of brights at such an affordable price (£1.99!). If I'm really feeling the mid-week slump, I always turn to glitter! One of my new favourites is the chunky love heart glitter in the bottom left hand corner from Urban Outfitters!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Watch/Read/Listen</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe frameborder="no" height="450" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/47967268&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4IOW8KUlTDvSAWmNAA4k3Xq7-eC3EavGQzL6g7YmEfB1j4WV95BPOUEeE7PhV7SE6pRLAEYbaNH3CsrkQD_PVG_fFgL1Q2fG4nuvjWb3d0rXShVl4qvoHRSX4EQQhhQmjFPBfHZuZ1nw/s1600/P1030794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4IOW8KUlTDvSAWmNAA4k3Xq7-eC3EavGQzL6g7YmEfB1j4WV95BPOUEeE7PhV7SE6pRLAEYbaNH3CsrkQD_PVG_fFgL1Q2fG4nuvjWb3d0rXShVl4qvoHRSX4EQQhhQmjFPBfHZuZ1nw/s1600/P1030794.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7sOgkAewjZa0HO49zX0xT7GlWmybm8iwsOA0FvwDXynJs5BwUpXWuyra61nUvznTCuecTlr6WGuSXyTGx0-EvwIZ3N6kxuk0cVayYXYSYdEanfuuk5ctoqtLj4qTTR_gSK-NARN6-4Os/s1600/P1030800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7sOgkAewjZa0HO49zX0xT7GlWmybm8iwsOA0FvwDXynJs5BwUpXWuyra61nUvznTCuecTlr6WGuSXyTGx0-EvwIZ3N6kxuk0cVayYXYSYdEanfuuk5ctoqtLj4qTTR_gSK-NARN6-4Os/s1600/P1030800.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
After I'm all pampered out, I like to coory in my pj's and either read a good book or watch a film. I've recently just finished 'Stoner' by John Williams and Philip Pullman's retelling of Grimm's Fairy Tells and highly recommend them both. I also love to download magazines on my iPad; I've got this months Allure ready to go! While reading, I often listen to music. One of my favourite mixes is the one featured above: Homefriends by Ross One and Harley Viera-Newton. Seriously, go and download this from Soundcloud (it's free!), it's perfect night in music! Of course, it wouldn't be Magic's in the Make Up without some Disney...an hour and a half of perfect escapism!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I would love to hear how you beat the mid-week blues!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Love Nic</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-50746655823409277372014-01-26T13:07:00.002+00:002014-01-27T21:04:36.485+00:00Kate Spade Cobble Hill Lacey Purse<div style="text-align: justify;">
If I had the chance to go back and start again with my wardrobe, chances are it would largely be comprised of Kate Spade. I am head over heels with the cute, girly designs, the bright colours (my favourite combinations are always brights and gold) and the small details that make Kate Spade so special. It's all in the details; quotes, graphics and fonts. I'm literally charmed by it all! Consequently, I was over the moon when Nick returned home from a trip to New York clutching a bright pink Kate Spade bag.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcD90xddLZkeQeB6ucylOw2l923xEcYGAEsiPR4og-ne7YU4YX5ztn0HGT6xH82zL2qpYQYfzseIT_6rCbAQOaHSASi1KuKOp8u9EQ7zbALAYvR-4VdTGcOvgRuiSgRZTUQoT4d7phQs/s1600/P1030733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcD90xddLZkeQeB6ucylOw2l923xEcYGAEsiPR4og-ne7YU4YX5ztn0HGT6xH82zL2qpYQYfzseIT_6rCbAQOaHSASi1KuKOp8u9EQ7zbALAYvR-4VdTGcOvgRuiSgRZTUQoT4d7phQs/s1600/P1030733.JPG" height="398" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSt7lb0N1WQYWzV6BvefHdeSl3byK68AIhfavUbbo5z5R6LhKGhjO1Z_2YrZrFtxuwLiGrW04vogFrIzeA-tQ_4iZhhBphNhiXJaHk_mH5OObbmng-lL7Yl7wH1pZ2qp6C2O2ox70JJs/s1600/P1030743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSt7lb0N1WQYWzV6BvefHdeSl3byK68AIhfavUbbo5z5R6LhKGhjO1Z_2YrZrFtxuwLiGrW04vogFrIzeA-tQ_4iZhhBphNhiXJaHk_mH5OObbmng-lL7Yl7wH1pZ2qp6C2O2ox70JJs/s1600/P1030743.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9wD6_vsIz7Hrecem6EJU6aqg4DBQ9qaOvfrHZODl-aEdPxXLsXRCIqKveZ4R-YjJSXTRL8XU5Ol43HhWz3HUnOf55-Zcd1dgAYjOKt-Q85CW6YnD4o9rwfA8s8Pdjc0Hsl5dhsowrVw/s1600/P1030746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9wD6_vsIz7Hrecem6EJU6aqg4DBQ9qaOvfrHZODl-aEdPxXLsXRCIqKveZ4R-YjJSXTRL8XU5Ol43HhWz3HUnOf55-Zcd1dgAYjOKt-Q85CW6YnD4o9rwfA8s8Pdjc0Hsl5dhsowrVw/s1600/P1030746.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Nick picked out the Cobble Hill Lacey wallet in Strawberry Froyo (adorable!) - a beautiful bright pink with gold hardware and striped lining .</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju4osu7KYW4JQs1wcqFVZVx8Xvx24SulhOS7yTbyUIRPrfwZae0s6U-7QAgpyH65jegROnOfYEhYODKIWWVurE-EKFMT36CgOtwpPv8eXtjEoFoF02zM1dkGCtfu7SNQzTyAVHSI6WbOQ/s1600/P1030749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju4osu7KYW4JQs1wcqFVZVx8Xvx24SulhOS7yTbyUIRPrfwZae0s6U-7QAgpyH65jegROnOfYEhYODKIWWVurE-EKFMT36CgOtwpPv8eXtjEoFoF02zM1dkGCtfu7SNQzTyAVHSI6WbOQ/s1600/P1030749.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywzmUEJ4w6QczWaDd8eoFU5ibli2bCSbK6rzeAJwU5hh7G7-p3Rga3gxLBUGekX8ydJeNACGqtDrOkJNSKG4asp8H9TTHF4CHhtsLb4ChRs8uX7A4SOwAOWi673TzdSpk8T5a9ufovaw/s1600/P1030750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywzmUEJ4w6QczWaDd8eoFU5ibli2bCSbK6rzeAJwU5hh7G7-p3Rga3gxLBUGekX8ydJeNACGqtDrOkJNSKG4asp8H9TTHF4CHhtsLb4ChRs8uX7A4SOwAOWi673TzdSpk8T5a9ufovaw/s1600/P1030750.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbMVtkBvYdhkmHuBG5OF6hAGUbqNqruVRUWmyrNRdFhpIM-QiPFNYD_rPRO-ZxQJ1OabGGTHTWBlaAhhyYZ6bY3X8dJk4HgtFbgpn1INtB9kfKRnOlre-JUX5zqzmVtqgDJcwI2pXbWs0/s1600/P1030751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbMVtkBvYdhkmHuBG5OF6hAGUbqNqruVRUWmyrNRdFhpIM-QiPFNYD_rPRO-ZxQJ1OabGGTHTWBlaAhhyYZ6bY3X8dJk4HgtFbgpn1INtB9kfKRnOlre-JUX5zqzmVtqgDJcwI2pXbWs0/s1600/P1030751.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The leather is pebbled and buttery soft and despite the larger size, is remarkably light. There are a number of different compartments and card slots which helps indulge my compulsion of never throwing anything away. It's the perfect size to pop your phone in if you're running errands and don't want to carry a bigger bag. I love that despite the bright colour, it's still understated with the small gold embossment. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9t5rWTI8z8YqULl_V3Kgmy_aev-6DLN47UgP1xkEjtJalpPDU8dtnJ3oK1LwIHDEmNTRhxSwsuZYfm-HPv8E4ihEcciQQqh67D5bdk8Y8PuOeBRLjKp1LV5igvYEKzg4ihJSXtcYafc/s1600/P1030755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9t5rWTI8z8YqULl_V3Kgmy_aev-6DLN47UgP1xkEjtJalpPDU8dtnJ3oK1LwIHDEmNTRhxSwsuZYfm-HPv8E4ihEcciQQqh67D5bdk8Y8PuOeBRLjKp1LV5igvYEKzg4ihJSXtcYafc/s1600/P1030755.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Practical yet chic, the Cobble Hill Lacey wallet is the most beautiful purse I've ever owned. For those who live in the UK, you can buy Lacey from Selfridges <a href="http://www.selfridges.com/en/Womenswear/Categories/Shop-Accessories/Purses-wallets/Wallets/Lacey-leather-wallet_133-3003424-PWRU1801951/?previewAttribute=Strawb">here</a> (the name is slightly different).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kate Spade, you've stolen my heart.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lots of Love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-54123632821030591952014-01-12T11:25:00.002+00:002014-01-12T11:25:31.094+00:00Lipstick Week Day 7: M.A.C Girl About Town<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-__ZbQEb-fe0zgPd9cWGJinwrconhDOtTCKgQDtwP9O-_qWu8fGs5mLsTDv1qZflY701v7TCxcWjczF3qNYzYLrBnEMuv0n9LhPatUBVP_owHTNIdyjpW14q-asu1vTxKGIF54UyPSyA/s1600/P1030680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-__ZbQEb-fe0zgPd9cWGJinwrconhDOtTCKgQDtwP9O-_qWu8fGs5mLsTDv1qZflY701v7TCxcWjczF3qNYzYLrBnEMuv0n9LhPatUBVP_owHTNIdyjpW14q-asu1vTxKGIF54UyPSyA/s1600/P1030680.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
M.A.C 'Girl About Town' was one of the first M.A.C lipsticks I ever bought and still remains one of my favourites. 'Girl About Town' is a bright fuchsia with blue undertones and is an amplified creme finish. Of all the formulas M.A.C do, the amplified creme is probably my favourite. It's creamy, pigmented, long lasting and non-drying on the lips. 'Girl About Town' is the perfect shade to wear when you don't want to apply a lot of make up but still look done. It brightens the face and gives the appearance of a beautiful, full pout!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgch7IMlnUH1oME2oHnR9tURZPCdm9uq5SD7VvHfNgPdflo5-D2jpoYQu2qSEr92RYZ4-D5OzGtIHcifonHOWc1xFNJBjhKwENi3hMk285yH47EhGhq6Wc-b4EOU9squx780gQ9Neb5LmE/s1600/P1030664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgch7IMlnUH1oME2oHnR9tURZPCdm9uq5SD7VvHfNgPdflo5-D2jpoYQu2qSEr92RYZ4-D5OzGtIHcifonHOWc1xFNJBjhKwENi3hMk285yH47EhGhq6Wc-b4EOU9squx780gQ9Neb5LmE/s1600/P1030664.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I've really enjoyed lipstick week! It's the perfect way to break out of your make up comfort zone, rediscover unloved products and really helped me back into the blogging swing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi10kztO0KdpzgqCWRU0CFyiVT0ztAD3fiW4FBW_r-dy5srjEcT4zwr3TN8S_mDHtn72ezkmpPCWjrC57wGvZxezo-nSe3IA17Yk4LZyQpUZkPlDOYq55CZ2vdRNFiyolSDmpHG34-ClyE/s1600/Desktop4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi10kztO0KdpzgqCWRU0CFyiVT0ztAD3fiW4FBW_r-dy5srjEcT4zwr3TN8S_mDHtn72ezkmpPCWjrC57wGvZxezo-nSe3IA17Yk4LZyQpUZkPlDOYq55CZ2vdRNFiyolSDmpHG34-ClyE/s1600/Desktop4.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Which was your favourite?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-91306965343411942142014-01-10T12:57:00.000+00:002014-01-10T12:57:36.032+00:00Lipstick Week Day 6: Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in 'Boy'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVLIxpSow44Gt_pDOxL8fZ3yqQiO_q_BF_IC335a5mtHDNHZ0K8DBXOtAf_tlTKhg8bzZQkL7uNqnDQy2MtG20vOD_voKn28QE8pezW5TjmGP8s-D6jJwXwe4fp3hqD85PFgMHwU-VuI/s1600/P1030673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSVLIxpSow44Gt_pDOxL8fZ3yqQiO_q_BF_IC335a5mtHDNHZ0K8DBXOtAf_tlTKhg8bzZQkL7uNqnDQy2MtG20vOD_voKn28QE8pezW5TjmGP8s-D6jJwXwe4fp3hqD85PFgMHwU-VuI/s1600/P1030673.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Considering that Chanel's Rouge Coco Shine in 'Boy' is one of my most used everyday lipsticks, I can't believe this is the first time I've posted about it on MITM! The Rouge Coco Shines may not be the most long lasting of lipstick formulas but they are lovely to wear, and almost feel like a tinted lip balm. 'Boy' is a beautiful beige/pink however on me, the beige tones really pull through which I love. It has subtle shimmer that really adds to the shine of the lipstick and I think it looks so flattering on the lips. I really can't get enough of 'Boy', this is my third tube!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5QOrE_lM3ieZBKHN0a_Qu7Qd1NcEb9tCbLVE5URRD0bKCA5O6jI0it-GcV5lInrg-6zZMmMx2RVI72M5TA1Qmk5Kd7MXwmy8DZswbS1WEUClEnUr3g4-9VRzRFe5BmzueX17dVDO-xE/s1600/P1030655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5QOrE_lM3ieZBKHN0a_Qu7Qd1NcEb9tCbLVE5URRD0bKCA5O6jI0it-GcV5lInrg-6zZMmMx2RVI72M5TA1Qmk5Kd7MXwmy8DZswbS1WEUClEnUr3g4-9VRzRFe5BmzueX17dVDO-xE/s1600/P1030655.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Be warned, because of its high shine and moisturising formula, 'Boy' only lasts around 2 hours on my lips. I can turn a blind eye to this on account of how beautiful it is!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lots of Love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-12432253305505533802014-01-08T18:17:00.000+00:002014-01-08T18:17:02.535+00:00Lipstick Week Day 5: Color Sensational Vivid in 'Hot Plum'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9FRxtH21RID29R-feryt7gCuCgPCZ_0L7JslGSLVMj1bydpINC0XDI9znwx8Kz-0q1_jY34OVvilZV7s8w4MG7WD6TBLDMpB4peYbTDIOodLosedqQO5oBVTKlp4V6n5meDAmRE4bnqg/s1600/P1030641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9FRxtH21RID29R-feryt7gCuCgPCZ_0L7JslGSLVMj1bydpINC0XDI9znwx8Kz-0q1_jY34OVvilZV7s8w4MG7WD6TBLDMpB4peYbTDIOodLosedqQO5oBVTKlp4V6n5meDAmRE4bnqg/s1600/P1030641.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
'Hot Plum' was one of my favourite lipstick discoveries of last year. It is an amazingly bright, cool toned pink/purple. The shade name may be a little bit misleading but the formulation more than makes up for it. 'Hot Plum' applies like an absolute dream; it glides on to the lips and feels lightweight to wear. It doesn't cling to or emphasise any imperfections and you only need one layer to get fully opaque coverage. The formula is long lasting and is extremely affordable, priced at around £7.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PCA1TilBM2g9zV9aIW2V4Lp4oFZqh5hDSVZUB6ddvDRS-lKnhV5AahhIiHMLzGNWZKKHN4x3udMADh_oa3AjQsNBPlZp26-0QO29IZDGJwZCiidnep4Wlty1qwVg_XBlQYbk-IwBdqk/s1600/Hot+Plum.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PCA1TilBM2g9zV9aIW2V4Lp4oFZqh5hDSVZUB6ddvDRS-lKnhV5AahhIiHMLzGNWZKKHN4x3udMADh_oa3AjQsNBPlZp26-0QO29IZDGJwZCiidnep4Wlty1qwVg_XBlQYbk-IwBdqk/s1600/Hot+Plum.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
If you like fuchsia lipsticks, I can't recommend 'Hot Plum' enough, especially for the price. It's the perfect shade to get you through the mid week slump!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lots of Love</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nic xx</div>
<br />Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-58596686061755352082014-01-07T20:50:00.001+00:002014-01-07T20:50:24.146+00:00Lipstick Week Day 4: Giorgio Armani Rouge Ecstasy #400<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
It is no secret that Chanel's Rouge Allure lipstick formula is my favourite of all time. However, that was until I had tried Armani's new Rouge Ecstasy range. Giorgio Armani describe the formula as the first CC lipstick. standing for Colour and Care. The Rouge Ecstasy lipsticks offer the comfort of a lip balm with beautiful, velvety soft colours. My infatuation with the Rouge Ecstasy formula only intensified when Nick bought me 'Four Hundred' for Christmas (He braved the Fraser's Beauty Hall and picked it all by himself!).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCcEq5V4Az3AA6wW9ldht5vlaAa2oI99GtcHRGw4EEJUZJsK4OM1aIpCqQILiu-mrNVbFmTkkJDWInSdzcCCdL2VVm4NabFlp7unAzEYMXzi7X9zmUUhs1x7B5c3L0CFwv_aaaLHNBGVI/s1600/Armani+400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCcEq5V4Az3AA6wW9ldht5vlaAa2oI99GtcHRGw4EEJUZJsK4OM1aIpCqQILiu-mrNVbFmTkkJDWInSdzcCCdL2VVm4NabFlp7unAzEYMXzi7X9zmUUhs1x7B5c3L0CFwv_aaaLHNBGVI/s1600/Armani+400.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
'Four Hundred' is a beautifully deep, classic red. It is subtly blue toned, making it an extremely flattering shade to wear. The application is beautiful; it simply glides on to the lips and feels just like a lip balm. 'Four Hundred' has a satin finish and despite being quite a rich formulation, is extremely comfortable to wear. The formula is long lasting and pigmented; there's no need for layering with this lipstick. If you feel a little intimidated by the pigmentation of the Lip Maestro version of 'Four Hundred', this would be a perfect alternative as it is a lot easier to wear. I like to think of it as the day time appropriate version!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZDqrrMTt30YnknZENmDCAjB8hKPNtfnalRrKZTf2GvcoqVCLoh-l9O5K79RDbz9Huk2z5X7HguhyRWPfydHtmPrgUHRCJUalUaeWfcMLOdszC1RSG71rjIBIWut-5RKczMdbLxsdFok/s1600/Armani+400+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZDqrrMTt30YnknZENmDCAjB8hKPNtfnalRrKZTf2GvcoqVCLoh-l9O5K79RDbz9Huk2z5X7HguhyRWPfydHtmPrgUHRCJUalUaeWfcMLOdszC1RSG71rjIBIWut-5RKczMdbLxsdFok/s1600/Armani+400+4.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Armani Rouge Ecstasy, you have truly stolen my heart.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lots of Love</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nic xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-44233630576657957512014-01-06T18:24:00.000+00:002014-01-06T18:24:00.041+00:00Lipstick Week Day 3: M.A.C's Toxic Tale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I don't think I've been as excited for a M.A.C collection than I was about Venomous Villains. I am a huge Disney fan and secretly love a good villain - the combination of Disney Villains and lipstick was too much to resist! 'Toxic Tale' was the one product that stood out to me straight away and I knew I <i>had </i>to have it. However, it has been sadly neglected as time has went on; lipstick week has been a brilliant excuse to use it again!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnNntEzJzhQIOlVJQpG87NJgOZD7HRUssGZsVSnfzZ3eJoedICRP3CehLMgEL4ew9XaA_6sFk9Mjm4YrAzFFzS183vqsYV1BCz5CSqS6-CBzXOyBxFUkK7A0za60EjpXMTpij-NZfk_A/s1600/P1030643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnNntEzJzhQIOlVJQpG87NJgOZD7HRUssGZsVSnfzZ3eJoedICRP3CehLMgEL4ew9XaA_6sFk9Mjm4YrAzFFzS183vqsYV1BCz5CSqS6-CBzXOyBxFUkK7A0za60EjpXMTpij-NZfk_A/s1600/P1030643.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
'Toxic Tale' is an extremely bright coral (in some lights it can look almost neon!) and is a satin finish. The formula is pigmented, applies smoothly and because of the satin finish, is long wearing. 'Toxic Tale' was part of the Evil Queen collection (my favourite Disney villain, rivalled only by Ursula) and I absolutely love the packaging - I much prefer the shiny casing to the traditional M.A.C matte plastic.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxrnWQ16MgMRBPkNojRT65CFu1ZEb84ukCUuvs06rBRaJyuS_EIN8Fz2v26aHjPYa71FZekYiTANZC-1tbxt7cGMNWYmbRP5mO_L1Wwa53dGzvZkVfSuXHYsq2hM5NFvzhw_f1xM8Sjn0/s1600/Toxic+Tale+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxrnWQ16MgMRBPkNojRT65CFu1ZEb84ukCUuvs06rBRaJyuS_EIN8Fz2v26aHjPYa71FZekYiTANZC-1tbxt7cGMNWYmbRP5mO_L1Wwa53dGzvZkVfSuXHYsq2hM5NFvzhw_f1xM8Sjn0/s1600/Toxic+Tale+2.JPG" height="502" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
As 'Toxic Tale' was LE, I've been researching online to find a possible dupe - I've read a couple of blog posts which compare 'Toxic Tale' to Rimmel's 110 from the Kate Moss collection and the photos look pretty convincing. I can't wait to look for myself!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lots of Love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-77909814531057438012014-01-05T12:48:00.001+00:002014-01-05T12:48:19.220+00:00Lipstick Week Day 2: YSL Rouge Volupte Perle 'Celestial Mauve'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
When I first started Magic's in the Make Up, YSL's Rouge Volupte lipsticks were <i>everywhere - </i>the packaging was beautiful, the formula glided on to the lips like no other and the colour range was excellent. However, they are one of the worst lipstick formulas for longevity I have ever tried; a result of their exceptionally creamy consistency. Enter the Rouge Volupte Perle in 'Celestial Mauve'. Despite being less opaque than their Rouge Volupte cousins, the Volupte Perle formula seems to be a longer lasting and a lot glossier. I have a couple of the other darker shades and they all leave a beautiful stain to the lips once the initial shine has worn down.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylY1JAdqZG9h3Lg262RAZjaF8rkSNnOKsqGOXxdHbOcOBHfmVDtnIZE-KZGL6tCzAAqJvvJlgjNzZZbnIVezAe9IhtyLPIoYBYmbR4n_yUuG8QSnToLrGYktZ7d-bVv5zcVhffFGoet0/s1600/YSL+Celestial+Mauve.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylY1JAdqZG9h3Lg262RAZjaF8rkSNnOKsqGOXxdHbOcOBHfmVDtnIZE-KZGL6tCzAAqJvvJlgjNzZZbnIVezAe9IhtyLPIoYBYmbR4n_yUuG8QSnToLrGYktZ7d-bVv5zcVhffFGoet0/s640/YSL+Celestial+Mauve.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
'Celestial Mauve' (LE) is not the easiest shade to wear and it took me a while to play about with the application. I initially applied it quite opaquely on the lips and the finish was a little unflattering and streaky. I've found the best way to apply 'Celestial Mauve' is to apply an opaque layer and, using my finger, gently pat the product into my lips. This avoids the formula from streaking and helps diffuse the strong lilac undertones which can sometimes look a little harsh, instead leaving behind a beautiful, baby pink finish.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FoZXasqLXH9Fvq0CFoAxWxrr1ic139V2PEScbqjgSeFPPGLsEwUFrJOzvnHEL2KsjdoBDa2aKRiiUQdsHIA4_awhkMPJITSHppMFcYtGhk6RLTsBeINTMlK1KnsOYkhYfWLWldf5784/s1600/YSL+Celestial+Mauve+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FoZXasqLXH9Fvq0CFoAxWxrr1ic139V2PEScbqjgSeFPPGLsEwUFrJOzvnHEL2KsjdoBDa2aKRiiUQdsHIA4_awhkMPJITSHppMFcYtGhk6RLTsBeINTMlK1KnsOYkhYfWLWldf5784/s640/YSL+Celestial+Mauve+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love Nic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-88022005208421215912014-01-04T13:39:00.004+00:002014-01-04T13:39:48.282+00:00Lipstick Week: Topshop Beguiled<div style="text-align: justify;">
A couple of years ago, I challenged myself to wear a different coloured lipstick each day for a week and blog about it daily (more challenging than it sounds while working full time in winter!). Starting from today, I've decided to redo this challenge - it always helps free me from a make up rut! The shades I've chosen are:</div>
<br />
1) Dark plum: Topshop 'Beguiled'<br />
2) Nude - Chanel 'Boy'<br />
3) Pink - M.A.C Girl About Town<br />
4) Baby Pink - Rouge Volupte Perle 'Celestial Mauve'<br />
5) Purple - Maybelline Colorsensational 'Hot Plum'<br />
6) Coral - M.A.C 'Toxic Tale'<br />
7) Red - Giorgio Armani Rouge Ecsatasy '400'.<br />
<br />
I decided to go head first into the challenge and choose the most daring shade: Topshop's 'Beguiled'.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTlBEBw-Owf7zMUyKcm7n80jeJOcRxofu1JpQoXXIMlei9AEYsFgKoPfAGh_nFyOQ81l9qQoabY-3ON_uVlN4uju2wmkBLowV4rYPa0bdoJ89gd46LlCxCxef_JW4PKheReGqpDl3f-kY/s1600/Topshop+Beguiled.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTlBEBw-Owf7zMUyKcm7n80jeJOcRxofu1JpQoXXIMlei9AEYsFgKoPfAGh_nFyOQ81l9qQoabY-3ON_uVlN4uju2wmkBLowV4rYPa0bdoJ89gd46LlCxCxef_JW4PKheReGqpDl3f-kY/s640/Topshop+Beguiled.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ042mrjDgrRRyZ6LnaKZBJxEpcOtT_nY9r6u8HJv-WVwIq_rSpr6BC3sUBiiLB0AH06wSGO9Ti2SkG-nECdyvtrKM994dy5Q2TD_MqrtR8qtv-pCs-Cov0_bAfpvT6OMpwdGxAg4e8v4/s1600/Topshop+Beguiled+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ042mrjDgrRRyZ6LnaKZBJxEpcOtT_nY9r6u8HJv-WVwIq_rSpr6BC3sUBiiLB0AH06wSGO9Ti2SkG-nECdyvtrKM994dy5Q2TD_MqrtR8qtv-pCs-Cov0_bAfpvT6OMpwdGxAg4e8v4/s640/Topshop+Beguiled+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
'Beguiled' is a beautifully dark, red-toned plum that dries down to a satin finish. Unfortunately, it does tend to emphasise any imperfections on the lips but a little lip prep before applying definitely helps. Because the formula is fairly dry, it is however extremely long lasting on the lips and typical of this type of shade, leaves a pretty plum stain on the lips during the day.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What are your thoughts on 'Beguiled' - have you worn a similar dark shade this winter?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love Nic </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-46438671031964228432014-01-01T20:00:00.005+00:002014-01-01T20:00:50.700+00:002013 Favourites<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have loved 2013 - it may not have been the most productive of years (something I want to work on for 2014) but it's been a lot of <b>fun! </b>I wanted to take a look back at some of my favourite things I've discovered in the last year. </div>
<br />
<b>Favourite make up product</b>: <a href="http://carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/laura-mercier-foundation-primer-and.html">Laura Mercier Silk Creme Foundation</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUTaa6uFsOdMnh6XNtKsiwBxAHGVze89TJI3stEQzT8jME016MKBKgWJRfays7LBAvqRYmzeMKGZd5MzjsRPGoJOjCZBebDSdCa6ncGxcaFCY2hlaze7L-RYgCrYoft0BrgLLUlX_0kOE/s1600/laura+mercier+silk+creme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUTaa6uFsOdMnh6XNtKsiwBxAHGVze89TJI3stEQzT8jME016MKBKgWJRfays7LBAvqRYmzeMKGZd5MzjsRPGoJOjCZBebDSdCa6ncGxcaFCY2hlaze7L-RYgCrYoft0BrgLLUlX_0kOE/s640/laura+mercier+silk+creme.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Favourite Hair Product:</b> <a href="http://carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/review-sleep-in-rollers.html">Sleep-In Rollers</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtueLsajzbLmeYySbYJnrZ0psN-PPlJAf2bAWulGZGtzSLNLFu-5lm_2nj3VkEbtAeYVUDfbJhe3WhCujk87WMp-qa3q4z9zU5kMgGTbCORsHOP_zV2whC4-V7vecZ1Mn1bepg-R8uqpA/s1600/P1030279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtueLsajzbLmeYySbYJnrZ0psN-PPlJAf2bAWulGZGtzSLNLFu-5lm_2nj3VkEbtAeYVUDfbJhe3WhCujk87WMp-qa3q4z9zU5kMgGTbCORsHOP_zV2whC4-V7vecZ1Mn1bepg-R8uqpA/s640/P1030279.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Favourite Skin Care Product</b>: <a href="http://carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/some-recent-favourites.html">Emma Hardie Amazing Face Moringa Cleansing Balm</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI63XbCoNcRwNeul6dBf2FtbajMcFOBvn2c_lmvqiN-KHb9aMdYrnUYNNwvUQE9jqsZocuDVnC3sZZmc3GYldHO0TP3rj-jWR8P-J9iIJ2i4uX98zzvcFwn-tYWAZNJk4WgWdRoh-YqjI/s1600/P1020756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI63XbCoNcRwNeul6dBf2FtbajMcFOBvn2c_lmvqiN-KHb9aMdYrnUYNNwvUQE9jqsZocuDVnC3sZZmc3GYldHO0TP3rj-jWR8P-J9iIJ2i4uX98zzvcFwn-tYWAZNJk4WgWdRoh-YqjI/s640/P1020756.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Favourite Dresses:</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDniyNIeB2FCeMt-5Ms8zAvv3Gq-hAlNHHARZX5oQ8f0hH49X_ZVH-hQHbWVyqtoB9GbYLEp419mmOvb6pWEIL43jFQ0RkfaKBD1hTOATGC8Wxkt4_1Ml5STctTxy8HwrCP3xcYXd-wwo/s1600/Desktop1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDniyNIeB2FCeMt-5Ms8zAvv3Gq-hAlNHHARZX5oQ8f0hH49X_ZVH-hQHbWVyqtoB9GbYLEp419mmOvb6pWEIL43jFQ0RkfaKBD1hTOATGC8Wxkt4_1Ml5STctTxy8HwrCP3xcYXd-wwo/s640/Desktop1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Favourite Places I've visited</b>: Portugal, Liverpool, London (especially the Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlrG2Eo_TonQV2b0kitZ3B2FYe85K_x6uvFAsHrrMoTmNcYaT6rmCR_Py8OLeKiYchriZB1HILjhSbbNY1j5l5-ctUfvQ6Ey84ndZ8zQRoSfvuDuLdDhPVVU5gwBD96tYr0Sbu2NUp1d8/s1600/Desktop2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlrG2Eo_TonQV2b0kitZ3B2FYe85K_x6uvFAsHrrMoTmNcYaT6rmCR_Py8OLeKiYchriZB1HILjhSbbNY1j5l5-ctUfvQ6Ey84ndZ8zQRoSfvuDuLdDhPVVU5gwBD96tYr0Sbu2NUp1d8/s640/Desktop2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Favourite Photograph of 2013:</b> My Amazing Family</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglow6TK7DH71RoSmb0xPvYXT87wqu7uygLtcLa_ci4bpihQQJPK5gJ49YHAruOGh3DPS8Dt8DA0RiFsHmcMyVVTDsDA6OanAXw4UImFaHHzvwMMn7dTLThZF77NI6BW14VT2PECQIeXTc/s1600/1524894_3757042980986_1680845039_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglow6TK7DH71RoSmb0xPvYXT87wqu7uygLtcLa_ci4bpihQQJPK5gJ49YHAruOGh3DPS8Dt8DA0RiFsHmcMyVVTDsDA6OanAXw4UImFaHHzvwMMn7dTLThZF77NI6BW14VT2PECQIeXTc/s640/1524894_3757042980986_1680845039_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Favourite Thing I've Eaten:</b> <a href="http://www.carrsky-carrsky.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/the-best-carrot-cake.html">The World's Best Carrot Cake </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZi5ssnjD8P__8Fy_uhbDbt88sr_KcLyE1I90MGclxKdHel9DKwaRBLwA1FoeTvjjS_M3EQ9Hgn-gVhE0iRJ6OZOlpALTSwBRXF1eR_jbUZdXCN9Z5wLGvR16ik-wAs1iL5F5ruB5vwo/s1600/IMG_8371+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZi5ssnjD8P__8Fy_uhbDbt88sr_KcLyE1I90MGclxKdHel9DKwaRBLwA1FoeTvjjS_M3EQ9Hgn-gVhE0iRJ6OZOlpALTSwBRXF1eR_jbUZdXCN9Z5wLGvR16ik-wAs1iL5F5ruB5vwo/s640/IMG_8371+(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Favourite Book I've Read:</b> A Song of Fire and Ice Series (I can see a coffee and cake theme appearing)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKmruLo-WxEX7c6Ju2yMDFw9CjBAQM8G0DlZemyrsHtLW1eaQSEU2XmuZLFVD4v_NXX6HWgbvVbdidAojNqTSi4oPxHzwNwdfNqIqlTRAoDHfCmUQ1auOynLJJpeDJY04X6e7lcpIeA7g/s1600/IMG_1009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKmruLo-WxEX7c6Ju2yMDFw9CjBAQM8G0DlZemyrsHtLW1eaQSEU2XmuZLFVD4v_NXX6HWgbvVbdidAojNqTSi4oPxHzwNwdfNqIqlTRAoDHfCmUQ1auOynLJJpeDJY04X6e7lcpIeA7g/s640/IMG_1009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Favourite Internet Discovery:</b> Tumblr (follow me <a href="http://carrsky.tumblr.com/">here</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHkaAQapCAfEDAkjtoVSU5zZDvupJunTpH7bKSGu7I2R1qSf9kH_HFHeL_jRR-tzcRwOEi4PyGKOwwAMHEIXJNzcVgd9SF9PPg2CBdOEhdFuQAvxsMTWsOpARycfQQL6HZJ7NClEu575k/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-01+at+19.44.23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHkaAQapCAfEDAkjtoVSU5zZDvupJunTpH7bKSGu7I2R1qSf9kH_HFHeL_jRR-tzcRwOEi4PyGKOwwAMHEIXJNzcVgd9SF9PPg2CBdOEhdFuQAvxsMTWsOpARycfQQL6HZJ7NClEu575k/s640/Screen+Shot+2014-01-01+at+19.44.23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">2013...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxWWYHR7tweLR7tMjY_kX8xqcTWCCfK8maZJDRQ2qDK1GiNocfqDXPA2ezJOYV2DIpDKHUVk2DzQPwYNScAglNxQdzbJGtJTo0CBRsD9f3fV-j-7aJmBAFNGy_jnNPMLABQUD0-e4ArQ/s1600/Desktop3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxWWYHR7tweLR7tMjY_kX8xqcTWCCfK8maZJDRQ2qDK1GiNocfqDXPA2ezJOYV2DIpDKHUVk2DzQPwYNScAglNxQdzbJGtJTo0CBRsD9f3fV-j-7aJmBAFNGy_jnNPMLABQUD0-e4ArQ/s640/Desktop3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">2014…</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
While not being one for making new years resolutions, there are a couple of things I want to focus on this year:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
1. <b>Be more creative. </b>I want to blog more and learn something new - I'd love to do some make up and nail courses!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
2. <b>Continue with Operation Disco Pants. </b>I've started 2014 feeling determined to finish!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
3. <b>Take a few pointers from <a href="http://theglitterguide.com/2013/12/31/a-glitter-girls-2014-resolutions/">The Glitter Guide</a>.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5GHv88KAPuTkO4uYCQ9KdmUSiOn8zo-SJH6D1q9XFf5uqgOPuXRfajFzLPeYOTBQZd5uDaakt5FO1TcH3k4q_0Hm18gw2G43BnBP-ILdB_uf4u7EzKSWFjYh0DlhPhVuzhBZJbmAYI9w/s1600/nye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5GHv88KAPuTkO4uYCQ9KdmUSiOn8zo-SJH6D1q9XFf5uqgOPuXRfajFzLPeYOTBQZd5uDaakt5FO1TcH3k4q_0Hm18gw2G43BnBP-ILdB_uf4u7EzKSWFjYh0DlhPhVuzhBZJbmAYI9w/s640/nye.jpg" width="440" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>HAPPY NEW YEAR!!</b></div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-599451060137683132.post-42707683638397698752013-12-15T15:17:00.001+00:002013-12-15T15:17:06.659+00:00What I wore...to a Christmas party Instagram Edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubl7SvbemTdNo-DsoR2VEcNZoMU9YRl66hsxEBqxHGNTfZR6L3s0V6vDehtqxrqVZ-Buce8QPAHzLV2QBMASPFAgMygiiHpY3Bwb65AqaTI8yTrqspT47mSdm8tYAxml4ImDaevS0hyU/s1600/1459185_3722063586523_819103138_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last night was my work Christmas party and like the amazingly organised blogger I am, didn't have time to take proper blog photographs. Instead, here are some lovely grainy Instagram snaps of what I wore.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubl7SvbemTdNo-DsoR2VEcNZoMU9YRl66hsxEBqxHGNTfZR6L3s0V6vDehtqxrqVZ-Buce8QPAHzLV2QBMASPFAgMygiiHpY3Bwb65AqaTI8yTrqspT47mSdm8tYAxml4ImDaevS0hyU/s1600/1459185_3722063586523_819103138_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubl7SvbemTdNo-DsoR2VEcNZoMU9YRl66hsxEBqxHGNTfZR6L3s0V6vDehtqxrqVZ-Buce8QPAHzLV2QBMASPFAgMygiiHpY3Bwb65AqaTI8yTrqspT47mSdm8tYAxml4ImDaevS0hyU/s640/1459185_3722063586523_819103138_n.jpg" width="640" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
My dress is from Warehouse a couple of years ago. I had originally bought <a href="http://www.missguided.co.uk/catalog/product/view/id/95511/s/bonitta-origami-mini-dress/category/849/">this</a> dress from Missguided which I absolutely love however it was incredibly short, especially for a work night out. After some last minute panicking (by panicking I mean, throwing every piece of clothing I own on the floor) I found this black body con dress with silver embellished shoulders from Warehouse. I love Warehouse dresses - I have fallen in love with this beautiful <a href="http://www.warehouse.co.uk/leather-&-feather-dress/going-out-dresses/warehouse/fcp-product/6531982177">leather and feather</a> dress - it would be perfect for New Year!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZInq-1dk3vQnoZp2rEOQ9K04Ii94bm6x9RdW_nDDuu6CO4PUMvXDW_8BtpsVzGBbLmkcndi6o82Gc4Yh4E60nItvE5l_cDURrlyA1UDTjgk4GplljvXiiYMTo_88Zo-t9TvipU6Gqmlg/s1600/575446_3722061106461_109519158_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZInq-1dk3vQnoZp2rEOQ9K04Ii94bm6x9RdW_nDDuu6CO4PUMvXDW_8BtpsVzGBbLmkcndi6o82Gc4Yh4E60nItvE5l_cDURrlyA1UDTjgk4GplljvXiiYMTo_88Zo-t9TvipU6Gqmlg/s640/575446_3722061106461_109519158_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig7tgS6srhg54LtChtT38xeLmgoQAncvElz4b0_RXxWEGBqkNTx11-4AVa7mGiFSVPK8f9nJ_ACHVs0amNp5ufWjuc_W4_OhofznYxVuQT0nzxuT50-oUGcAdBE8BlQJ1t-X7ziObGb70/s1600/999276_3722060786453_1764182675_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig7tgS6srhg54LtChtT38xeLmgoQAncvElz4b0_RXxWEGBqkNTx11-4AVa7mGiFSVPK8f9nJ_ACHVs0amNp5ufWjuc_W4_OhofznYxVuQT0nzxuT50-oUGcAdBE8BlQJ1t-X7ziObGb70/s640/999276_3722060786453_1764182675_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On my face, I wore M.A.C Studio Fix Fluid, NARS Laguna Bronzer, Bourjois Rose D'or, Laura Mercier Mosaic Shimmer Bloc and Rimmel Stay Matte powder. On my eyes, I wore Benefit's creaseless cream shadow in Strut, Urban Decay Gunmetal, M.A.C Carbon, my all time favourite M.A.C 3d silver glitter (Christmas isn't Christmas without a little glitter), Two Faced Perfect Eyes eyeliner (this has quickly become one of my favourite products ever!) and Ardell Demi Wispies. On my lips, I wore YSL Rouge Volupte #19 and Dior's Lip Glow. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then after a few too many shots of Sambucca, I got a little carried away and got some leopard print face paint done - just call me the female Mike Tyson!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I would love to see what you all wore to your Christmas parties - link me up!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love Nic </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xx</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Nicolahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05803829394386172889noreply@blogger.com2