Visiting A Pumpkin Patch

Visiting a pumpkin patch has been on my to-do list for a couple of years now and last week I finally went to one. I wanted to get into an Autumnal mood and I'm so glad that I did because now I feel ready for the colder months ahead. I picked up a few pumpkins and squashes to stack in front of our fireplace waiting to be carved and cooked - Halloween is here! 

The pumpkin patch was an experience that I'll definitely be doing again next year. It was amazing seeing so many pumpkins, squash and other vegetables in one area and I could have spent hours exploring. I loved foraging for the right shape and sized pumpkin to carve and having the ability to pick from hundreds! Wrapped up warm in a scarf and thick cardigan, it made me feel very autumnal and cosy - We even came home to a steaming hot meal which warmed us up. 

I've draped the skeleton shaped bunting across my fireplace and put the tea lights in our carved pumpkins, whilst we watch horror films and spooky programmes (have you watched series 2 of Stranger Things yet?). Although I'm not dressing up, I can't help but paint my nails with a vampy dark hue, sport a burgundy lip and go a little darker on the eye makeup too. I want something long lasting for my lipstick as I'm planning on eating all the sweets and miniature chocolate. 

Although I've been enjoying watching horror films, nothing quite beats Harry Potter and Halloween editions of my favourite TV programmes when cosied up with blankets, hot chocolate and candles. 

What are you doing this Halloween? 

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Makeup and My Priorities

I've always been very interested in makeup, but over the years my taste in products and  priorities in how they should perform have all changed, due in part to the shift in trends. We're no longer on the look out for the perfect lipstick to create "concealer lips", nor do I want a foundation so matte that it cracks when I speak. Here are my current makeup priorities when shopping around or pulling out favourites for my current routine: 

A Natural Base | As someone who has been every skin type at some point, I actually find it pretty hard shopping for foundation, because although I currently have a dehydrated complexion, I still look at formulas as if I have teenage, oily skin. I'm more into a natural, undetectable base that matches my skin tone perfectly too, as gone are the days when I wanted to be more tanned than I actually was. My current two picks will come as no surprise as they're the Too Faced Born This Way Foundation and Kat Von D Lock It Concealer. 

Defined, Full Brows | It isn't up until the recent years that I've been trying harder with my brows, and although I'm a creature of habit who only tends to use the same few products, they are one of my biggest priorities when it comes to my makeup. I'm currently sporting the Glossier Boy Brow and Maybelline Brow Tattoo Tint to help me get long lasting, defined brows. 

Adding A Colour and Glow | Whenever I do my makeup I always like to make sure I've applied colour to my cheeks to perk up my complexion and a highlighter is always a welcomed addition to my routine too. I never used to touch blusher due to already having already flushed cheeks, but now that my redness has calmed down, I love experimenting with different shades. 

Never Skipping The Lips | As I'm sure the bottom of my handbag can show you, my obsession with nude lipsticks has hit an all time high. I used to always skip lipstick whenever I can, thinking it made me look older, but now I can't get enough of it. It really switches up a look and during the different seasons, there's nothing I love more than picking out different lipstick hues. 

What do you look for in makeup? 

This post contains affiliate links. 

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Halloween Makeup For Those Who Don't Dress Up

I don't often dress up on Halloween, but in the week leading up to it I like to switch up my makeup and opt for a darker eye look with a vampier lip. I did a similar post last year on my blog, so I thought I'd share with you the Halloween makeup I'm opting for when I don't dress up.

For eyes, I have many options and I've been trialling them out all week too. From the reds in the Urban Decay Naked Heat Palette* and Colourpop Muse Eyeshadow to the cool toned hues of the Clarins Midnight Blue Eyeshadow*. I like to experiment with my eye makeup the most and go a little darker with the smoky eye. It's a quick way to Halloween up a makeup look, especially if you add animal ears (I'm a mouse, duh?). 

I'll no doubt be sporting a berry or red lip on the day as I always do. Nars' Cruella is very fitting for the occasion being a darker red and NYX Copenhagen Soft Matte Lip Cream is a great pick for those who are looking for a strong burgundy hue. Both are matte and long lasting- just what I want when I'll be tucking into all the sweets!

Another two shades I have dug out are MAC Captive and Mellow Madness Lipstick as they're great for a strong lip. I feel like I'm going to go for a burgundy on the night as it's slightly more vampy than a festive red. 

I can't help but paint my nails a deep colour and I'm torn between Essie's Soul Mate or Bahama Mama - Both of these are my Autumn/Winter favourites and I'm so excited to wear them again now that the weather is getting colder. 

What makeup are you wearing this Halloween?

If a product is marked with a * it is a PR sample. This post contains affiliate links.

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Masks On Rotation

As we go into the colder months, face masks become a staple in my skincare routine. They can help to draw out impurities, nourish the skin and add a glow too; perfect for when your complexion is looking a little lacklustre. At the moment I'm smitten with quite  a few and I can't seem to stop buying them, so today I thought I'd share with you the masks I've currently got on rotation. 

The Fresh Rose Face Mask* is a new addition to my skincare routine. I used this every day the first week I got it and I have continued to apply it every other day. I believe that it's no coincidence that my skin is looking better and feeling great and I love that I can use it daily without causing irritation as it only takes 5-10 minutes to work, so it's great for both morning and night. 

The Skinfood Watermelon Mask is one thatI have used since I got it from Sephora back in August. It's lightweight, nourishing and is unlike anything I've tried before. It's gloopy in texture and the scent is delicious, plus it actually does something to my skin by making it feel smooth and hydrating, which is a bonus! 

As I said I'm having a bit of a moment with masks that can be used everyday for an intense boost of hydration and the Bioderma Hydrabio Mask* is perfect for that. It almost feels like a thick moisturiser when applied and after 10 minutes or so of application- depending on how dehydrated your complexion was- it simply starts to sink into the skin. It's very nice if you're skin is feeling irritated or sensitive because it just calms everything down. 

Two new additions to my collection are the Moisturising Moon Mask and Glossier Mega Greens Galaxy Mask, both of which I've been loving using when paired together. The latter was the biggest surprise to me because I don't usually get on with clarifying masks due to them being too drying; as you can probably tell, most of this line up is made up of nourishing, softening offerings. The Mega Greens mask dries down, cracking and drying out my complexion, in fact it feels slightly nourishing on the skin - a pleasant surprise all round. It helped clear up a reaction I was having to a different product I was trying out in just 3 days (usually it's 2 weeks!) and it's well on it's way to becoming my favourite clarifying face mask. The Moon mask is great to use afterwards because it adds moisture and makes my skin look more plump after application. It's one that I'm still uncertain about because of how much the Mega Greens offering has impressed me, but it's still lovely all the same.

What face masks are you currently trying out? 

You can get 10% off your first Glossier order using my link here: http://bff.glossier.com/gHtgy.

If a product is marked with a * it is a PR sample. This post contains affiliate links. 

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What I've Been Loving Lately

- This post is in collaboration with Bodyform - 

I've been feeling very positive as of late and there's so many great things online and off that have been putting a smile on my face. I wanted to share a few of my favourites with you today. 

A Cosy Night In | I'm gone into full hibernation mode recently, making the most of the colder, dark nights by putting on the Harry Potter films and surrounding myself with all the snacks and blankets. I even put on Elf the other day, so I think it's safe to say I'm going to be in full Christmas elf mode sometime over the next few months. 

Comforting Food | This time of year makes me want to gather all the vegetables in season at the moment and cook up a huge roast dinner. I've been loving trying out new foods which have been inspired by the various weeks on GBBO and I've been loving cooking comforting food. 

The Cold, Stormy Weather | I've got to admit it's my favourite kind of weather when I can curl up inside in my huge dressing gown, but I've actually enjoyed going out in it too. There's something about being bundled up in layers and a scarf that makes me excited to go outside in rain. 

Face Masks | The only beauty related in this line up is face masks, I just can't stop buying them! My skin has been feeling temperamental due to a reaction I had to a new product I was trialling, but face masks have really helped to calm and soothe my irritated skin. I've a few potential new favourites to my list over the past month and I'm super excited to share them with you over the next couple of weeks (watch this space). 

Bodyform Advert | If you haven't seen Bodyform's #bloodnormal campaign then you definitely need to because it comes as no surprise that it's been a hit amongst people. It's only a 20 seconds advert, but I'm loving it. It's all to do with Bodyform's current campaign to showcase periods in a realistic way - Say goodbye to the blue liquid and say hello to red, which in my opinion is a change I can welcome with open arms. I just thought that the advert did a great job at capturing my attention as I rarely ever pay attention to adverts nowadays and it just made me feel empowered to talk about periods whenever possible rather than shying away from the topic. I love that it showed different scenarios around periods; from a man buying a packet of Bodyform to a girl in the shower. It's a refreshing advert that's definitely worth the watch. 

You can see the video here: 

What did you think of the Bodyform advert? 

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A Makeup Mess #2

Back in July I did a makeup mess post chatting all about the makeup I'd been wearing, so I wanted to add to this a few months later with today's post. I have fallen back in love with beauty recently and have a wishlist as long as my arm, but here are a few thoughts on the picks I've been using: 

The NYX Cool Neutrals Eyeshadow Palette* completely took me by surprise when I used it; the shadows were easy to blend, they were perfectly pigmented and complimented my eye colour. The mauve hues are all I've been wearing and look great paired with the Urban Decay Naked Palette* too - It's already an Autumn staple! 

I've been using the Maybelline Brow Tattoo Tint a lot lately and whenever it's completely faded, I feel myself getting disappointed in the way my brows look. I'm really impressed with it and the fact I keep reapplying it definitely says something. 

I think I've now found my perfect cream contour product; the Fenty Beauty Amber Match Stix, a cool toned offering that doesn't add colour to the face, but adds shadows in all of the right places. I love that you can easily apply a bronzer, like the Becca Sunlit Capri Coast Bronzer, over the top without it looking too muddy or cakey and the two go perfectly hand in hand. 

Glossier are now in the UK (yippee!) and I've been taking full advantage of the new site by going a little crazy. Two new base products of mine are the Wowder Powder and Stretch Concealer, which are a dream duo in my eyes. I've been using them both when I want a super natural look, but they offer medium coverage that is great for covering up redness, dark circles and blemishes. I've been trying out Wowder whilst exercising and I'm thoroughly impressed with it's staying power and ability to combat shine, without making my complexion look dull and flat.  

What makeup have you been using lately? 

If a product is marked with a * it is a PR sample. This post contains affiliate links.

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The Glossier Cloud Paints

Now that Glossier is easier to get in the UK, I've been making quite a few orders of the products which have been on my wishlist for some time. Today we're talking about the Glossier Cloud Paints, the blushers that have had me smitten over the past few weeks. They're easy to use, are effortlessly blendable and they can be used in conjunction with minimal makeup or for higher coverage looks. 

Dusk was the first shade I owned and it had me smitten from the get go. The bronzy, peachy shade is a unique offering in my collection. It's one that I love using on it's own when I want a natural look, but this hue can be mixed with any of the other shades to create a custom colour too. 

If there's one shade that has taken me by surprise, it's Haze. I nearly didn't get it because I thought it'd be too overpowering on my pale complexion, but it's actually beautiful. It's a very autumnal berry hue that when blended into the cheeks, it looks more like a natural pink. It's longevity is what makes this one stand out from the rest as it lightly stains the cheeks, meaning it doesn't budge all day - not that the other shades budge at all! 

For an everyday, easy to wear shade, Puff is great as the vivid pink looks scary coming out of the tube, but on the skin it perks up the complexion making it look less dull and lacklustre. It's great for a variety of makeup looks too. 

Beam is the only shade I don't currently own, as I thought it'd look too orange, but now I'm tempted as I've seen how great it looks when mixed in with the other shades. I think it'd be great for the Summer time when I'm a little bit more tanned and when I want a pop of colour. 

Have you tried the Glossier Cloud Paints? 

For 10% off your first order you can use my link - http://bff.glossier.com/gHtgy

This post contains affiliate links. 

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Skincare I'm Currently Trialling

Jasmine Talks Beauty has a great series all about the skincare she's currently trying out and I thought I would do something similar. I'm having a bit of a moment with skincare recently; I can't stop trying out new items and buying new products that I don't necessarily need. In the past week or two, I've received lots of new picks, but as it's too early to give my final verdict, I thought I'd share with you what I've been trying out. 

Fresh kindly sent me an amazing package a couple of weeks ago and everything sounded right up my street. I've used the Rose Face Mask* every day since I got it and I can already tell this is doing something great to my skin. It's expensive for the big tub, but you can get one's in smaller sizes to trial if you're not sure if it's right for you. It contains real rose petals and I can't help but put my newly hydrated, radiant looking skin down to this. I just leave it on for 5 minutes every night and it's gentle enough to not irritate my skin. I can't wait to see what difference it has on my skin in a couple of weeks time. 

The Rose Deep Hydration Face Cream* is another one I'm having a great experience with lately as it's been great at soothing my skin when it's on the parched side. Although thick, it doesn't feel heavy and it sinks in quite quickly considering. You only need a little amount to cover your face and neck, so I reckon this tub will last for a long time. 

The Caolion Cleansing Stick* is the newest edition to my skincare routine and it pretty much does what it says on the tin. It isn't that great with removing eye makeup, but works great at lightly exfoliating and making my skin feel clean. It's a unique product as the formula goes from a balm in stick form, to an oil, and then to a foam to make my skin feel clean. I've particularly liked using this in the morning as it really refreshes my skin and makes it feel prepped for makeup, but I'm worried that it could be a little stripping on my dry skin if I'm not careful. 

Another face mask I've been trialling is the Bioderma Hydrabio Mask*, a moisturising option that works more like a thick moisturiser. I'm still unsure about this one as I've found more effective offerings, as although it feels nice on my skin, I'm not sure if it's actually doing anything in the long run. 

What skincare are you currently trialling? 

If a product is marked with a * it is a PR sample. This post contains affiliate links. 

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Matte Not Flat Base

I'm an advocate user of radiance boosting, glow inducing products and I always want my skin to look as healthy as I can, but recently I've been wanting to reduce how much shine I have by using mattifying products. I think this is due to the colder weather and wanting my makeup to last a little longer. I prefer products that offer a matte finish, without appearing flat on the skin, so here are my top picks: 

The ultimate matte not flat foundation is the Too Faced Born This Way as it's super natural, almost undetectable on the skin and although it's between a demi-matte and satin finish, it still appears luminous. 

To set my base, I have been using the Glossier Wowder Powder and have been loving it. It's super long lasting, I would probably even go as far as saying it is the best face powder for longevity and looking natural. Although it mattifies and diminishes the appearances of pores, it never looks unnatural or too cakey, it's the perfect balance of everything I want from a powder. 

A blusher that I have been loving is the Glossier Cloud Paint as they're the perfect example of a matte cream blusher that doesn't look flat on my complexion, like the majority of them do. Whenever I use a matte offering, I always run the risk of making my face look dull and lacklustre, but the cloud paints are perfectly creamy and blend effortlessly into my skin. 

I tend to have a similarly problem when it comes to bronzer because although matte offerings are great for contouring they can look muddy if you aren't careful. The Becca Sunlit Capri Coast Bronzer* is a great pick as even though it's not 100% matte, it does appear like that on the skin without being too unnatural. 

I've been using the Becca Rose Gold Shimmering Skin Perfector* at the moment just over my base to add a healthy sheen to the skin. It acts as a sort of blusher, highlighter hybrid as it's a little dark on my skin tone, but I think it'd look beautiful on those with darker skin tones than me too. Another highlighter that I have been loving is the left side of Fenty Beauty Killawatt Highlighting Duo as it's super natural and has a radiant finish, without being sparkly. 

What are your favourite matte not flat picks? 

If you'd like 10% off your first Glossier order you can use this - http://bff.glossier.com/gHtgy -  link.  

If a product is marked with a * it is a PR sample. This post contains affiliate links. 

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What To Read and Watch This Halloween

Halloween is just around the corner and at this time of year, I love nothing more than sitting down and watching a scary film or two. If films aren't your thing, then I have a few book favourites and TV must watches to share with you too. 

Films | The classics always go down a treat on Halloween; the new IT has made me watch the original and I'm always scouring the Halloween section on Netflix too. I don't always fancy watching something too scary, so opt for a thriller instead. What Happened To Monday had me on the edge of my seat the whole way through, but some of my other favourite horror films include Paranormal Activity, Miss Peregrines School For Peculiar Children and The Fourth Kind. 

TV Programmes | I've got quite a few TV programmes still left on my to-watch list including Vampire Diaries, Once Upon A Time (a re watch of mine) and Riverdale, but I have a few favourites that I want refresh myself on too. Stranger Things 2 comes out very soon and I can't wait, we were going to save up all the episodes to watch in one go, but I think we're going to be too impatient. 

TV programmes don't always have to be the ones that make you want to hide behind a blanket, so thrillers are great too. Luther can get pretty scary at times with all the masks, so that's definitely a recommendation if you're not into scary programmes (although I can't promise it won't make you jump). 

If you'd like something funny to watch then Scream Queens is a great pick. I started to rewatch them from the beginning last year, so I want to do the same this time round too. 

Books | The Night Circus is one of my favourite Halloween reads as it's super magical and is a great page turner. If you're fan of the Harry Potter's, but you want something a little bit more "grown up" then I think you'd really enjoy it. 

Talking of Harry Potter, they have to be hands down my must-reads when it starts to get chilly and nothing says Halloween more to me than reading about death eaters and magic.  I say grab yourself a bundle of blankets and sink your teeth into them. 

What are you going to be reading and watching this Halloween? 

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Autumn Eyeshadows

I'm having a bit of a moment when it comes to eyeshadow lately and I've been smitten with anything warm in tone. I wanted to share with you a few of my current favourite eyeshadow picks, so here they are: 

As soon as the Urban Decay Naked Heat Palette* was released, I knew that it was going to be an autumn favourite of mine. This palette is made up of warm toned eyeshadows including a matte dark burgundy and burnt coppery reds. They can be blended together easily and I have been reaching for this palette ever since I got it. 

Another Urban Decay palette I've been obsessed with is the Original* offering, which actually works great with Heat too. This one has an array of twelve shades that are more golden brown in tone than any palette I've owned, but it's one that's great to use on a day to day basis or when you want a simple, understated look. 

It seems like it's around this time of year that I start to rekindle the love for the Charlotte Tilbury Dolce Vita Palette, as the quad is great at creating a smokey eye look in an instant and it's so easy as the four shades are already picked out for you. The burgundy hue is my favourite out of the four, but each eyeshadow has a buttery formula that's easy to blend and perfectly pigmented. 

The eyeshadow palette that took me most by surprise was the NYX Cool Neutrals* pick which has a selection of sixteen shades ranging from matte mauves to deep purples. It's the mauve hues that have wowed me in this if I'm honest, as they make for a simple eye when I just want to use the bare minimum amount of eyeshadows, whilst still making it look polished and well put together. 

What are your favourite Autumn eyeshadows? 

If a product is marked with a * it is a PR sample. This post contains affiliate links. 

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The Maybelline Tattoo Brow Tint

Eyebrows have always been a big insecurity of mine, mainly due to dying my hair and feeling like they're never quite full enough. When I spotted the newly released Maybelline Tattoo Brow Tint in Boots, I quickly snapped it up as I'd heard great things about it and I was keen to give it a try for myself. 

I took the risk before my birthday meal of using this with no prior experience. Luckily for me, it turned out perfect; I left it on for 30 minutes and I couldn't believe how defined, full and natural my brows looked. I was initially worried that they would look too blocky, but I couldn't have been more wrong. That night, I carefully removed my makeup, making sure not to rub at my eyebrows as I wanted to see how long the Tattoo Brow would last. 

For the next 3 days, my brows were fading ever so slightly, but all I needed to do was run a brow gel through them to make them look tamed and natural. When I wanted to add a little more definition to my brows, I would neaten them up with a bit of brow pomade. I have to note that they did start to go a little gingery on the second day, which for me, as a dark red-head didn't look too out of place, but for others using the Medium Brown shade, it's one to note as it may not be for you. 

The wand it provides you with is good if you have thicker brows, but I preferred using a separate angled brow brush to get the precision I want and it was easier to achieve a lighter middle to the brows, an almost featured effect. 

I honestly didn't want to like this product as much as I do, but as I do a lot of exercising this is going to be perfect for the no makeup looks I often sport. I have been reaching for it to reapply, which is definitely saying something and I think it'll be one I'll use up. 

Have you tried the Maybelline Tattoo Brow? 

This post contains affiliate links. 

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4 Things I Look For In A Blog Post

Although I've been running Pint Sized Beauty for nearly three years now (where has the time gone?), I've been writing and reading blogs for much longer. Over the years, my taste in blog posts has changed, but I wanted to share with you four things I look for in a blog post and how I adapt that into my own blog posts too. 

Good, Clear Photography | Remember the days when people wouldn't make their images the biggest they could be on their blog? I was guilty, only going as far as medium. Now, I want big, clear photographs so everybody can see the details. They don't have to be perfectly composed, but as long as I can see the product without it being too over or under exposed, then I'm happy. 

Affiliate Links | I'm somebody who goes searching for affiliate links on my favourite bloggers websites before I purchase anything. They're often easiest found when they're in bold within the text or on ads on the side of their blogs. It's one of my favourite ways to give back, even if it's just a few pennies here and there. It doesn't mean a product is any more expensive for me, it just means they get a little thank you for recommending me the product too. 

Personal Opinion | Once I find a blog I'm smitten with, I'm a consistent reader, so it's essential for me to feel like I know the writer. It doesn't mean I have to know their date of birth or anything personal, but trusting their opinion when it comes to product recommendations is a must have for me. 

The Ability To Share It Everywhere | Similarly to the point above, when I like a blog, I want to share it on every possible social media platform. Although I know not everyone likes Facebook and some may decide to stay off Instagram, but I love repinning people's dreamy photographs on Pinterest and giving them a retweet to ensure other people find their blog too. 

What do you look for when you read a blog post?  

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An ASOS Haul

As someone who is picky when it comes to clothes, I tend to pick up a t-shirt here and a pair of jeans there. For my birthday, I got given an ASOS voucher, so I knew that I wanted to purchase some of the items I had in my saved section, before I knew it I had made my biggest ASOS order yet. To my frustration, I liked every single one of the items which never, ever happens. 

First up is the star of the show, the Pimkie Chelsea Boots, a last minute add to my basket, but one that I imagine I will get a lot of wear out of. The only boots I have at the moment are a pair of heeled ones from Primark which are about 5 years old now and they barely look like they've been worn, even though they have been to death. I wanted a new pair that were a little more suitable for just popping on and walking to the shops, so the Pimkie offerings are perfect. One of the main reasons I got these was because I found this Spot Shirred Waist Dress for my birthday and I wanted to make sure I could wear it in the day with a pair of tights and a long coat with ease. 

I was skeptical about trying the ASOS Farleigh Mom Jeans as I've only ever worn Topshop Jamie and Joni Jeans because they fit me well, but as the price of those are going up and I wanted to add to my collection, I picked the Farleigh's up. They're pretty true to size, but do feel a little snug when you put them on, though I'm sure that they'll loosen over time. Being a slimmer fit, they're more flattering on my legs than the traditional mom jeans and they really accentuate my waist and bum. They get the thumbs up from me and being reasonably priced, I can see myself venturing into buying more ASOS jeans in the future. 

The whole reason this haul started was because of the Adidas Burgundy Three Stripe T-Shirt and it's probably the item I'm most on the fence about. It's a lot thicker material than I was anticipating and comes up quite small, so I'd definitely say to size up unless you want it snug. I adore the colour of it and I can imagine myself wearing it on a relaxed Sunday, but I'm not 100% sure yet. 

If you're not a stripe enthusiast like myself then look away now, because I picked up two pieces. I picked up the Boohoo Contrast Collar Stripe T-Shirt purely on a whim and even though the material feels quite cheap, it does what it says on the tin and would be a great one for layering. Don't expect much in terms of quality, but if you're looking for a stretchy, comfortable t-shirt then this may be your best bet. 

Another on a whim purchase of mine was the Brave Soul Nautical Stripe Jumper as it was in the sale and I couldn't resist the stripes. It looked like it would be quite nice to just throw on with a pair of jeans and the boots whenever I'm not sure what to wear. It's a little on the big size for me, so I would say to size down in this one. 

Have you got your eye on anything from ASOS?

This post contains affiliate links. 

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A Dreamy Diptyque Scent

If there's something I like to splurge on and treat myself to, it's perfume, but unfortunately, I tend to go through bottles like there's no tomorrow. The newest addition to my collection is the Diptyque Do Son Eau De Toilette, a scent that for me has a long story behind it and a reason it took me until my 21st birthday to buy it. 

A couple of years back, I feel in love with this fragrance whilst I was scouring the aisles of Space NK, but by the time I got back to the car, I had already forgotten the name. This situation happened time and time again, until we went to Paris back in August and I noted down all the scents that I wanted to get. Do Son was at the top of my wishlist for some time, so when my birthday rolled around and the Space NK offer was still on (£15 off £60 was very dangerous), I quickly put this in my basket and checked out. 

The main reason I fell in love with this fragrance besides the actual scent, was the longevity. One quick spritz fills the air and covers my body in the dreamy floral, yet fresh scent, lasting on the skin all day. One of the main reasons why I like spending a little more on perfume is I tend to need less  frequent spritzes, thus meaning the bottle lasts longer. 

I have to mention that the exterior of this fragrance definitely attracted me to begin with; the simple design looks elegant on my dressing table, but it really was the scent that had me hooked. I like to wear a floral scent all year, but Do Son is perfect for the Autumn and Winter season because it has slight warming undertones to it, whilst still remaining fresh (No headaches for me!). 

What's your current favourite perfume? 

This post contains affiliate links. 

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A Glossier Makeup Haul

Over the past couple of months, I have been collecting some Glossier cult favourites in anticipation of the UK release. As soon as they went live on Monday, I knew I had to make another order (or two!). What I was most drawn to was the makeup, although I have ordered the moon mask and priming moisturiser rich too. Here is what I picked up: 

Although I adore pressed powders that help to illuminate my complexion, I'm far more likely to reach for a loose powder as I think they work better on the whole with my skin type. The Wowder Powder has been on my wishlist since it's release not too long ago and I'm so glad I picked it up. As a dewy skin lover, I try and keep my face powder as natural as possible, still allowing my skin's glow to shine through. I've only tried this once, but so far so good as it doesn't make my face look two dimensional and it does work great with the stretch concealer - I even tested it for two hours bike riding outside and it didn't budge. 

I didn't go in with the intention of buying the Phase 2 Set, but I was drawn in by Boy Brow and the Stretch Concealer, both of which I've heard great things about. I wasn't too sure about getting a Generation G Lipstick because none of the colours had ever spoken to me until I clocked Jam. From then, I've been noticing a variety of other shades I'd like to pick up and give a try if I like the formula of Jam. I've got to admit I wasn't impressed with the first or even second application, I felt like the colour was great, but it needed lots of warming up until you got the colour pay off you wanted. It's matte and currently I'm using a lip balm underneath it which turns it a bit glossier (ay), but I'm determined to persist purely because the colour is perfect for Autumn - We shall see.  

I'm really hoping that the Boy Brow, which I got in the shade brown, will rival my love for the Benefit Gimme Brow, a product I have repurchased multiple times. At first application, it seemed too gloopy and runny, but once it had dried, I've got to admit I was impressed. I'm not sure if I was just having a good brow day, but my brows did look thicker and fuller, so I can't wait to continue using this as they weren't flakey nor did they feel like they had a lot of product in. 

I was skeptical about picking up the Stretch Concealer because I wasn't too sure if the shade would be the right match for me (the lightest shade isn't too light), but the appeal of a lightweight offering that can be worn with ease on a bare face got the better of me. I wanted it because although I adore my Kat Von D Lock It Concealer, I wanted something a little lighter for when I want to wear as little makeup as possible. Although waxy at first glance, the formula is much creamier than expected, so I think it works great with a beauty blender. I used this sort of all over my face and it can be layered up for more coverage without caking, or can be applied lightly for all over coverage. I haven't used this with a foundation underneath yet, but when paired with Wowder, it does make my skin look lovely and the powder takes away the slight sheen the concealer has. 

After the success of Dusk Cloud Paint, I knew that the other shades would be at the top of my list to get. I ended up getting the duo because you save a little bit of money getting it that way, but I was unsure on the two shades that I should get. In the end I settled for Haze and Puff, but I already know I'll be getting the last one of the collection, Beam. Dusk was hands down one of my favourite blusher formulas as it was super creamy, blend into the skin like a dream and I'm so glad the other two shades are as gorgeous and the same formula. I like that you can mix them to create different colours too, as this is definitely something I'll be doing to get creative. 

Did you pick anything up from Glossier? 


This post contains affiliate links. 

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A Halloween To-Do List

I feel like halloween events and parties are getting earlier this year, but I'm all for cracking out the decorations early too. Up until last year, I was never really a Halloween fan, but now I feel like I make it into a month's worth of wearing darker, vampier makeup, watching spooky films and contemplating going to a Pumpkin patch. 

Have A Netflix TV Binge | Stranger Things 2 comes out towards the end of the month, so what better excuse to re-watch the first series that had us all hooked? I'm super looking forward to spending evenings huddled underneath a blanket hiding my eyes because I predict the new series is going to be way scarier. If you want some other, more non-scary options, I can recommend "What Happened To Monday" and "Orphan Black". 

Bake All Of The Harry Potter Themed Treats | Think Pumpkin pasties or homemade butter beer. The perfect reason to snack, maybe even watching the films themselves, or you can save them for the Great British Bake Off. If Harry Potter treats don't tickle your fancy, then I'm sure the array of tasty Halloween themed snacks in the supermarket will. 

Have A Lush Bath | I adore Lush all year around, but from October to December, their Halloween and Christmas range means I spend an awful lot of time scrolling aimlessly on their site. I love popping in a bath bomb, sitting back and relaxing whilst the candles crackle away. 

Go To Homesense | Homesense is the dream if you're into Halloween decorations as much as I am. It'll make you want to deck your house out in floating ghosts, skeleton bowls and endless garlands before you know it - So go in with caution. 

What is on your Halloween to-do list? 

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Skincare and My Priorities

It's only been in recent years that I have really gotten into skincare. Previously, as a teenager with problematic skin, it took me a while to understand my own needs, what works for my skin and what doesn't. In the last twelve months or so, I've really considered every skincare purchase I made and every product I put on my face to ensure that it's right for my skin type and complexion. 

A Good Makeup Remover | I can't tell you how many cleansers I've been through that require scrubbing just to get my makeup off. The one's I swear by are the Aesop Parsley Seed Cleansing Oil*, Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser and Nourish Skin Renew Cleanser* as all three of these do not strip the skin, but melt away makeup perfectly. I try and have two cleansers to hand to ensure that I double cleanse and it's been a priority of mine for some time now. 

Glow Inducing | It took me a while to realise that skincare can change the way your skin looks, not just removing makeup or reducing the size of blemishes. Glycolic Acid was where it changed for me and I now try and incorporate this in to my routine where I can, but mostly it tends to be in toners including Pixi Glow Tonic and The Ordinary Glycolic Toner. Glow inducing products can also be the ones that help to fight blemishes too, so I love killing two birds with one stone. 

Eye Cream | Although I'm only in my early twenties, eye cream has always been a priority; less about wrinkles and more about how dehydrated my under eye area gets. I've tried my fair share, but my two favourites have got to be Kiehl's Avocado Eye Cream, which has a thick consistency that blends into the skin like a dream and The Ordinary's Caffeine Solution* which is more on the lightweight side that sits perfectly underneath makeup. 

Hydration | As I previously mentioned, I try and use products that sooth and hydrate my dry complexion. My favourite way to do this is by layering up oils and moisturiser. The problem with this is that it can make my skin a little sore if I use too many treatments on it at once, so I like to make sure they work well in conjunction with each other and that they're not too thick for my skin. 

A Micellar Water | Although similar to a makeup remover, I find micellar waters great for when you have little to no time to remove your makeup, you've only worn a minimal look that day or when you've smudged your mascara accidentally. Bioderma remains my favourite micellar water hands down from the one's I've tried (although I'm open to try out anybody's recommendations). The Original Sensibo and Hydrabio H20 Moisturising* version are my two essentials as they work effectively, get every last bit of makeup off my skin and don't leave my skin feeling parched at all. 

What do you look for in your skincare? 

If you would like 10% off your first Glossier order you can use my code - http://bff.glossier.com/gHtgy - 

If a product is marked with a * it is a PR sample. This post contains affiliate links. 

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My 5 Period Essentials

- This post is sponsored by Bodyform - 

When that time of the month rolls around, I often whip out my cosiest pyjamas, grab a duvet and hibernate for a week. I've had my period for quite some time now, so I thought I would share with you five of my top essentials (including a discussion about sharing your own period experience.)

TV Shows | I love nothing more when I'm on my period than snuggling down with a blanket and a book, but sometimes I just want to do as little as possible and put on a TV Show which I can binge watch. My current obsession is Don't Tell The Bride (how it took me that long to watch it I have no idea) and Gossip Girl. They're easy to watch shows that put a smile on my face in an instant. Other favourites include: Bad Education, Drifters, and Gilmore Girls. 

An Emergency Kit | I always put together a kit of emergency spares from tablets to a comfy pair of knickers. I like putting them into a little zip up bag and popping it in my bag so that I know it's there whenever I need it. 

Comfort Food | I know you're probably expecting me to mention some sort of chocolate, but for me, comfort food is general makes me feel better. A steaming hot jacket potato with extra cheese or even toast, my absolute favourite when I need a snack. I love stocking up on crisps, pasta and lots of veggies during my period. 

A Few Of Your Favourite Things | You've probably realised that one of this post pretty much involved having a bit of anything you fancy whilst on your period. I like feeling comfortable, so my hair usually goes up in a high bun and I love to wear loose, baggy bottoms - My favourites are currently a pair of Primark Harry Potter ones! I also love to delve into a great page turning, buy myself a bunch of flowers or give myself an afternoon to pamper and paint my nails. 

Bodyform | Bodyform was the first brand I ever used when I started my period, so I can't help but be drawn to them. One of my essentials is towels, especially during the first one or two days as to me, they feel more comfortable to wear. Being quick and easy to use too, I would recommend popping one into your emergency kit too. 

Bodyform are currently running a campaign to encourage women to share their experiences and break the period taboo. For me, I used to struggle with having my period as I often felt embarrassed especially during the school day and as a 9 in 10 girls say they have gone to great lengths to hide their periods, I must have not been alone in this struggle.  As someone who started their period young, I struggled initially with trying to be discreet and wanting to make as little sound as possibly when in the toilet. If I could go back, I would tell my younger self to talk to peers and those who I trust about my questions and concerns because it would have made me more comfortable with having my period. Have you ever tried to hide your period? 

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October Makeup Bag

I've really fallen back in love with makeup recently, and therefore my makeup bag seems to be full to the brim with old favourites and new products. I wanted to give you an update on what the content of my makeup bag looks like, so here are my top picks: 

I've been reaching for the NYX Cool Neutrals*, Urban Decay Naked Heat* and Original Naked Palette* a lot recently as I've been getting into eyeshadow palettes much more lately. I've even been contemplating treating myself to the Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Palette. 

Glossier are coming to the UK today and I'm beyond excited, so of course I've put most of their products I already own into my makeup bag including a new addition, the Birthday Balm Dot Com. Although I was skeptical this was just going to be overpriced vaseline, I actually find it makes my lips look a little fuller thanks to the shimmer particles and the thick formula is nourishing too. 

My base has pretty much stayed the same over the past few months, the Kat Von D Lock It Concealer and Too Faced Born This Way Foundation being the duo that I've been smitten with. It creates a flawless base that is undetectable and easy to wear on a daily basis. 

I've been trying a lot of different bronzers at the moment, but it's the Becca Sunlit Capri Coast Bronzer* which has currently got top space in my makeup bag. It's super natural and looks great paired with my Fenty Beauty Amber Match Stix too. It's bronzes up the skin nicely and is the perfect hue for my skin tone. 

Talking of Fenty Beauty, the Match Stix Trio and Killawatt Duo Highlighter are new additions to my makeup bag and one's that have been welcomed with open arms. The latter is perfect for creating a striking glow, whereas the Match Stix, especially in Amber as I previously mentioned, is great at creating chiselled cheekbones. 

What have you got in your October makeup bag? 

If a product is marked with a * it is a PR sample. This post contains affiliate links. 

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