Tuesday, 30 June 2015

John Frieda Radiant Red Shampoo and Conditioner |

John Frieda Radiant Red
John Frieda Radiant Red Colour Magnifying Shampoo* | £5.09 | Link
John Frieda Radiant Red Colour Magnifying Conditioner* | £5.09 | Link

If there's one thing I'm addicted to buying it's shampoo and conditioner. No matter what hair crisis I get myself in to, I know a duo that will get me out of it. When it comes to looking after my home-dyed red hair I usually opt for an affordable offering, but none of them have ever wowed me. That was until the John Frieda Radiant Red Shampoo and Conditioner landed on my doorstep, and from the first application I knew it was going to be a match made in heaven. 

With anti-fading agents that promise to enhance colour and amplify rich tones, I thought that it sounded all too good to be true, but after several weeks of trialling this duo out I have noticed that my red hair feels refreshed and richer in colour. I usually dye my hair ever four weeks due to fading and although this is no miracle product that prevents the need to re dye your hair for three months - It really does work at enhancing and preserving the colour. 


When paired with the John Frieda Frizz Ease Nourishing Oil Elixir, I have noticed a massive difference in the look and texture of my hair - Allowing styling to be a much faster process. The shampoo and conditioner duo leaves my hair feeling cleansed and healthy without  leaving it feel stripped of moisture. I know that this product is aimed at red heads, but regardless of hair colour if you're on the look out for a new addition to your haircare routine, then based on my experience I would recommend trying out the other ranges that they have on offer. 

Have you tried the John Frieda Radiant Red range? 

* PR SAMPLE/GIFTED
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Saturday, 27 June 2015

The Rep Lip Edit |

Many people associate red lips with winter days and evenings out, but for me I crack out the red lip all year around. I have drawers dedicated to dark lipsticks and even though I will always remain an avid berry lip wearer, the reds have started to make a comeback in my collection. Matte, glossy, orange toned or blue, choosing a red lipstick can be stressful, so today I put together my top three red lipsticks that can be worn for all occasions. 

MAC Lipstick - Ruby Woo | £15.50 | Link | If you don't own it, want it or know of it then you must have been living under a rock for the past couple of years because Ruby Woo has been talked and raved about since I can remember. When I first got it, my first thoughts were "they weren't joking when they said it was a statement lip", but from first application, I knew it was a keeper. Even though the formula is extremely matte, which means that if you are prone to dry lips it may emphasise flakiness, it really is worth the extra scrub and lip balm as it doesn't budge once applied. The vivid colour makes your lips look fuller, the matte formula makes the shade wearable and the blue-red tone makes your teeth look whiter - Now who wouldn't want all of that? 

Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Intense Lip Colour - Pirate | £26 | Link | If you're a regular reader of my blog, then you would have already seen this being featured as my go-to lipstick whenever I am in a rush and even though it is the pricier lipstick out the three, it has quickly become a staple in my collection. The creamy, highly pigmented formula looks great on all skin tones, but the aspect that makes me a little hot under the collar is the glossy finish. With great lasting powder and a wearable finish, it can be worn daily and for all occasions. 

Clinique Pop Lip Colour + Primer - Passion Pop | £16 | Link | By now you're probably thinking "will she ever shut up about these" and the answer is no. If you're a fan of Ruby Woo, then you need to think of Passion Pop as it's glossier, younger sister. The demi-matte formula leaves the lips feeling nourished and hydrated, but unlike other moisturising lipsticks these don't lack in pigmentation. It's comfortable to wear and suitable for everyday use. Even though it isn't essential, if you want to achieve a fuller looking lip then I would recommend using MAC's Cherry to define your lips and prevent bleeding. 

What red lipstick is your favourite? 
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Thursday, 25 June 2015

Diptyque Roses Candle |

Diptyque Roses Candle
Diptyque Roses Candle
Diptyque Home Candle - Roses | £20 - £40 | Link

As an avid reader of blogs, I knew one day that I would cave to the Diptyque craze and if you follow me on Twitter then you will be no stanger to my lust to own a Diptyque Roses candle. Every time I go into Space NK I give them a sniff, walk around holding one and then put it back on the shelf before purchasing, convincing myself that a candle isn't a necessity and £40 for a candle is ridiculous. As part of a house warming present to myself I thought I would take the plunge and even though initially the price made my eyes water a little bit, I soon began to realise what all the fuss was about. 

As a luxe buy, you would expect great things from a candle and this certainly doesn't disappoint. The dominating rose scent hits you when you not only walk through the door whilst it's burning, but it also lingers for hours after. The fresh and floral fragrance is perfect for the Summer, but I'm sure that I will be picking up a few of these throughout the year too. 

If you're planning on having a splurge or would you just like to know a little bit more about the care of candles then I would recommend that you read Tips for burning candles post in order to get the most use and wear out of your candle. 

Have you tried a Diptyque candle? 
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Tuesday, 23 June 2015

Urban Decay Naked On The Run Palette |

Urban Decay Naked On The Run
Urban Decay Naked On The Run Palette
Urban Decay Naked On The Run | £37 | Link
When it comes to eyeshadow palettes, Urban Decay can do no wrong. The creamy, highly pigmented shades always go down a treat. When the Naked On The Run palette was released, I convinced myself that I didn't need it, but after winning it in Lipsticks and Law's giveaway I couldn't wait to give it a go. 

For someone who can't pack lightly and is always on the look out for a 'do it all' palette, I struck gold when I laid my eyes on this. It contains a range of neutral eyeshadow shades, a bronzer, blusher, a Naked lip gloss, a mini perversion mascara and a mini 24/7 glide on eyeliner -  Apart from your base and brows, it pretty much has you covered. As an avid neutral eyeshadow wearer, I knew I would have to be blown away with the shades in the palette to get good use out of them, but to my surprise I actually found out how quickly it was possible to turn a day time look into a night time one. The versatile shades that range from a metallic rose to medium brown matte are creamy, easy to blend and perfect for daily use. 

Out of everything from this palette, I was most excited about trying the 24/7 Glide On Eye Pencil. As a cult classic in the beauty industry, I had high hopes and I was pleased that it didn't disappoint. When applied there is no risk of it budging and even though I was disappointed to find out it wasn't a black eyeliner, I was pleased to discover that the brown tint to it compliments my dark blue eyes, whilst staying soft and natural. 

The bronzer is a medium matte shade and even though it isn't as universal as it claims out to be, it is suitable for when you need something for on the go. It definitely packs some punch, so go lightly on application. If you're a fan of shimmery, pink blusher then this offering will have you hot under the collar. For me it is more of a highlighter-blusher hybrid which is perfect for a one sweep application for those mornings where you just wan't an extra 5 minutes in bed. 

Despite the rose gold packaging impressing me from first glance, the large mirror and overall high quality of the contents has had me hooked. If you already own the Naked palettes, then I would recommend you trying this one out. For £37 it may make you eyes water to begin with, but for what you get, I think it is 100% worth it. 
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Sunday, 21 June 2015

Current Essentials | Ft. Clinique, Urban Decay and Max Factor

Over the past few months I have been trying out a wide variety of new products. From mascara to concealer, I have switched up my routine and rather than sticking to the same products every day I am now making a concious effort to use all of my products in my collection. If you read my blog regularly or follow me on Twitter then you'll be no stranger to my love of these five products and today, I thought I'd share with you just why I use them daily. 

Caudalie Beauty Elixir | £11.50 | Link | If there's one product that was and still is put on a pedestal in the beauty industry - it's the Caudalie Beauty Elixir. Used by thousands and raved about by many, the Beauty Elixir has been part of skincare regimes for years and for a very good reason too. Infamous for it's abilities to tighten pores, refresh the skin and add glow, I knew that it would have to work miracles to fool me. At first I was sceptical, as someone who uses facial mists on a daily basis, I didn't believe this would be any different to the ones I use. How wrong was I? After a few uses and experimenting I was hooked. I use it before my make up and to refresh my base - Perfect for when you want to add an instant boost and radiance to the skin. 

Clinique Pop Lip Colour and Primer | £16 | Link | I recently wrote a post about the Clinique Pop Lip Colours here. After seeing these being raved about on a variety of blogs, I knew I had to get my hands on a few. As someone who usually doesn't wear lipsticks regularly during the Summer due to the risk of melting, smearing and general dehydration of the lips, I knew when I started to wear these daily I was onto a winner. Melon Pop, an easy to wear, coral shade looks perfect paired with a tan, but unlike usual moisturising lipsticks, it still is long wearing and highly pigmented. 

Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara | £10.99 | Link | If you've been reading beauty blogs or watching Youtube for years, then you'll remember the False Lash Effect craze. Everyone marched off to Boots to buy this mascara, but I stayed at home and wasn't at all convinced. A Tesco offer later and I am now using this daily - Who would have guessed? After a couple of coats, it leaves my lashes looking thick, voluminous and with no clumps in sight. Before you head off to repurchase your mascara, I would recommend trying out the Max Factor False Lash Effect mascara and for the price, it really is a bargain buy. 

Urban Decay Naked Skin Weightless Complete Coverage Concealer | £17.50 | Link | Just like it's long name, this concealer has a long list of positives and uses. This Urban Decay offering gives me everything I want in a concealer - Full coverage, lightweight and long wearing. Not only can it be used on blemishes, but it works a treat for covering dark circles and brightening the complexion. For me, I have been using this concealer daily in order to give me more confidence to wear a lighter base. This paired with the Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue is a match made in heaven. 

Kevyn Aucoin Sculpting Powder | £35 | Link | If there's one product that you need to invest in this Summer, it would be the Kevyn Aucoin Sculpting Powder. The finely milled, cool toned contour adds definition, warmth and depth to cheekbones without running the risk of going too OTT. Even though the price tag may make your eyes water and when you look at it, you'll start to doubt that £35 for something that resembles a small eyeshadow is worth it, but it undoubtedly is. It blends effortlessly, has a natural colour pay off and is totally fool proof. 

What products are you currently trying out? 
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Friday, 19 June 2015

St Tropez Gradual Tan In Shower |

St Tropez Gradual Tan In Shower
As someone who is always looking for ways to make my everyday beauty regime quicker and easier, when I heard about the St Tropez In Shower Gradual Tan, I may have let out a little squeal. A three minute tan? Yes please. As the weather is getting hotter, my pale pasty legs are in need of some extra TLC. I usually opt for the St Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Lotion, but with claims that the new In Shower Gradual Tanner would be easy to use and streak free, I thought it was about time it put it to the test. 

Unlike other fake tans, with this gradual tanner there is no need to stand around naked with the windows open to try and get rid of the classic biscuit smell. Instead the scent is a fruity, floral hybrid that lingers on the skin for a couple of hours after application. If you tan well like me or you just want a natural tan with no risk of over applying, then gradual tanners are the best way to go as they can prolong your tan and deepen it. This gradual tanner can easily be built up to create a colour that suits you, plus it doesn't run the risk of make you orange or streaky - Bonus.  The only let down -and it is in fact only a 180 second let down- is that you have to get out of the shower, freeze your t*ts off for 3 minutes and then hop back in. Worth it? Absolutely. 

To use you fully cleanse and shower yourself with warm water then, with the shower off, you apply a generous amount of product to your body in circular motions to create an even coverage. After waiting three minutes, you full rinse off the product with warm water only. You can be washed, tanned and out the door in under 10 minutes as there is no waiting around time before you can get dressed - Perfect for those in a rush. 

If you're a fake tan addict that prefers a darker tan, then the colour pay off won't be to your liking. Even though it is natural looking, it does take a few applications to build up a substantial looking tan. However if you're looking for that extra glow then I would 100% recommend this. 

Have you tried the St. Tropez Gradual Tan In The Shower?
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Monday, 15 June 2015

Zoeva Mixed Metals Palette |

Zoeva Mixed Metals Palette
Zoeva Mixed Metals Palette | £15.50 | Link

As a massive fan of Zoeva brushes, when the Zoeva Mixed Metals palette landed on my doorstep after winning it in Lemonaid Lies' giveaway I instantly knew I was in for a win. At first I was sceptical about the shade range, as someone who is used to more neutral palettes I knew this was one that would take a bit of getting used to. 

With 10 super pigmented, metallic shades ranging from a bright copper to a subtle silver, this palette definitely fills the metallic void in my eyeshadow collection. For the price this palette is a massive bargain, but for me, I would pay the £15.50 just for the shade Copper Plate. The deep rusty copper shade is a versatile colour that can be used in conjunction with a range of shades such as Alloy, a lilac toned metallic mauve and Rusty Steel, a warm red toned bronze. If you're looking for a brow highlight that isn't too shimmery, but still defines the brow bone, then the shade Warm Silver is perfect. 

All of the eyeshadows are finely milled and creamy, making for an effortless application. They blend well and can be faded out for a much more subtle look. Even though I'm not a massive fan of the cardboard packaging, I still think that this palette is highly underrated. Now a staple in my collection, I know I will be reaching for these metallic shades whenever I am in doubt for a night out this Summer. 

Have you tried the Zoeva Mixed Metal Palette? 
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Friday, 12 June 2015

Hair Styling with Schwartzkopf Got2b |


If there's one hair care range I look for whenever I am in doubt - It's Schwartzkopf. I've been using their hair care for as long as I can remember and even though I still misspell it regularly, it's been a brand that I have stayed faithful to for years. Whether it's hair spray, styling oil or heat protector, they will always have you covered. Today, I thought I would share with you my top Schwartzkopf products that I reach for on a regular basis and whenever I am in a haircare crisis. 

Schwartzkopf Got2b Oil-Licious Styling Oil* | £4.05 | Link | As someone who lives with dry, damaged hair, hair oils are an essential part of my haircare routine. I've tried high end and low end hair oils, but nothing beats this one. Enriched with Argan oil, this product leaves my hair feeling nourished, smooth and shiny. How I use and have used this for months is I take a pump, run it through damp hair and then blow dry, it not only makes my hair lightweight and smooth, but it has made a significant difference to the way my hair feels, looks and grows. 

Schwartzkopf Got2b Guardian Angel 220°C Heat Protection* | £3 | Link | I'm sure you've been told endless amount of times than using heat protection on your hair is one of the most important stages of your haircare routine if you're using heat. For me, I have always been put off by the sticky formulas and unpleasant smells, thus putting my hair at extreme risk of even more damage. That was until I tried the Schartzkopf Got2b Guardian Angel Heat protection spray. Not only do I feel like writing to Schwartzkopf and proposing that they make this into a room spray as it smells so divine, but I feel like it does it's job without making my hair unpleasantly sticky - A must have for anyone that uses heat on their hair.   

Schwartzkopf Got2b Oil-Licious Weightless Dry-Oil Mist* | £4.19 | Link | As an avid hair mist buyer, I have tried a range of products that promised smooth, frizz free hair, but none of them have had the wow factor. Since my hair has started to get unmanageable after washing, I have been on the look out for a new dry oil mist that added shine and tamed fly-aways but didn't weigh my hair down or make my hair feel greasy- Cue the Schwatzkopf Weightless Dry Oil Mist. Even though the unisex scent is what initially sold it to me, I was pleased to find out that this product actually works, it leaves my skin feeling shiny and smooth in just a few seconds. 

Have you tried any Schwartzkopf haircare products?
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Wednesday, 10 June 2015

The Rose Gold Edit |



If there's one thing I love, it's rose gold. I re pin it, retweet it and love anything that is plated with the stuff. Obsessed? That doesn't quite cover it. Over the past couple of months I have accumulated a large amount of rose gold items and with my collection ever-growing and expanding into interior, I thought I would give you the run down of my favourite items. 

Urban Decay Naked 3 Eyeshadow Palette | £38 | Link | Whenever I am in doubt there is one palette I always reach for and that's the Naked 3 palette. Renowned for its rose hued neutral shades that suit all skin tones, this really is the palette that people own or need to own. Made up of 3 mattes and 9 shimmer shades, you have all the basics covered and with the weather getting hotter, there's nothing I love more than a pink and copper eye. 

Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow | £49 | Link | This sculpting and highlighting duo has been a part of my daily routine for many months now, adding a touch of colour to the skin without being OTT. Even though I have ventured into other sculpting powders, it doesn't mean I will stop shouting from the rooftops about this one any time soon. Rose gold on the outside, perfection on the inside. 

Maybelline Colour Tattoo Cream Eyeshadow - Pink Gold | £4.99 | Link | I recently wrote about this shade here, after lusting after it for many, many years. The pink shimmery shade is perfect for when you want a subtle wash of colour on your lids, but it also works great as a base for your eyeshadows too.  If you're looking to invest in a range of cream eyeshadows, I would recommend looking into the Maybelline Colour Tattoos first as for £4.99 a pop, they're affordable, high quality and a great addition to any collection. 

Topshop 5 Years Of Beauty Range | £6 - £9 | Link | *Heart eye emojis*. When this range got released I instantly got the "I need to own everything" feeling. Rose gold packaging and great quality products? Yes please. Innocent is a lipstick shade that I have wanted for ages, highly pigmented and with a cream finish, this formula leaves the lips feeling nourished, whilst not lacking in pigmentation. If you want to try out a new make up range, then you need to head down to your local Topshop and pick a few of their products up. 

Olivia Burton Scalloped Edge Rose Gold Watch | £95 | Link | I've never been a wrist watch wearer, but after setting my eyes on this watch, I knew I had to have it. The scallop detailing with rose gold hardware is something that anybody would struggle to dislike. For the price I think that this is a high quality watch and a great investment. I cannot wait to pair this with high waisted shorts and a white slouchy t-shirt in the Summer.


Zoeva Rose Golden Brush Set | £56.95 | Link | I'm definitely saving the best one for last. The infamous Zoeva Rose Gold brushes had to get a feature in this post didn't they? The natural and synthetic bristles make them suitable to be used with cream, powder and liquid products. I reach for them daily and I find them very versatile, I would recommend these if you're looking for a do-it-all set of brushes.

What are your favourite rose gold products? What do I need to add to my collection?
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Sunday, 7 June 2015

How to | Get Summer Ready Legs

For me, like many others, when the sun decides to make an appearance so does the exfoliator, fake tan and razor to try and get my pasty, hairy legs looking somewhat presentable. For the rest of the year I'm usually hiding my legs under layers of clothes, but during the hotter months the hemlines get shorter and we can start to think about baring our legs to all - Cue panic and removing the dust from our once beloved gradual tanner. Today I thought I would talk to you about my favourite, must-have summer products to get your pins Summer ready.

Exfoliator | A necessity in everyone's routine, but one that is especially important when you want to remove dry skin and prepare your legs for fake tanning. Lush Rub Rub Rub, a sea salt and mineral enriched body exfoliator that helps remove dead skin cells and rejuvenate the skin. If you're not a fan of coarse exfoliator, then I would recommend the Nip+Fab Circulation Fix Body Scrub, as it doesn't just gently exfoliate, it also polishes and helps minimise the appearance of cellulite - Now who wouldn't want that? 

Shave | Whether you choose to shave, wax or laser your leg hair, getting rid of it will never be a pleasant or an enjoyable experience. For me, I'm a slave to the razor, as soon as a hair grows back I'm there chopping away at it. I've bought and tested a fair share of razors, but nothing compares to my Gilette Venus Spa Breeze Razor when I want to achieve silky, smooth legs without the need for shaving gel. 

Moisturiser | I put my hands up - I'm the worst person when it comes to moisturising. I've gone weeks without even applying a drop of moisturiser to my legs. When I do remember and get into a routine, I always have the battle of narrowing down which moisturiser to use. If I'm in a rush, then I always reach for the Vaseline Spray and Go Body Moisturiser, for quick application and glowing legs, but when I have time and want more intense hydration then I choose the Garnier Body Tonic Firming Hydrating Lotion. Not only does it sink into the skin in record time, it doesn't leave you feeling like you need to walk around naked for half an hour avoiding all surfaces. Why I ever forget about this one I don't know, but it works. 

Tanning | Even though tanning isn't for everyone, I find it's a great way to add a bit of colour to my pasty legs and make myself look healthier. The St Moriz Instant Self Tanning Lotion is one that I've used for years and I rely on it when I want a deep, natural looking tan that is quick and easier to use. Say goodbye to panic tanning. 

Pedicure | Pastel nails aren't made only for fingernails, so during the hotter months I opt for an array of pastel shades to decorate my feet on show. If you know me, then you'll know that Essie - Fiji and Topshop- Parma Violet are the two shades that are constantly on my toes. After a good chop, file and paint you're good to go and sandal ready. 

What are your favourite products to get you Summer ready?
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Friday, 5 June 2015

Clinique Pop Lip Colour & Primer |

Clinique Pop Lip Colour and Primer | £16 each | Link

After seeing the Clinique Pop Lip Colours being featuring on a variety of blogs and Instagrams, I went straight out, swatched them and snapped a few up. Described as having a luxurious, yet weightless formula which merges bold colour with a smoothing primer I know that it was going to be right up my street. Usually I don't expect much from hydrating lipstick formulas as I find that their staying power and pigmentation is poor, however to my surprise these have the perfect combination of colour, comfort on the lips and hydration. 

All 16 shades in the range have a demi-matte formula with colours that pack some serious punch. I picked up three shades a couple of weeks ago and have been smitten ever since. Melon Pop is a wearable coral shade that looks perfect with a tan or when you want to throw on a lipstick and get going. Plum Pop is a muted pink/purple hybrid, if you like MAC's Twig then you'll definitely like this. Opaque after one application, I keep reaching for this whenever I'm in doubt of what lipstick to wear. Last, but certainly not least it's Passion Pop, my go-to lip shade for the warmer evenings. Unlike other red lipsticks, I find this hydrating, long wearing and comfortable to wear, even though it has great colour pay off, I never feel like it's too OTT. 

From the first glance, the packaging got a 10 out of 10 from me, the coordinating exterior to the shades inside means that I can differentiate between lipstick colours instantly. Normally I'm not a glossy lip kind of girl, but the lightweight formula nourishes and conditions my lips throughout the day. For £16, the quality is exceptional and I will no doubt be stocking up on more shades throughout the coming months. 

Have you tried any Clinique Pop Lip Colours?
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Wednesday, 3 June 2015

Make Up Revolution Affirmation Palette |

Make Up Revolution Affirmation
Make Up Revolution Affirmation
Make Up Revolution Affirmation Eyeshadow Palette* | £8 | Link 

After the famous Beyond Flawless was hot topic on many blogs and Make Up Revolution began dominating the beauty world with their high end dupes, I knew that at some point I would have to pick up one of their eyeshadow palettes. If there's one thing I can't get enough of it's nude palettes and this is no exception, with a range of mattes, coppers and smokey shades you definitely have your eyeshadow shades covered. 

For £8 you receive 32 eyeshadows, which works out at 25p per eyeshadow - Now that's affordable. Initially I didn't have high hopes for this palette as I expected the eyeshadows to be poor quality and at first glance it looked like I would only like a quarter of the shades. After several experiments and to my surprise, I began to work with a good majority of these shades and although they didn't last as long on the eyelid as some of my other high street palettes, with a good eyeshadow primer they did go a long way. For me my favourite shades are: Truth, Accept and State, but the paler, shimmery shades are ones to stay clear of as the chunks of glitter and lack of pigmentation did nothing for the eye. 

If you're looking for an affordable eye shadow palette that has a range of shades and can be used to create a range of looks then I would recommend this. Even if you only get use out of quarter of the shades in this palette, it is completely worth it due to the price and quality. For me, I love using this to create a copper, golden eye look with a soft smokey eye - Now who wouldn't love that?

Have you tried the Make Up Revolution Affirmation Palette?

*PR SAMPLE/GIFTED
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