Although I love reality TV shows like Love Island and Big Brother, there are a few TV series that I continue to watch time and time again or have binged watched in a 48 hour period. Whenever there's a rainy Sunday or I give myself a rare evening off, I like to binge watch my favourite shows under a pile of blankets whilst eating my body weight in chocolate. Today I am sharing with you my top TV show picks:
Game Of Thrones | I'm not sure whether it's the fact that there are six series already out there, but I found it so easy to get through Game Of Thrones, especially as I knew I had many series left. At first I found GoT hard to get into, but it is one that I quickly binge watched before the new season was released. I am now starting to re-watch all of the series to understand all of the stories more and the characters in depth - It's one that will no doubt have you smitten.
Stranger Things | This TV show follows a handful of residents of a small Indiana town in the 80's and the question "what happened to Will Bryers?". After only one episode it had me up at 1am pining for "just one more episode" and 48 hours later I had finished it. This sci-fi series isn't one that I would usually go for, but it had me hooked instantly.
Orange Is The New Black | If you've never watched OITNB then you're in for a treat as there are 4 seasons to catch up on. I am very emotionally involved with all of the characters and storylines, I have re-watched OITNB many times now as I can't believe I have to wait another year for Netflix to release another series.
Impractical Jokers | If you haven't seen Impractical Jokers already I don't know where you've been. It follows four best friends who compete against and dare each other to do a range of ridiculous activities on the street. It instantly lifts my mood and I can binge watch re runs of the show for several hours at a time without getting bored.
The Goldbergs | I couldn't put a number on how many times I re-watch The Goldbergs throughout the week. This feel-good TV show never fails to put me a good mood and is a real comfort when I need something funny to watch. I have the majority of series and episodes saved on my TV, so no matter what one I pick I know I will be thoroughly entertained. Beverly in particular is a character you can't help but fall in love with, this "smother" is everything I want to be when I want to be when I'm older.
What are your favourite shows at the moment?
Although I like to stay comfortable and stick to my usual everyday makeup routine whenever I can, I try and make an effort on date nights to trial new products and try out new looks. This season I have reached for products that help me achieve fresh, dewy skin and a strong copper smokey eye, so today I am sharing with you those products.
If I'm not using my L'Oreal Lumi Magique Foundation, I like to mix a bit of the Sleek's Bare Kissed Illuminator in Monaco* in with my base of choice to achieve a subtle yet glowy complexion. This versitle liquid illuminator can be used under or over your base, but I prefer to mix it so that it can transform matte BB creams or foundations into skin illuminating formulas.
During the Summer months I tend to opt for cream formulas and dewy finishes, but I have been reaching for the H&M Golden Peach Powder Blush more and more lately. It has a soft coral hue that compliments my skin tone and adds a warm glow to the skin. For an added glow, I have been using the Sleek Solstice Palette; a versatile quad that can used to emphasis on my contour, highlight my cupids bow and illuminate the inner corner of my eyes to create an overall brightened complexion.
For eyes, I have rekindled the love for my Zoeva Rose Golden Palette* especially paired with the MAC Tan Pigment. These two create a soft, complimentary eye look that looks well put together throughout the night. Eyelashes aren't a must have on a date night, but they can help to finish off your eye makeup. My current eyelash obsession is Red Cherry Lashes*. I use the Demi Wispies if I want a more dramatic, yet sultry look and Delilah if I just want to add subtle definition and volume. I currently get them from FalseEyelashes.co.uk, if you thought Red Cherry Lashes were hard to get hold of in the UK.
I usually reach for a statement lip on a date night, but I have been opting for a nude option recently, one that will last the whole night. The NYX Lip Lingerie's have a weightless matte finish and long lasting wear that can be re-applied without flaking.
What are you go-to date night products?
I tend to associate Summer makeup with subtle nude or glossy coral lips, but at the moment I had been enjoying sporting a red lip courtesy of MAC'S Ruby Woo and MAC Cherry Lip Liner. This duo creates a perfect red lip every time, is easy to use and lasts all day long even through the heat.
Finding a liner to define and give the illusion of fuller lips is essential to creating the perfect red lip. Cherry has a waxy textured formula which creates long lasting colour that acts as a base for Ruby Woo and doubles the amount of time they linger on my lips for. It glides along the lips without tugging and prevents any bleeding or feathering - A must have for any statement lip.
With an extremely matte, intensely pigmented formula, Ruby Woo is a shade that doesn't budge once applied. Once your lips have been polished and prepped, this offering goes down a treat. This makes a statement, but isn't unbearable and can instead be worn with ease on a daily basis.
What is your favourite red lipstick?
The Spring and Summer are my perfect seasonal makeup months; the coral hues, the cream formulas and the strong pops of colour all make for a gorgeous makeup look. I've been reaching for blushers much more recently to achieve a healthy colour and glow to my complexion, so today I am sharing with you my top picks.
This year I have pulled out an old favourite of mine- the Charlotte Tilbury Ecstasy Blusher; a finely milled coral toned blush that perks up the skin with one quick sweep. This two toned blush can be easily tailored to your needs, the inside being for a strong pop of colour and the outside being for a subtle wash. For me, I like to swirl a big fluffy brush into it and apply to create a luminous, fresh glow.
Next up is the Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in True Love, a much talked about and much loved offering of mine. With a matte finish that stays put throughout the day, this is one of my favourites for when I need my makeup to last. From the get go, you can feel that it has a cardboard-like texture, so although it doesn't go on as smoothly as some other blushers, it does reduce fall out and increase longevity.
I make no bones about the fact that the H&M Powder and Cream blushers are some of the best on the high street. Dusty Rose is a cream offering that has a natural, dewy finish and is the perfect everyday shade. Although cream blushers have the tendency to slip right off the skin during the hot, Summer months, this one has staying power. The other H&M blush I adore is the Golden Peach hue, a radiant powder that delivers a sheer colour to the skin.
Another high street pick of mine is the Sleek Rose Gold Blusher; a coral - pink that has gold flecks which acts as both a blush and highlighter if you're looking for a quick fix. It's unique colour is what has drawn me to it time and again, and although I reach for it throughout the year, during the Summer I find that it perks up my skin where the other products on my face don't.
What are your favourite Summer blushers?
During the Summer I definitely put more of an effort into pampering my body. Exfoliating, moisturising and fake tanning are all part of my ritual, so today I thought I would share with you my top body picks for this season.
Exfoliators barely ever change in my routine as I usually stick to this Soap and Glory offering, or my trusty The Body Shop Spa of the World Salt Scrub*. These two help to scrub away dead skin cells, leaving fresher, smoother and softer skin ready for moisturising.
The Dove DermaSpa Goodness Body Cream* helps to replenish and nourish everywhere; perfect for when my hayfever-ridden body is feeling dehydrated and itchy. Enriched with Argan Oil, this rich cream feels lightweight on the skin and adds an overall luminosity, without being too heavy or thick for all over use.
The Summer often means getting the pins out and for me, a faux tan gives me more confidence and adds an overall glow to the body. The Bondi Sands Liquid Gold Tan is a top shelf favourite of mine, as the dry oil develops overnight in to a natural, deep tan that can be easily built up and worn without washing off for a quick, easy fix. When I'm tanned, I always top up my tan with the Zoella Body Fondant Shimmer Balm to enhance my natural glow and give my limbs a healthy sheen. I like to apply this balm across my shoulders, along my shins and anywhere that the sun naturally hits.
When I was in my early teens, I was never without a body spray in my bag. Many years later and I've rekindled the love, this time with the Impulse Why Not? Body Fragrance*. With a tropical and citrus mixed scent, this is perfect for the Summertime when you want to freshen up throughout the day.
What are your current body care picks?
Monday's- especially the morning- are the part of the week I dread the most. In the Summer I lust for going out in the sunshine rather than sitting on my laptop inside, but today I am sharing with you the five things that I would like to do today to make Monday's a little more bearable.
Get Moving | I don't know about you, but if I've had a lazy weekend, I struggle to get moving come Monday. Today, I am making it my mission to head to the gym in the evening and get out in the sunshine during my lunch break. I think this will be a little easier now that I am obsessed with Pokemon Go and I'm on a mission to catch a Squirtle.
Multimasking | Multimasking has made another comeback due to a few well documented new releases and, well, I'm all for it. I am currently smitten with the Ren Invisible Pores Detox Mask and Avène Tolérance Extrême Mask* duo as they rid my skin of imperfections whilst promoting radiant, healthy skin.
Watch A Film | Monday's are always stressful for me as I have to catch up on all the emails and work I've missed over the weekend, so at the end of the day I like to pop on one of my all-time favourite films or search for one I've wanted to watch for ages. Harry Potter, Game of Thrones and 21 Jump Street are all on my list to re-watch. Switching off at the end of the day helps me clear my head and get ready for the rest of the week.
Get Your Fruit and Veg In | Healthy eating starts on a Monday for me and I like to make sure I get several nutritious meals in throughout the day. I often do my weekly shop on a Sunday or Monday, making sure that all of my fruit and vegetables are fresh at the start of the week ready to experiment with various recipes. I have been loving this Sweet Potato and Chickpea Burger Recipe lately with a side portion of homemade potato wedges and a heap of veggies.
Flowers | Whether it's a new bunch of peonies or a cactus for the bathroom, picking up new flowers and plants for your home can help to lift your sprits. For me, it gives me background ideas for blog photographs and helps to brighten up my interior.
What would you like to do this Monday?
Picking the right eyeshadow palette for you can be difficult with so many on the market. The colours, the formulas and the size are just a few factors to determine whether a palette makes its way into your checkout basket or not.
Complimentary Colours | Whenever I am feeling uninspired with my eye makeup, I always reach for a palette that has an array of complimentary shades to suit my eye colour. The Zoeva Naturally Yours* and Rose Golden* palettes are two that I can't get enough of. With hues from matte browns to intense coppers, they have you covered for every occasion, whilst doing the colour co-coordinating for you.
Neutral vs Vibrant | As a neutral girl through and through, I don't own many vibrant palettes as I know I wouldn't get my use of them. I usually reach for the palettes with lots of browns, burgundy and champagne highlight shades as I know these will get the most use. If there's over half the palette you wouldn't use, there's little to no point in purchasing as you simply won't get use out of it - Coming from an eyeshadow addict, this is something I've had to learn over time. At the moment the Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Palette is calling my name, but I am continuing to compare swatches, make wishlists and look at other reviews.
For Travelling | If you're constantly on the go the Urban Decay Naked Palettes might not be the best bet for you as even though they have an array of 12 hues to suit any look, they can take up a lot of space in your makeup bag. For me, quads and duos are what I travel with, the Nars Kalahari Eyeshadow Duo and Charlotte Tilbury Dolce Vita Palette being two of my favourites.
High Street or High End? | There are so many eyeshadow palettes on the market at the moment ranging from anything from £5 to £50. Although there are some real gems on the high street, I tend to opt for more luxe products as I find their quality and pigmentation are better. Saying this, the Sleek I-Divine Palettes* have been in my collection for a while and despite being under £10, they still perform brilliantly and come in a range of colours.
What are your favourite eyeshadow palettes?
I own my fair share of makeup, so Summer edits and muji rotations are something I like to do on a regular basis as I like to get use out of my whole collection. Although we've had some questionable Summer days so far in the UK, I have been fully embracing Summer bronzed skin and dewy makeup. Today I have rounded up a few of my go-to make up products for this season.
This year I have been reaching for products that promote radiance and add a dewy finish to the skin. The Origins GinZing Moisturiser has been my first port of call whenever my skin is in need of an extra layer of hydration before makeup application, in fact I have used this several times in place of my usual primer.
I've mentioned this time and time again, but it has already taken pride of place in my makeup bag. The L'Oreal Lumi Magique Cushion Foundation delivers a fresh glowing and lightweight base without lack of longevity. It has continued to transform my lacklustre skin throughout the months I have been using it and I would recommend anyone with dull, dry skin to give it a try.
Bronzed skin is a must for me in the Summer months and I have been firmly attached to the Benefit Hoola Bronzer* as I use it to lightly contour before applying my blusher of choice, which for the past few weeks has been the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Luminous Flush. This raved about blush has a finely milled powder that gives a soft wash of colour to the cheeks; perfect for when you don't want to wear too much on the hotter days.
Two products that have had me smitten this season have been the Topshop Glow Highlighter in Gleam and the Sleek Solstice Palette as they both create an intense highlight; think a cute glazed donut. The Topshop cream offering works as a base, adding a slight sheen to the skin, whilst the Sleek highlighters work to define and add an overall healthy glow to the complexion.
For lips I have made a recent discovery, swapping out my trusty Nuxe Reve De Miel* for a lighter option - The Argan+ Nourishing Lip Balm*. This cheap yet cheerful Shea butter and Argan Oil enriched balm is perfect for delivering moisture to chapped lips. I like to wear this on its own for a subtle sheen or under more matte lipsticks. If I want to add a bit of colour to my lips, I have been opting for the Clarins Joli Rouge Lipsticks*, specifically Rosewood or Pink Praline. These offerings have a nourishing formula, but sit perfectly between a satin and gloss finish which adds a soft nude hue to the lips in a few swipes.
What makeup have you been loving this Summer?
As someone who has dry, damaged hair from years of straightening, dying and generally mistreating my locks; using a hair oil that repairs, smooths and conditions is essential in my routine. I'm now on my fourth bottle of the Schwarzkopf Got2b Oil-Licious Tame and Shine Styling Oil*, so I thought it was about time I shared my glossy locks secret.
This has a non-greasy formula which is enriched with Argan oil. I like to use this before blow drying as it delivers soft, smooth and manageable hair every time. During styling I apply a dollop of oil into the ends and lengths of my hair to keep my locks looking nourished, healthy and thoroughly tamed. This oil has considerably contributed to the growth and condition of my hair over the past year, as it has helped to keep my red hair vibrant and soft, so I now swear by it if you're looking to grow your hair fast.
If you're looking for a lightweight, fast absorbing hair oil for under £5, then you can't go wrong with this offering.
Have you tried the Schwarzkopf Oil-Licious Oil?
Summer is now officially upon us and that can only mean one thing; a wardrobe overhaul. I really struggle with buying clothes in the Summer, but today I have complied a list of all the items that I am currently lusting after. If you're on a spending ban, look away now.
Blush pink and white lace are currently having a moment in my wardrobe and I am already smitten with the idea of pairing this Boohoo Cutwork Lace Skirt- a self portrait esque dupe- with this Truly Madly Deeply Lily Pink Tank Top. The hotter months wouldn't be the same without a few staple sundresses. Although off the shoulder dresses don't usually suit me, I have seen a few that have caught my eye; this ASOS Yellow Ditsy Swing Dress and this Pins & Needles Off The Shoulder Sheered Dress are two of many on my wishlist at the moment.
Summer in the UK is very unpredictable, meaning that I always browse the jumper pages for any lightweight offerings. This ASOS Cold Shoulder Pink Jumper looks like it would be perfect to throw over a cami once it gets chilly in the evenings. Another favourite of mine is the ASOS Fine Cardigan in Linen Mix Yarn.
Every time I go onto ASOS my eyes seem to wander to the Noisy May Cactus Tunic Dress and ASOS Natural Fibre Stripe Skater Dress, which have both been in my basket for a couple of weeks now, though I am yet to bite the bullet.
Playsuits aren't usually my thing, but I have scouted out a few that I think would be comfortable to wear and suited to my shape. This Topshop Strappy Check Playsuit would look so chic with a light leather jacket and black sandals, whilst this Kimchi Blue Floral Playsuit number would be more suited to pink and gold accessories.
I have been eyeing up several printed co-ords for future Summer events as they always look effortlessly pulled together. This Milk It Vintage Ditsy Floral Co-Ord is my favourite, closely followed by this Topshop Blush Floral Top and Short combo.
As always, there are many sunglasses I am lusting after at the moment. These Quay Australia All Cried Out Sunglasses are now in the sale and I think I need to snap them up quickly and the ASOS Oversized Round Preppy Sunglasses have a marble frame which I a complimentary accent to any outfit.
Pyjamas are never normally on the top of my wishlist in the Summer, but I cannot resist this Wolf & Whistle Lace Set and ASOS All Over Strawberry Set as they look super cute, breathable and perfect for the hotter weather.
What is on your Summer wishlist?
When it comes to makeup shopping, I always tend to reach for the high end, luxe products to curb my obsession and make a dent in my bank account. Although there are many high street gems, the rose gold or black sleek packaging of these luxe products always lures me back in. Whether you're looking to splurge on several or keep one for a special occasion, today I am sharing with you my top high end picks.
This line up wouldn't be complete without a few Charlotte Tilbury mentions. Their Dolce Vita Palette, Filmstar Bronze and Glow and Bond Girl Lipstick have all been regular features on this blog due to their lustful appearance, high quality formulas and divine finishes. The Matte Revolution lipsticks come in an array of shades, I think Very Victoria is next on my wishlist to buy.
Although the high street has some highlighting gems, I tend to reach for luxe highlighters more often than not. The Becca Champagne Pop Highlighter has been spoken about on many blogs since its release and for very good reason too. Whenever my skin needs a pick me up, this golden shimmer adds a dreamy glow to the complexion in just a sweep. Another one of my favourite picks is the theBalm's Mary Lou Manizer. It is currently on it's last legs, but this honey hued highlighter adds the perfect sheen to the cheeks.
Two products that always seem to make their way into my makeup bag are the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powders and Blushers. The finely milled powders help to brighten and treat all your dull skin woes. Luminous Flush delivers a soft flush of colour and radiant finish which is unlike any of my usual matte pink blushers.
When it comes to dreamy duos no one does it better than Nars, and the Kalahari Eyeshadow Palette is no exception. This copper combo compliments my eye colour and can create a smokey eye with ease. As for lips, the Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencils in Cruella- a vivid blue toned red and Bahama- a brown nude, are both shades that everyone needs to swatch when they're next in store.
Anastasia Beverely Hills is a brand I have only recently discovered, but their high quality products encased in a contrasting black and rose gold packaging have me smitten. The Dip Brow Pomade is good eyebrows in a jar and can easily create fuller, defined brows in a few strokes.
What are your luxe makeup favourites?
Although the UK weather is very sporadic during Summertime, I have started to thoroughly embrace the changing season, the Summer sun and the fact peonies are now everywhere in shops. Today I am sharing with you my top five things I want to do this Summer.
Have a picnic | Summer's are not the same without picnics and I have a post planned for later this month about how to create the perfect picnic. Donut peaches and Fentimans Rose Lemonade are two must haves as they are sweet, pink and perfectly suited to being consumed while watching the sun set.
Pick Your Own| Eating fruit and veg suited to the season is a great way to incorporate different foods into your diet and get all the vitamins needed. Pick your own farms have been my Summer obsession so far and I'm going to make it my mission to go every few weeks as it's fun and easily entertains me for an afternoon. Raspberries, plums and strawberries are just a few options that are on offer this Summer.
Take some time out | This Summer, I really want to try and make some time for myself. I've been dreaming of a long weekend in Brighton or a few days in Wales somewhere when the sun is shining. Taking time out really helps me to stay motivated and reduce stress. Going to the zoo, visiting a maze and walking to get a pub lunch are all things that are currently on my Summer to-do list.
Buy the perfect white dress | These ASOS Jazzyln Espadrilles are all I've been wearing recently, but I have been eyeing up a few dresses that I can pair them with. These espadrilles look like Chanel dupes and I personally think they'll look perfect with a white dress. This however is easier said than done, but these three dresses have caught my eye: ASOS Mini Broderie Sundress, White Sand Crochet Swing Dress and ASOS Mini Dress with Full Skirt.
Switch it up | I have been feeling like my blog, Instagram and Pinterest have all needed an overhaul for several months now, so after hosting a few polls on my Twitter I have decided to attempt to post a photograph a day on my Instagram and incorporate more lifestyle posts into my blog. Aside from my blog, I am also switching up my skincare and makeup routine to suit the new season.
What have you got planned this Summer?
Every week there is a new release on the high street and- as someone who owns enough lip products as it is- I tend to steer clear of the lipstick aisles when I can. This being said, I am a sucker for a lip crayo,n especially after I became smitten with the Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencils last Summer. The new lip products on the scene at the moment are the Sleek Power Plump Lip Crayons*; six lip pencils that come in array of shades to suit all seasons.
All six hues are gorgeous from the first swatch, but it was when I put them on my lips that I started to see the difference in staying power and pigmentation in the varying shades.
Colossal Coral was the shade I was initially drawn to, as in the Summer I like to opt for a lightweight coral lipstick that gives of a subtle wash of colour and isn't too overpowering. This offering is one of my favourites from the collection, closely followed by Raving Rouge; a strong satin true red that is unlike anything in my stash.
Fully Fuchsia- an intense hot pink- is a shade I wouldn't necessarily pick up myself as I don't find I reach for vivid lipsticks very often. However Berry Burst, a deep mauve hue, is going to be one that I will get out once Autumn comes as it's easy to apply and has even coverage.
For me, Notorious Nude and Power Pinks are the two offerings in the collection that I was the most excited for, but when it came down to the application they didn't show up on my lips. However, If you have lighter lips than I do then Notorious Nude would be the perfect Summer nude as its creamy in texture, light on the lips and has the perfect balance of both pink and brown undertones.
With a lightweight formula and satin finish, these lipsticks can be sheered out or can be built up to create a stronger colour. When applied, the minty scent doesn't linger for very long and if you're not used to plumping, tingly formulas, then this would be a great starting point as the feeling only lasts a few minutes.
Have you tried the Sleek Power Plump Lip Crayons?
*PR SAMPLE/GIFTED
