September Haul

I have convinced myself that since I'm going back to uni soon, and (ahem) won't have time to spend money, I should spend my summer earnings now. Anyway, I need lots of new outfits for going back. I'll go to any lengths to justify spending.  Jeans are always a tricky item to buy. Usually either they don't get past my thighs or they are massive at the waist so when I find a style I like, I always buy multiple pairs. I've always wanted a pair of Topshop jeans but when I tried on a pair of Jonis a few years ago they were disastrous. I hadn't even considered that other styles would be a totally different story. I'm now in love with the Leigh and Jamie jeans. I struggle to get my size in store or online so when I seen 2 pairs I just went ahead and bought them both (with a slight tear in my eye at the till). I also really love the Zara basic range. For simple tshirts, you don't pay much more than Primark and you get better material, fit and quality. 
I saw the Barry M lipliners recommended on a Youtube video a couple of weeks ago and since I'm pretty obsessed with brown lip products at the moment, I picked one up for £2.99. While I was in Superdrug, I stocked up on my favourite Simple skincare products as they were on special offer and came with a free Vaseline. I also bought MUA's Pixel Perfect bronzer. I've used their Mosaic Bronzer for years and love it but it seems to have been discontinued (cry) so I've decided to embrace its replacement. Finally, I had a voucher for a No7 Match Made lipstick from the bonus-time summer box. The woman at the counter done a skin tone analysis and gave me a little information card with the shades that best suit me. I've already mentioned my love for brown lipsticks at the moment so I used my voucher to get 'Spiced Latte' worth £9.95! 
All in all, it was actually a pretty sensible shopping trip as I see myself getting plenty of use out of all of this.
What have you bought lately? 

Superdrug Skincare Picks

When I first started blogging, I used to be amazed when I read other people writing 'I liked the look of this so I thought I'd buy it and give it a try'. I was a lot younger then and with my pocket money I could only buy the odd hyped product now and again after much careful consideration. Its been almost 2 years since I started my part time job and it means that every now and again I can treat myself to the bits and bobs in Superdrug that I just like the look of. 
I was always a Boots loyal when it came to feeding my beauty product addiction but over the past year I feel like Superdrug has really upped its game. There always seems to be promotions on and however sad it may sound, I think its so fun to go in and fill my basket. 
Today I'd like to mention a few skincare gems I've been using from Superdrug, all really reasonably priced and they all land top marks in my book.

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

You can find my full review here in which I absolutely raved about this product and said that I actually preferred it to the original micellar water Bioderma. The only issues I raised were its impracticability for travelling and that you couldn't remove the cap. Well, they've only went and fixed exactly those problems! The new 400ml design has a easily removable cap and the mini size is the cutest thing I ever did see. I always buy a few of the big bottles at once when they're 1/3 off in Superdrug as its the only makeup remover I use.

Bio-Oil I thought I'd throw this in as I was recommended it and decided to pick it up in the hope it'd improve the appearance of my scars. I have noticed a slight improvement to scars on my leg with sporadic use but I think for it to really work you need to use it consistently and for a good few months. Have any of you tried it and has it worked well for you?
Vitamin E Eye Cream I think Superdrug's Vitamin E brand is underrated. They have lots of different skincare items in their range (wipes, masks, body oil) and since its 'own brand' is is very reasonably priced. The skin around my eyes became really dry during winter and I needed a simple eye cream that would moisturise the skin without irritating my sensitive eyes. This worked wonders. It feels light, refreshing and absorbs really quickly. I also have the SuperBalm from the Vitamin E range and I've really been enjoying that too.
Simple Kind to Skin Light Moisturiser This is a classic that I've been using for years. I go between this and the Rich Moisturiser, sometimes mixing the two at once. This is excellent for sensitive skin and absorbs really quickly. I really like the fresh smell of Simple products (I also use their cleanser and toner). I buy this when its on 3 for 2 and always forget that I have like 6 bottles in my cupboard!
Superdrug's Own Brand 'Destressing' and 'Refreshing' Face Masks I vaguely remember reading a review of one of these ages ago and when I saw that they were 2 for £3.50 I thought I'd pick them up for pamper nights. I've never used a peel-off mask before and its been quite an usual experience. The first time when I was taking it off I felt like a creature out of Doctor Who taking off my flesh (although I didn't really of course) and the next time I didn't put enough on so it came off in tiny bits. The mud mask is more of what I'm used to- put the mask on, leave it for 10 minutes and then wash off to a refreshed complexion. I think for the amount of product you get these are really good value and are all I'm really looking for from a face mask. Word to the wise though- be sure to stick to the directed time- I left one of these on for more than half an hour and came downstairs to horrified looks from my family: 'wtf happened to your face?!' 'why's it so red and blotchy?' thankfully it went back to normal quickly. 

The best thing about all these products is that they are all very affordable, keep problem skin at bay and don't irritate it (with the exception of the face mask faux pas which was entirely my own fault). 
What are your top Superdrug skincare picks?

Updated Everyday Makeup

Hey Everyone!
I've said time and time again that, for me, every extra minute of sleep in the morning is precious. For all my procrastination during the rest of the day, from 7.45- 8.20 my routine is timed to the second. Because of this, I've honed my everyday makeup routine to the essentials so that I don't waste any unnecessary time doing it but I still look (semi) presentable.

Products worn: Rimmel Lasting Finish Foundation Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer Bourjois Round Pot in Rose D'Or MAC MSF in Soft & Gentle S&G Archery in Brownie Points No7 Stay Precise Liquid Liner in Black No7 Exceptional Definition Mascara in Black Maybelline Babylips in Cherry Me Avon Translucent Powder
It takes me roughly 10 mins to do this makeup (with the exception of lip balm which is applied while running round to the bus stop). I've been wearing this to both work and school for months and in terms of lasting power its pretty fab. 
The products I'm using have switched up quite a lot since my last FOTD post. I've reverted back to my Rimmel foundation and No7 liquid liner- in my eyes no other liner can compete. As usual I'm switching up mascara pretty frequently and just using what I have opened at the time. I wouldn't describe this one by No7 as 'exceptional', as the name suggests, but it doesn't smudge (which is quite the feat for my oily eyelids) and is good in terms of adding length and not clumping. 
I'm still loving Maybelline Baby Lips- I have countless lip products yet I find myself reaching for this every single day. I love the way it smells and the fact it doesn't do anything weird (like going patchy or leaving an outer line- ew) when it fades. I've started using concealer again because my skin is in quite a state at the moment. I'll possibly do a post with more info on what I'm doing to try and manage that soon. Ooh and big news on the makeup front. During my four month absence, I finally started filling in my eyebrows. I'm planning an in depth review of the S&G brow tint & pencil but basically I'm really loving it- it makes eyebrows so easy to do- even for a complete novice like me. Finally, on my cheeks is my usual combo. I'm getting a bit tired of the Rose D'Or blush since I've not used any other blush in months- I'm looking forward to looking out my cream blush for summer. 
Well that's me over and out for tonight folks. Hope you all have a great weekend. There will be a Primark haul up on Sunday so look out for that :)

My Everyday Makeup

Hey Everyone!

Since going back to school and changing seasons my everyday makeup has changed a fair bit so I thought I'd share it with you. Personally, I'd much rather an extra few minutes in my bed rather than spending ages putting on makeup so this look is quick and simple. 9 times out of 10 I'm also running late in the morning so the less I put on the better. 

I start with a base of MAC Mineralize Satin Finish foundation in shade NW20 which my cousin gave me after finding her HG in Chanel (Let's say I'm a tad jelous of her makeup collection). I then put Bourjois Pot Blush in Rose D'or on my cheekbones and MAC MSF in Soft & Gentle on top. 

Moving onto eyes, after curling my lashes, if I have time I will apply MUA Single Eyeshadow in shade 1 all over the lid and blend a little shade 17 into the outer corner, crease and lower lash line. I'll then line my upper lid with L'Oreal Super Liner and apply Clinique Lash Power mascara (long wearing formula). Then I'll sweep a bit of Avon Translucent powder over my whole face and finally pop on some Maybelline Baby Lips in Cherry Me (this last step sometimes takes place on the way to the bus stop if I'm super short of time!).

This makeup lasts the day without reapplication (especially the mascara which is a big plus!). I still prefer my HG Rimmel Lasting Finish foundation but for now I may aswell use what I have of this MAC one. I'm still loving the MAC MSF though! I'm also really liking this mascara- I think the next one I buy will be a full size of one of the Clinique ones I've tried as they're just so darn good. 

I know my face and neck look two different colours but rest assured its just the lighting/ shadow :) What are your everyday staples?

DIY Bracelet from Sweet Wrappers

 

 

Hey Everyone!

As you will probably know, I'm a sucker for a DIY project. Let's be honest though, 9 times out of 10 its a disaster. But, after being contacted by the lovely people at Eco Market informing me of the great selection of eco friendly DIYs on their blog, I knew I had to give one a go.

What particularly appealed to me was "Sweet Ideas: Turning Candy Wrappers to High Fashion" because I am a penchant for colourful arm candy and I already had a stash of old Starburst wrappers (which some may consider a bit odd- but I am saving them to cover a shoe box). 

I simply sat watching Sex and the City a few nights ago and followed the step by step video. The tutorial is super straight forward and I found it really therapeutic sitting making this. The final bracelet is surprisingly sturdy and I will definitely be sporting this summer.

I would highly recommend giving this a go- I feel like a professional origami-ist!

You can have a snoop at the other DIYs on the Eco Market blog.

Current Skincare Routine

Hey Everyone!

Perhaps around this time last year you may remember me posting about my newly purchased skin care products and how I was planning on ditching the baby wipes and doing everything as it should be done. Well, that didn't exactly go to plan. I am pretty lazy: especially when it comes to skin care.

So up until the last few weeks my skincare routine had consisted of removing my makeup with baby wipes, using a face wash in the shower and moisturising. Admittedly not the best. Over the last few weeks however I have been putting the skincare products I bought all those months ago to good use, finding a happy medium between the ideal routine and lazy old me.

So without further ado, this is my current skincare routine:

Loosen mascara with cotton pad soaked in eye makeup remover

Remove makeup with one rinsed baby wipe

Remove left over makeup with another rinsed baby wipe soaked in cleanser

Use face wash everyday in the shower (using sponge to exfoliate every other day)

Moisturise after all that every night

I think the main difference is the cleanser, and although the product is seemingly insignificant, since I've started using it I have noticed such an improvement in my skin. It is definitely a lot clearer which makes me think the dirt is really being taken out. I think the exfoliating has helped a lot too as I don't have just as many blackheads although they're definitely not gone completely.

Overall, I think the only way I can enforce some sort of routine is doing it bit by bit- I'm not ready to say goodbye to the wipes just yet!

NOTD: My First Successful Nail Art

Hey Everyone!

Remember back in the early days I used to post attempted nail art with big splodges and messy edges (eg here- cringe!)? Well I think I can finally say that I have successfully done nail art and it hasn't been a disaster! YAY- applause needed, thanks :)

I've been wanting to try out different styles for ages, with the constant inspiration from blogs and pinterest, but my nails are really short and my hand isn't the steadiest, so I decided nail art wasn't for me. However, inspired by Islay's amazing nail art (who makes everything look so simple!) I thought hey why not give it a go, and I was so pleased with how it turned out!

So you might think 'those aren't even that good' but for me its a major achievement! I think if I get the white stripes a bit thinner and grow my nails so I have more space to work with I might actually master this.

These are the polishes I used in the order I used them, from left to right, and for the lighter green I mixed the green and yellow together. Why is there a random pencil hanging around you may ask? Well this was actually the tool I used for the flowers and it actually made things way easier. I used the writing end and just cleaned it after each colour.

And the best news? The polish lasted a whole 4 days before I peeled it off- a personal record I think.

Have you tried any nail art recently?

I'm posting everyday at 6.00pm this week: let me know in the comments if you would like me to post at set times like this more often :)

My Go To Hairstyle: Voluminous High Ponytail (Ft. My Onesie!)

Hey Everyone!

Of my whole presentation, my hair is the thing I spent least time on, as its probably what I enjoy doing least. I'm forever on the hunt for quick, easy dos that look as if I've put in a bit of effort. Inspired by Zoella's second signature barnet (the first being a messy bun), I have been wearing this a lot lately. I can't even begin to express how easy this is- it takes under a minute. 

1. Sleep with your hair in double looped pony bun. I tend to do this if I haven't washed my hair that night. I do a double looped pony bun (tie as if putting a pony in then only pull half the loop through then twist and half that) because I have naturally straight hair, if you have curly hair already you don't need to do this.

2. This is what my hair looks like after sleeping in the top knot- yours may be different but its about working with your natural hair.

3. I brush my hair through so its not too crazy.

4. Flip over and gather your hair at the top of the back of your head.

5. Tie with a bobble (I use the ones without the metal bits as they break your hair).

6. Use a comb to sleek back flyaways and stop your hair going that 'bitty' way if its not been washed.

7. You might want to slightly tease the base of the pony tail.

8. & 9. The finished result!

This is my go to, roll out of bed and out the door style. It actually takes less time than wearing natural hair down, which is super quick. 

Let me know if you like these kind of tutorials, the messy bun one I done months ago seemed to be quite popular. 

P.S Hope you don't mind the onesie and no makeup- it was a lazy day :P

I'm posting everyday at 6.00pm this week: let me know in the comments if you would like me to post at set times like this more often :)

How To | Contour

Hey Everyone!

I think that if you're even slightly interested in makeup, you will be familiar with the concept of contour. Just in case you have stumbled across this post via the realms of the interweb and have no clue what I'm talking about, contour is the art of shading and highlighting your face to make it appear slimmer/ more defined. Think Kim Kardashian's seemingly natural sculpted cheekbones and radiance. 

In regards to my makeup, I like to focus on one technique to master at a time. First it was buffing foundation for a flawless finish. Then it was steady-handed liquid eyeliner. Recently  it has been contour and let me tell you- its been the most difficult to master.

I think its easiest to break it down into 4 parts:

Theory

The essential principle of contour is to darken certain parts of your face to take them back and highlight others to bring them forward. You want to exaggerate the natural shadows your face by applying a dark matte powder and draw attention to parts of your face which are not oily and that could do with an extra glow.

What not to use

I tried tiredlessly for months to make contour work with numerous shimmery bronzers and powder brushes. It doesn't work. I'm not usually one to believe in the 'tools over technique' concept but for this I think tools are essential.

What to use

The essentials are a matte bronzer and a small or angled contour brush. Although I have seen a lot of people contouring with NARS Laguna and a higher end brush, some of us simply cannot afford that- so my essentials for contouring are ELF Blushing Bronzing and Blending Brush and Rimmel Bronzing Compact Powder in Medium Matte. Highlighter doesn't pose as much of a problem so pretty much choose whatever one takes your fancy. I use MUA eyeshadow trio in Pink Sorbet- which technically isn't even a highlight- but it works for me.

Technique

Apply bronzing powder in light sweeping motions into the hollows of your cheekbones and up into your temples and hairline then down into your jaw. Then (using the same brush if you wish) apply your highlighter into a triangle shape on your temples.

I think contour gives a very dramatic look and isn't one which I wear everyday, but I think its beautiful for every now and again.

I hope this helped in some way- give it a go and let me know how you get on! As for me, I think my next makeup conquest will be perfecting how to do brows. 

Do you contour? What are your essential products?

Skincare | New Products & Routine

Hey Everyone!

Like most people my age, my skincare routine isn't up to scratch. Heck- I barely even have a routine! On a daily basis, I will remove my make up with baby wipes and use a face wash in the shower then moisturiser after. Then once a week or so I use Soap & Glory No Clogs Allowed. 

Since being immersed in the beauty blogging world, I have learned that baby wipes just don't cut it and they don't remove your make up properly. So, I have decided to try and implement a consistent skincare routine to try and improve the condition of my skin.

I've always been a big fan of simple- I think its great for sensitive skin like mine and for those who are just looking for straight forward and basic products. Therefore, when it came to choosing what I thought would work best for me, I went for this! I have bought:

Kind To Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser

Kind To Skin Replenishing Rich Moisturiser

Kind To Skin Pore Minimising Toning Cleanser

Kind To Skin Eye Make-Up Remover

And I already had Clinque Liquid Facial Soap.

The plan is to remove eye make up with the Kind To Skin Eye Make-Up Remove, then cleanse and tone with Kind To Skin Pore Minimising Toning Cleanser. Then in the shower use Clinque Liquid Facial Soap before applying a mixture of Kind To Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser and Kind To Skin Replenishing Rich Moisturiser. 

To me, that is actually quite a performance and I expect I will struggle trying to stick to it religiously. However, I believe doing it consistently will really improve my skin so I need to just make the effort every night to fit this in. I will let you know how I get on as begin using them.

What does your skincare routine consist of?