Magic's in the Make Up

Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Lollipop

2012-03-02T15:11:00.000Z

Hey Dolls,

You may remember me saying around Christmas time I had completed a make up swap with Jessica from Getting Cheeky. One of the items I was most excited to try was Revlon's Lip Butter in Lollipop.

I am instantly drawn to bright pinks and fuchsias, though at times,I just can't be bothered with the lip preparation that comes with wearing such a bright colour - I think this is why I love lollipop so much. Because it's a lip butter, it glides onto the lips without settling into any lines and feels moisturising to wear. The colour is surprisingly opaque with a blue shimmer running through which leaves a glossy shine to the lips (it reminds me of two of my favourite lipsticks M.A.C's Show Orchid and Girl About Town). I absolutely love any lip product that contains blue shimmer (which all began when I was a teenager and was given Benefit's California Kissin' at Christmas) as it makes my teeth look much whiter.

I absolutely love how this looks on - I've applied it straight from the tube so need to fuss with a lip brush, a lazy girls perfect bright lip! I really love the packaging of the lip butters, especially with the addition of a clear panel at the top of the lid allowing you to see the shade of the bullet. The one (slight) gripe I have with lollipop is the staying power of the formula. I find that to maintain the brightness pictured above I do need reapply quite often.

Have you tried any of the Revlon Lip Butters? I can't wait for the full line to be released in the UK!

Love Nicola

Beauty in the Unlikeliest of Places

2012-02-21T21:02:00.000Z

Hey Dolls,

Finally having an aspiring comic book artist as a boyfriend has paid off! Last week Nick and I went shopping and he dragged me into the art store for what felt like 4749374 hours. Whilst I wandered around waiting, a stand of Royal and Langnickel brushes caught my eye which I knew were at IMATS this year. While I never picked anything up from their stand, I did pick up an unexpected diamond.

This is the Pro Arte number 107 spotting brush and it is the best eye liner brush I have ever used. It has made applying gel liner so much easier and precise as it's such a thin brush. The bristles aren't overly stiff or tough allowing the brush to glide over the eye leaving an extrememly smooth, flowing line

On the left is a MAC 209 and on the right a Japonesque angled brush with the pro arte in the middle - compared to the 209 you can see just how thin pro arte brush is. I had always wanted to try the Louise Young liner brush but this pro arte brush is so similar I don't feel the need for it anymore! The only draw back is the long handle which makes it a little tricky at times to get close to the mirror but this is a minor gripe.

Leaving the best till last - this brush cost me...£3.50!!! I definitely recommend having a look in your local art supply shop if you're looking for a precise eye liner brush!

Nicola

Foxy Locks Extensions

2012-01-29T16:50:00.001Z

Hey Dolls,

After my last post, a couple of people asked if I would do a separate review of my new Foxy Locks Extensions.

As I have already said, Foxy Locks are by far the best quality extensions I have ever used, shown by these being the second set I have bought. The extensions are made from 100% human remy hair which makes a difference in how smooth and shiny the extensions are as the direction of the cuticle is preserved. This means that the hair is shinier, easier to manage and less likely to tangle when washing.

I have the Regular set which are 20" long and 120g which is more than enough for the thickness of my hair in 1B off black. In the set you get two 4 clip extensions, two 3 clip extensions, two 2 clip extensions and four 1 clip extensions. The clips used are amazing, the really grip my natural hair with no chance of them coming loose during the day whilst still being easily hidden as they are quite small and a lot thinner than others I've tried.

What I love the most about foxy locks extensions are

Length. 20" for my length of hair is quite long however I'm able to cut them making them look more natural. However, if you have longer hair then the 20" would be perfect meaning they are suitable for lots of different people. With extensions, the length should always be relative to the length of your own natural hair or else they start looking a little detectable.
Colour. For me, 1B is the perfect match but there are a multitude of colours on the website. Also because they are remy hair, you are able to dye them if you need to.
Styling. They style, and hold the style, really well. Foxy Locks are particularly good at holding a curl. I wash my extensions every couple of weeks and if I curl them after washing, the curl would easily last this length of time.

As you can see, the extensions add both length and volume but blend easily into my natural hair. I've also been asked by a couple of people about how to care for my extensions:

Tangle Teazer. This is the best thing that ever happened to my extensions. Always start brushing at the ends of the hair and work upwards which avoids pulling any hair away from the clips
Leave In Conditioner. My favourite is the Healthy Sexy Hair Soy conditioner. This helps the extensions stay shiny and tangle free between washes
Coathangers. Using a hanger is the cheapest and most effective way of storing my extensions. Use a hanger with two clips at the end designed for trousers. This means the extensions hang flat avoiding tangling together.

I'd love to hear about your experiences with hair extensions and any recommendations you may have!

Lots of Love

Nicola

Some Recent (Re)Discoveries

2012-01-22T13:44:00.001Z

Hey Dolls,

Over the last couple of weeks I have bought some amazing new beauty products that I wanted to share with you all. Some of the products featured below are repurchases and others I have been using for the first time. It always says a lot to me when I repurchase products as I am so fickle/restless.

Foxy Locks Extensions

My natural hair never grows past just below my shoulders and for years I have longed for long, voluminous hair...my love affair with the Kardashian's hair and make up hasn't helped this at all. I still remember how excited I was when I purchased my first set of extensions (clip inz) and from then on I have tried several different sets of extensions. By far, Foxy Locks are the best I have ever tried. This is my second set of foxy locks extensions - they are so thick, soft and shiny.

Look at how shiny they are in natural light - there's no flash been used here at all! I wear the colour 1b which is closest to black without being jet black and match my hair perfectly. The extensions are 20" but I always trim mine down probably to about 16". The clips used on foxy locks extensions are amazing.

They are quite stiff meaning they grip my natural hair really well - there's no chance of these losing grip throughout the day. I'm thinking about doing a separate post about how I clip in, style and care for my extensions, let me know if this is of any interest!

Lush Ocean Salt

I'm suffering from horrid winter skin at the moment - I feel it looks really dry and dull. There was only one product I knew that could rescue my skin - Lush's Ocean Salt. Ocean Salt is a face scrub that combines vodka, lime, coconut, grape fruit and sea salt (coarse and fine) into an amazingly refreshing but quite abrasive scrub.

Although Ocean Salt is extremely exfoliating it is also quite creamy and the oils and coconut butter leave my face feeling so smooth and moisturised, plus it smells like a margarita! I'm coming to the end of a 'fake tan scrub week' and ocean salt has been brilliant at getting rid of any fake tan on my face and neck. If you're skin's feeling a little blue this winter, I can't recommend Ocean Salt enough!

L'Oreal Colour Infallible in Bronze Divine

I was so excited with I first read about L'Oreal's Colour Infallible eye shadows. Likened to a budget version of Armani's Eyes to Kill Intense shadows that I could buy for under £10 (in fact I bought this and a few others for £3.99) - amazing! The shadow has an unusual texture, like a tightly pressed pigment that to the touch feels really velvety, and could easily be mistaken as a cream.

Bronze Divine is quite an unusual colour as it seems to change in the light - at times it can look like a blackened gold and at others an olive gold. This is intensified by layering them over a coloured base. I've used Bronze Divine over a black base and a brown (Urban Decay Whiskey) which you can see at the bottom of this post. Over a black, the gold is particularly accentuated however over a brown bronze divine is a more wearable daytime shade.

Chanel Glossimer Myriade

I posted about this gloss last week but I wanted to show you just how pretty it is on its own. Myriade is a gorgeous red/pink that has a beautiful multitoned glitter running throughout.

I love glosses that not only add a beautiful sheen to the lips but are pigmented enough to wear on their own. I wore this every day to work last week and it added just enough colour to cheer me up through my working day, but wasn't too overwhelming for the office!

M.A.C Gingerly

I've had Gingerly since September last year and it's only been in the last couple of weeks that I've realised what an amazing blush it is. It's such a natural but pretty colour that adds depth and dimension to the face. It's a matte peachy/tan shade and looks a little darker in the pan that on the cheek. It takes a lot for me to step away from pink cheeks but Gingerly has quickly become one of my most reached for blushes - I love it!

Lots of Love

Nic

Home!

2012-01-20T18:58:00.002Z

Hey Dolls,

In May, Nick and I moved from our first flat together into our 'proper' home and at the time I promised to share some photos. Eight months later and I'm finally getting around to it. I've taken some photos (using my Iphone because I'm lazy) of some of my favourite bits and pieces around our home. I love looking at photos of other people's houses, I'm so nosy!

I love that although our flat is now much more grown up than our first, but there is still little bits of Disney sprinkled in here and there...we wouldn't want it any other way!

Hope you're all well!

Nicola

Chanel Rouge Allure in Lover

2012-01-13T18:24:00.000Z

Hey Dolls,

I'm worried I sound like a broken record when I say this, but Chanel's Rouge Allure lipsticks are my absolute favourite I have tried. They are so smooth, pigmented and have such a beautiful sheen meaning they feel really moisturising to wear. A new favourite of mine is 09 Lover and to match Glossimer 106 Myriade.

Lover is absolutely beautiful - in the tube it looks quite an intimidating dark red, however on the lips, it's a little sheerer and on me shows up as more of a raspberry (a little like Revlon's Cherries in the Snow). I think if reds intimidate you, Lover would be perfect. As a lipstick it's extremely wearable as you can dab it on which gives it the appearance of a stain.

I really love Chanel's Glossimers, they are so glossy without being heavy or sticky and last quite a long time on the lips. Myriade is a red/pink gloss with quite prominent multitoned glitter that looks beautiful paired with Lover. Why are all my favourite Glossimer's always limited editions?

I look like such a moody cow! What are your favourite red lipsticks?

Love Nicola

Beauty Favourites of 2011 - Part Two

2012-01-09T21:40:00.000Z

Hey Dolls,

Here is the second half of my 2011 beauty favourites, in which I focus on skincare, body care and haircare.

Origins is by far my favourite skincare brand - you can read my original rave post here. In the morning, I still love checks and balances as it leaves my skin feeling really awake and refreshed. Alongside this, I use a newer product not originally featured in that post - the Perfect World White Tea Skin Guardian. Honestly, this serum is amazing - it contains white tea, mimosa, orange and bergamot which leaves the serum smelling beautiful. It leaves my skin so soft and plumped up, helping my base make up apply much more smoothly. I also team this with my beloved Bobbi Brown hydrating eye cream which you can read a full review of here.

At night, to remove my make up I use Shu Uemura's Balancing Cleansing Oil. I absolutely love this, and while it may be pricey, this bottle has lasted me since April which I think is amazing! You literally need the tiniest amount to remove a whole face of make up - definitely try and get a hold of a sample if you can! I then use another new favourite Origins product - the Perfect World Deep Cleanser which is much gentler and more moisturising than Checks and Balances, making it perfect for night time. My routine is completed by the Perfect World eye cream and the Balanced Diet lotion which I blogged about above.

I haven't actually blogged about many of my body care favourites this year so I'll give you a quick run down of each. The Sanctuary's body scrub buffs skin with quite fine, natural pumice which, while being exfoliating, isn't overly abrasive. It smells beautiful, containing patchouli and orange oil. To me, this scrub feels much more luxurious and expensive than it is, and has been particularly effective this winter at keeping my false tan in tip top condition!

The St. Tropez bronzing mousse is my favourite tan of all time and I've tried a ridiculous amount. What I love the most is the speed at which it sinks into the skin, avoiding any awkward tan drying poses. There is a colour guide meaning it's easy to see any streaks, and I really don't find much of a scent after showering the guide colour off.

I feel a little hypocritical including The Body Shop's Coconut body butter into my favourites as midway through the year I proclaimed my hatred for body butters. However, the body shop butters, though being really thick, sink in much easier than others I have tried and don't sit on the skin. Also, I'm a sucker for anything coconut scented. Another staple when fake tanning (which for me is all year round!).

Honey I Washed the kids - my absolute favourite - Read why here.

Some may be surprised that there isn't a shampoo in my annual favourites, but honestly I tend to buy what is on offer (cheapskate!). You can read my full review of Bumble and Bumble's Creme De Coco Masque and Thickening Hairspray here. I never really see much written about Lush's American Cream but it is one of my favourite conditioners - I tend to mix it with a tiny bit of hair mask to make it really moisturising. Honestly, I use it for the smell, throughout the day I (and others around me) get whiffs of vanilla -amazing!! I have reviewed Argan Secret here. It has definitely been my most used hair serum of the month (and yet another vanilla scented product).

Finally, my best haircare discovery of the whole year (and cheapest) is Velcro rollers. I cannot believe the amount of volume Velcro rollers can give my hair. They are also perfect for adding shape to hair styles that are beginning to grow out and have also reduced the amount of backcombing and volumising products I use in my hair. Here is a link to a post where I demonstrated how I achieve volume in my hair, however, it has been requested quite a lot I do an updated hair care post - I'll get on it!!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting dolls, I've really enjoyed catching up with everyone and their blogs! Let me know any favourites of yours that you think I might like!

Lots of Love

Nic

Beauty Favourites of 2011 - Part One

2012-01-08T14:53:00.003Z

Hey Dolls,

In 2011 I stopped doing monthly favourites posts, and so, I decided to write a couple of posts rounding up the products that I particularly loved throughout the year. I've split the beauty products into two posts and I am thinking about doing a seperate post of non beauty favourites - jewelry, clothes, games, films etc. I have tried to link below to any posts where products mentioned have been featured.

The brand I fell in love with last year was Chanel.

Prior to 2011, I had never tried any Chanel products other than perfume, but, with my first purchase Mat Lumiere, I was hooked. Above are a selection of my favourite products I have tried so far. As I mentioned, I have fallen in love with Mat Lumiere, and I really am so sad that it's being discontinued (I've stocked up). You can read my full review of Mat Lumiere and the Poudre Universelle Libre here.

Dior Bronze Original Tan in 002 honey may be my favourite product I have discovered in 2011. In every photo I have taken since June I have wore this bronzer, I absolutely love it. It does have a slight shimmer which you can see in the bottom right hand corner, but this doesn't translate onto the skin meaning I can use it all over my face. Here is how I wore my make up to my graduation ball, pairing honey with Amber Diamond - such a beautiful combination.

Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer and Corrector

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush Doll Face, Accessorize merged blush in Starlet, YSL Creme de Blush Fuchsia Temptation

My favourite highlighters included M.A.C's Pearl, Benefit Moon Beam and Dior Amber Diamond.

Urban Decay Naked Pallette, MUFE Aqua Eyes and Smoky Lash, Clinique Gel Liner.

Topshop Desert, Chanel L'Exuberante, Chanel Insouciante, YSL Rose Carnation, YSL Tyrian Purple, M.A.C Pink Noveau, M.A.C Pink Friday, M.A.C Impassioned, NARS Dolce Vita.

Love Nicola

From AM to PM

2012-01-05T20:09:00.001Z

Hey Dolls,

Happy New Year! I hope you've all had a wonderful festive period! 2012 is going to be the year that Magic's in the Make Up makes a proper comeback for me - since graduating I've really struggled to find a good balance between working and blogging. However, I've made a huge list of posts I want to write - I'm really excited!

As I'm now working full time, often the only time I'm able to meet up with friends is straight after work, and so, I've had to master the art of taking my day make up into the evening without hauling my whole collection into work with me. This is how I looked yesterday morning before leaving for work...

On my face I'm wearing Chanel Mat Lumiere (sob, chanel why are you discontinuing this?), Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer, Maybelline's Dream Matte Powder, Dior Original Tan in Honey Tan and Dior Amber Diamond. On my eyes is M.A.C's All That Glitters and a Clinique gel liner and on my lips Chanel's Levres Scintillantes Glossimer in 287. This really is a ten minute face that I can pretty much do in my sleep!

Last night, I met my old flatmate for dinner straight after work and so had to touch up my face ever so glamourously in my work toilets in about ten minutes. Here's how I looked when I got home (I did touch up my lipstick a little)

All I did was apply M.A.C's smoulder to my water line, a little of Tarte's Amazonian Clay Blush in doll face to my cheeks and lined my lips with Estee Lauder's Double Wear lip pencil in Fuchsia matched with Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet in L'Exuberante (still my favourite). Estee Lauder's lip pencils are amazing for travelling with as it is double ended - at one end there is the pencil and at the other is a lip brush. I use a travel size M.A.C 138 to apply my blush and the tarte blush is also travel sized, meaning I don't have to cart around lots of make up and brushes. I'd love to know what your make up must haves are for taking your daytime make up into the evening?

Lots of Love

Nicola

P.S Since writing the title of this post I've been listening to old Christina Milian Songs - so good!!

Waking Sleeping Beauty

2011-12-19T19:41:00.003Z

Hey dolls,

On Saturday, my friend Clare and I were invited by Ann to the opening night of The Scottish Ballet's The Sleeping Beauty. There is nothing more festive than going to the ballet - for the last couple of years my family have been going to Scottish Ballet productions at Christmas - it's become a tradition (We're going to see The Sleeping Beauty on Tuesday!) and I was so excited about The Sleeping Beauty because I LOVE fairy tales!!

The Sleeping Beauty is absolutely magical - as with all Scottish Ballet productions I have seen, there is an intricately woven web of romance, excitement, comedy and suspense. The costumes were unbelievably beautiful and detailed and the set changes were breathtaking - I'm always taken aback by the Scottish Ballet's amazing movable scenes. Just as breathtaking were some of the male dancers hair in the opening acts - honestly they defied gravity, I need to find out what they're using that keeps their hair perfectly in place whilst jumping in the air!

Some of my personal highlights include the flitting between time periods (the ballet begins in 1830, then moves to 1846 and finally 1946, meaning lots of amazing period costumes) and the inclusion of some of my favourite fairy tale characters - Red Riding Hood, Belle, Cinderella and Snow White. However what stole the show for both Clare and I was hearing the Scottish Ballet's orchestra play Tchaikovsky's waltz made famous in Disney's Sleeping Beauty as Once Upon a Dream.

I also loved the three 'baddies' of the ballet - Carbosse and her two daughters Pina and Lucinda (one of which is half pig and the other half bat!) I always think that the villains must be the most fun to play and these three added just the right amount of creepiness and tension whilst also being funny! Below is the trailer for Sleeping Beauty which demonstrates perfectly just how visually magical the piece is...

The Sleeping Beauty runs in Glasgow through to the end of December before moving on to

Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness and finally Newcastle. If you get the opportunity to go, please do, it's the perfect way to spend the holidays!

Thank you so much to Ann and everyone at the Scottish Ballet for putting on such an amazing evening!

Love Nicola

P.S We should be friends in real life if you have seen the documentary I pinched the title of this post from

New Girl

2011-12-11T15:50:00.001Z

Hey Dolls,

I know there are quite a few fellow Zooey D fan girls amongst you all - has anyone started watching The New Girl? I absolutely love it, Zooey Deschanel, whatta babe (and hilarious)! And Jake Johnson just makes it that teeny bit better (eye candy)!

Each time I watch Zooey, I am left with total hair envy - big waves and a fringe is my dream hair! This week I've tried to incorporate a little Zooey into my own hair routine, what do you think...?

I decided not to curl all the layers around my face, instead using velcro rollers to give a little volume. I now need good tong recommendations? I haven't used proper tongs since I bought my conical wand and although I love the look it gives, I want big bouncy curls - any ideas? Link me up to any reviews you dolls have!

Enjoy the rest of your Sunday!

Nic

Milani Rose Hip

2011-12-08T21:28:00.001Z

Hey Dolls

I recently completed a make up swap with the beautiful Jess from Getting Cheeky and as per usual, I depended on her to help me compile my wishlist Immediately, Jess recommended Milani's Rose Hip - Jeeeeez does that girl know how to pick a lipstick!! I had never heard of Rose Hip before, but a quick google image search later I knew I was going to love it!

I went out for dinner earlier this week and felt it was the perfect opportunity to wear rose hip. Despite getting lipstick everywhere (Please tell me I'm not the only one who is incapable of going out for dinner and not get lipstick all over their glass/food?) I absolutely love rose hip!

Fuchsia's are definitely my favourite 'night time' lipsticks. Rose hip has everything I could ever want - it's pigmented without feeling heavy, moisturising and doesn't settle into any lines. Although the colour didn't last the whole night, the lipstick is so pigmented that it takes very little product to reapply.

What do you think of Rose Hip? Have you tried any other Milani products? I really wish they were more readily available in the UK!

Love Nicola

The same...but Different

2011-12-02T18:24:00.001Z

Hey Dolls,

I'm meeting my two favourite girls tonight for a glass (or five) of Prosecco and decided to use some Urban Decay shadows...NOT FROM THE NAKED PALETTE *Gasp*! To be honest, it's pretty similar to the look I wore last weekend using the naked palette, but it felt good using something different!

Face

Chanel Mat Lumiere / Maybelline Dream Matte Powder / Dior Honey Tan / Benefit Coralista

Eyes

TFSI / NYX Jumbo Pencils in Milk and Slate / UD Perversion, Gunmetal, Sell Out / L'oreal Carbon Gloss / DiorShow Mascara

Lips

Nars Dolce Vita

Are any of you going to be buying the Naked Palette 2? I have every intention of passing...come back to me in a couple of weeks!

Love Nicola

Rizzle Kicks

2011-11-18T18:02:00.001Z

Hey Dolls,

Just a quick catch up - How are you all? Last night, I went to see Breaking Dawn at Midnight. Honestly, I didn't have high hopes, I was really let down by Eclipse but I LOVED breaking dawn! It made me laugh, cry and had me on the edge of my seat for the half of the film! If you've been with me since the beginning, you don't need to ask but fo shoooo I'm TEAM JACOB (and have been since first reading the books) Can't wait to hear what everyone else thinks - make sure to tweet me your thoughts!

I had some of my favourite girls round before hand to watch New Moon (since I hated Eclipse and it's taps aff more for Taylor) and we ended up looking like reject members of Rizzle Kicks...

I'm spending my Saturday night (as I do every Saturday) at the Breahead Arena watching the Braehead Clan...any other ice hockey fans in the beauty world? Honestly, if you're in Glasgow and are looking for a different way to spend your Saturday evening, get your bums down to the hockey! It's SO exciting, there's cheap beer and lots of handsome men to perv over ;) Just now, the team are doing amazingly well fundraising for Movemeber - there are some rather marvelous tashes on display! I've arranged a huge work night out to go to the hockey and am slowly introducing everyone I know to how amazing the game is...here's a photo of my friend Clare and I at a game a couple of weeks ago...

Nick and I are busy planning our annual trip to Disneyland for our birthday's in February - I think I've managed to persuade him to stay in the park this time - we've only ever travelled in from staying in Paris before...if you've stayed in the park, any hotel recommendations would be much appreciated! Hopefully we could manage to fit in at least one day in Paris - it's such a beautiful city and I always feel after leaving that I've missed out on doing about 47464249 different things!

I was supposed to be seeing Friendly Fires tonight, however it's been rescheduled as Ed's not well - boo! Instead, I'm going to sit in my onesie and watch lots of Disney films while planning our trip away! Tangled has quickly become one of my favourite Disney films ever - as soon as I heard that Alan Menken was doing the music I knew I would love it!

Have a good weekend beauties!

Love Nicola

Inspiration

2011-11-13T14:57:00.001Z

Hey Dolls,

I went to have dinner with my family last night, and as we were sitting munching on the most amazing millionaire shortcake, I realised I was wearing the same type of pearl earrings as my mum. When I pointed this out, I then noticed my Gran was also wearing a smaller version of the same earrings! This got me thinking about inspiration. When developing a sense of personal style, do we look to those around us for inspiration?

This is how I looked last night. When I was 17, I went through a skinny, barely their, round eyebrow phase. I repeatedly laughed at my Mum's larger, arched brow shape, constantly telling her she needed some tweezers in her life. Six years on, and our eyebrows are pretty much identical. Also, for as long as I can remember, my mum has lined her upper lid with black eyeshadow. Whilst I prefer gel liner, I can't help but feel my love for winged liner comes from my mum.

I suppose it makes sense that I am influenced by my mum's beauty style without realising it. She was the first person I ever observed putting on make up. However, I feel I gain inspiration from lots of different places. I can't help it, I love everything about the Kardashian's style - dark hair, dark eyes, blazers, blouses and blush.

In recent years, blogging has influenced my enormously. Daily I am able to open my dashboard and read so many amazing posts that can't help but inspire. It is how you incorporate these influences into an ever evolving sense of style that I find so interesting! If ever I'm ever feeling a little lost fashion or make up wise, some of my favourite bloggers to turn to include Alex, Tiffany, Zara and Laura.

I would love to know who inspires you?

Love Nicola

House of Mouse

2011-11-11T18:00:00.001Z

Hey Dolls

The coolest mouse around...I ♥ Minnie.

Nicola
xxx

Goodbye Undereye Circles

2011-11-06T16:30:00.002Z

Hey Dolls,

I have never been particularly bothered by undereye circles until recently - they now seem to grow darker the older I get. When I asked on twitter which products people recommended me to try and combat my dark circles, Bobbi Brown seemed to come out top. I'm not quite sure why, but Bobbi Brown has never been a company that has interested me much. However, I am now officially a convert!

With the exception of my Japonesque concealer brush (Am I the last to know that Japonesque is available in Boots?), my entire undereye routine is composed of Bobbi Brown products - the hydrating eye cream as a base, the corrector in bisque and the creamy concealer in Natural.

The hydrating eye cream is one of the nicest eye creams I have ever used. It looks quite heavy in the pot, however it feels light on the skin and absorbs quickly, leaving behind a smooth velvet-like base for my concealer. Importantly, it is quite a basic cream, it won't make any differences to how your dark circles look and has no anti-aging properties, which for me, makes it perfect for day wear (I prefer my Origins Perfect World for eyes at night). Concealer application is so much smoother used over this cream and I've found it helps to stop my concealer slipping throughout the day!

I then use the corrector in bisque which cancels out the blue/pink tones of my undereye circles. I think this has been the key to combatting my dark shadows - the product is extremely creamy and a little goes a long way. On me, it's a touch too pink toned however, when used in conjunction with the creamy concealer in Natural, it's the perfect match! The concealer is thick but not as creamy as the corrector and covers any imperfections perfectly, lasting all day.

BEFORE

AFTER

The middle picture demonstrates the amount of product I use, I apply the most in the darkest areas defore pulling and blending the corrector/concealer out to the rest of my undereye area.

Are there any Bobbi Brown products that you recommend?

Nicola

Shaun Leane and Rox

2011-10-30T02:00:00.000Z

Hey Dolls,

I was recently invited to an event to celebrate and learn more about Shaun Leane's jewellry line available at Rox. Even if Shaun's name is unfamiliar to you, I'm sure you will be acquainted with some of his designs - do you remember Sarah Jessica Parker's amazing tartan Alexander McQueen dress with the beautiful brooch? That's a Shaun Leane jewelry design (I was lucky enough to see the brooch in person - amazing!). The night was a whirlwind of cocktails, mingling and beautiful jewelry.

Me and one of my best friends Lynsey with fellow blogger Anna and her friend Laura.

The highlight of the event was Michelle from Kingdom of Style's Q&A session (you can read all about her experience here). Through this, we learned all about his close friendship with Alexander McQueen and consequently the influence this had on his work to the multitude of meanings people have taken from his designs. Shaun used his 'Hook my Heart' necklace as an example of a piece that could be seen as quite dark but also beautiful and romantic. I absolutely loved hearing more about his collaboration with Daphne Guinness in making this absolutely beautiful diamond glove which you can read about here.

Mentally spending my next 3546748 years wages!

Shaun was such an interesting and funny speaker and I could of listened to his stories for hours! His designs are absolutely stunning, Lynsey and I had to drag ourselves away from the gold talon earrings and gold and turquoise bangle...

Thank you so much to Toni for inviting me, both Lynsey and I had such a lovely time - it was such an amazing opportunity to hear the stories behind the jewellery!

Nicola

Swap!

2011-10-27T22:11:00.001+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

Just a quick post - I've been getting the itch to do another make up swap, just in time for Christmas!! Make up swaps are honestly one of the best things I've done since starting blogging! If you're interested in swapping with me anytime soon, you can either leave a comment below, tweet me - @carrsky or e-mail me at magicsinthemakeup@hotmail.co.uk. Ideally you'd have a blog too so I can get a feel of some surprises to send you!

Since I hate posts with no photos, here's one of me reading a cocktail menu very seriously!

Hope to hear from some of you soon,

Nicola

P.S This all seemed a little too much like a dating advert in the classifieds...Make up addict seeks similar beauty junkie for swap times and happy new make up days!

Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet L'Exuberante

2011-10-23T20:45:00.004+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

I have always tended to stay away from matte lipsticks - for someone with oily skin, my lips are quite dry and flaky meaning matte formulas have always scared me a little. After telling anyone who will listen about my love for Chanel's Rouge Allure lipsticks, I was quite excited to hear about their new release - the Rouge Allure Velvet.

(Sorry about the brush marks, I couldn't wait to take photographs!)

Chanel describe the rouge allure velvet lipsticks as a luminous matte finish. I wasn't too sure what too expect when I went to swatch them at the Chanel counter, however they are really smooth, pigmented and surprisingly light on the lips. I think Chanel got it right with the name - they feel extrememly velvety. As they are silicone based, the formula feels really moisturising on my lips - as long as I've applied a little lip balm it doesn't settle into the lines or exaggerate any dry areas and the colour lasts for hours!

There are eight shades in the range, all of which are quite bold colours - I chose a beautiful bright pink called L'Exuberante. In the summer, counters are full of really pretty but sheer formulas such as the YSL Volupte Sheer Candies and the Rouge Coco Shines, making the Rouge Allure Velvet's an amazing step into autumn/winter make up.

Have you had a look at the rouge allure velvets? What are your other matte lipstick recommendations?

Lots of Love

Nic

Ballet Shoes

2011-10-07T10:26:00.000+01:00

Hey Dolls

Does anyone remember the Noel Streatfeild Shoe Books - dancing shoes, skating shoes, party shoes? Ballet Shoes was always my favourite - -my copy is ridiculously worn out but I love it more each time I read it. After going to see The Scottish Ballet's Autumn Double Bill, Kings 2 Ends and Pennies From Heaven I was inspired to read it again the next day!

Jorma Elo's brand new work, Kings 2 Ends, which was created for the Edinburgh International Festival, meshes together Mozart's Violin Concerto No 1 and Steve Reich's Double Sextet in the one piece - the choreography was so fun and colourful that both my friend Clare and I didn't take our eyes from the stage. What I loved most about Kings 2 Ends was that the interpretation of the dance was left to the individuals in the audience. It was lighthearted and fresh and the hour zoomed past so quickly! It has also inspired me to incorporate a tiaras into my wardrobe ha!

The second half of the double bill, Ashley Page's Pennies from Heaven, though completely different, incorporated the same sense of fun and excitement I felt watching Kings 2 Ends. Pennies from Heaven is inspired by 1930s music and cinema - throughout the performance, Clare kept whispering in my ear which films the different scenes reminded her of. Again, I couldn't take my eyes from the stage as the different love stories unfolded - my personal favourite was the bell hop and the cinema cigarette girl - their dance was so playful and fun that I couldn't help but smile the whole way through. Here is one of my favourite songs from the production (though a different version to what was used on the night)

The costumes were absolutely beautiful - I felt rather drab set against the old hollywood glamour of swishing ballgowns and beautiful tailored suits.

Everytime I go to see a Scottish Ballet performance I always worry a little as I know nothing about the technical side of ballet. However, each time, I leave in awe at how the dancers are able to move their bodies in such amazing ways. Particularly with this bill, Clare and I left gushing about how much fun we had - it was one of the most entertaining and refreshing ways to spend an evening!

Thanks again to Ann for an amazing night - You can catch Kings 2 Ends along with another Scottish Ballet production, Song of the Earth, at Sadler's Wells in London on the 3-4 November. If you're able to , go!

Lots of Love

Nicola

What's been on my face

2011-09-30T18:47:00.003+01:00

Hey Dolls

I've had a couple of questions about the make up I was wearing in my last post been wearing . With the exception of my eye make up, I've pretty much had the same products on my dressing table for the last couple of weeks.

Chanel Mat Lumiere

It took me a long time to work out that the best way to apply mat lumiere is with my ELF powder brush - this paired with Maybelline Dream Matte Powder gives me amazing coverage that lasts all day. As an experiment, I tried applying it again with my fingers - the coverage was patchy by lunch time. My skin has never looked so good without looking like I'm wearing lots of make up. Chanel, please don't discontinue Mat Lumiere :(

Dior Bronze 002 Honey Tan

I've spoken about honey tan before as a cheek product rather than an all over bronzing product. This is predominantly because of the subtle shimmering particles in the powder...

Similar to NARS Laguna and the Bourjois chocolate bronzer, when applied to the skin, the shimmer doesn't translate as you can see in the photos in the post below. Instead, honey tan gives a really pretty, bronzed look to my face without looking muddy or orange. It has definitely taken over Laguna as my favourite bronzing product - I really want to try the matte version next!

M.A.C Dainty Mineralize Blush

I honestly forgot how much I loved dainty - it's such a natural and subtle blush that gives a peachy-pink flush with a pretty shimmer. This means I don't need to apply a separate highlighter - another lazy girl must have! It blends really prettily onto the cheek and has brilliant staying power. Dainty has quickly become my perfect blush for everyday.

NARS Oasis Lipgloss

I seem to be on a bit of a NARS lip product kick at the moment - Oasis is part of the NARS autumn collection and it is beautiful! It is a plum gloss with flecks of gold glitter however, although the colour looks quite intense in the tube, it is quite sheer on the lips. I've found that it is ideal for layering on top lipsticks - if you have NARS Dolce Vita you NEED Oasis, they look amazing together! The one downside is the gloss is quite sticky - not dazzleglass sticky but you can definitely feel you have gloss on your lips. You can see what it looks like on it's own in the post below.

Lots of Love

Nic

It's the most wonderful time of the year...

2011-09-25T13:07:00.002+01:00

Hey Dolls

Autumn weather is creeping in and I'm so excited!! I am not a summer person - I get grumpy when I'm too warm, I like to wear a lot of black and hats and scarves are some of my favourite accessories. Over the last two weeks, I can really feel the seasons begin to change - in the morning it smells like autumn! This has led me to think about what my personal Autumn/Winter trends are going to be...

Fur Trimmed

In winter, I love anything with a fur collar, so when I spotted this fur stole in H&M for £12 I actually did a little jump of excitment! It is so soft and has a crocodile clip which attatches itself securely without mauling any of your jackets and clothes. It not only looks lovely attached to the collars of coats and jackets but also worn on top of dresses as I've done here - it completely changes how it looks! I think this colour fur looks particuarly pretty with cream! If you don't want to buy a new winter coat this year, I think this would be a perfect way of changing up your old ones!

Chunky Gold Accessories

I am a gold girl at heart and these are two of my current favourite gold accessories. The necklace is from Topshop, I think it was around £16. It looks amazing with quite a high necked black body con dress I have - it almost makes it look like the dress has a metal collar attached! I got my gold Michael Kors watch as a graduation present. It pretty much hasn't been off my wrist - If you're deliberating over getting one DO IT - you won't regret it!

Black and Dramatic

Make up wise, it's the darker the better. I pretty much skip over all autumnal colours and go straight for dark brown and black eye make up with big lashes and even bigger brows. The longer I've blogged, the more focused I've become on eye brows - it's now one of the first things I notice about people! As ever with my hair - the bigger the better! Black eyeliner and Dust It will be my best friends forever <3

What are your personal Autumn/Winter trends going to be?

Love Nic

Brown Tones

2011-09-18T11:06:00.000+01:00

Hey Dolls,

I have fallen in love with brown toned lipsticks - this is not a statement I ever thought I would make. I generally stayed away from any form of nude or natural lipsticks, instead much preferring bright toned pinks and purples. However, I have since realised that these are not practical for everyday wear, when I'm stumbling around in the dark at half six in the morning.

I have picked my favourite three lipsticks that have definite brown tones, all of which are in different price ranges - Chanel Rouge Allure 81 Insouciante, NARS Sheer Lipstick in Dolce Vita and L'oreal Colour Riche 254 Kiss & Blush.

Chanel Rouge Allure, 81 Insouciante

Out of the three, this is the most brown, though there is a hint of a muted pink that makes Insouciante so wearable. The Chanel Rouge Allure lipsticks are amongst the most amazing I have ever tried, they blend seamlessly and opaquely onto my lips and leave a beautiful sheen. The colour is long lasting and doesn't settle into the lines of my lips. It is the most expensive of the three at £24 but for the quality of the product, I believe it's worth it!

NARS Sheer Lipstick, Dolce Vita

I have only had DolceVita for a week and already cannot believe I've never owned it before - it's beautiful! It's much rosier than Insouciante but there is definitely a beigey/brown hint that makes this lipstick so natural. I've never tried a lipstick that is as moisturising - it literally glides onto the lips. I really want to try the matte pencil version as I read they used it on Christina Hendricks on Mad Men - her lip colour was always beautiful! If you're not too sure about brown toned lipsticks, I think Dolce Vita is an excellent place to start! NARS Sheer lipsticks are £17.50.

L'oreal Colour Riche, 254 Kiss & Blush.

Kiss and Blush is the least pigmented of the three but leaves a pretty brown toned sheen to the lips. The Colour riche lipsticks are supposedly tailored according to hair colour, however 254 is made for blonde's and I think it looks OK on me! Again, this is a good alternative if you want to dabble in beige/brown lipsticks as it isn't very expensive - around £8.

Lots of Love

Nic

Revlon Just Bitten

2011-09-09T19:29:00.001+01:00

Hey Dolls

A latest beauty addiction of mine is lip stains. Having fallen in love with Stila's stains, I decided to try one of Revlon's Just Bitten stains - I chose a beautiful red shade called gothic. The stain is quite unique as it is double ended - one end has a felt tip stain and the other has a lip balm.

I use the stain first so as to get the true red of the stain and leave this to settle for a couple of seconds before applying the balm which adds a slight sheen to the lips. The balm is OK, it definitely leaves my lips feeling moisturised (but a little 'slippy' if that makes sense?) however, each time I use it I'm a little scared that it's going to fall off! If there was any way it could be put on a slider I think this would be much easier!

Even with the balm, it is a lot more drying than the Stila stains I love - I think this is largely to do with it being a felt tip applicator, this means it's a much drier formula, however it is a lot less messy and you have more control. It lasts a good amount of time (on par with Stila) though it will fade throughout the day.

I really love the colour of gothic, I think it's a really wearable red that can be worn sheerer than I have here. However, I just wish the formula wasn't as drying and I think if used without a lipbalm you would definitely experience some feathering.

What are your lip stain recommendations? Or do you prefer lipsticks? I think my favourite time to use a stain is when I'm going out for dins, otherwise I manage to get lipstick everwhere - no bueno!

Love Nicola

YSL Creme de Blush - Fuchsia Temptation

2011-09-05T20:52:00.005+01:00

Hey Dolls,

I am slowly working my way through all of the posts that have been requested over the last couple of weeks (months). In July, I posted my favourite three YSL products. One of those included was their cream blush in Fuchsia Temptation. At the time of writing, I had a horrible cold so wasn't able to show what it looked like on. The lovely Alex asked if I could come back and show how it looked - I'm so sorry it's taken me so long!

As you can see, on the cheek fuchsia temptation isn't nearly as scary as it looks in the pot. It gives a lovely, natural colour to the cheek due to its cream to powder formula. As I mentioned in my favourite three post, I've never felt a powder blush that is so silky to the touch and that blends so easily. It doesn't drag when blended, meaning I can apply it on top of powder using a MAC 187. It smells beautiful - of watermelon and which actually lasts quite well. The lasting power of the blush is amazing, and I normally don't have to retouch during the day until late afternoon.

I also popped on the lip combination I spoke about in that post that I haven't had a chance to show yet - Rouge Pur Couture 11 and Golden Gloss 42 - so pretty!

Love Nicola

Shu Uemura Love!

2011-09-03T14:11:00.003+01:00

Hey Dolls,

This week. my friend Kirsty asked where the best place was to buy amazing false lashes. In my mind when it comes to lashes, there is only one counter that delivers both amazing products and service - Shu Uemura. If you haven't ever bought a pair of shu lashes before, I can't recommend them enough - they last up to ten applications, the first time you buy your lashes they are trimmed to fit your eye and each time you want to wear your lashes, you can ring up the counter and they will apply them for you free of charge (everytime I've done this, they also do my eye make up for me too!). My favourite pair are the smoky layers.On this visit to the Shu Uemura counter, I finally gave in and bought one of their most famous products - their eyelash curler.

I was always a little dubious about how different these curlers could be compared to others I had tried - I was wrong! The hinge of the curler is patented and feels quite stiff when used, gripping all of my lashes and applying a lot of pressure without 'crimping' my lashes. Shu uemura describe the curve of the curler as 'mushroom' shaped...

This again helps to grip all of my lashes - even the baby lashes in the corner! What I love most about the lash curlers is, my mascara doesn't have to work as hard...I've only had to apply one coat of mascara each morning and with the help of Shu's curlers, this looks like the equivalent of 2 or 3 coats - it's another of my lazy girl must haves! I've included before and after shots below...

As you can see, in the bottom photograph, my lashes appear longer with a natural curl - there is no perceptible line where the curler has been applied and my lashes are curled rather than pointing at an angle- all problems I've found using other curlers. The secret to this is,once you've positioned the curler, hold it in place for a couple of second in an outwards and upwards direction and repeating this several times.

These have now beome a part of my daily beauty routine, I think I'd be a bit lost without them! If you're curious, go and have a chat with one of the staff at a counter, they'll be more than happy to demonstrate them on you! The only drawback for me is when I wear my glasses my lashes bounce against them - I'm definitely not complaining!

Lots of Love

Nicola

More frugal finds...

2011-08-28T15:37:00.006+01:00

I recently posted that I have been trying to find some purse friendly alternatives to products I love. When I was in Paris earlier this year, the most exciting thing I bought (apart from minnie mouse ears of course), was a bottle of bioderma's crealine cleansing water. I think I've mentioned before that I really dislike oil based removers and was relieved to find something that removed my make up just as well, without leaving behind an oily residue. However, on attempting to order a new bottle of crealine, I couldn't justify the price of postage.

Enter La Roche-Posay's Physiological Micellar Solution...

Similarly to bioderma, this is a micellar cleansing water, which I've found to be the most thorough but gentle methods of removing my make up. The product contains no parabans, soap or alchohol. However, la roche-posay's micellar solution does contain fragrance which I know can be irritating to some people's skin, thankfully I've had no bad reaction.

For my face make up, I only need to sweep over one cotton pad and it even breaks down waterproof mascarra - though I do need to hold the pad over my eye for a couple of seconds. It leaves behind no residue, doesn't leave my skin tightened or dry and ready for cleaning (I am still in love with Origins Checks and Balances). If you're interested in micellar cleansing waters, I think la roche-posay's is a good place to start - I got mine from Boots for around £10.

Lots of Love
Nic
xx

Home is wherever I'm with you

2011-08-26T17:42:00.005+01:00

Hey Dolls

Waaah at this moment, I am hideously hungover...Prosecco is not my friend!! Today is the first day of my holiday from work and to celebrate, my friend Andrew and I went out for a couple of drinks after work.

I wore a new dress from Warehouse which you can see here. For me, this is my perfect dress: black, long sleeves, a peter pan collar and embellishment. I never got a full length photo of me wearing it, instead here is a terrible iphone picture where you can see half of the sleeve and none of the embellishment...

Nick and I have lots planned for our week off...tomorrow we're going to visit the Rosslyn Chapel, and then later in the week, we're going down to my mum and dads for a nardini's (I'm getting ice cream AND a cannoli) and most exciting of all...WE'RE GOING ON THE HOGWARTS EXPRESS!!! Well, as close as we'll ever get - The Jacobite. I literally cannot wait!!!!

Lately, I've realised that I've truely become a bit of a home bird. Since moving into our new house, I've spent so much time making it a home - I promise to those who have asked, I'll post soon and show you around! However, over the last couple of weeks, the homely things I have been enjoying are...

...making window boxes and rolls!

I'll leave you with Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros...the only thing that can save me from this headache!

Lots of Love

Nic
xx

My new angel

2011-08-16T19:17:00.004+01:00

Hey Dolls

M.A.C's Angel is definitely my most used lipstick. It might be a little bit boring, but that's exactly the reason I love it - following on from my previous post, Angel is a lipstick I can slap on without worrying how it looks. However recently, I have had to become a little purse conscious (mainly because everytime I open mine, little moths fly out like in a warner bros cartoon) and so, I set myself the task of finding a more purse friendly angel...

I settled on Bourjois' Sweet Kiss Naturel lipstick in 11 Rose Innocence. While it is not identical to Angel, it is an absolutely beautiful lipstick. The formula is extremely moisturising as it contains magnolia oil and shea butter and it settles onto the lips without being overly buttery or soft. It is a semi matte finish, which is quite different to the finishes I tend to favour. The one downfall of Rose Innocence is the lasting power - at best I probably get about 2 hours wear. However, because it's quite a natural shade I can re-apply it quickly.

As you can see, Rose Innocence isn't as pink as Angel - on the lips it appears more of a pink toned nude but for me it's perfect at half the price! There are only 8 shades of Bourjois sweet kiss naturel lipsticks but they are all beautiful! I am definitely going to try more!

Lots of Love
Nic
xx

A few work day favourites

2011-08-07T14:58:00.009+01:00

Hey Dolls!

I originally started writing this post about general products I have been using over the last month or so. When thinking about which products I wanted to include, I realised how much working full time has impacted on my make up routine. Firstly, I wear a lot less - I definitely favour extra time in bed over spending time on my make up. Secondly, I seem to reach for products that are long lasting but cause no fuss - pretty much things I can just slap on my face and I can trust it looks ok!

Illamasqua Skin Base foundation

I really love the way that skin base looks on - it blends seamlessly into the skin giving medium coverage, but still looks luminous and 'skin like'.

Left: unblended. Right: blended

However, for me skin base has one major let down - it does not control oil. By lunchtime, I definitely need to blot and re-powder my face. I've really only ever found one foundaiton (double wear) that controls oil all day, and I suppose skin base makes no claims to control oil, it does say suitable for all skin types and in this way I was a little disappointed. However, it looks beautiful on (especially in photographs) and takes no work to blend into the skin - for this, I can put up with a little extra powdering. I wear shade 8 and I would definitely recommend getting colour matched over buying it online, I would of originally have picked shade 2 for myself!

Urban Decay Toasted

Late to the party, I first bought the urban decay naked palette when it was first released. For numerous reasons, I barely used it until recently. Toasted was a shade that immediately stood out to me - it is a bronze/brown with a hint of rose and is an example of a shade I don't need to think about in the morning. I can just swish it over TFSI with a little bit of MAC's smoulder smudged into the lash line and I'm good to go. I am also happy to see that toasted is available to buy in a single pan!

Stile Acai Crush Lip and Cheek Stain

I'm so happy Stila is back properly in the UK. I've picked up a few bits and pieces but this lip stain is definitely my favourite. I love lip stains for work days - acai crush is a beautiful deep pink but when it's on the lips it can look quite red. The stila stains are quite a unique gel formula...

The stain lasts all day and although it does lessen in intensity stays just as pretty throughout the day. My only gripe with the product is it is a little messy - you twist the bottom of the applicator which I feel dispenses too much product on the brush. I always have to wipe some from the brush before I apply it meaning I waste a lot of product. I might use my own lip brush and see if this helps any!

Dainty Doll Blush 002 My Girl

I am in love with this blush!! I have recently dabbled in coral and bronze toned cheek products but my heart definitely lies with pinks!

On the cheek, my girl reminds me a lot of MAC's well dressed but with a little more silver glow. It's a perfect shade to add dimension and colour to your cheek without being too harsh. The blush is really smooth and blendable and lasts the full day without having to be touched up! I definitely want to try more from the dainty doll range!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xx

It all ends...

2011-07-15T15:42:00.005+01:00

Hey dolls :)

Last night, I went to see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part Two. I won't say anything about the film as I know a lot of people haven't seen it yet, other than it's amazing, wear waterproof mascara and take some tissues.

I know it's often difficult for non potter fans to understand why people get so involved in the books and it's difficult to explain...I was 9 when Harry Potter was first published and have grown up with these characters - they've become such an influential part of my childhood. I still remember the first time I ever read the philosopher's stone and completely fell in love with the magical world of Hogwarts.

After a while, it's easy to feel like a part of the books, the characters become like old friends. I'm lucky enough to have found two amazing best friends who feel exactly the same way as I do (hi lynsey and clare) and have lost count of the number of hours we have spent discussing ridiculously tiny details of the books. It's always amazing when you find another person who 'gets' your love for harry. As Lynsey Clare and I have discussed (ha), we all questioned at some point WHY HAVEN'T OUR HOGWARTS LETTERS CAME??

And while the closest we'll ever get to Hogwarts is Harry Potter World, there are always the books to escape into. Fourteen years on, I still feel the same excitment each time I read the opening sentence.

"Mr and Mrs Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much."

'The stories we love best do live in us forever so whether you come back by page or the big screen, Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home.'

In that way, don't, like I did initially, see this last film as a goodbye, but instead as an acknowledgment of how important these characters and stories are...gryffindor till I die (HA)

xx

Philosophy Pure Grace

2011-07-07T12:42:00.003+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

As I mentioned yesterday, I'm off work at the moment with a hideous virus which has meant various trips to Boots have been made for lots of tissues and beachams. However, I was overcome with excitement (overreaction) when I realised that Boots have started to stocking lots of lovely new brands. I was most excited to see both a Stila and Philosophy stand. I celebrated with a little purchase...

I have a thing about smells...I'm always conscious of wanting to smell 'clean'. Philosophy say pure grace is designed to make you feel like you've just stepped out the shower, which is amazing for me as I normally go for two showers a day! It smells clean, fresh and soapy without being too overwhelming.

The bottle is simple just like the fragrance, which is exactly what I love about it. It's perfect for workdays as it isn't cloying or overpowering. It's such a unique scent, I've honestly never smelled anything like it! Pure grace is an eau de toilette, and I've found that for it to be long lasting you do need to layer it a little. It costs £32 for 60ml and you can get it from boots (advantage points- yay!) and John Lewis.

What Philosophy products do you recommend?

Lots of Love
Nicola
xx

My Favourite Three...YSL

2011-07-06T17:45:00.006+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

I was requested to do my favourite three YSL items and yet again, I've cheated!

Creme De Blush in 5 Fuschia Temptation

I normally hate cream to powder blushers, preferring instead the formulation of the illamasqua cream products that stay dewy on the cheek. However, the formula of YSL cream blushers have absolutely blown me away. On first touch, they are ridiculously creamy but not greasy - when blended, the blush turns into a satiny powder. In the pot, fuchsia temptation looks rather scary - however it blends out into the most beautiful pink flush (I've included swatches of everything at the bottom). It lasts the full day without needing to be touched up and you literally need a smidgen for both cheeks. They are pricey at £28 but they last such a long time because of how little you use!

Faux Cils

I still love faux cils though it has its flaws. I absolutely love how it makes my lashes look - extremely black, thick and voluminous. However, it really does dry up far too quickly for the amount of money it costs to repurchase it every couple of months. Instead, I prefer keeping it as a treat purchase! You can read my full review here.

Lip Products

Yeah I cheated...I picked three lipsticks from my favourite YSL formulations. At the top is rouge pur 28 tyrian purple which is a bright fuchsia with a subtle silver that runs through - you can see me wear it here. Rouge Pur's are really creamy and pigmented and despite being such a vibrant colour don't feather or bleed. However, it isn't as long lasting in comparison to many other brights I have in my collection, though it does leave a lovely stain (not in a bad way) on the lips.

Next is rouge volupte 19 Frivolous Pink - which is quite a bright baby pink. Rouge Voluptes are probably the creamiest lipsticks I have ever tried - they are so opaque and glossy on the lips. However, the staying power is lower than the rouge purs - I try and see this a positive, at least I get to whip the beautiful lipstick out my bag more often!

Lastly is a recent lip combination I have fallen in love with - Rouge Pur Couture in number 11 rose carnation and a golden gloss in 42 Candy Pink. Rose Carnation is a browny pink that has a wonderfully glossy finish. The rouge pur coutures are not as creamy as the rouge pur and voluptes but they feel just as moisturising and are a little more longer wearing. Candy Pink is a beautiful pink gloss with a gold sparkle - it looks equally as pretty on its own or over rose carnation. It is a little sticky but less so than MAC dazzleglasses for instance but is just as long lasting.

I've included swatches below - sorry I don't have any full face pictures of these in action, I've been off work all week with a hideous virus and my swollen face will do them no justice, however if you wish to see how any of these look on, I'll be more than happy to, when I feel a tad more human!

Rouge pur couture 11, golden gloss 42, 11 and 42 together, rouge pur 128, rouge volupte 19, fuschia temptation swatched then blended.

Lots of Love
Nicola
xx

My Face!

2011-07-05T16:22:00.006+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

When it comes to foundation, I prefer to switch between products, depending on my particular skin needs of that day. However, one particular combination seems to very quickly have become a favourite of mine...

Sonia Kashuk Hidden Agenda Concealer Palette

Tiffany recently sent me this as I couldn't find it in the UK and I am so grateful as I love it! In the pallete there are two concealer shades, a colour corrector and a setting powder. Previously, I had always sworn by MAC's studio finish concealer, however when I picked it up again I realised how grainy and cakey it can appear in comparison. The concealers are so creamy and blend seamlessly into the skin - I find that mixing the lighter and darker shades together give the perfect colour for my skin tone. The corrector is ideal to use on any redness and blemishes and the powder has a lovely brightening effect for under the eyes - if you can get your hands on this I really recommend giving it a try!

Chanel Mat Lumiere

Mat lumiere was a bit of an impulse purchase - I was always in two minds about how the finish is described - matte but with a luminosity, particularly as I have oily skin. Often, mattifying foundations can look a little plastic and made up, however the luminous particles in mat lumiere really do create a more natural finish. It gives a good deal of coverage however I have noticed, particularly in this humid heat, that the longevity is no where near other foundations I have tried - by mid afternoon I need to touch up my make up.

One thing I love about mat lumiere is how beautifully it photographs - It looks very natural and 'skin-like' as opposed to a mask. While mat lumiere is not perfect, it is definitely fulfilling my foundation needs of the moment!

Chanel Poudre Universelle Libre

I have finally found a transluscent powder that doesn't break my skin out! This powder is so silky and glides effortlessly onto the skin creating a really soft finish. It never looks powdery or cakey, neither does it cast an ashy tone. Again, it photographs beautifully - this with mat lumiere is definitely my new combination for wearing on a night out! While it is expensive for powder, the tub is huge and you use a minimal amount of product with each application - I can see this lasting me a long time!

BEFORE

AFTER

As you can see, this combination evens out my complexion and covers any redness while still looking natural!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xxx

Beautylish

2011-07-03T20:34:00.004+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

I love talking about make up...most people I know think it's a little silly that I can spend hours talking about 4692378247 different colours of lipstick. But that's what makes blogging so amazing, there are actually other people out there that I can share this with! Nothing makes me more excited than when I find an amazing new blog to read, however I always feel that I must be missing some amazing blogs because of the sheer amount that are out there.

I was proved correct today when I joined beautylish. It's amazing! You make a beautylish profile, here's a snippet of mine here...

and from there, you are able to add/read reviews of products, follow other people's profiles to keep up to date with their reviews and activity and interact on forums. I've had so much fun reading other people's reviews and having a good nosy and chat on the forums.

From the forums I have already found some AMAZING blogs that I would of never of found if hadn't been for beautylish...such as prettymaking and Jessica Beautician , both of whom you should definitely go and visit - their blogs are so lovely, informative and have brilliant photos.

I'm definitely going to spend the rest of the evening having a flick through all of the blog links posted - here's a link to one of the forum strands where you can post your latest blog post, which is not only a brilliant way to promote your own blog but, as I've done, to discover some brilliant new ones!

Also, the advice, tricks and tips strand is amazing! There's all sorts of discussions going on there from whether a primer really makes a difference to your make up to whether you should apply your concealer or foundation first!

If you have a beautylish profile, let me know so I can follow you!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xxx

Brand Love: Origins

2011-07-02T13:06:00.010+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

Origins was always a brand that I was never particularly intrigued by, I'm not really sure why. Rather fickly, it is probably because the packaging or counter never really called out to me, it always seemed a little...dull - terrible I know. However, after reading several rave reviews I went in to see if I could get a sample of one of their eye creams, GinZing. However after talking to the SA and undergoing a consultation, I walked out with a new skin care regime.

Firstly, the experience at the origins counter is one of the best I have ever had. The staff take a real interest in any skin care concerns you have and I felt they actually listened to what I said, and selected products that suit my skin care needs. When you go to the counter, the SA completes a customer record card, recording everything you speak about in the consultation. Following the consultation, you are offered a complimentary facial in a couple of weeks to discuss how your regime is going (which I have taken advantage of and was amazing - I honestly can't believe it was free!). Before buying any products, the SA always demonstrates how to use them and allows you to feel the products in action on the back of your hand.

I really felt that Origins as a brand try to offer a more personal and tailored service, by building a proper personalised relationship with their customers, predominantly through the customer records system which means you mainly deal with the same member of staff each time you visit the counter. On my first visit, I commented that I am very wary of trying new products - instead of trying to push me to buy, the SA gave me generous samples of all the products we had spoken about - amazing! If you look down through the last couple of posts, I have definitely seen an amazing improvement to my skin, overall my skin tone is more even and brighter and my skin definitely produces less oil throughout the day.

1. Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash

I personally would never of considered using a face wash in place of a cleanser, as I never feel that a face wash does anything beneficial to my skin. However, my skin has never felt cleaner and more refreshed since using checks and balances.

I have combination skin, predominantly oily but I do get small dry patches, meaning skin care can be a bit of a nightmare. Checks and Balances is designed for combination skin - however if you're skin is on the drier side I would be a little wary of using this, I could see it being quite drying on already dry skin. However, for a more oily combination this is amazing! My skin feels mattified without feeling tightened plus any dry patches have disappeared.

Scent wise - it's a herbal-y mint, which is pleasant enough, though nothing particularly exciting. To use, I squeeze the tiniest amount into the palm of my hand, lather with lukewarm water and massage into my face before washing off. Checks and balances lathers up so well, it definitely is true to it's name - foamy! I do use a separate eye make up remover as it can sting a little around the eye area. For £16.00 you get 150ml which I think is reasonable considering the amount of product you use for each cleanse. I can't recommend this enough!

2. Balanced Diet Lightweight Moisture Lotion

Balanced diet is another product that is designed for combination skin. I really dislike using heavy moisturisers, particularly on my face as my skin is so oily, however I do still think moisturising is important. For me, balanced diet is perfect; as it's a lotion it is really light on the skin and sinks in really quickly without leaving any residue.

It contains wheat and soy protein that help moisturise the skin, but also konjac powder that helps to soak up any excess oil. My skin has never felt so smooth since using Balanced Diet. Until now, I had still being using La Roche Posay's Effaclar M which, as a mattifying moisturiser, is amazing but I always felt that my skin could feel softer and more moisturised. With Balanced Diet the balance between mattifying and moisturising properties is perfect. For £21 you get 50 ml of product.

3. A Perfect World for eyes

As I mentioned previously, I had originally visited the counter to ask about GinZing, however trying A Perfect World I absolutely had to buy it. I fully believe that if you look after your skin now, it will look after you as you get older, and a good eye cream is key to this. A perfect world is the smoothest, silkiest eye treatment I have ever tried, it is more like a gel/serum than a cream - which is a big change to Kiehl's creamy eye treatment which I had been using previously. My eye area seems much brighter and refreshed and again you need the tiniest amount. It is quite expensive at £27.00 however, in comparison to the kiehl's eye cream, you get 1 ml more for the same price and you use less product so for me, a perfect world is...perfect!

4. Brighter by Nature Brightening Peel

Brighter by Nature is a completely new concept to me - an exfoliater that is a pad. Initially, I was a little wary as the pads smell a little more of alcohol compared to the other products - however I honestly think these pads have done a lot of work to how bright my skin looks. They use fruit acids to peel away dead skin which, when used routinely has really evened out and brightened my skin tone.

I use a Brighter by Nature pad twice a week, sweeping the pad over my entire face before moisturising. The pads do feel quite abrasive on the skin so use them gently, and you are left with a slight tingling sensation. Again, these seem quite pricy at £29.00 however, I read that when you work it out, using two pads a week, one pot of pads last 5 months - which works out to £5.80 a month!

I hope you can see how much I love these products and the brand as a whole. All of Origins products are free from Parabans, mineral oil, petrolatum, paraffin, animal ingredients and are 100% natural. They are tested on voluntary panels and as a company, are dedicated to recycling and using renewable energy - even the boxes are made from 80% recycled material!

If you're interested in any of the Origins products, I can't recommend visiting a counter more, the staff are honestly the nicest and most helpful I have ever dealt with. I really do get so excited by skincare!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xxx

Un-Impassioned

2011-06-30T18:52:00.003+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

Of late, my favourite way to wear lipsticks is to pat on the teeniest amount using my finger, almost like a stain. For the last couple of days I've been particularly enjoying doing this with MAC's Impassioned. Normally, impassioned is gorgeously bright however, it looks equally as pretty sheered out...

I love how different the colour looks when used so sparingly. Also, because it's so bright, impassioned can take a lot of work to wear, from prepping my lips to using a liner, however with this there is no hassle, I can just pat it on and go!

I'd love to know which lipsticks are your favourite to use like this - another one of mine is Revlon's cherries in the snow...but I suppose you could probably of guessed that anyway!

Lots of Love
Nicola

xxx

Gold!

2011-06-23T19:06:00.008+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

When pushed, I would probably say cheek products are my favourite (shhhh don't tell my lipsticks) and lately, I definitely have been favouring a gold highlight.

This all started with my grad ball when I wore amber diamond with their original tan in 002 honey. Ever since, I've been raiding my make up drawers trying different gold toned cheek products. Here's a little overview of some of my favourite gold higlight products.

1. Illamasqua's Glint

Although I may not have blogged about illamasqua's bronzing duo in glint/burninsh in a while, it still remains one of my favourites. Despite much of my attention previously being directed toward the darker side, burnish (which is also very pretty though is a little more red/brown toned) I have recently found a new appreciation for Glint. It is a little lighter and is more golden which looks beautiful on the cheekbones with tanned skin. The pigmentaton is not as good as burnish however, in a way, this works in its favour as it creates a really subtle, but pretty, highlight.

2. Prestige Mineral Bronizing Powder in 02 Glam Tan

How amazing does this look in the pan? Similarly to glint, glam tan is marketed as a bronzer, however I could never imagine using this as I do my regular bronzers. As you can see, there is a beautiful gold veining that runs throughout the powder, which really does catch the light. The pigmentation is amazing, especially for the price, so a light hand is definitely needed. When wearing glam tan, I tend not to wear anything else on my cheek, it has enough dimension to work on its own.

3. Dior Amber Diamond

As I mentioned, Amber diamond used over dior's honey tan bronzer is my number one cheek combination of the moment. I tend to swirl all the colours together on my brush and apply it to my cheekbone which I can always depend on to brighten up my face when I feel a little run down and blahhh.

4. M.A.C Cream Colour Base in Pearl

I constantly recommend pearl to people who ask me about a cream highlight. The colour itself is absolutely beautiful, a golden pearl, meaning the product is completely free from any glitter. Out of those listed so far, pearl is probably the most natural and is one I choose when I don't want to wear a lot of make up but still want my face to appear a little brighter and more awake. As long as I tap the product onto my cheek I can apply it after my blush - just make sure not to drag or you will get a streaky cheek!

5. St Tropez Skin Illuminator in Gold

This is a little different to those previously mentioned. I use this all over my face before foundation which gives such a pretty luminosity to my face make up. Again it's much more natural than the first three which makes it perfect for work during the week. As you can see, the illuminator comes out of the tube a white cream until blended. If you like a more luminous but natural finish to your make up I can't recommend this highly enough.

Lots of Love
Nicola
xx

Full Coverage Foundation

2011-06-14T19:54:00.010+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

After my last post, I recieved a couple of emails asking about Estee Lauder's maximum cover camouflage make up, and so I decided to give a run down of my favourite full coverage foundations.

I want to begin by saying for a long time in my opinion, I used full coverage foundations in a silly way creating a mask of foundation on my face, which often left me with cakey make up in a matter of hours. It is probably only in the last couple of months I have started to use full coverage products in a much more skin friendly way. By this I mean, I rarely use the product over the whole of my face, instead concentrating foundation on the areas in need of some extra help. As you can see for me, the two brands that get full coverage right are Estee Lauder and Vichy.

Vichy.

I think the sale of Vichy dermablend must have seen a dramatic increase when Lisa Eldrige used dermablend in one of her videos. And quite rightly so...

Dermablend Corrective foundation is quite a fluid product that blends into the skin quickly and seamlessly. It covers all redness and blemishes on my skin easily without clinging to any dryness or becoming cakey. However, for me, dermablend has two main drawbacks. Compared to the others in this post, it doesn't last as long on the skin and by mid afternoon, you can definitely see some imperfections creeping to the surface. Also, there is a limited colour range, 15 opal is the lightest shade, and on me is quite orange toned. This isn't too much of a problem as I only use it on small areas of the face but would be even more of a dream to blend if there were more shades. This is where the cream stick comes in...

This was given to me by Ann (whatta babe!) and is a little lighter in colour to the fluid (despite being the same name, opal). When a foundation comes in a stick, I always fear that it will be thick, grainy and difficult to work with. However, dermablend is the complete opposite - it's really creamy and smooth and again blends beautifully into the skin. Also, being in stick form, it's a lot more convenient when in a mad dash in the morning - no mess! I actually find myself reaching for the stick more than the fluid. As for application, I use a M.A.C 224 to buff the product onto my face (unless I really am in a rush and I will use my fingers).

Estee Lauder.

Out of the four, double wear is probably the one foundation that I am prone to wear over my full face. As I've mentioned before, it's best to work in small sections as it sets quickly, which could cause cakey or streaky makeup. For this reason, I tend to use my fingers to apply it. I have quite oily skin and don't need to wear a powder when using double wear and it lasts all day. For me, double wear is the perfect work day foundation, I can apply it in the morning and don't need to worry about it at all as the day progresses. I would say the coverage is on par with dermablend but it's longevity is a definite plus.

Being the most full coverage of the four, maximum cover had a lot to live up to in my expectations. The coverage is outstanding, however I fear it would be so easy to get wrong. I could not wear this over my full face, instead I use my elf powder brush to buff it into the most needed areas, however it is definitely the most difficult to blend. As mentioned in my previous post, the formula feels quite odd, almost powdery, which can leave my skin feeling a little dry. It's quite long lasting, maybe a tad less than double wear on me, as it doesn't control oil as well.

One thing I have learned is, if using a full coverage foundation, try and mix it with an illuminating fluid...

The new St. Tropez skin illuminators are beautiful, I have the rose and gold tubes - in particular when tanned, the gold mixed with double wear looks beautiful! Similarly, benefit's high beam and moon beam are equally as pretty mixed with foundation - I always find moon beam to be the prettier of the two, though often gets neglected in place of high beam which is a shame. Clarins beauty flash balm acts as a brilliant base for full coverage foundations as you apply a layer of the balm over the skin without massaging it in before applying your foundation on top. This leaves a lovely, bright base!

Love Nicola
xxx

Trying something new...

2011-06-12T12:02:00.012+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

As promised, I recreated the make up I wore to my grad ball on Thursday using some new products I have recently bought. Before talking about some of the new products I've been recently using, here is how I wore my make up...

Face - Estee Lauder Maximum Cover / Prestige Skin Loving Minerals / Dior Bronze Original Tan / Dior Amber Diamond

Eyes - MUFE Aqua Eyes / MAC Carbon / MAC Old Gold / Chanel Inmitable Intense Mascarra

Lips - Chanel Rouge Allure 81 Insouciante / Chanel Glossimer 287 Aurore

Estee Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover

Despite beginning this post saying I love all of the products I mention here, maximum cover really has me split. There is no denying it gives a ridiculous amount of coverage, it literally covers any imperfection, I even tried it on the beauty spot at the side of my eye and it was barely detectable. However, I personally don't think I could ever use it as a foundation - I tried it and in a couple of hours it was horribly cakey, despite using the smallest amount. However, when used as a concealer in small sections of the face I love it! I think it's the texture of the product that puts me off, it's so thick and almost feels like a whipped foundation (an extrememly heavy duty one) but when it settles it can feel quite dry. Sadly, I think this has been discontinued, I had a look online and you can still get limited shades on a number of websites (selfridges, debenhams etc) - if you're looking for a heavy duty concealer, I can't recommend this enough if you can get your hands on it!

Dior Bronze Original Tan 002 Honey

For the last couple of weeks, I have longed for a change from my usual pink cheeks and on a mooch around Frasers, I swatched Dior's bronzer in 002 honey. The bronzer has quite a subtle gold shimmer which looks lovely on the cheeks - especially paired with amber diamond as I have done above.

It's quite golden in colour and though it contains shimmer, it is very finely milled creating more of a glow than a shimmer. It is extrememly buildable and lasts the day without needing touching up!

Chanel Rouge Allure 81 Insouciante and Glossimer 287 Aurore

Finally, I believe I have found the perfect nude lip combination for my skin tone!

Rouge Allure 81 Insouciante is maybe one of the most beautiful lipsticks I have ever owned - though it is one I would never dreamed of trying. It's quite beige toned but has enough pink to balance this out and still look quite natural. Formula wise, it is so smooth and lightweight that you don't really feel like you're wearing anything. I would love to hear any other rouge allure recommendations.

Glossimer 287 Aurore is a new release from Chanel's summer collection and it is BEAUTIFUL! It's a peachy pinkgloss that contains the most amazing gold micro glitter that catches the light amazingly. It isn't sticky and lasts a good length of time - However, it is quite sheer so perfect for layering on top of lipsticks. Together, I think the two are so pretty and natural together!

Love Nicola
xx

Oh, well. What's a royal ball?

2011-06-10T19:19:00.004+01:00

After all, I suppose it would be frightfully dull, and-and-and boring, and-and completely... Completely wonderful.

Last night was my graduation ball and it was the perfect end to uni (though Graduation is still to come). When I mentioned I was going to my ball on twitter, a few beauties asked if they could have a peek at my dress...

My dress is from Monsoon and I think has just the right amount of embellishment around the neckline that I didn't need to wear very much other jewelry, just a simple ring from Orelia. My shoes are also from Monsoon - I really struggled finding plain gold formal shoes, but these are really pretty and actually quite comfortable!

We all had such a lovely night that included dancing to the macarena (which, when dancing to it, never seems to END), posing for lots of photos in the photobooth and finally munching a McDonalds in our dresses.

I never got a good photo of my make up, but I'll get round to recreating it soon in a 'what I've been loving lately' post as I've been using lots of lovely new things!

Love Nicola
xxx

Umberto Giannini Glam Hair Big Hair Heated Volume Rollers

2011-06-07T19:41:00.008+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

What a ridiculously long title for a post! I am in love with Umberto Giannini's heated rollers (despite their silly name) which I have used everyday since I bought them.

You get six rollers in total, comprising of four large and two smaller rollers. They are probably the biggest heated rollers I have ever used/seen which was why I was instantly drawn to them. Once switched on, they are ready to use within ten minutes,- I turn them on when I blow dry my hair and leave them in my hair while I do my make up and munch my breakfast which I've found to be the perfect time for my hair (around half an hour, however the thicker your hair is, the longer the better). With a spritz of hairspray the style lasts all day!

Importantly because of the size, these rollers are not designed to curl, rather they are to be used to achieve volume. Here is a before/during/after...

As you can see, the rollers add shape and body to my hair, using a fraction of the heat I normally would using straighteners or tongs. They have taken all the work out of styling my hair early in the morning! Unfortunately, due to the size and weight of the larger rollers, it can sometimes tug at the root of the hair which can be quite painful, however I've found if you reposition the roller and ensure the hair is wrapped really tightly this is solved. You can also see the length of my natural hair isn't particularly long and I can still use the larger rollers, it takes a little practice (and I'm still not very neat) to get the position right but persevere and it becomes easy!

If you like curled hair, these would be brilliant to use in conjunction with smaller heated rollers to give beautiful, bouncy hair! I got my set in boots for £30 - are you a heated rollers fan?

Love Nicola
xxx

Hello!

2011-05-29T21:12:00.005+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

This week has been rather momentous...I've finally finished uni forever! I still can't quite believe it! I've went straight into working full time (boo) but in the evenings I can't seem to shake the niggling guilty feeling that I should be doing something uni related, I think it's going to take a while to adjust!

My first week uni free has been rather hectic but lovely. I seem to have embraced colour and wore lilac to my cousins wedding (where a real live owl flew in with the rings)...

and orange on a night out...

Something has seriously changed in my membrane, every time I've went shopping I am instantly attracted to colour. It feels really nice not to be shrouded in black all the time, I admit defeat, wearing colour can have a definite affect on your mood!

My friends and I went to see Spring Awakening in Stirling this week - has anyone seen it? Though at times it can be a little uncomfortable to watch (and I am in no way a prude) I can't stop listening to the soundtrack - you know when a song settles in your head and you can't shake it...

If you watch Glee - that's Lea Michele singing! No trip to Stirling would be complete without a visit to the castle...

I lived in Stirling for two years while I studied nursing and it was so odd being back, it still feels a little like home though going back made me realise I definitely left for all the right reasons...

I can't wait to catch up with you all and read what you've all been doing/using/wearing. After posting tonight I'm going to embark on an epic comment replying mission whilst perving over Gordon Ramsey (do not judge me). On a blogging note, I'm looking for someone to give my blog a complete overhaul, I've had the same layout and header since I started a year and a half ago and am in desperate need of a change. If you have any recommendations of someone who has done something similar for you or if think you could help me (I'd pay of course!) please leave me a comment or email me - you'd be a ledge!

Lots of love
Nicola
xoxo

Sudocrem

2011-05-28T20:40:00.006+01:00

Hey Dolls :)
If you've read my blog for a while you will know I always seem to be in a constant battle with my skin. However, one product that I can always rely on is sudocrem.

Traditionally used for nappy rash, I've used sudocrem as a spot treatment for years. I always use sudocrem as an overnight treatment as it's a really thick white cream, unsuitable for wearing under make up throughout the day. After the first night, any redness around the affected area has been greatly reduced due to the zinc and by the third day any breakout is pretty much gone. I often suffer from bad acne scarring, however I have definitely noticed when I use sudocrem on any breakouts I don't scar as much.

Previously, the one drawback for me was the packaging, I always had to scoop the cream from a big pot, which left loads of product stuck under my nails, plus it isn't very hygienic. I hadn't realised that sudocrem had launched a tube until I was offered the chance to review it. The tube cuts out all of the mess and hassle of the tub plus, it's small enough to keep on my bed side table.

In conjunction with this new packaging, Sudocrem Tube were offering free bagology readings on their facebook page, think beauty bloggers whats in my bag posts crossed with psychology...here's the the contents of my bag

And here's what Debbie, the baagology reader (bagologist?), could tell about me from the contents of my bag

There are some scarily accurate observations here - I've just finished uni so I am in desperate search for my talents. I also would hope that I'm a good and loyal friend, however I think it's funny to think I could ever be an inspiration to others, I'm too scatterbrained and silly!

Though the bagology readings have now stopped you can still go and read other girls readings (and you will spot many other familiar blogger faces!) and keep an eye out for the bagology app due to be launching on their facebook page.

Let me know if you have any other uses for sudocrem, I've heard it's a good preventative for shaving rash?

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

One short day...

2011-05-07T20:16:00.004+01:00

In the emerald cityyyyy

I am absolutely drawn to greens/emeralds/turquoises at the moment and was of no surprise when looking for an outfit to wear to a family tonight, I came home with this...

I am in absolute love with this caped blouse, in real life the colour is much more of an emerald than a mint. I also love that it covers my arms a little but because of the split sleeves it still feels summery - I think this would be perfect to take away for the evening on holiday! The blouse is from river island, the ring H&M and the polish is M.A.C's peppermint patti (still my favourite!).

I bought my first maxi dress yesterday and I'm unsure as to how to wear it - how do you style yours? Mine is just a plain black racer back - all suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xx

P.S Snaps if you know the title of this post!

Exam Pyjamas

2011-05-04T17:42:00.003+01:00

Hey Dolls

Today was the first of my last ever exams at uni - more importantly it was the first outing of my new trousers, which I can only describe as 'social pyjamas' or pyjamas posing as trousers...

I recently posted on facebook that I have more pyjamas than actual clothes (tragic) so a trouser/pyjama hybrid for me is amazing! I know harem pants have been out for ages but these are slightly different to lots of I've seen - they're a lot baggier and 'float' when you walk - so comfy and breezy! Plus the print is amazing! I got them from dorothy perkins for around £25...I'm going back tomorrow for a couple of other prints!

Yet again my love of a stretchy waistband prevails - what are your thoughts of harems?

Love Nicola
xxx

Life of an IPhone Vol.1

2011-04-29T21:41:00.005+01:00

1-3. Our bedroom is finally finished!
4. Disney - the best study pick me up
5. Disney Store!
6. Nick at Sea World -there's a nemo above his head!
7. Studying uggh
8. Marauders map - I WANT
9. GAH - sadly my most overused word (is it a word?)
10. Procrastinating

Bumble and Bumble

2011-04-26T08:31:00.006+01:00

Hey Dolls

Since starting blogging, hair care and styling has become a particular passion of mine. I have an exact image in my mind of how I want my hair to look and am constantly on the lookout for products that are going to give me volumised, sleek (and long) hair. Two such products which I've been using for a while now are by Bumble and Bumble...

A recurrent theme on Magic'sinthemakeup is that I find products I love and work really well for me but quickly discard these as I read blog reviews or watch you tube videos about new products. This happened with both Bumble and Bumble's thickening spray and creme de coco masque - I really need to learn that the grass isn't always greener!

Bumble and Bumble Thickening Hairspray

I've tried lots of thickening sprays and lotions in the past - you may remember in my big hair how to post, I recommended the Samy version, which I do still like. It definitely gives lots of volume however, after a while I felt it quite heavy and there was a constant danger of spraying too much and being left with sticky hair. Bumble and Bumble's thickening hairspray works much in the same way, I spray it in sections onto damp hair before blowdrying my hair with a round barrel brush. The spray gives lots of volume that holds through the day without weighing hair down. I'm not too keen on the the scent (once it settle it's a little minty), but once sprayed into the hair you can't really smell it and the effect is definitely better, than the smell is worse!

Creme de Coco Masque

One thing I don't spend a lot of money on is my everyday shampoo and conditioner, my l'oreal elvive does everything I want it to - I prefer to save my money for a good conditioning masque. By far, creme de coco is the best I've tried. Firstly, it smells amazing! If you love anything coconut-y you will adore this. The scent sticks around in your hair until the next wash and I absolutely love getting whiffs of coconut throughout the day. The masque contains coconut oil, Shea butter, almond oil and mango. I use creme de coco once a week on a Sunday (ya'll know that's my beauty day) and I feel it really sets my hair up for the week. After using the masque my hair is so sleek and shiny and also really quite straight (miracle). As I use lots of volumising products that are notoriously drying for your hair, I feel that this masque helps to replace all the moisture lost and sooth my guilt a little bit!

I promise not to forget about you any longer!

Next I really want try Bumble and Bumble's Brilliantine and texture cream...have you tried these or any other Bumble and Bumble products? Let me know what you think!

Love Nicola
xoxo

P.S I love saying BUMBLE AND BUMBLE!

Some new loves

2011-04-20T19:06:00.006+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

Here are some new beauty superstars!

1. M.A.C Giggly Mineralize Blush

Can I firstly say, I really dislike the name 'giggly', for some reason it makes me feel uneasy. However, as a blush I really love this product. I can't help but be sucked in by the lilac heart - damn my poor will power! When I first tried giggly (ugggh, see I hate this stupid name) I was a little worried as it seemed quite powdery however, while the pigmentation may not be as strong compared to other MAC mineralize blushes, it doesn't fade on the skin. On the cheek, the colour translates as a light bubblegum pink, which as you should all know is my favourite! Also the lilac heart gives the blush a lovely, subtle sheen. Where it lacks in formulation, giggly makes up in prettiness!

2. M.A.C Impassioned and Girl About Town

Due to the arrival of the sun, the last couple of days I've broken out both Impassioned and Girl About Town. Both are amplified cremes, so the formula is smooth, creamy and inredibly pigmented. Impassioned is a funny old lipstick, each time you look at it, it seems to change colour ranging from a bright pink to a juicy coral. Girl about town is a bright fuschia and has been one of long time favourites. I can't help feeling instantly happy wearing either of these lipsticks - love!

3. Shu Uemura High Performance Balancing Cleansing Oil

I was always a little wary about trying a cleansing oil on account of how oily my own skin is. However, on a recent shopping trip with my mum we both decided to give the Shu Uemura cleansing oil a whirl and I honestly think it's one of the best decisions I've made. It just seems to work really well with my skin. Firstly, it removes my make up so easily, no scrubbing needed. Secondly, it acts as a really mild cleanser. It's quite a fluid oil that emulsifies when rinsed. Importantly, I only use this at night, prefering to use my Cleanse and Polish in the morning. When I rinse the oil off, it does leave a slight residue, which I personally like to leave overnight meaning I wake up in the morning with lovely moisturised skin. Actually, I've only been moisturising my skin a couple of times a week lately, it just doesn't need it! However, there are two major drawbacks - firstly, the price is ridiculous and actually makes me feel a little ashamed every time I think about it. Secondly, it uses quite a lot of mineral oil so I'm going to keep a close eye on my pores. However, so far it's working really well for me - I'll keep you all updated!

4. Clarins Beauty Flash Balm

My lovely friend Cheryl recomended this to me and honestly after using it I'm not quite sure how I ever lived without it. I use this as a primer under my foundation - it provides a really fresh, luminous base on which to put my make up. It really brightens my skin and contains my favourite thing ever - Witch Hazel - to help tighten tired skin. I think it's important not to rub the product into the skin, instead I apply my foundation straight after application which I think helps give my skin a luminosity. Plus it smells AMAZING!

Lots of Love
Nicola

xxx

Jam tomorrow and jam yesterday, but never jam today.

2011-04-19T09:02:00.011+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

I think by now, with the amount I've whittered on about it, you should all know I love Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. There's something about Carroll's nonsensical logic that always captures my imagination each time I read the books. When the wonderful Ann hinted months ago that The Scottish Ballet were putting on a production of Alice, my excitement went into overload and I (im)patiently bided my time until more information was released. I was even more excited when, later, Ann invited me to a very special date...a wonderful bloggers event to celebrate Alice in conjunction with Blytheswood Square.

The event happened on Saturday and it really was a magical day! It began in the absolutely beautiful Blytheswood Square hotel. Immediately, the first thing I noticed was the amazing chandelier in the foyer which you can see the very end of here - I would like one similar in my house (ha)

On the day, I was running rather late due to an impromptu stop at the stupid uni library and getting rather lost, so I fear I may have seemed rather hysterical to those who met me first, for this I apologise!! I really am quite normal and capable of polite conversation really! Anyway after a quick chat with lots of lovely bloggers we were whisked off to watch a couple of films detailing the ballet's creation from the beginning stages to how the performance works technically on stage. Being a theatre studies student, I was sucked into the technical and conceptual sides of the ballet which I think really paved the way for watching Alice later.

We were then absolutely spoiled with a beautiful afternoon tea, each getting our own little cake stand to munch on.

The blytheswood square had created the stand to fit in with a mad hatter tea party - it was amazing! We had the tiniest cupcakes I have seen with popping candy and wonderful purple cakes that tasted of parma violets. There really is no better way to make me happy than with cake!! During our afternoon tea, the wonderful ladies from The Rainbow Rooms came in and demonstrated how to get the perfect ballet bun. I'm going to do an demonstration post on this, as I think it's a perfect way of getting a bun without using a doughnut (which I've posted about before) as I knew a few of you were worried your hair wasn't long enough to cover the doughnut.

For the next hour, we were able to get our hair done by the lovely rainbow room ladies (they demonstrated on me how to use my beloved dust it, always spreading the dust it gospel!), get a hand massage from some of the blytheswood therapists and get our make up touched up by Jane from smujj (I fell on love with about 4843739 new lipstick colours). I also went on a tour of the hotel and spa, led by the lovely (and very funny) spa manager Leon. The spa is absolutely amazing, it instantly instills a feeling of calm with its soft lighting and incense and everyone roaming about in slippers and gowns!

I have been raving about the spa to everyone I've spoken to since Saturday, I cannot wait to go and try it out! Shall be the perfect exam stress buster!

It was then time to go and watch Alice, I don't really know where to start! The entire performance was absolutely breathtaking and was simultaneously beautiful, whimsical, dark, funny and disorientating. The performance doesn't stick routinely to the book instead juxtaposing abstract episodes that were often recognisable (like the tea party and painting the roses red) but always seemed slightly slanted. Rather than falling down the rabbit hole, Alice falls through the lens of Charles Dodgson's (otherwise known as Lewis Carroll) camera

Fun Lewis Carroll fact courtesy of my friend Lynsey, if you've read the books (or seen the disney film) you'll know there's a character of a dodo. This was incorporated because Dodgson had a stutter and so, when trying to say his name, he would say dodododgson (geekfest over). When reading about the performance, it was noted that the Alice stories were an early milestone in surrealism and you can definitely see a shift in a surrealist direction as opposed to adherence to traditional Victorian depiction of the John Tenniel illustrations in the books.

It was amazing to see such well known characters given their own individual slant. I absolutely loved the re imagining of the mysterious and quite sinister Jabberwock, who, rather than being represented as a monster, was given a definite human form, corrupted by the placement of a box over his head.

As ever, the Scottish Ballet's set (which was quite different from the christmas productions I have seen previously, Alice used lots of light projections as opposed to fabric dropbacks) and costumes were amazing.

Alice has left Glasgow now but you can still catch it in the following places and dates:

Edinburgh Festival Theatre
Wed 20 – Sat 23 April 2011

Inverness Eden Court

Wed 27 – Sat 30 April 2011
Cardiff Millennium Centre

Wed 4 – Sat 7 May2011

Aberdeen Her Majesty's Theatre

Wed 11 – Sat 14 May 2011

Also, if you want an insight into the backstage of a ballet, this Thursday at 7.10 you can watch the dancers put on their make up (so excited) and warm up before the performance as well as following all of the action on twitter. I am definitely tuning in, we had the chance to look at the face charts of the performance and they are beautiful! Find out more about the live streaming event here.

A huge thank you to everyone who was involved in making Saturday possible. Every little detail was taken care of and I can't imagine the amount of work and organisation that went into it...even down to the goody bag tags and our name tags screamed Alice!

Amazing

Sad Panda

2011-04-18T18:30:00.003+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

Yesterday was a beautiful day in Glasgow so Nick and I decided to go a walk along the water and get some much craved vitamin D. It's a long standing joke between the two of us that I repel sunlight because I wear so much black, I know it's bad but honestly I feel so self conscious when I wear colour. However, I shocked Nick yesterday when I actually wore pink!! Though I feel I may have compensated for this in some other way...

Face - M.A.C Studio Finish concealer / Prestige Mineral Foundation / Illamasqua Unrequited

Eyes - Two Faced Shadow Insurance / M.A.C Carbon / MUFE Aqua Eyes / MUFE Smoky Lash

Lips - M.A.C Sugarimmed

Apparently I'm not happy unless there is at least one part of me shrouded in black, old habits die hard!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xxx

A beauty bloggers guide to...

2011-04-17T07:56:00.010+01:00

Happiness

Being the rather shallow excuse for a person that I am, when I need cheering up I turn to beauty products. Nothing makes me happier than to take a couple of hours to just stop and indulge in a spot of D.I.Y beauty therapy...

1. Glitter

Glitter makes me happy. Whether it be on my nails or slathered all over my face (ha) it always cheers me up. I blame it on living with two of the campest men in Scotland (probably) for two years and being subjected by them to a face full of glitter at Death Disco every month. I am in absolute love with O.P.I's teenage dreams...

Pink rainbow glitter! Also you should all know my love for M.A.C's 3d glitters

Getting some sparkle on and dancing on my couch to Candi Staton, to me, is instant happiness!

2. SCRUB!

I think the best feeling in the world happens when you've just stepped out of the shower after exfoliating head to toe. I think it's the combination of having silky smooth skin and feeling squeeky clean. If this is quickly followed by going to bed with fresh sheets and reading Roald Dahl - well that's a perfect evening right there!

3. Face Masks

I remember the first ever sleepover I had with my friends when I was 12 - we all sat in our pyjamas watching films, eating a ridiculous amount of sweets and applied a face mask. I remember thinking we were so grown up and sophisticated! But still to this day, I equate face masks with pampering, despite a mask being an important part of my skincare routine, and find it rather relaxing sitting for 10/15 minutes with a face mask on. My favourite is still Liz Earle's deep cleansing mask and as it's clay based, I like to keep mine in the fridge so it's lovely and cool on the skin when applied.

4. Bubbles

From the first time reading The Bell Jar, one quote always sticks in my mind:

'There must be quite a few things a hot bath won't cure, but I don't know many of them.'

It's true! Baths have always made me happy, from making bubble beards and tidal waves when I was wee to now, twenty years later, using them as a way of de-stressing and pampering. I think I've blogged about the Sanctuary's Bidadari range before - it is beautiful. This shimmering bath creme is such a lovely product, it makes lots of amazing, shimmering jasmine and ylang ylang scented bubbles that make me feel all sleepy. It's the simple things!

5. Colour

M.A.C Pink Friday, M.A.C. Petals and Peacocks, YSL Rouge Pur 128

Just looking at these lipsticks make me smile. I love colour in my make up, and the easiest way, I think, to incorporate a bit of colour into your life is through lipstick. Whether you sheer it out with lip gloss/balm, only wear it in the privacy of your own bedroom or be Baaaaam purple all over your mouth, every girl should own at least one bright, happiness enducing lipstick.

If all of this fails, I advise you watch numerous charlieissocoollike videos whilst eating cheese/cake/mini eggs

And if that doesn't work, I fear there's no hope and you will forever be a little sad (in a charming way) like an extra from a Tim Burton film...

Lots of Love
Nicola
xxx

Why boys are rubbish...

2011-04-14T19:32:00.004+01:00

Hey Dolls

This week I was confronted with the words no girl wishes to hear, especially whilst watching the vampire diaries...

'You're going to have to stop spending so much money on make up'

My initial reaction, like the child I am, wanted to have a complete tantrum. However, after some consideration I suppose Nick is right - the fact I keep finding make up still in the bag that I don't remember buying is silly, especially when we have a whole new house to decorate (I did however, knock over all his stupid Futurama toys as way of revenge). So today I took to my make up drawers and had a rifle and rediscovered two rather pretty products...

In this picture I am wearing Accessorize's merged blush in pretty please and for the first time, despite buying it two weeks ago, bourjois effect 3d gloss in 61. Every time I try one of the Accessorize blushes I can't believe how pretty they are. Pretty Please is probably more effective as a highlight as I really had to layer it on to see the pink. The bourjois lip gloss in the tube looks really pink but seems to look more peach on my lips. I love the formula of it, it isn't sticky at all and lasts quite a long time on the lips without going all gloopy. However, I am a wee bit undecided about the wand, it's a soft plastic applicator which is a little big for my freakishly thin top lip.

Fitting in with the thrifty theme, the very next day I had planned to buy a new conical wand from Sally's - it was a lot thicker than my babyliss one and I was imagining long loose waves. However, today I tried using my huge toni and guy tongs like a conical wand. I just wrapped my hair around the barrel and held it for a few seconds. I really love the effect it gives!

Let me know if you're a make up pauper too!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xxx

Maybelline Eye Studio Gel Liner

2011-04-07T20:29:00.006+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

I absolutely love gel eyeliner and for the last couple of years I have been 100% monogamous to M.A.C's fluidline in blacktrack. However, when maybelline finally released their gel eyeliner here, I was rather excited.

I've been using the liner for about a week now and I LOVE it. Honestly, I think it's comparable to both MAC and clinique's gel liners (which I've recently tried and also like) but in maybelline's case it's cheaper and you get a brush! Consistency wise, the liner is really soft and smooth and doesn't feather when applied. It may not be as black as other gel liners but I still think it's quite a dark, inky colour.

In terms of longevity, it lasts about as long as my fluidline, by the end of the working day my flicks could probably do with a touch up but the only liner I've tried that actually lasts the full day is illamasqua's precision ink. One thing I have noticed is, once applied, it does take a little longer to dry than blacktrack and for the first few applications I did have transfer onto my brow bone, though a little extra care helps to stop this.

I was really excited to try the liner brush that comes in the box and I was really surprised - I think it's a brilliant shape for liner application! You can use the very thin edge of the brush to get a really defined, sharp edge or use the flat side to get a thicker smooth line across the lid. The shape gives you lots of control over the product and is a brilliant alternative to my usual brush of choice, mac's 209. Here is how it looks on...

Overall, I think this is an excellent quality product for the price, and would be especially good if you're venturing into the world of gel liner for the first time. Have you tried this or want to? What are your gel liner experiences?

Love Nicola
xoxo

I fail at life

2011-04-01T19:58:00.005+01:00

...well at make up anyway. Tonight I'm going to a friend's engagement party and spent a reasonable amount of time doing my make up...I was quite happy until I snapped some FOTN photos...

1. Double Wear you irritate me - how can something look so nice in person but look so bad in photos!? I hate that grey ghost face DW gives as a result of the SPF, look at the colour of my face compared with my neck ugggh!! I need some serious photo appropriate foundation suggestions!

2. Apparently I have lost the knack of putting on false eye lashes - what is up with my right eye lash!? Thank goodness I looked at these before I went out!

Though how amazing is illamasqua's succubus?? At least I got one thing right...

Have a lovely weekend!!

Recent Favourites

2011-03-29T16:30:00.007+01:00

Hey Dolls :)

I seem to have abandoned monthly favourites in 2011 and I feel a bit funny starting a couple of
months into the year. Instead, I have decided to post occasional favourites posts in their place. So, here are some products I've been using the most over the last couple of months!

1. Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish

After a brief break up with cleanse and polish, we have been reunited and it feels rather lovely! I got a few comments about my skin in my previous post and I think this, combined with witchazel can take full credit. It really struck me using c+p again, how luxurious it feels which I think comes down to the regularity of a beauty routine. Although to begin with, it can feel like a bit of a palaver with the filling of the sink and the constant washing of muslin cloths. However, being in a routine that replaces a quick couple of swipes with cotton wool, with a sink full of warm water and a muslin cloth is completely worth it.

I really love the c+p pump, I know this sounds odd but it seems really sturdy and well made (I feel like I'm in an episode of Tool Time with Tim) but this in its self is what I love - it's the quality of Liz Earle products that attracts me - I just need to resist the skin care niggles when I feel a little bored of using the same product daily... the grass is definitely not greener.

2. Sephora 230 Crease Brush

This brush was one of my only Sephora Paris purchases - the exchange rate is silly just now, one O.P.I polish, for example, was £20!!!! I've got quite a few sephora brushes now and I'm always impressed with their quality.

The 230 is perfect for crease work, it's quite thin and tapered meaning it gets deep into the crease plus it's really soft and fluffly, and so distributes colour well whilst blending at the same time. I've not had any problem with shedding and it washes well - the only drawback is how long the handle is, I hate not being able to get close to the mirror, though this is just a minor detail. If you can get a hold of it, I definitely recommend it!

3. Make Up Forever Smoky Lash

Smoky Lash has definitely replaced faux cils as my mascara of choice. It adds volume and length without giving you crispy lashes and is a really 'black' black (I hate saying the 'blackest black' but it seems darker than others I've tried, this may just be my imagination).

I love brushes as opposed to plastic wands so this is perfect. The brush really seems to grab on to my lashes meaning the roots of my lashes get coated as well as the ends. It lasts well throughout the day and I haven't had any problems with flaking or smudging(however I was having a little read on make up alley and quite a few people complained of it smudging which is a shame). Formula wise it is quite thick meaning the rim of the mascara does run the risk of getting a little clogged (nothing a wipe doesn't fix) and using a lash comb to avoid clumping.

4. Chi Silk Infusion

In my previous post I showed how I've been wearing my hair a lot, piled loosely on top of my head. However, on days I make a bit more effort, I've been curling my hair with my conical wand and then brushing it through, making really loose waves. However, this method does seem to make my hair a lot fluffier than usual. Confronted with candy floss hair I turned to chi silk infusion and remembered why I loved it so much. As long as you use quite a small amount, the serum calms and controls fly aways and makes my hair lovely and sleek. Also, as my extensions can often look dull as they're not connected to a hair follicle, silk infusion really smoothes them makes them look shiny, making them much easier to blend with my natural hair.

5. M.A.C Peppermint Patti

How long are you supposed to keep nail polish for? I've had peppermint patti for two years and it applies just as well as it did when I first bought it. The polish came out with MAC's sugarsweet collection and I absolutely love it! It's a beautiful pastel mint that's perfect for the lovely spring weather we're having just now. It's a total pain in the bum to apply and probably takes about three coats to get a creamy opaque finish, however the effort is completely worth it!

6. Illamasqua Vanian Eye Shadow

Recently, I've read quite a few reviews regarding illamsqua's eye shadow formula, mainly concerning the colour payoff and the chalkiness. Being honest, Vanian doesn't have the best colour pay off I've ever seen and texture wise it is a little chalky. However, I only use vanian as a brow and cheek highlight so the issues with the formula doesn't cause too many problems.

On the cheek, vanian is one of the prettiest highlights I've ever used, it has a lovely irridescent gold shimmer that reflects the light beautifully. In this way, the lack of colour pay off actually works in its favour as it creates a really subtle, pretty glow.

I actually prefer to use vanian as a cheek highlight to a brow highlight as I prefer to use a matte shadow though it is just as pretty under the brow as it isn't too shimmery or sparkly. I definitely recommend it!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

What I Look Like Lately

2011-03-24T08:46:00.004Z

Hey Dolls :)

I am rather excited to be posting today FINALLY! There has been several things preventing me from posting in the last couple of weeks namely coming home from Paris, moving house, my last ever 3 essays for Uni, work and no internet. Nick and I still don't have an internet connection installed in our new house yet so I'm currently typing this post in the library and fear those around me must think I'm rather vain talking about photos of myself...

Anyways, since it's been so long I thought I would show you how I've recently been wearing my hair and make up during the day.

Face - M.A.C Studio Finish Concealer / Estee Lauder Double Wear mixed with moisturiser / NARS Laguna / Benefit Coralista

Eyes - MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack / MUFE Smoky Lash

Lips - N.Y.X Round Lip Gloss in Doll Pink

I have been loving mixing double wear with my moisturiser, I've been feeling that it's a little heavy for my skin on its own. I've been considering trying double wear light - have any of you tried it? I've also rediscovered coralista, I bought bella bamba when it first came out and initially loved it. However, after seeing photos of it back I'm not too sure if it's the most flattering on me. Coralista however really is lovely, it gives a lovely glow to the cheek without being BOOM sparkle up in yo face!

As for my hair, it's been pretty much piled up on top of my head every day - could it be I've conquered my ear fear?

In other news - This is pretty much the only thing playing on my ipod lately

Lots of Love
Nic
xxx

Ahhh oui oui, Paris!

2011-03-10T10:40:00.004Z

Hey Dolls :)

Finally getting round to posting some Paris photos! I've finally moved into my new flat so just waiting for my internet to get set up and I can start posting properly again woo!

Genuinely fought off about 3647462 small children to get this photo...

The Louvre - which is HUGE!

Eiffel Tower from Trocadero

The view and the stairs at the sacre coeur

We found Nick's twin from Florence...

Lots of Love
Nicola

xxx

A weekend of outfits

2011-03-02T07:33:00.004Z

Hey Dolls

Of late, I have been requested to write a few more outfit posts...forgive me as I am not particularly fashion minded! I just got back from my birthday weekend in Paris and each morning before Nick and I set out, I got him to take a photo of my outfit...

Saturday

Saturday was my birthday so Nick took me out for a lovely dinner on the Champs-Élysées (I had duck and mushroom risotto AMAZING!)

Dress - River Island
Jacket - Primark
Tights - M&S
Shoes - Dorothy Perkins
Bag - Primark

Sunday

Sunday was the day we got to explore the whole city - genuinely I felt like my feet were going to fall off (next time I'm definitely taking my UGGS)

Blouse - Warehouse
Leggings - Topshop
Shoes - Topshop
Bag - Primark

Monday

Monday was Disney Day (which is always the best day).

Dress - H&M
Tights - M&S
Jacket - Primark
Scarf - Alexander McQueen
Bag - Primark

Tuesday

We had a couple of hours left in Paris before travelling home which we spent sitting on the steps of the Sacré Cœur in the sun listening to buskers and munching lots of crepes!

Baggy Top - H&M
Black Vest - Topshop
Cardigan - Topshop
Leggings - Topshop
Shoes - Topshop
Bag - Primark
Necklace - Topshop

To be honest, I took the most weather inappropriate clothes ever - Everyone I spoke to said to take light clothes as it wouldn't be cold - IT WAS FREEZING! I think I spent the whole weekend chittering! I took lots of photos but didn't want to flood you all with Paris snaps - Do you want to see a selection of them?

Lots of Love
(a slightly older)
Nicola
xxx

Illamasqua Intense Lipgloss in Succubus

2011-02-20T10:53:00.005Z

Hey Dolls :)

My ever increasing love for Illamasqua rages on...I have recently reigned in my visits to the Illamasqua counter as they were having an ever increasingly damaging effect on my bank balance. However when my friend Clare wanted to go and buy one of their precision inks I couldn't say no...20 minutes later and Succubus was mine!

I had never tried any of Illamasqua's intense lipglosses before - I honestly can't believe how opaque they all are! Succubus is from their latest collection for Valentines day - Throb. Illamasqua describe it as a 'blood red' and I can't think of a better description...

The formula is really thick but isn't sticky and lasts a really long time - even when it does fade it leaves a lovely stain on the lips (though I did find by the end of the night it did settle into the lines of my mouth but I fear that is down my bad lip prep as I didn't have any other make up with me). The colour is so bright and glossy and gives you the perfect glamorous Hollywood red lip. However, for last night I really sheered it out as I have the terrible habit of kissing everyone I'm with when I'm drunk and don't think I would be terribly popular if I adorned everyone with juicy red lip marks! Here's how it looks sheered out

In this way, I love succubus even more as it's so versatile and can be used for several different looks! Have you tried any of the other intense glosses? I'd love some more colour recommendations!

Love Nicola
xoxo

Happy New Make Up Day

2011-02-17T10:32:00.005Z

Hey Dolls :)

Leading on from my last post, the flip side to that is when you get new make up that lives up to your expectations - that indeed is a happy new make up day! That happened yesterday when I received my mini swap package from Tiffany. I had offered to pick Tiffany up a bourjois bronzer that she couldn't get in the U.S and in return Tiffany sent me another of the N.Y.C blushable creme sticks, this time in Berry New Yorker.

Out of the three of these I've tried, I think this shade may be my favorite. It's a bit different to my typical fail safe pink blush - on my skin tone it comes out as a light bronze (so not very berry-like but still lovely). On application, I've found the easiest and most natural way is to apply quite a heavy amount on the back of my hand and then using a duo fibre brush (I use M.A.C's 187) I swirl the brush on the apple of my cheek. Even though it is a cream product, the blush doesn't drag or streak - I really love them!

Tiffany also included a really pretty cover girl lipstick in 395 darling Cherie

In the bullet, the lipstick looks like a pretty light pink however on the lips it translates a little darker - colour wise it reminds me of a darker Angel by M.A.C. The formula is lovely, it has a lovely sheen that actually stays on the lips for quite a long time and also feels quite moisturising to use.

I immediately used both products yesterday morning to work, here's how they both looked on.

Both such pretty products! Again thank you so much Tiffany!! If you haven't read Tiffany's blog Will Work for Make Up you need to - I genuinely trust Tiffany's opinion on products so much plus she is a beautiful and genuinely lovely person!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

A bit disappointed

2011-02-15T09:58:00.005Z

Hey Dolls :)

Recently I've bought a couple of products that I've been really disappointed in. To be honest, I'm probably being overly dramatic but I get really excited when trying new products that I can't help but feel really let down when they don't work for me.

1. China Glaze Fast Freeze Quick Dry

I recently went in to Sally's to find a new topcoat after reading a lot of controversy over Seche Vite. When I really think about it, the main reason I loved seche vite is down to the speed it dried my polish - I really am a rather impatient person and get really antsy waiting for my nail polish to dry. I change my polish every two/three days so I wasn't too fussed about protecting my nails from chipping so opted to try China Glaze fast freeze quick dry. My dislike for this product may come down to my complete inability with everything nail related but I really hate it!

Firstly it stinks - when opening my bottle today I got a bit on my finger and I can still smell it. It smells a mixture between chemicals, antiseptic paint and floor cleaner. I also find the product really greasy which is only made worse by using the pipette. On using the pipette, I got in such a mess, the product runs off the nail and by the end my hands were covered in a greasy residue. Even when using the brush it's quite a messy process as the product is so liquid-y, it just runs off the nail. One positive is that it does dry wet polish really quickly, however sadly, for me, the cons outweigh the pros.

2. Schwarzkopf Bonacure ColorSave Shampoo and Conditioner

This shampoo and conditioner is another product that I was really excited to try. I bought this the same day as the freeze dry drops (a rather unsuccessful shopping trip I feel). What attracted me to the products was the fact that they claim to protect colour treated hair whilst containing no sulfates. However again I was really let down after using them. The packaging is quite unpractical, the bottles are really tall and thin however you have to squeeze the bottle really hard to get any product out - not brilliant at half five in the morning. When using the shampoo I feel it really clings to my hair, it doesn't foam at all, it's really quite difficult to explain, even when applied to wet hair it feels really dry and cloys to your hair. After using the products for the last couple of weeks I feel my hair lacks shine and softness. What makes it worse is both cost me around £25 which in my opinion was a total waste of money.

3. Maybelline Dream Satin Liquid

I think I might be one of the only bloggers who doesn't like dream satin liquid. However sadly for me, even with powder it doesn't control oil at all. By midday I look really shiny and by the end of the working day it's oil slick city. Which makes me really sad as when first applied it really does look lovely on!

I'd love to hear your thoughts on any of the products mentioned or recommendations of products to replace these!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

A well deserved catch up

2011-02-13T13:39:00.007Z

Hey Dolls :)

I feel like I haven't spoken to anybody in ages! I hope you're all well! Things are all a little topsy turvy at the moment so just wanted to take some time out to have a bit of a ramble!

First of all, February is always my favorite month though it's ridiculously hectic - it's mine, Nick's and my two best friends birthday's in February (never mind Valentines day and Nick and I's anniversary, in fact Nick's birthday is on V-day). So far February has been filled with drunken antics, karaoke, lots of hairspray and eyeliner. Here's a few snaps

I turn 23 on the 26th and to celebrate both our birthdays, Nick and I have booked to go to Paris!! We have two days in the city and then a day in Disneyland. If any of you have suggestions of things we can do (some non-touristy things would be splendid) I would be much obliged. I genuinely cannot contain my excitement for Disneyland, if you're new to my blog you should know I am THE biggest Disney fan. Luckily I have a lovely boyfriend who accepts and encourages this love!

One of the biggest changes since the beginning of the year is that I've started slimming world. I've had a couple of questions on twitter about my diet so I may do a separate post but the thing that attracted me to slimming world is it promotes a balanced diet - it isn't based on a point system and instead helps to train you into eating a varied balanced diet each day without denying yourself treats. So far I'm edging ever closer to losing my first stone. Although numbers wise I can see I've lost weight I haven't really noticed it on myself until I saw that top photo. I've still got a long way to go but it's all quite exciting!! Hopefully one day I will have cheekbones like this

I joke of course (though some resemblance of cheek bones would be stellar)

I also just got an I-phone 4 the other day - to be honest I probably should never of been allowed it, touch screens give me the rage and I'm rather clumsy so I need to find a nice protective cover for it - again if you have any sellers/websites you recommend please let me know! Also is there any apps I need? The first I downloaded was the I am T-Pain as it's legend but I need some entertainment! It has taken me about 3746484 hours fiddling with itunes and my phone but finally I managed to edit this as my ring tone

Yep - that's something that actually happened, I have hedwigs theme as my ringtone!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

No. 7 Exquisite Curl Mascara

2011-02-06T11:46:00.007Z

Hey Dolls :)

I recently recieved No. 7's new Exquisite Curl Mascara to try...

The mascara claims to curl and add volume to your lashes which is mainly down to the shape of the brush...

The brush immediately reminded me of Maybelline's Falsies which I really didn't get on with. However, the No. 7 brush has more of a curve which really seems to make a difference to how the mascara makes my lashes look. The brush catches the lashes well meaning that each lash gets coated and curled.

Here is before and after

As you can see the mascara lengthens and curls my lashes though I wouldn't say it adds a great amount of volume. For me, this makes exquisite curl a perfect everyday mascara and could easily be teamed with a volumising mascara for night time lashes. I've had no problems with the product smudging or flaking and it lasts all day. I definitely recommend giving it a try, especially if you have shorter or straight lashes!

To celebrate the release of exquisite curl, No. 7 are currently holding a compition to find the countries best wink. All you have to do is upload a photo or video of you showcasing your best wink and you could have the chance to win a pampering weekend that includes a makeover with Lisa Eldridge (gasp!!!!). There are also weekly winners chosen to win a goodie bag. Click here for more information.

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

January Favorites

2011-01-30T15:39:00.011Z

Hey Dolls :)

Despite January feeling like it lasted an age, I definitely found some new and lovely products this month!

1. Lush It's Raining Men

When I first heard about It's raining men, I thought it was too good to be true. A shower gel that smells of Honey, I washed the Kids. Thankfully it has lived up to my expectations. My early mornings are made that bit cheerier now. If you like Honey, I washed the kids, you definitely need to buy this before it's gone. The one thing I would say is that I realise £14 is a bit ridiculous for shower gel - however I just couldn't resist!

2. Revlon Colourstay Eyeliner

My favorite eyeliner by far is M.A.C's smoulder, however within a couple of hours it does tend to smudge if you haven't set it with powder. Revlon's colorstay is perfect for me in the early mornings as I don't need to set it with shadow for it to last all day. It's a twist pencil...

I had never used a twist up pencil before, always opting for one that needs sharpening but I do like how easy it is to twist up. This is a brilliant, cheaper alternative to my favorite eyeliners without the worry of panda eyes!

3. M.A.C Play It Cool Palette

Of late, I've completely lost track of M.A.C. collections so it was a lovely surprise when I got the play it cool eye kit from A Tartan Tale for my Christmas. I've used this palette throughout January and I really love it. It's a purple themed palette (so perfect for me)

As you can see, the palette has all of the components for a really pretty, purple smoky eye. My two favorite shades are definitely Altered State (bottom left) which is dark purple that gives a lovely violet sheen and Magic Moor, a blackened plum. If you see this at a CCO I definitely recommend it!

4. La Roche Posay Effaclar K

When I first bought this, I wasn't too sure the best way to use it and settled for applying it before my moisturiser as a type of serum. However, I have discovered that it is the best primer I have used. I have oily skin and using a small amount of Effaclar K before my face make up creates the most matte base. The cream also seems to control oiliness throughout the day. By far one of the best skin care discoveries I've made in a while!.

5. Estee Lauder Double Wear

I love double wear and definitely think it is the best full coverage foundation I have tried. As I keep writing, I'm trying to wear lighter foundation during the day however on days when I feel a little self conscious skin-wise, double wear is absolutely perfect. I don't want to repeat information as I know there have been an influx in double wear reviews but you really do need the tiniest amount to cover your whole face and because it's quite fluid, it doesn't feel too heavy!

6. Cosmopolitan Perfect Finish Make-Up Sponges

This is more make up sponges in general, though I do really like these cosmopolitan ones as they 100% hypoallergenic. As I've started using double wear again, these sponges are the perfect accompaniment. After I've applied my foundation, I pat a damp sponge over my whole face. This manages to add some dewiness, even to double wear!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

This Friday I am...

2011-01-28T09:59:00.006Z

Wearing Barry M 146
Reading about 5463728 history plays

Smelling of YSL Parisienne

Listening to some Disco Anthems

Munching mini babybells and Fanta Zero

HAPPY FRIDAY!!

Some Recent Hair Care Discoveries

2011-01-23T12:56:00.007Z

Hey Dolls :)

Over the last couple of weeks I've discovered a couple of new amazing products for my hair that I wanted to share with you all.

1. Argan Secret Hair Elixir

I recently went a wander round Sally's with my friend Clare which is where I found argan secret. Argan oil is something that has always intrigued me but for some reason I've never taken the plunge and tried it. However, when I saw that this serum used both argan oil and hemp oil I immediately wanted to try it. I think the thought of using an oil on my hair always sounded a little finnicky and messy where as I hoped the oil in a serum would be much easier to use. I've been using this serum on my hair everyday (I've gone back to hairwashing daily) and honestly it is brilliant! Firstly, I've noticed that the time it actually takes my hair to blowdry has been cut in half. The serum adds a tremendous amount of shine and leaves me with a frizz-free do. Consistency wise, it's a clear serum that feels so silky and smooth...

However, as with all serums, if too much is used it can verge on the greasy side. Scent wise the serum is amazing, a lovely sweetened vanilla. On days like today (PJ days) I end up applying lots to the ends of my hair to add some much needed moisture which works really well too. Argan Secret is £15.00 from Sally's.

2. Lee Stafford Flat Iron Protection Mist

After using the TreSemme heat protection spray for a good couple of years, I felt it was time for a change. The colour and scent of Lee Stafford products always pull me in and so I decided to try their flat iron mist. I don't really know if there's much you can say about a heat protectant other than it works! It doesn't leave my hair greasy and dries really quickly so I can get on with styling my hair. Plus it smells amazing!

3. Aussie Mega Instant Shampoo and Conditioner

As I've said before I have really oily hair meaning I need to use a really lightweight shampoo and conditioner - In boots Aussie hair care is 2 for £6 at the moment and honestly it is the best lightweight shampoo and conditioner I have tried. It leaves my hair so soft and shiny without weighing it down and they both smell delightful!

I seem to have bought these products all on a whim but honestly my hair hasn't been as soft or shiny in such a long time!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

OOTD

2011-01-21T19:48:00.002Z

Hey Dolls :)

I'm just about to leave to go and swoon over Seth Rogen in The Green Hornet (if anyone sums up my 'type' Seth is it - controversial I know) but first decided to post a quick photo of my outfit...I went for comfort over style (as always)...

Blouse - Dorothy Perkins
Vest - H&M
Denim Skirt - Diesel
Leggings - H&M
Boots - ASOS
Ring - Primark
Carousel Necklace - Topshop

Tonight I attempted to contour my nose - and failed! It makes my face look so odd however it's far too late to take it all off now. Remind me never to do that again!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

M.A.C Show Orchid

2011-01-14T12:24:00.006Z

Hey Dolls

As far as lipsticks go, bright pinks are always my first choice. Personally, I don't think they come much brighter or pinker than MAC's Show Orchid. This is a a very recent acquisition of mine as my lovely friend gave me it for Christmas....

Show Orchid is an amplified cream (my favorite) so it's a really creamy formula and lasts a really long time without needing to be re-applied. It has quite a nice sheen naturally (that comes off a little purple) but I did top it off here with a little bit of clear gloss.

If you are a lover of fuchsia and magenta lipsticks, you need this in your life!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

Coral Times

2011-01-13T12:07:00.004Z

Hey Dolls :)

If you couldn't tell from my previous post I have fallen in love with Mad Men and in particular with the make up they use on set. For the last couple of days I've followed suit with red lips and big lashes.

Face - MAC Studio Finish Concealer/Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser/MAC MSF Natural/Dior Amber Diamond

Eyes - YSL Faux Cils

Lips - Illamasqua Strumpet Pencil/MAC Toxic Tale

This fits in well with my 'not very many products during the day' phase I'm in the middle of just now. It's been a little bit of an adjustment not wearing blush but I'm quite enjoying wearing a lot less face make up in the daytime!

As for toxic tale, I've definitely decided I'm not really a fan of the formula of MAC's satin lipsticks, I always think they feel really heavy on the lips, I'm really conscious that I'm wearing lipstick if that makes sense?

Where are you pulling inspiration from lately?

Lots of Love
Nic
xoxo

Style Crush: Christina Hendricks

2011-01-09T16:10:00.011Z

Hey Dolls :)

My crush on Christina Hendricks extends much farther than her fashion - her AMAZING figure, hair, face and Marilyn Monroe-esque voice all leave me speechless. I sometimes feel when people talk about 'curvy' (I abhor that phrase) actresses it can all become a tad cliched but in this case it's true, for me Christina Hendricks is an inspiration...she has a bust, hips and a jaw dropping booty, all the more emphasised by her sashay. Her fashion is always on point, she definitely knows how to work a dress. Also, I love that Christina experiments with make up - her face is one that welcomes a multitude of styles and colours, always leaving me a tad envious.

Christina Hendricks has definitely become my number one inspiration.

Lots of Love
Nic
xoxo

Stars of 2010 - Make Up

2011-01-06T20:32:00.019Z

Hey Dolls :)

Continuing on from my skin and body care post here is the make up I've loved to use in 2010.

Face

Being someone who isn't a big fan of M.A.C face products, there are rather a lot on my list...

Dior Amber Diamond

Amber Diamond really is the prettiest highlighter in my collection. The compact combines a collection of champagne and bronze sections that can be used seperately or swirled together. Amber Diamond is set apart for me because it is so finely milled - there are no chunks of glitter or sparkles - just a lovely healthy glow!

M.A.C MSF Natural

Just before Christmas I finished my MSF Natural and feeling the pinch, wandered into Superdrug to try and find a more purse friendly alternative as I go through them quite quickly. Sadly I was let down by every other powder I tried and was rather relieved when I found a new one under my Christmas tree. As my skin has improved I've found that this paired with concealer, gives enough coverage and confidence through the day - I think this will always be a repurchase item!

M.A.C Hang Loose

Definitely my favorite blush of the year - I'm just so sad it's limited edition. I love that it gives lovely dolly pink cheeks with an added silvery highlight - really pretty!

M.A.C Studio Finish Concealer

This is quite a heavy duty concealer but as I've been wearing less and less foundation I've found it to be perfect. It lasts all day and when buffed on using a big fluffy brush it gives a really natural finish.

Eyes

2010 was not a good year for my M.A.C Palettes...Nick dropped them both TWICE and some good shaddows were sadly lost, and others, as you can see, have ended the year looking a little worse for wear.

Urban Decay Naked Palette

I think this is an obvious choice but the Naked palette really is perfect as you can go from day to night time looks really quickly. As ever, the shadows are really smooth and pigmented - I definitely look forward to experimenting with this palette!

M.A.C Club and Parfait Amour

Both Club and Parfait Amour are duo chrome colours...Club is a muddy green/brown with a red/brown duochrome and parfait amour is a vibrant purple with a pink duochrome. Both shadows are go to's for my eye make when I go out - lovely!

M.A.C Blacktrack Fluidline

In the last six months I've fallen back in love with gel liner and my favorite is M.A.C's fluidline. I
use a M.A.C 109 which gives a really nice, thin line that can be made thicker if I want. Blacktrack lasts a long time and I love it because, depending on how it is applied, it can be really precise or smudged.

YSL Faux Cils

I only bought faux cils in November but it has quickly become my favorite mascara. It makes my lashes look so long and thick and I haven't found that it flakes or smudges as many reviews suggested it might.

Lips

I was really quite strict when it came to lip products or else I would have about 5743947 lipsticks here...

Prestige Lip Liner in Silk

This lip liner is perfect for pale and dusky pink lipsticks that I wear nearly everyday. It's a really affordable liner that also helps make my lipstick last a lot longer.

OCC Lip Tar in Demure

OCC lip tars, in my opinion, are some of the best lip products you can buy - especially if you want your lip colour to last all day or night. Demure is an amazing fuchsia - definitely not so demure!

L'oreal Colour Riche 254

This has been one of my best lipstick purchases of the year, it's quite a mauve/nude colour that I can just pop on my lips without having to think too hard about it. The formula is a touch grainy but isn't drying and gives a really nice sheen to the lips.

M.A.C Pink Nouveau

This is my second tube of pink nouveau this year and it is definitely my favorite M.A.C lipstick. It's such a lovely bright pink that I always get compliments on - this is similar to what I hoped pink friday would be!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

I love Drake

2011-01-06T17:13:00.005Z

Hey Dolls :)

Last night I went to see Drake at the o2 academy and I fear that my love for him is getting out of hand.

My friend Lynsey and I had our own wee balcony which was like being at the front row without all the sweat and pushing...Drake even gave a shout out to Lynsey (I have to confess I did consider chucking her over the side of the balcony) but he did look up and smile at us twice (I think I had a wee bit of a spaz attack ha). He was amazing live and even sang lots of Young Money songs which made me happy. He even sang this (one of my favorites) but sadly without Lil Wayne (boo).

Afters, it was the first time I'd seen my best friends in the new year so we went out to celebrate

Ha I think in our drunken state we all got a bit emotional with group hugs galore as it's our last couple of months at uni - we just need to make it the best few months we can!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

MUFE Love

2011-01-04T13:41:00.003Z

Hey Dolls :)

For my Chrisymas this year I was so excited to find I'd been given some Make Up For Ever eye shadows...today was the first chance I've had to play with them and I honestly am so happy to have some colour injected back into my make up.

Face - MAC Strobe Cream/MAC Studio Finish Concealer/MAC MSF Natural/MUFE Candy Pink 85

Eyes - Two Faced Shadow Insurance/MUFE Fuchsia 26/MUFE Purple 92/MUFE Yellow 2/MAC Fluidline Blacktrack/17 Wild Curls

Lips - NYX 08 Doll Pink

I am in absolute love with the eyeshadows I've tried so far, they are unbelievably pigmented...I had already triedpurple 92 and it really is the brightest and most vibrant purple ever! I've got a seperate post coming soon with swatches!

Lots of Love
Nicola
xoxo

2010 Stars - Skin + Body Products

2011-01-01T14:40:00.011Z

Hey Dolls :)

For products, 2010 has been a year of experimentation. I have definitely found some must-have, always to be repurchased products which I will include in these posts however as you will see there will be some important products missing (eg foundation, moisturiser) which I hope I find in 2011!

Skincare

From around 2008, my skincare routine had been composed entirely of Liz Earle products. However come the start of the year, I felt they weren't working as well as they once had. From then, I have been searching for the best cleanser and moisturiser for my skin...I'm still using the La Roche Posay Effaclar K products however I can't help but feel there is something better out there - if you have any suggestions let me know!

Witch Hazel

This was an obvious choice for me. Using Distilled Witch Hazel twice daily as a toner has reduced the number of spots I get, brightened my skin tone and minimised my pores. As a result I've been wearing a lot less foundation which has had a further knock on effect on the condition of my skin. You can read my full review here.

Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream

I think I would feel a little lost without Elizabeth Arden's 8 hour cream. It can be used for a ridiculous amout of purposes...I use mine mainly for an additional moisturiser on extra dry parts of my skin, chapped lips, on my cuticles and as an over night hand/foot treatment. Honestly I have never tried something so effective at soothing and healing skin - for me it doesn't smell (or taste) particularly appealing but it's definitely something you get used to! I use it everyday and can't ever see this not being one of my all time favorites.

Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avacado

2011 was the first year I started using an eye cream and I absolutely love this kiehl's eye treatment. It's a really thick cream however it melts into the skin really quickly. I love that I can wear this under my foundation as long as I give it time to sink in. It is a little pricey but as it's so rich you use very little!

Body Care

Again bodycare is something I have flitted between this year. However, it seems that 2010 was the year of soap and glory!

Soap and Glory Clean on Me

Clean on me is my favorite shower gel of all time. It lathers up so well, smells amazing and is really moisturising. I also love that it has a pump!

Xen Tan Dark Lotion

I have tried lots of different fake tan products and after a shaky start I definitely believe xen tan's dark lotion is my favorite. When using dark lotion I usually apply it twice a week and then exfoliate on the Sunday (and repeat). Xen Tan claims that the product has no fake tan smell which sadly isn't true. There is a definite fake tan scent in the morning however it isn't too strong. Once developed it gives me a lovely bronzed glow - lovely!

Soap and Glory Girligo

I've blogged about this a lot lately as it is a fairly new find however I now use it every day. It gives me the perfect amount of moisturisation daily and sinks in really quickly. Plus it smells amazing!

Lush Honey I Washed the Kids

Honey, I washed the kids is my favorite soap OF ALL TIME! Firstly it looks pretty, smells pretty and feels pretty. It's really moisturising and lathers up really well.

Soap and Glory Flake Away

I've used a few exfoliators that I've liked this year including Elle McPherson's lavander sugar scrub and N-Spas hot butter fudge sugar scrub however flake away is the only one I've repurchased. I love flake away as it isn't too grainy or too rough - it's just right!

Up next is my make up favorites!

Lots of Love
Nic
xoxo

2010

2010-12-31T17:47:00.016Z

Hey Dolls

2010 has been a year full of happiness, laughter, tears, frustration, friends, family and excitement. For me, 2011 is going to be rather uncertain and a wee bit scary as it's the year I finish uni and have to be a proper 'grown up' but it's all exciting too! This year I...

Enjoyed lots of fun day trips with Nick

Had lots of fun with my beautiful friends

Had a lovely, toasty warm summer

Saw one of my best friends get married

Got rather wet and muddy at rockness

Ate lots of yummy food

Had lots of film themed adventures

And wore lots of lovely dresses

I hope you all had a brilliant 2010 and all the best for the coming year!

Lots of Love

Nicola

xoxo

My little slice of luxury

2010-12-29T10:45:00.013Z

Hey Dolls :)

I hope you all had a very lovely Christmas! Over the festive period I've been thinking that whenever I feel a little blue there are certain products that I turn to that cheer me up - they are my little slices of luxury!

1. Naturae Talco Profumato in Mughetto

My Italian isn't up to much but as far as I can tell from google, mughetto means Lilly of the valley...this is such a beautiful talc, it smells amazing, the powder feels really silky and it comes with a beautiful puff...

Personally, I think there's nothing more glamorous feeling than using a fluffy powder puff, I instantly think of beautiful 1920's starlets!

2. Sanctuary Bidadari Shimmering Body Oil

This body oil is absolutely beautiful. The packaging itself is stunning, it sparkles when it catches the light. It also smells beautiful - a mix of jasmine and ylang ylang. The oil contains almond and coconut oil as well as vitamin E which all leave my skin feeling so soft! It also leaves a lovely golden glow on the skin...

Whenever I feel a little stressed or glum this oil is an instant pick-me-up, it's also to use after a bath to lock in any moisture on the skin!

3. The White Company Candles

By far, the white company candles are my favorite, they're the strongest smelling candles I've used, including expensive ones such as Molton Brown. If there are any vampire diaries fans reading this can you guess why I bought this? It's called verveine!!!

This candle is a citrus scent with orange, lemon, sage, lemongrass and cedar wood - it's cheeriness in a candle. Other white company scents I recommend are white cashmere, white fig, flowers and pomegranate.

4. YSL Parisienne

Parisienne has recently replaced Chanel Mademoiselle as my comfort perfume. Parisienne combines violet, rose and blackberry - very different from mademoiselle but it's beautiful and sweet that I can't help but feel cheered up when I smell it!

5. YSL Lipsticks

It seems I equate YSL with luxury! The classic packaging, the beautiful colours and the silky formula of YSL lipsticks make them the perfect luxury item!

Which products do you equate with luxury and comfort?

Lots of Love
Nic
xoxo