tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42228558811181520282024-03-05T13:15:09.710+00:00Peachy CurvesLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.comBlogger137125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-45611413959027842432014-10-08T17:05:00.000+01:002014-10-08T17:05:31.582+01:00Review: Faith in Nature Coconut Shampoo and Conditioner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My habits when it comes to shampoo and conditioner are pretty simple - if it's on offer that week, it's going in the basket. (Although I had a particularly bad experience with the Fibrology range from L'Oreal - put simply, DO NOT BUY. It made my hair brittle, frizzy and dull and I wouldn't recommend it to my worst enemy) Other than that, I always rely on my trusty Tresemme heat protectant spray to prevent my locks getting too frazzled while heat styling (which, let's be honest, I do very little of.) Despite my fickle purchasing patterns, I've started developing a preference for products with more natural ingredients, and will try to buy certified cruelty-free products when I can find them. Because of this, I jumped at the chance to review some haircare from <a href="https://www.faithinnature.co.uk/" target="_blank">Faith in Nature</a> - a company which prides itself on creating environmentally friendly products that are both affordable and high quality. The lovely Nikola who works for Faith in Nature gave me my pick of the entire range. It was a fairly obvious choice for me - their <a href="https://www.faithinnature.co.uk/blog/posts/coconut-shampoo-wins-gold-in--2014-freefrom-skincare-awards" target="_blank">award winning</a> coconut shampoo and conditioner* would be just the thing to transport me to the Caribbean holiday I could never afford. Ahh, bliss.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjETRnZ_lTAI4JwvTjcWiSAIja9U6ioKD4AjTlxV0aGxVqSwF83ovmurYlzvb75f78LmB_ZO0L7ShyCdliQfgYrhbrOZL1xo06YbIwq6ZVoFSHgwWP5ErxgENS8fGUQVvAskRn_QSXSb4hG/s1600/Faith+in+Nature+Coconut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjETRnZ_lTAI4JwvTjcWiSAIja9U6ioKD4AjTlxV0aGxVqSwF83ovmurYlzvb75f78LmB_ZO0L7ShyCdliQfgYrhbrOZL1xo06YbIwq6ZVoFSHgwWP5ErxgENS8fGUQVvAskRn_QSXSb4hG/s1600/Faith+in+Nature+Coconut.jpg" height="518" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The products come in two sizes, 400ml for £5.50 (I genuinely think that's very reasonable, and this is coming from a frugal student) and a whopping 5 litre bottle for £50 - perhaps a good option for mobile hairdressers and start-up salons? It's an idea. The bottles themselves are a simple, functional design and the cap is easy to open (does anyone else really struggle with irritating caps in the shower? I'm looking at you, Radox shower gel) and close.<br />The scent is pretty darn glorious. Exotic, holiday coconut. I'm happy to announce that it subtly lingers for days afterwards in your hair - much to my pleasure.<br />The consistency of the conditioner is a little thinner than what I'm used to. I'm guessing this is because it has fewer chemical than other brands? Not entirely sure. The shampoo foams up beautifully though and leaves my hair - literally - squeaky clean. I've been using them together now for about two weeks and I'm so happy to report that my hair is looking so much brighter and silkier than it has in a while. That vile Fibrology stuff really did a number on it (I saw so many positive reviews...why?) so I think this was just the thing to get it into a more natural, soft state.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzfcsOkVEMs8NJAnHsYD60USrKSpgSc3SSsKQtEtxSXCxf68Jt0PujPAjnOAsHDVKK1ZvppDX2IMfu6isC-HLCmB8rxs6CtMP16BxpjNTBFAB6yailOSBW0vgUi8bzhb-kaPgV373GSZe/s1600/faith+in+nature+banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzfcsOkVEMs8NJAnHsYD60USrKSpgSc3SSsKQtEtxSXCxf68Jt0PujPAjnOAsHDVKK1ZvppDX2IMfu6isC-HLCmB8rxs6CtMP16BxpjNTBFAB6yailOSBW0vgUi8bzhb-kaPgV373GSZe/s1600/faith+in+nature+banner.png" height="258" width="640" /></a></div>
I can wholeheartedly recommend these products and am really looking forward to exploring the rest of the brand. <a href="https://www.faithinnature.co.uk/products/pineapple-and-lime-shower-gel-and-foam-bath" target="_blank">Pineapple and Lime shower gel</a> is next on my hit list (can you tell I need a holiday? Boohoo.)<br />
<br />
So, looking for <a href="https://www.faithinnature.co.uk/hair-care" target="_blank">vegan, organic and cruelty free haircare</a>? Faith in Nature has you covered. With 15 gorgeous natural scents to choose from, you're bound to find something you love.<br />
<br />
They also have a <a href="https://www.faithinnature.co.uk/gifts" target="_blank">3 for 2 offer</a> on gift packs at the moment which would be a great way to sample lots of their products!<br />
<br />
Final Verdict: Well worth a try. Beautifully scented and excellent quality from a great ethical company.<br />
<br />
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-12748983098519940422014-08-11T09:00:00.000+01:002014-08-11T10:47:39.147+01:00Sleek Pout Paints<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDDQtGXlh98ZVoYcUM_kW56DabtlILl5M99oDGgmR_v5OleSWsN7UBVNuoxDPXbeZmsL83HlgdGYdv_qtaC25LrrJDDW9O_a5l0fb68f_i9EBFMI-sW6nLkkph29VSW8rASda-egcmg5D/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfDDQtGXlh98ZVoYcUM_kW56DabtlILl5M99oDGgmR_v5OleSWsN7UBVNuoxDPXbeZmsL83HlgdGYdv_qtaC25LrrJDDW9O_a5l0fb68f_i9EBFMI-sW6nLkkph29VSW8rASda-egcmg5D/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Side.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMgsxvS2S9q8ZZGNEoO3CMo2MLyu2kWXU9l0JSCNp3NRVYFdhX0g2WiDuh6QRWBhojoDCU9VFvtEXJyr7daGA2CDnB5P-st2pqUF8gRF4nXeIDArMKgrGuqzuQTxV-wKh737Q8ks25VlS/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMgsxvS2S9q8ZZGNEoO3CMo2MLyu2kWXU9l0JSCNp3NRVYFdhX0g2WiDuh6QRWBhojoDCU9VFvtEXJyr7daGA2CDnB5P-st2pqUF8gRF4nXeIDArMKgrGuqzuQTxV-wKh737Q8ks25VlS/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints.jpg" height="394" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
From L-R: Cloud 9, Lava, Pin-Up, Port, Peek-A-Bloo</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Each tube contains 8ml of product which goes a very long way. Thanks to how highly pigmented these are, you probably only need about half as much as you'd think, and even less when you start mixing them. The packaging itself is cute and I appreciate the clear tubes. They have a very sweet almost bubblegum scent straight out of the tube but this doesn't last after application.The Pout Paints are £4.99 each and available at the <a href="http://www.sleekmakeup.com/lips/lipcolour/pout-paint-milkshake" target="_blank">Sleek website</a> or in most Superdrug stores. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IKkXvB8f4fx7IrSmi5mJz-gOkLZlVzWPk0xIBSW4ElZ98DeonqPZARwgZxKfxFBYglk42nNSE8Z8mV6iZh_n-BVE3LPgTeF4Mu7m7Is-CPBbf98_x2BrnP4yWJW67GwpEZ2aqt-jBaYD/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paint+Cloud+9+lip+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IKkXvB8f4fx7IrSmi5mJz-gOkLZlVzWPk0xIBSW4ElZ98DeonqPZARwgZxKfxFBYglk42nNSE8Z8mV6iZh_n-BVE3LPgTeF4Mu7m7Is-CPBbf98_x2BrnP4yWJW67GwpEZ2aqt-jBaYD/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paint+Cloud+9+lip+swatch.jpg" height="210" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cloud 9</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cloud 9 is a pure white highly-pigmented gloss. I wouldn't recommend wearing this alone for fairly obvious reasons. My main issue with both this shade and Pin-Up is that they had a much thinner consistency and the product had a tendency to separate into pigment and clear gloss. I tried shaking and squeezing the tube which seemed to help a little but not as much as I'd have liked. I'm not entirely sure if it's just mine or if the whole line has this issue but it's definitely something to be aware of. Cloud 9 is primarily there to act as a lightener for other shades when mixing and in this respect it does a great job. You may have to use quite a bit to get your desired colours though so this is probably one to stock up on if you're big on mixing your own shades.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLFPxqu-gx3bvW2QIsqwWKMoZkmeaHghlRsIwhcn94hyphenhyphenS64ucnvasgF-cTZ2IQ_BZN7Qlhu_6tqvK8X85_1WNgOhfQY9EtGFaQsxoWNX_pJsH897N7JX6LpqBtBIg6_c_8QnP-91U_H2ZG/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Lava+lip+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLFPxqu-gx3bvW2QIsqwWKMoZkmeaHghlRsIwhcn94hyphenhyphenS64ucnvasgF-cTZ2IQ_BZN7Qlhu_6tqvK8X85_1WNgOhfQY9EtGFaQsxoWNX_pJsH897N7JX6LpqBtBIg6_c_8QnP-91U_H2ZG/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Lava+lip+swatch.jpg" height="221" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lava</div>
A really beautiful pure orange shade. Lava had great coverage, stunning pigmentation and didn't settle into lines. Definitely a stand-out shade and ideal for Summer days and nights.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCydUNgWkAUOnBT2PQep_aTGssnZjQ359W9_wPaxdRynqf0nEl_N_iJblyQbMBmsIXJ2cUdLSgcQ63IvBu11SSvizVF0w7KXjA4E6yBkAz6NTyI4OMkiddzw6QogpbIQp6rLwDUKpQSknq/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Pin+Up+lip+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCydUNgWkAUOnBT2PQep_aTGssnZjQ359W9_wPaxdRynqf0nEl_N_iJblyQbMBmsIXJ2cUdLSgcQ63IvBu11SSvizVF0w7KXjA4E6yBkAz6NTyI4OMkiddzw6QogpbIQp6rLwDUKpQSknq/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Pin+Up+lip+swatch.jpg" height="193" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pin-Up</div>
A blue-based red with a few technical issues. This is a pretty colour and decent enough for mixing with others but I probably wouldn't wear it alone. It almost immediately settles into lip-lines and bleeds. I have a feeling that it has just separated over time because I've seen some perfect swatches on other sites. Boo! Luckily this isn't a super unique shade and I have lots of other reds in my collection.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvT-jAopgw_ASLSGf0W8ygy0VhwdMQk76HyEhWG12wnve6gmsIuZGBKRuOywRy3R2p1RhQhuNTS53KFxL2HQD8OcFJvDNMHEa15VGvR8oc6r6sAMy-5eSKb6lEMd6RyuInb2nUPyT75Cb/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Port+lip+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvT-jAopgw_ASLSGf0W8ygy0VhwdMQk76HyEhWG12wnve6gmsIuZGBKRuOywRy3R2p1RhQhuNTS53KFxL2HQD8OcFJvDNMHEa15VGvR8oc6r6sAMy-5eSKb6lEMd6RyuInb2nUPyT75Cb/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Port+lip+swatch.jpg" height="216" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Port</div>
A blue-toned deep raspberry pink. Reminds me a lot of<a href="http://peachycurves.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/review-revlon-colourburst-lip-butter-in_29.html" target="_blank"> Raspberry Pie</a> in Revlon Lip Butters and Apocaliptic in the <a href="http://peachycurves.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/review-and-swatches-rimmel-apocalips-in.html" target="_blank">Rimmel Apocalips</a> but not a dupe by any means. I always gravitate towards these beautiful berry shades and I'm really glad I got this one! It's easily one of the best for application and looks gorgeous mixed with anything.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBN0DuV_0PM_A_ySucKXHIucrZQiZ9nHsjebopsTG18p8K6QQ_LEZYfoFH_Lwsk2EcC9wOQLscxtDJkIDbFQK7yQlmvFDgu4AMqWboLotJ3xXatSUz2N_SHPEN8q2_nTV8noeuQkQ2eyde/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paint+Peek+a+Bloo+lip+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBN0DuV_0PM_A_ySucKXHIucrZQiZ9nHsjebopsTG18p8K6QQ_LEZYfoFH_Lwsk2EcC9wOQLscxtDJkIDbFQK7yQlmvFDgu4AMqWboLotJ3xXatSUz2N_SHPEN8q2_nTV8noeuQkQ2eyde/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paint+Peek+a+Bloo+lip+swatch.jpg" height="191" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Peek-A-Bloo</div>
The dark horse of the bunch, this mid-toned blue is ideal for alien role-play and darkening your unique Pout Paint mixes. Smooth and pigmented, this surprised me in the best ways. Peek-A-Bloo is less glossy than some of the others which makes it ideal for mixing. Also gives your teeth the Ross-from-Friends-nuclear-white glow. Bonus if you're feeling brave.<br />
<br />
Here are a few of my own blends, including a perfect home made nude!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHrque1D1MzdvUCy5n7-fiLV1ZdJbAySAiqJEd-gyEK98FA_mCo22nQflvH7xAmtInk9uRAx3azFhtFJJqSXGPbaHLqVzXocit8fbJW4vwM3CxQiq7-tgauum-X8FeI_Yuy3sQKoxEyf5/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Mix+1+Port+++Peek+a+Bloo+lip+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHrque1D1MzdvUCy5n7-fiLV1ZdJbAySAiqJEd-gyEK98FA_mCo22nQflvH7xAmtInk9uRAx3azFhtFJJqSXGPbaHLqVzXocit8fbJW4vwM3CxQiq7-tgauum-X8FeI_Yuy3sQKoxEyf5/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Mix+1+Port+++Peek+a+Bloo+lip+swatch.jpg" height="212" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9GvStamrLCAJ-8Fe6V48-Z1f33qmpVZjz3bfA3mxsGWWn7j_awFBif4CYdugxTjMLJ6gLx7D2kSkImaPA0ukzkdHdBkogP9Fj5weAKYGDFyHLL-MimvQ4e-GfkLoHXm3LJKL0gRUpx-GR/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Mix+3+Port+++Peek+a+Bloo+++Pin+Up+++Cloud+9+lip+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9GvStamrLCAJ-8Fe6V48-Z1f33qmpVZjz3bfA3mxsGWWn7j_awFBif4CYdugxTjMLJ6gLx7D2kSkImaPA0ukzkdHdBkogP9Fj5weAKYGDFyHLL-MimvQ4e-GfkLoHXm3LJKL0gRUpx-GR/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Mix+3+Port+++Peek+a+Bloo+++Pin+Up+++Cloud+9+lip+swatch.jpg" height="207" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQfnMLzwLeU6YcD2z1K1HdO3hAVAp-z943PlrEjups6ksg1M26Fx54ykOlLNWLm_7gBK7RMayc4Lof-z7TwubTMy2OX2U9pK0Ieg4I3eX3pPmGrXwm41K-t-PdWLcC9VyfxxxoDJhRAK1/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Mix+5+Port+++Pin+Up+++Cloud+9+lip+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQfnMLzwLeU6YcD2z1K1HdO3hAVAp-z943PlrEjups6ksg1M26Fx54ykOlLNWLm_7gBK7RMayc4Lof-z7TwubTMy2OX2U9pK0Ieg4I3eX3pPmGrXwm41K-t-PdWLcC9VyfxxxoDJhRAK1/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Mix+5+Port+++Pin+Up+++Cloud+9+lip+swatch.jpg" height="203" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJPWRs0ijrqshHX38Ow5RFsULxpsNagachGO3GH2fYaK1kF5v5OgmLY2L7aJ12WfOO2v3YeLB_HbqxdF6AFY1wYpZajEYwplMUy6GQBmeHK398BctUpG4mo_cQ9PROCtcv-hxnFcoiUB4/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Mix+6+Port+++Pin+Up+++Cloud+9+lip+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJPWRs0ijrqshHX38Ow5RFsULxpsNagachGO3GH2fYaK1kF5v5OgmLY2L7aJ12WfOO2v3YeLB_HbqxdF6AFY1wYpZajEYwplMUy6GQBmeHK398BctUpG4mo_cQ9PROCtcv-hxnFcoiUB4/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Mix+6+Port+++Pin+Up+++Cloud+9+lip+swatch.jpg" height="213" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHaG8iD-TVo2Jf2TVNvQ5SBbr5uPX2JqSvR7sDXJbIoq-HYms93Mdh_ZhsGDoif70fpoiWmHYeh643HAzSGa94nP6BLX1E4dPsVAN9Lw6RPA5O-19bEQM5i5sStggB83LLmkSEvokqM9Vs/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Mix+4+Lava+++Pin+Up+++Cloud+9+lip+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHaG8iD-TVo2Jf2TVNvQ5SBbr5uPX2JqSvR7sDXJbIoq-HYms93Mdh_ZhsGDoif70fpoiWmHYeh643HAzSGa94nP6BLX1E4dPsVAN9Lw6RPA5O-19bEQM5i5sStggB83LLmkSEvokqM9Vs/s1600/Sleek+Pout+Paints+Mix+4+Lava+++Pin+Up+++Cloud+9+lip+swatch.jpg" height="216" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ooh, so peachy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The biggest problem overall with these products is that they're just a straight up pain in the arse to apply and keep topped-up through out the day. Much like the Apocalips but even more difficult to reapply thanks to the lack of applicator. I applied all of my shades with a lip brush (disposable doe foot applicators would work well too) and used a plastic tray as a palette. Not exactly a bathroom-at-the-pub friendly kit. The best thing I can recommend for these is buying a little pill tray/organiser (you can usually pick them up at Poundland or any chemists) and storing your mixes in there. This should keep them fairly air-tight (not that they dry out, I left my palette out overnight to check) and safe. Then you can keep a retractable lip brush in your make-up bag to reapply on the go. It's still a lot of effort but that's the trade-off for custom lip colours I suppose! <br />Wear time is nothing to write home about. They matte down a little over time but still transfer on most things. Eating will definitely require a top up afterwards. Saying that, if you apply <i>very</i> thinly to well-conditioned lips you'll be left with a very pretty stain that will last much longer.<br />
<br />
Final Verdict: Inexpensive, fun to play with and a great range of shades with infinite possibilities. Awkward to apply and the wear time isn't great.<br />
<br />
Bonus: My mess post swatch session!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pWWpbN8xG08eCBQD1YG0j5Rli1Rbk-4m1RYmxHgaAt4s9K3AxF-T9UC2OQXMNvdQdwxDAOKghnd7sP3W4EBt9YbsLjcqLMteqUgH5FKNwXX3Ww5K0hgS5v2BaYp8OpyMINfavbICjuZD/s1600/DSCN2323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pWWpbN8xG08eCBQD1YG0j5Rli1Rbk-4m1RYmxHgaAt4s9K3AxF-T9UC2OQXMNvdQdwxDAOKghnd7sP3W4EBt9YbsLjcqLMteqUgH5FKNwXX3Ww5K0hgS5v2BaYp8OpyMINfavbICjuZD/s1600/DSCN2323.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-48675752991149356282013-11-13T00:06:00.000+00:002013-11-13T00:07:40.891+00:00Haul: The Body Shop Aloe Skincare and More<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have to apologise in advance because I know my photography isn't up to the usual standard that I like to have on my blog but I'm having a few teething problems with my new surroundings! I sort of live in an indent where the halls join onto another building so I get very little light and what does come through is from an awkward angle. I've spent a few days putting this post off and taking photos every day to improve it but this is the best I can do at the moment. Sorry!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The good news is that I have lots of fabulous products to show you!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DdPugbsQ7N7CDFPsXSOh9Iq3tUEBZ1CyZxzuZxhOO6Do0Vlm4IJPEKo4XTvzFynkiZx2CbgHdotuMG3LjtzYiGZfXreW-rHV_fCJOETjOqLpFsBVd7pHQ3XsTmq4HRVRy27XuziXUtQq/s1600/body+shop+haul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DdPugbsQ7N7CDFPsXSOh9Iq3tUEBZ1CyZxzuZxhOO6Do0Vlm4IJPEKo4XTvzFynkiZx2CbgHdotuMG3LjtzYiGZfXreW-rHV_fCJOETjOqLpFsBVd7pHQ3XsTmq4HRVRy27XuziXUtQq/s640/body+shop+haul.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxv19v9EVF2gEY6yTwXukY98BHx_n36PSQppLI5iz__iIms5LE5hsvXLRozSnLJwGiIz8edA5H0E1r49pZ_B1AGRE36xrNYD3RAdiOnJKfvA299VDrtNGWuBC5y9v34D_-JAXAssM_sHnf/s1600/body+shop+face.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxv19v9EVF2gEY6yTwXukY98BHx_n36PSQppLI5iz__iIms5LE5hsvXLRozSnLJwGiIz8edA5H0E1r49pZ_B1AGRE36xrNYD3RAdiOnJKfvA299VDrtNGWuBC5y9v34D_-JAXAssM_sHnf/s640/body+shop+face.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I've been using the aloe skincare on and off for about a year and a half now and I love it. It's so gentle. It never dries out my skin or causes the redness which I so strive to avoid and I can't recommend it enough for anyone with sensitive skin! These are all stars in their own right and I'll probably put together a more comprehensive post of my current skincare routine in the future to really highlight them. The serum is the newest edition to my regime and so far I've found it to be gorgeous - really smooth and light and perfect for prepping the skin before moisturising.<br />
The absinthe hand cream is stunning! I tried a sample in the Summer and fell in love with it's fresh, herby scent and think it's the ideal alternative to the hemp hand cream if you can't handle the scent of that one! (I know I can't...blech)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjCSlqi9UnFPRISQxlqt3IjDid2UDdBrULXf5bdylnRMQEC0d9CqkAPC2i4yNsQqRTtnKy7u-EWTr4fBiRGxRpL5tBusQJWRJ-Hei6fF3X4gNXxJaojifwTcwtNJzVs9JKp9tbpw5wYDf9/s1600/body+shop+peach+scrub+moringa+butter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjCSlqi9UnFPRISQxlqt3IjDid2UDdBrULXf5bdylnRMQEC0d9CqkAPC2i4yNsQqRTtnKy7u-EWTr4fBiRGxRpL5tBusQJWRJ-Hei6fF3X4gNXxJaojifwTcwtNJzVs9JKp9tbpw5wYDf9/s640/body+shop+peach+scrub+moringa+butter.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The Vineyard Peach is one of my absolute favourite scents so I couldn't resist grabbing this exfoliator to perk up my A/W skin which always gets a bit lack-lustre and dry around this time of year.<br />
I also decided to step out of my comfort zone a bit and try the Moringa body butter. I'm a bit of a body butter addict and have waaay too many at home but I only brought one with me to Uni (the peach, yum) so I thought I'd try something new! I sometimes find floral scents a bit over powering but this one is light, airy and reminds me of jasmine in Summer...ahh.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Ug4eZma56YTkUF5je-nQRrkoaWRU2-pZFO2yA1gGFOjPQ5X-SrKa38EACVOmB6WU7JriVQyE6VWls7GPZvP5Q2piAhz3l6Z2hk3cFrkFmyyak7sp98VvT2mDB6DReewGvLvMo-TjxO_m/s1600/body+shop+accessories.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="562" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Ug4eZma56YTkUF5je-nQRrkoaWRU2-pZFO2yA1gGFOjPQ5X-SrKa38EACVOmB6WU7JriVQyE6VWls7GPZvP5Q2piAhz3l6Z2hk3cFrkFmyyak7sp98VvT2mDB6DReewGvLvMo-TjxO_m/s640/body+shop+accessories.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Must have accessories! In my opinion The Body Shop bath lilies (their name for what I call scrunchies, what do you call them?) are the absolute best on the market and I wouldn't use any other. They always stay nice and tight and the material is super fine but gently exfoliating - can't go wrong. My boyfriend got into the annoying habit of stealing mine so I got him his own in the olive shade and it's already a firm favourite. Mani-pedi accessoriess were bought on a whim but I know I'll get plenty of use out of them. My old nail-buffing block was looking a bit tired but this one is so far looking like a stellar replacement!<br />
<br />
The Body Shop always have a startling array of offers on and I snapped all this up with a 50% off voucher.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/hand-care/absinthe/absinthe-purifying-hand-cream.aspx#" target="_blank">Absinthe Hand Cream 30ml</a> - £5.00</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/shop-by-range/aloe/aloe-gentle-exfoliator.aspx" target="_blank">Aloe Gentle Exfoliator 75ml</a> - £9.00</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/shop-by-range/aloe/aloe-gentle-facial-wash.aspx" target="_blank">Aloe Gentle Facial Wash 125ml</a> - £8.00<br />
<a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/shop-by-range/aloe/aloe-protective-serum.aspx" target="_blank">Aloe Protective Serum 30ml</a> - £11.00</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/bath-body-care/body-moisturisers/moringa-body-butter.aspx" target="_blank">Moringa Body Butter 200ml</a> - £13.00</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/bath-body-care/accessories/big-nail-shiner.aspx" target="_blank">Nail Buffer</a> - £2.00</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/bath-body-care/accessories/no-more-rough-stuff-foot-smoother.aspx" target="_blank">Foot Buffer</a> - £4.00<br />
<a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/bath-body-care/accessories/ultra-fine-bath-lily-beige.aspx" target="_blank">Ultra Fine Bath Lily</a> - £2.00</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The vineyard peach stuff isn't available at the moment but you can almost guarantee they'll wheel out the stock again at some point. For now, I recommend the mango body scrub as similar and just as delicious smelling! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/shop-by-range/mango/mango-body-scrub.aspx" target="_blank">Mango Body Scrub 200ml</a> - £12.50</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In the end I got all this for just £30 since the body butters were also half price. Absolute bargain!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Have you tried any of these products? What did you think?<br />
<br />
Lauren</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
P.S. again, sorry for the photography. I will find a way to make it work I promise. </div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-73493966611020704262013-10-02T17:11:00.000+01:002013-10-02T17:12:52.924+01:00Review: Nanshy Luxury Makeup Brush Set<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;">As you may know I discovered Nanshy when they were advertising for some bloggers to review their face brushes which it turned out I full on ADORED. They literally revolutionised my makeup application (you can read my review </span><a href="http://peachycurves.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/review-nanshy-foundation-brush.html" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="text-align: start;">) and I can't recommend them enough to any novices like me. As time passed Nanshy have been hard at work and have produced a couple more collections; one of which is the Luxury Makeup Brush Set* which is a set of 13 brushes of all different types which come in a pretty ivory carry case. I've been lucky again and have had the opportunity to review them here!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAownw3RZv-wHpm-yqQiVjCDlKQKORHQ978hPnSGeW30UBTby0kV87yf62hekb4qV0sYXuUP4WqpnweqL-O56jXPDFXLpAiowsT7-fat1aHOSBzH-1H2GYcGzME1aEBH97f_N39P7MeeAu/s1600/Nanshy+Brush+Collection+Case.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAownw3RZv-wHpm-yqQiVjCDlKQKORHQ978hPnSGeW30UBTby0kV87yf62hekb4qV0sYXuUP4WqpnweqL-O56jXPDFXLpAiowsT7-fat1aHOSBzH-1H2GYcGzME1aEBH97f_N39P7MeeAu/s640/Nanshy+Brush+Collection+Case.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRzTc0HvRVBgn0VNjIUfg_6Jnp6jCe5u8jhz8wtf4GTFCK4dXXPKkYsIxZVuHI7XVuxXgKI333zd7JCMROQaWDLFWIWhOlcCVfWwKhZKOIu_lX4b_g9SWhfbZ-Bc1_ejV400HWwc_dtI4p/s1600/Nanshy+Brush+Collection+Case+Open.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRzTc0HvRVBgn0VNjIUfg_6Jnp6jCe5u8jhz8wtf4GTFCK4dXXPKkYsIxZVuHI7XVuxXgKI333zd7JCMROQaWDLFWIWhOlcCVfWwKhZKOIu_lX4b_g9SWhfbZ-Bc1_ejV400HWwc_dtI4p/s640/Nanshy+Brush+Collection+Case+Open.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
As aforementioned, the set comes in a silky, ivory, check-stitched, tri-fold carry case. Every brush has it's own little slot and comes with a protective plastic cover. I really love all the attention to detail in here, particularly the textured lining material. It also has a slightly plastic feeling to it so it can be easily wiped clean which is handy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4rPc-LmaevNteQpB9LA0fCFWMaZ-EkkgJswS2qyp1xjn9jmNqdFfBlA8z3U149eFNI68g9MPLxKaVclA-gopsvJ1K2u3WhBueFiNZ-pyUYkd9lsimNXm93loZAeZMmNMnymjJTHG2jNlF/s1600/Nanshy+Brush+Collection+Face+Brushes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4rPc-LmaevNteQpB9LA0fCFWMaZ-EkkgJswS2qyp1xjn9jmNqdFfBlA8z3U149eFNI68g9MPLxKaVclA-gopsvJ1K2u3WhBueFiNZ-pyUYkd9lsimNXm93loZAeZMmNMnymjJTHG2jNlF/s640/Nanshy+Brush+Collection+Face+Brushes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia17hlmVeVj76NNVBNl3DxAx2uwpWkzDjJg50Asdg9bUxL1vO8-u1v9dqxEnlvn_IKzGrFyXg3SgwJw2PiPrsAl7tJ5z5t26feCUEzhk5ZyFjdJ54askyIZkECYNWowoyUgLXSucHG-mg4/s1600/Nanshy+Brush+Collection+Eye+Brushes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia17hlmVeVj76NNVBNl3DxAx2uwpWkzDjJg50Asdg9bUxL1vO8-u1v9dqxEnlvn_IKzGrFyXg3SgwJw2PiPrsAl7tJ5z5t26feCUEzhk5ZyFjdJ54askyIZkECYNWowoyUgLXSucHG-mg4/s640/Nanshy+Brush+Collection+Eye+Brushes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If you've seen my previous Nanshy review post you'll be able to tell that these are much slimmer than the face collection and the shape of the handle is different; they are more ergonomically designed and have a pearlised coating which extends over the ferrule. I think this design is even prettier than before and I love that they've kept everything white, it's so clean and crisp looking and a nice change to the usual black of most brushes.<br />
<br />
These really are just ridiculously soft to the touch. The face brushes in particular are so gentle and densely packed with bristles. They blend powder and cream products effortlessly. One of my favourite brushes is the slim angled face brush which is ideal for using in the hollow of your cheeks for contouring or even for precise blush application. Admittedly the eye brushes are <i>slightly </i>stiffer which can sometimes scratch the surface a bit too much on pressed shadows so there is occasionally some wastage. I'm happy to report that this doesn't affect their use on the lid though - they still feel very soft and blend beautifully. As an added bonus, these brushes are PETA approved and are 100% cruelty free and vegan, woo!<br />
<br />
This collection is the same price as the previous one at £29.95 and can be bought <a href="http://beautystore4u.co.uk/brushes/brush-sets/nanshy-luxury-makeup-brush-set-with-elegant-bag-13-brushes" target="_blank">here</a> if you like the look of them!<br />
<br />
Final Verdict: Another hit from Nanshy and an ideal kit for travelling with. There are some slightly better eye brushes on the market but not by much!<br />
<br />
What do you think to this set? Do you have a favourite brand for makeup brushes and accessories? Let me know in the comments!<br />
<br />
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-34669925848493360992013-10-01T16:15:00.000+01:002013-10-01T16:15:19.977+01:00Review: Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rather than have an entire post dedicated to the fact that I've been M.I.A for the best part of two months I decided to jump in with a big ol' review and have just a smidge of exposition as an introduction...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am officially now a resident of LONDON! I'm at the University of Westminster and am a whole week into my BA Journalism. I've been a total whirlwind of emotion and activity recently and it's so good to finally sit down and just <i>breathe. </i>Right up until the moment I left my little East Midlands town I was working as an Assistant Manager at Coral. I was literally doing 40-45 hour weeks in a desperate attempt to save as much money as possible for university and whilst it has really helped me financially, pretty much everything else fell by the wayside. I hardly saw my boyfriend or my family and organising and packing was left until the last minute (much the aforementioned boyfriend's irritation.) Needless to say I all but abandoned my little corner of the internet and it's looking very sorry for itself at the minute. But! I have a ton of time to myself now so I shall be getting creative with my new frugal student lifestyle and start producing some fun content in the very near future.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But for now...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_g-u4vD6wwANMjYh1nucDEPAFZtfCbnXb-NowwCtvNlnuIdEpQWsda0g0um3xR5Z4eV0nQmwifChwpUYiq3veNObkbBlGcfJTDV6wWxDtMSlVnfKFgVIYlm6psICdmh8_JsGcRpWZDCr/s1600/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Palette+Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_g-u4vD6wwANMjYh1nucDEPAFZtfCbnXb-NowwCtvNlnuIdEpQWsda0g0um3xR5Z4eV0nQmwifChwpUYiq3veNObkbBlGcfJTDV6wWxDtMSlVnfKFgVIYlm6psICdmh8_JsGcRpWZDCr/s640/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Palette+Front.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: left;">As a celebration of my new freedom and the beginning of what should be the best time of my life I decided to take a wander to the Debenhams on Oxford Street to see some Urban Decay products in real life, something I'd never been able to do before. In a total contradiction to my insistence that I wasn't going to be spending any money I ended up walking out with the truly lovely Naked Basics Palette. Shout-out to Rickie who served me at the Urban Decay counter as you were super sweet and helpful. Go you.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBVhH8trz9YIpRcNfHaSdz0SsUn1Kpu1jDfnr7QbhyibEzfmNcuZFUt3ST65rhazOJfycrcJIu5Oloqi5_TAXbGgK8bZmnMLW_k806-5q4KN2LtBQ6mtKtxXS4wxR2ql7YI1UFHNvAytPE/s1600/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Box+Back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBVhH8trz9YIpRcNfHaSdz0SsUn1Kpu1jDfnr7QbhyibEzfmNcuZFUt3ST65rhazOJfycrcJIu5Oloqi5_TAXbGgK8bZmnMLW_k806-5q4KN2LtBQ6mtKtxXS4wxR2ql7YI1UFHNvAytPE/s640/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Box+Back.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First things first, I do love the packaging and presentation of this palette. It's neat, sleek and a great size for just slinging in your bag for top-ups during the day. The design and colours are sophisticated, grown-up and seem ideal for a whole host of simple, neutral looks. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTBKy57-fcayWJaurfeW3z15ZVNEcRX8YZxeSdCFPXAcxKIMevqdBU5sUCrMYP_nE0EZ2jyANe82DI2EtDXrxgCcPeo6j7olbKOcwc4YkGUqhzzDGwGozoBwsgKmebZQa14w0Gi2K_W2U4/s1600/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Pans+First.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="534" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTBKy57-fcayWJaurfeW3z15ZVNEcRX8YZxeSdCFPXAcxKIMevqdBU5sUCrMYP_nE0EZ2jyANe82DI2EtDXrxgCcPeo6j7olbKOcwc4YkGUqhzzDGwGozoBwsgKmebZQa14w0Gi2K_W2U4/s640/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Pans+First.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXZ31u674jUb-RzC_9U0wWy2nJqMOEpwMnLeN_RKjIr8XLfiGApIxkk_GaflDdT9is0WFyT2VvPu3p4DYrA9cnCxEZ0fEEaSsw2zRq6avL3wp0-c_FDBOg3dJRibxr1YNIvClpahx_HEX/s1600/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Pans+Second.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="564" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXZ31u674jUb-RzC_9U0wWy2nJqMOEpwMnLeN_RKjIr8XLfiGApIxkk_GaflDdT9is0WFyT2VvPu3p4DYrA9cnCxEZ0fEEaSsw2zRq6avL3wp0-c_FDBOg3dJRibxr1YNIvClpahx_HEX/s640/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Pans+Second.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I genuinely wanted to adore this. I mean I spent £20 on it! But I think I may have expected a bit too much. No matter how I tried, I just couldn't get the pigmentation I'd seen elsewhere in my swatches. I don't think the variation between colours is great enough and the fall out is substantial in the darker colours. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlm3ezspvusRZTPsD74JkMcKurZdVtsWEdgRIl1ZcTaPZmbkJ1D2JEEx9cG6ldWifigReCnpAvdo6adIKI-w5bz3134BHk1w976gFVRbNfHMCFyAOUZRmJr1BGuuyYrLXG002u_Dk_Ho5e/s1600/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Swatches+First.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlm3ezspvusRZTPsD74JkMcKurZdVtsWEdgRIl1ZcTaPZmbkJ1D2JEEx9cG6ldWifigReCnpAvdo6adIKI-w5bz3134BHk1w976gFVRbNfHMCFyAOUZRmJr1BGuuyYrLXG002u_Dk_Ho5e/s640/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Swatches+First.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZUpqcZubUwLKY88hcr2DvtYx1hZdHanZM9qTQ_CgPjrVHSInNPxK41m49Xmw5PxPAN6OpIU94s3_-yJqPMB4W7a2qXSEAlireGFlvAUxGUspLGnjPW_06SI223WZLAKt8np-rc_B-1ZIr/s1600/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Swatches+Second.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZUpqcZubUwLKY88hcr2DvtYx1hZdHanZM9qTQ_CgPjrVHSInNPxK41m49Xmw5PxPAN6OpIU94s3_-yJqPMB4W7a2qXSEAlireGFlvAUxGUspLGnjPW_06SI223WZLAKt8np-rc_B-1ZIr/s640/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Swatches+Second.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The above is a single, dry swipe on clean, bare skin without primer. I found that the shades could be built up with two or three heavy swipes but that's not how I usually do my swatches and I wanted a fair representation of what I was actually getting. Don't get me wrong, this is by no means a <i>bad </i>product. The pigmentation is fair and I think with a really good primer I could get a much better colour pay-off. However, I personally feel that when it comes to £20 for six shades, I shouldn't need to buy a great primer just to get the shade in the pan. The fact that these are matte shades (bar Venus which has a light shimmer) was always going to mean that they were a little dryer but I still can't help but be a touch disappointed.<br /><br />It's not all doom and gloom though, as I say, these can be built up to produce better pigmentation and they do work well on the lid. They blend easily and the shade range means that you can pretty much put anything together and it won't look ridiculous. They're ideal for a range of daytime looks and the deliciously dark Crave can smoke out any look for a gorgeous night transition (but do have some tissues/wipes on hand to deal with fall out!) These also wear extremely well, no creasing or migration and easily 8+ hours of wear so they're ideal for a busy working day.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_d8pWds6V-p9OGYMInmAKGuv_d9nwApT0tAR2U64rEaL48jaxztUHC08aFJ_8DreOuHjWcTHzeBT7Be6fAj3jiIIVmaOA7Rs77VuZL6Zd4ei6dHzXV6eV6tk5kYWFbdJ7iqK4khqc1V0A/s1600/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Look+Nighttime+Lid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_d8pWds6V-p9OGYMInmAKGuv_d9nwApT0tAR2U64rEaL48jaxztUHC08aFJ_8DreOuHjWcTHzeBT7Be6fAj3jiIIVmaOA7Rs77VuZL6Zd4ei6dHzXV6eV6tk5kYWFbdJ7iqK4khqc1V0A/s640/Urban+Decay+Naked+Basics+Look+Nighttime+Lid.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Final Verdict: A compact, neutral palette that may require a bit more effort than expected. Great if you're looking specifically for more matte shadows, but by no means essential.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I would LOVE some advice about how to work with this palette and please let me know if I'm doing anything wrong! What did you think of the Basics? Do you agree that it may have been a touch over-hyped and therefore a touch disappointing like me?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-70069100691074021082013-07-25T15:14:00.001+01:002013-07-25T15:14:20.529+01:00Review: Deborah Milano Shine Creator Lipstick in 6<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've reviewed a couple of pieces from this brand before and have generally found their products (so far) to be of a really fantastic quality. Deborah Milano are the leading cosmetic company in Italy and are currently breaking into the UK market. I really recommend a browse around the site which you can find right <a href="http://www.deborahmilano.co.uk/" target="_blank">here</a>. A couple of weeks ago they got in contact with me about their line of lipsticks and asked if I'd like to review one. I requested a pretty pink and got exactly what I asked for! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Lz7XRd43iHt7Vt3boHHmNwj-gEPXi9SS7f6muciPQWNVGO8yCbm574jnVuDKgc93bNHd25i1uwNym9ub7btj1_TP0WNCtraEDNdIKwAag7IiN8H0pC5Z4DS0ESop9F6jw4SiEht1cVe9/s1600/deborah+milano+lipstick+shade+6+tube.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Lz7XRd43iHt7Vt3boHHmNwj-gEPXi9SS7f6muciPQWNVGO8yCbm574jnVuDKgc93bNHd25i1uwNym9ub7btj1_TP0WNCtraEDNdIKwAag7IiN8H0pC5Z4DS0ESop9F6jw4SiEht1cVe9/s640/deborah+milano+lipstick+shade+6+tube.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Deborah Milano often has this curvaceous feminine shaped packaging (also present in my favourite mascara, review <a href="http://peachycurves.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/review-deborah-milano-24-ore-absolute.html" target="_blank">here</a>) which I really love. It's so unique and makes the products easy to find amongst my modest but still somehow overflowing stash. The colour of the packaging is another plus for the same reason. I love when lipstick packaging diverges from the usual black tube and this translucent magenta plastic is no exception. The packaging itself feels solid but not heavy and closes securely. I've left this rolling around the bottom of my bag on more than one occasion (oops) and it's in perfect condition.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithAKWpr_HqwXelO_cn1qH9tDN5QSqvVviKUaEQPIPqTFPsyN-GsQm4-v7MLmOQj1smFUR6yTDEBZZkIWab7gbyXscx8nqx56PKB4EiPvQ3KHRIfZzglBE0ae39l7in5iiJRlC0fO7J64E/s1600/deborah+milano+lipstick+shine+creator+shade+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithAKWpr_HqwXelO_cn1qH9tDN5QSqvVviKUaEQPIPqTFPsyN-GsQm4-v7MLmOQj1smFUR6yTDEBZZkIWab7gbyXscx8nqx56PKB4EiPvQ3KHRIfZzglBE0ae39l7in5iiJRlC0fO7J64E/s640/deborah+milano+lipstick+shine+creator+shade+6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Engraved cosmetics are usually left just to high end companies so I was pleasantly surprised to see the cute flower insignia of Deborah Milano etched onto the tip on this lipstick. I find it's little touches like this that really elevate cosmetics into one of life's little luxuries and makes the act of purchasing and wearing them that touch more exciting. So shallow but I love it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBmH5RE-dYAkY2hSt4j2rjC0j9eZ9acYuVXGBaWw8VaAtmQps7-Yx509sKaQs9NYqT1UvkQMOWNlWQtQ0eHczX6gJowH1wYciAikawn6RBwXrllcv5WtajUQqDQYH_7rAt_IRR1QW0RHC/s1600/deborah+milano+lipstick+shine+creator+shade+6+side+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBmH5RE-dYAkY2hSt4j2rjC0j9eZ9acYuVXGBaWw8VaAtmQps7-Yx509sKaQs9NYqT1UvkQMOWNlWQtQ0eHczX6gJowH1wYciAikawn6RBwXrllcv5WtajUQqDQYH_7rAt_IRR1QW0RHC/s640/deborah+milano+lipstick+shine+creator+shade+6+side+swatch.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I imagined the colour of this lipstick to be a little deeper in tone but I'm not at all disappointed in the shade choice. This pale, creamy pink is a perfect day time shade to add to almost any look. I'd liken the texture to that of the Revlon Lip Butters (think more creamy Raspberry Pie than shimmer-loaded Peach Parfait) and as such, it doesn't last an enormous amount of time but does glide on smoothly and is extremely comfortable to wear. As an extra plus it's hypo-allergenic and has an SPF of 15 which has certainly been a benefit in these past weeks. This lipstick has all the shine of a thin gloss with none of the stickiness and so I find it perfect for slicking on before bolting out of the house in the mornings!<br />
<br />
Deborah Milano Shine Creator Lipstick £8.50*<br />
<br />
Final Verdict: Creamy, shiny, fuss-free colour that doesn't last forever but goes with everything.<br />
<br />
What do you think to this lipstick? Have you tried Deborah Milano yet?<br />
<br />
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-66341400139167887552013-07-08T20:35:00.002+01:002013-07-08T20:35:27.429+01:00Money Supermarket's Big Night In <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A short while ago I contacted Money Supermarket about taking part in their home improvement challenge which I was woefully a smidge too late on. But, because they're really lovely people they asked me to take part in the next competition to design a fab night in for under £50! Being the total night-in lover that I am I just couldn't refuse. It's so easy to spend a fortune on a night out. A trip to the cinema and simple dinner will take a hefty chunk from your bank balance nowadays and that's just for two people. When you want to involve family it becomes absolutely extortionate.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's how I decided to spend £50 on a night in for the lovely people in my life:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIvaGOeICF1Hv23liifqsKo7lB2lmQ5lUUaIg2qWhJmnzdur3dHd3rRb-yWIph6kXXXF_gin4WjNGKvaux7MMd91oZUL6DXqaESFfcesf5waTICZvDz2tgyxzfqI_vzGuoJm7QjnRx82R/s1600/msm+mexican+food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIvaGOeICF1Hv23liifqsKo7lB2lmQ5lUUaIg2qWhJmnzdur3dHd3rRb-yWIph6kXXXF_gin4WjNGKvaux7MMd91oZUL6DXqaESFfcesf5waTICZvDz2tgyxzfqI_vzGuoJm7QjnRx82R/s640/msm+mexican+food.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VLO713clHjlZ2hPa2QDWaPk9LLLeEKte7qGmIuKb1G4ZulB_sJ-anZgvjODz6ez18CEsvgxg98YsrymFf5Co2gZiKmTPLNe15JvH8lIBGXMdFBSK6GtbR9lci1fFy6r-sGiwV4t4ZSJ8/s1600/msm+enchiladas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VLO713clHjlZ2hPa2QDWaPk9LLLeEKte7qGmIuKb1G4ZulB_sJ-anZgvjODz6ez18CEsvgxg98YsrymFf5Co2gZiKmTPLNe15JvH8lIBGXMdFBSK6GtbR9lci1fFy6r-sGiwV4t4ZSJ8/s640/msm+enchiladas.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Si-yODU9kwrK6J1iISWq_xVJWXu4Pgk04CUMp54DpizKe4bLCZ07cJ3qObroSFujRwt-VFT0rh4hidfkkL9ugF2fBj11dzrvi0uA5OKzsgr-dutWEtLELCSqND3KynFCXuFrPGqVsEMu/s1600/msm+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Si-yODU9kwrK6J1iISWq_xVJWXu4Pgk04CUMp54DpizKe4bLCZ07cJ3qObroSFujRwt-VFT0rh4hidfkkL9ugF2fBj11dzrvi0uA5OKzsgr-dutWEtLELCSqND3KynFCXuFrPGqVsEMu/s640/msm+close.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I decided to make my all time favourite dish, enchiladas (a delicious mexican classic with chicken, cheese, and spicy tomato sauce baked inside tortilla wraps) and garnish it with some tasty grown up sides. Since we're non-drinkers I picked up some sparkling juices which went down a storm and are so much cheaper than cocktails!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwx-Dce11aOCVnsen__dseigq8AcPXI4Ww-Oq2dyfxs_q0J2zTgdG3ge2bXTysAm_4pa0nqSfLOi-Kr0J1qVYunlKiRaSXHjjR12fgxqaazUGaqyYfEHr-KlPSRZbSLE6rZPdtLmgtFbf0/s1600/msm+g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwx-Dce11aOCVnsen__dseigq8AcPXI4Ww-Oq2dyfxs_q0J2zTgdG3ge2bXTysAm_4pa0nqSfLOi-Kr0J1qVYunlKiRaSXHjjR12fgxqaazUGaqyYfEHr-KlPSRZbSLE6rZPdtLmgtFbf0/s640/msm+g.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Even my Grandma who swears by the simple meat and two veg rule for every dinner tried an enchilada and I now have a potential Mexican cuisine convert! How adorable is she? Every day is a night in for her so it's so nice to see her smiling and enjoying time with us like this.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyS-JSHpfXQr4MDpg5pOIG1vcIUd_HZMPyQNKVUz9OZ2eUr6HhJoWl5260e8UZzuqUkBJuwUAGbRU-WlZiRfncx-l6k8nQAe-R0GtGYFUno4s2kERN1kUJeb-z9ipjb0AnCPK95c7e_MxM/s1600/msm+ice+cream+cone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyS-JSHpfXQr4MDpg5pOIG1vcIUd_HZMPyQNKVUz9OZ2eUr6HhJoWl5260e8UZzuqUkBJuwUAGbRU-WlZiRfncx-l6k8nQAe-R0GtGYFUno4s2kERN1kUJeb-z9ipjb0AnCPK95c7e_MxM/s640/msm+ice+cream+cone.jpg" width="588" /></a></div>
<br />
For dessert I set up a mini ice cream cone factory with flakes, sauces and sprinkles which my brother adored. I went for a vanilla ice cream waffle cone with rainbow sprinkles, raspberry sauce and flake. Things were melting so quickly I was only able to get this one quick snap. But yum, so, so good.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07dgvicPyTisFUqodds4H7x4JEEUAecUVXJJlnD37DYXixBmnt4BAT5bQ-eYabJqHKgzOvge8n0Ky35i-zcvUk57F5TBxDN8PY6uQgBHyNYVAJwn3lRfONy1FkVIVd0U_-7wQsz1YRISl/s1600/msm+film.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07dgvicPyTisFUqodds4H7x4JEEUAecUVXJJlnD37DYXixBmnt4BAT5bQ-eYabJqHKgzOvge8n0Ky35i-zcvUk57F5TBxDN8PY6uQgBHyNYVAJwn3lRfONy1FkVIVd0U_-7wQsz1YRISl/s640/msm+film.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We rounded off the evening by watching Despicable Me. Who else can't wait for the sequel?<br />
<br />
A big thank you to MoneySupermarket.com for letting me take part! How would you spend your perfect evening?<br />
<br />
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-79440157205914513602013-06-27T19:28:00.000+01:002013-06-27T19:28:30.766+01:00Review: Melt Candle in Joy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love scented candles and usually try to keep a few around the house for relaxing evenings. Since my life has been turned upside down this month I've really been craving one of those nights! Starting a new job and moving home are so ridiculously stressful and doing both at the same time have left me with zero down time. Luckily I was sent a gorgeous <a href="http://www.themeltco.com/scented-candles" target="_blank">handmade scented candle from Melt</a>* and finally now have the time to tell you all about it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-GflHm-3sjUwEBUFvSTY_8xvckdjXUbdptyo9PVjqBSneNJpaLY0xxs7412EatLffKDmmlPGjylsPCR4p0fwCayKRz2HO3sW63ZphjIOzQRq3iaQq4spQxNfPxvacap-vxNlqoAzkMEZ/s1600/melt+joy+candle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-GflHm-3sjUwEBUFvSTY_8xvckdjXUbdptyo9PVjqBSneNJpaLY0xxs7412EatLffKDmmlPGjylsPCR4p0fwCayKRz2HO3sW63ZphjIOzQRq3iaQq4spQxNfPxvacap-vxNlqoAzkMEZ/s640/melt+joy+candle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I really love the modern monochromatic packaging. It goes with everything and lends an elegance to the candle. The pattern even matches my current quilt cover which was an unexpected but pleasant surprise! I also love that it comes in a box - many candles don't. It's a bit shallow but I appreciate the "high end" feel I get from boxed items. For me personally, a huge plus of Melt candles is that they're handmade in England. This means that we get to support our economy and reduce the harm done to the environment that's caused by importing which makes me feel a little bit better about spoiling myself!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghq71uSwT87y0PcIVOImqlSyDgbG6R_lC1A6mT9MMFozWhLDVSzjFdFCLUPvBqlxO7XjOhtB6GrxqjwetuURE7X1Bwl99KgI10R0zYj-E-K2LBjg-y0pnrJ8hvMKarjkNW0YN0nsfZ6Tjt/s1600/melt+joy+candle+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghq71uSwT87y0PcIVOImqlSyDgbG6R_lC1A6mT9MMFozWhLDVSzjFdFCLUPvBqlxO7XjOhtB6GrxqjwetuURE7X1Bwl99KgI10R0zYj-E-K2LBjg-y0pnrJ8hvMKarjkNW0YN0nsfZ6Tjt/s640/melt+joy+candle+front.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgli1Kasn5QZQQeuzQGJTxk3ShMKIIKmbXUilhBFRCy9H0RAchU6UCZ3GUE04zCk9wbdP1AicvX9-zdiynzED6hRtpyiHPglwfm4GLZLlWpo9wybQNOsGpB-D148RFIzXPsybD2I42zkPC7/s1600/melt+joy+candle+lit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgli1Kasn5QZQQeuzQGJTxk3ShMKIIKmbXUilhBFRCy9H0RAchU6UCZ3GUE04zCk9wbdP1AicvX9-zdiynzED6hRtpyiHPglwfm4GLZLlWpo9wybQNOsGpB-D148RFIzXPsybD2I42zkPC7/s640/melt+joy+candle+lit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Joy is described as "A sparkling citrus floral on a complex woody and musk base, over a rich, floral heart of iris, rose and lily" which is pretty accurate! I mostly picked up on the rose and wood scents which are some of my favourites. I actually have Lancome's Midnight Rose perfume which is a similar sort of fragrance with the addition of blackcurrant so it's definitely a winner for me. This size of tumbler will burn for up to 25 hours and the fragrance really fills up a room. Besides the gorgeous fragrance, my favourite thing about this candle is how evenly it burns. The entire width of the candle melts which means nothing is wasted. One of the worst things about larger candles is how they can leave such an enormous amount of wax around the edge. It feels like such a waste having to cut it down!<br />
<br />
This size candle will set you back £21 which to be honest, I don't think is too bad. Other brands charge a lot more for very similar products and I think the quality and longevity of this one makes it worth it. I would definitely be up for trying another of the 30 scents. I currently have my eye on Violet and Black Pepper! Perhaps a cheeky first pay day treat.<br />
<br />
Final Verdict: A beautifully scented candle handmade in England. Definitely worth a try if you love brands like Neom and Jo Malone.<br />
<br />
Have you tried any of Melts candles? Which fragrance should I try next?<br />
<br />
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-56587704483272060622013-06-09T19:39:00.000+01:002013-06-09T19:39:23.655+01:00Daily Make Up/How Much Is My Face Worth?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the longest time my daily make up was literally just a flick of liquid liner and some mascara but frankly, that wasn't cutting it. I've since upgraded into a full face of make up and love the freedom I have over my look. These are the products that I use pretty much every day for work etc. I don't bother with make up if I'm just nipping out shopping or slumming it around the house so I can give my skin a break.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvzEEmA6m3I_RKwUoSQDJ6fatbmqid1daoR1Nu0KquyK9LN7JucSka4NAYb5-ZeH2XhmJXwh-CgyydutIWSMgWKa7LY9RydajmS3g8fAwIBPk3JZr5QkJ4hAE2d1wsvUNpmw05mqyBq2J/s1600/daily+makeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvzEEmA6m3I_RKwUoSQDJ6fatbmqid1daoR1Nu0KquyK9LN7JucSka4NAYb5-ZeH2XhmJXwh-CgyydutIWSMgWKa7LY9RydajmS3g8fAwIBPk3JZr5QkJ4hAE2d1wsvUNpmw05mqyBq2J/s640/daily+makeup.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
My base hasn't changed in quite a while. I currently use The Body Shop Moisture Foundation in 03, Lightening Touch Concealer in 01 and All-in-One Face Base in 03. The colour match is essentially perfect for me and I love the included SPF. Check out <a href="http://peachycurves.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/review-my-current-base-products-for.html" target="_blank">this</a> post for extra details! Sleek's Face Form (Light) is the most recent addition to my daily make up bag and it's revolutionised my base. I love how transformative it is! I have so much more warmth and definition to my face now and feel much more confident. I tend to always use the contouring powder and highlighter but swap up my blush depending on my mood. For blushes I switch between the blush included (Rose Gold,) TBS Macaroon Blush and Maybelline's Cream Blush in 06 Berry.<br />
<br />
I always use some combination of my MUA Undressed Palette, Rimmel Liquid Liner and Illamasqua Sophie pencil for my eyes. As you can see I use every colour in the palette and never wear the same look twice in a row just to make myself experiment more. It's so easy to get stuck in a rut (coming from liner flick and mascara girl, so trust me!) so I love my new philosophy. I don't always wear liner but when I do these are my go to products. The Rimmel liquid is so easy to use and this is my second bottle already, forever repurchase! The Sophie pencil is the blackest of blacks and is really soft and blendable but doesn't smudge when it sets. Pretty much perfection in a pencil. Deborah Milano Mascara is an essential for me; I originally got it for reviewing purposes but I adore it so it became my daily mascara. I get a ton of volume and length with a couple of coats and it's the perfect finishing touch to every look for me.<br />
<br />
For day to day, I just wear a clear balm or lip butter to keep my lips in good condition. That way they're looking gorgeous and smooth for when I go all out with a fabulous bright lip in the evenings. I swear by Nivea Lip Butter for the most kissable lips going!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCTTWQRqHiI5k-jBT_IULMEzzCzDTv9HqZJcVwUME6Z2RNDxOnrHVepQyX7lwG4PhwfEvUiv3eTKSTkedSphwKlgnSSGS669Sk0Ab8Y-FKf6yvWhjXBn3pY2f5F1JfhZoVrgEe82UKMZWN/s1600/daily+makeup+open.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCTTWQRqHiI5k-jBT_IULMEzzCzDTv9HqZJcVwUME6Z2RNDxOnrHVepQyX7lwG4PhwfEvUiv3eTKSTkedSphwKlgnSSGS669Sk0Ab8Y-FKf6yvWhjXBn3pY2f5F1JfhZoVrgEe82UKMZWN/s640/daily+makeup+open.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So how much is my face worth?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Base:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Body Shop Moisture Foundation SPF 15</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>£13</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Body Shop Lightening Touch Concealer Pen</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>£14</b><br />The Body Shop All-in-One Face Base</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>£14</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sleek Face Form in Light</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>£10</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Eyes:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mua Undressed Palette<br /><b>£4</b><br />Rimmel Exaggerate Liquid Liner in Black<br /><b>£4.29</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Illamasqua S.O.P.H.I.E Pencil<br /><b>£13</b><br />Deborah Milano 24 Ore Absolute Volume Mascara<br /><b>£9.50</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Lips:</b><br />Nivea Lip Butter (Not Pictured)<br /><b>£1.99</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Total: £83.78</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I so was not expecting it to be that high! I didn't include any of my brushes or moisturiser so that's pretty shocking. I don't even use any high end products aside from the Illamasqua pencil. I guess my only defence is that I've seen worse...? Not very good defence!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Do you use any of the same products as me? What do you think of my philosophy of never wearing the same eye make up twice in a row? And how much is your face worth?! Add it up and let me know!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Lauren</div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-2970188597389293122013-06-05T19:00:00.000+01:002013-06-05T19:42:10.299+01:00June Make-Up Wishlist: Nude Eyes and Bright Lips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I really have my head in the clouds if I think that I'll be able to afford any of this for this month but isn't that what wishes are for?! Recently I've been wearing a lot of neutral shadows and bright lipsticks. I've completely ditched my signature liquid liner flick for a much more subtle, sculpted look and I'm loving it for Summer. I've even started some gentle contouring with bronzer and I'm feeling so much more confident with my beauty choices these days. The bright lips are turning a lot of heads in my small town but I'm putting it down to the classic "jealousy-gawk." As such, I think it's high time to get some higher quality shadows as "investment" pieces (wink) and throw some even more fun lipsticks into my collection!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevrxUJQ4qabQkHbUjUhZeaSFyXEyrDIig6rK5jUzjR-Q_VRyLmEMLM8W8QUxL4d-7XPAZRf3tWqB2YFigxBJrCQzd6SBxEirhtZh0S6HyOjPzGP__JGd8rMgUR7ZnU0u0iqq30eGDpG_C/s1600/wishlist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevrxUJQ4qabQkHbUjUhZeaSFyXEyrDIig6rK5jUzjR-Q_VRyLmEMLM8W8QUxL4d-7XPAZRf3tWqB2YFigxBJrCQzd6SBxEirhtZh0S6HyOjPzGP__JGd8rMgUR7ZnU0u0iqq30eGDpG_C/s1600/wishlist.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>1. Maybelline Vivid Lipstick </b><i>Hot Plum, </i><b>2.</b><i> </i><b>Benefit</b> <i>Most Glamorous Nudes Ever</i>, <b>3.</b> <b>Lime Crime</b> <i>My Beautiful Rocket</i>, <b>4.</b> <b>Stila</b> <i>In The Light</i>, <b>5.</b> <b>Lime Crime</b> <i>Velvetine</i>, <b>6.</b> <b>Urban Decay</b> <i>Naked Basics</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
See? Gorgeous. Am I right or am I right? </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>1.</b> I have been declaring my unending love for Maybelline's Color Sensational Vivids for a while now and already have 3 (review and swatches <a href="http://peachycurves.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/review-maybelline-color-sensational.html" target="_blank">here</a>) but Hot Plum is calling my name. I originally deemed it too close in colour to Fuchsia Flash to warrant a purchase but I'm officially retracting the statement, I want! Being the cheapest product in my list it's possible I'll be able to smuggle this one into my collection... I'll keep you posted. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>2.</b> I had Benefits Most Glamorous Nudes in my clutches in Cambridge after I had scrimped and saved my Boots points for MONTHS and what do you know, the tills weren't working and I couldn't spend my points. I reluctantly handed my beloved palette back to the grumpy assistant and never saw it again. My lust hasn't subsided and I'm determined to get it one day!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>3.</b> Lime Crime is the stuff of my dreams. I adore oranges and My Beautiful Rocket is perfection in a tube. I have a similar shade from Models Own but I imagine the pigmentation and lasting power of this is infinitely superior. One please!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>4.</b> The In The Light palette is so friggin' pretty! I love the colours and the swatches I've seen have been incredible. I'm also really excited about the liner included as I've been searching for the perfect brown liner for a while and I love this deep chestnut shade.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>5.</b> Lime Crime makes an impressive second appearance with it's beautiful Velvetines. I've heard tell that there will be some new colours in the future and I can't wait to see them! Frankly I'd take any of them; it's the stunning rose petal texture that has me clamouring for my purse and I think these are the epitome of old Hollywood Glamour.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>6.</b> Last but far from least. Velvety smooth and richly pigmented, the much loved Basics have been at the top of my list for way too long and it's high time I took them home. One day, I promise you Naked Basics, one day.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Has your wishlist just grown? I would love to hear any comments about the products shown if you've tried them!<br />
<br />
Lauren</div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-31610137587064277082013-06-05T09:48:00.000+01:002013-06-05T09:48:20.872+01:00Sleek Palette Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had long planned a giveaway for my 500 follower milestone but sadly just didn't have the resources at the time. Recently things have started turning around for me and I find myself filled with positivity and excitement for the future. I have just been offered a job and I'm starting a whole new chapter of my life in September when I go to University (better late than never!) This is just a little giveaway to say thank you for sticking by me during my hiatus. I continue to be overwhelmed with gratitude for all your support and lovely comments and I really want to give something back! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These are my all time favourite Sleek Palettes, the Sunset i-Divine and the Lace Blush by 3. Beautiful reds, coppers and golds and some fab Summer brights in the shadows - there's something for everyone there! Lace is a collection of corals and pinks that are universally flattering and have amazing pigmentation. I know Sleek is difficult to get hold of outside of the UK so this is of course INTERNATIONAL - woo!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNNfm38lnZbX1DHHJV4Qp49K3yI8_kNbTDf5OWVZumsths-CPeJ98JefdzzorIZ62ub0rQI7ucWu9QAGarNT3zKd7aDsI7sv10U4OTHMhztjCfwImBgZ53WKLQORIt8HLhtPXu1v21qw08/s1600/sleek+giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNNfm38lnZbX1DHHJV4Qp49K3yI8_kNbTDf5OWVZumsths-CPeJ98JefdzzorIZ62ub0rQI7ucWu9QAGarNT3zKd7aDsI7sv10U4OTHMhztjCfwImBgZ53WKLQORIt8HLhtPXu1v21qw08/s640/sleek+giveaway.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMOlRoJP6zp0Jj7-hs7iVEMhJQ53GcV5iPMzBiFY_BdbsQHTGfoPu_bY0STjtDs_OpX1zgc0boY34yffhL_JpcoleK7MNWcmqyJ1R7h8r_DpvT0dk9h-lVTU0cSABmx3GJbTyTjaBXrqqB/s1600/sleek+giveaway+idivine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMOlRoJP6zp0Jj7-hs7iVEMhJQ53GcV5iPMzBiFY_BdbsQHTGfoPu_bY0STjtDs_OpX1zgc0boY34yffhL_JpcoleK7MNWcmqyJ1R7h8r_DpvT0dk9h-lVTU0cSABmx3GJbTyTjaBXrqqB/s640/sleek+giveaway+idivine.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCmaQYu90KJIkp15o9b1xjid-fg-roS-r_g7s-TxskkKkppBXDa6fZkHnoyJdMJh5oQT6sYr70PgxY3iM_anrgUoXSHX6RJuOJlVW42vsQ-8XxriAjKw8kQR544MUl7c9gE82pLOEgr0Hh/s1600/sleek+giveaway+blush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCmaQYu90KJIkp15o9b1xjid-fg-roS-r_g7s-TxskkKkppBXDa6fZkHnoyJdMJh5oQT6sYr70PgxY3iM_anrgUoXSHX6RJuOJlVW42vsQ-8XxriAjKw8kQR544MUl7c9gE82pLOEgr0Hh/s640/sleek+giveaway+blush.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Enter using the widget below and good luck!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/4fb7091/" id="rc-4fb7091" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<br />
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
P.S. Please, please, please don't lie about your entries, I do check them and I hate having to remove people so play nice!<br />
<br />
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com91tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-45106493218132771122013-06-04T18:27:00.003+01:002013-06-04T18:47:03.161+01:00Orange Nail Varnish Collection and Swatches<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Orange is one of my all time favourite colours. It always perks me up to have a pop of orange in my look and nail varnishes are ideal for this. I think orange is one of the most lively and positive colours there is and I find myself picking up cosmetics in this shade far more often than I'm willing to admit! As I was packing away some of my things for my upcoming move (nothing dramatic, just going back to Grandma's before University so we can help each other out) I started idly scanning my polishes and a few really stuck out to me. So here are my five favourite orange nail varnishes!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iv3i6UW1fx3LpCl2oHma5zWIFEVF-yPh76jkeKnORZmn0WdmPpn0TH3cP1geRfCFNFwv9t12V9uB-8IZhvpT3lFJSi3I65cWTR83N4jK1x8oXz12qce47AuImw-AKrw127cZZzoetg6q/s1600/Orange+Nail+Varnishes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iv3i6UW1fx3LpCl2oHma5zWIFEVF-yPh76jkeKnORZmn0WdmPpn0TH3cP1geRfCFNFwv9t12V9uB-8IZhvpT3lFJSi3I65cWTR83N4jK1x8oXz12qce47AuImw-AKrw127cZZzoetg6q/s640/Orange+Nail+Varnishes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnFaOyo6Gz3x2q9nUX7etei-CY6z-p_rzviwYNF6bE7AwIO20A40L8dCLup3B37Wu6v8r7ji87CsJiQPSN5NbydHUHYyC8tbzG4QA7epEih0KCmUHptQ65pOkwTq_XEFP1Y7az1UzEyJW5/s1600/Orange+Nail+Varnish+Swatches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnFaOyo6Gz3x2q9nUX7etei-CY6z-p_rzviwYNF6bE7AwIO20A40L8dCLup3B37Wu6v8r7ji87CsJiQPSN5NbydHUHYyC8tbzG4QA7epEih0KCmUHptQ65pOkwTq_XEFP1Y7az1UzEyJW5/s640/Orange+Nail+Varnish+Swatches.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
From Thumb to Pinky<b>: Models Own</b> <i>Fluro Orange</i>,<b> Nails Inc</b> <i>Porchester Place</i>, <b>Essie</b> <i>Fear or Desire</i>, <b>Rimmel</b> <i>Tangy Tangerine</i>, <b>W7</b> <i>Pastel 16</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><u>Fluro Orange</u></i> is ridiculously bright, no camera on earth could capture it's insane beauty. I didn't keep this bizarre (but kinda cool right? No? Just me then...) mani on for long but it's definitely the one that I couldn't keep my eyes off. If you're after some seriously attention grabbing talons I can't recommend this enough. It has a semi-matte finish but you could easily add a glossy top coat for a little more finesse. <i><u>Porchester Place</u></i> and <i><u>Fear or Desire</u></i> are fairly similar but Porchester Place has a touch more pink and is a little more muted. Both perfect for holiday toes! <i style="text-decoration: underline;">Tangy Tangerine</i> is a classic apricot and was my boyfriends favourite of the lot for some reason. When I first asked his opinion he replied that they were all the same (my jaw nearly hit the floor at his blindness) but when pressed he claimed that Rimmel's offering was "more subtle and pretty." <i> </i>I have to agree, it's a great transitional shade for Spring/Summer and won't offend your poor blind boyfriend. <i><u>W7</u></i> is such a pain in the bum to effectively track down but I do so love them! I got a ten pack of pastels from TK Maxx and this is one of my favourites. Very delicate and cool and gorgeous with a tan.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I really hoped you like this! I have a real soft spot for colour-themed collections and adore seeing them on blogs so I couldn't resist! I think I may go for pink lip products next time. What do you think?</div>
<br />
Which is your favourite shade? Any others that I have to try?<br />
<br />
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-91446375334958027872013-06-03T00:14:00.000+01:002013-06-03T00:14:03.533+01:00Review: Lush Oatifix Fresh Face Mask<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oatmeal, bananas and almonds. Perfect for breakfast and apparently also fabulous for your face. I had my first ever visit to a Lush store in Cambridge during my birthday weekend and I have to agree with the majority of beauty bloggers in that it's gorgeous and smells lovely. The displays are beautiful and really draw you in for a tactile shopping experience. Sadly, as lovely as my boyfriend is he couldn't cope with more than 15 minutes of me mooning over lumps of soap so he offered to buy me anything I wanted so long as I promised to make it quick! Seemed like a fair deal to me. Enter Oatifix, the sweet, lumpy face mask that promises soft, moisturised skin for the even scaliest of ladies (or gentlemen for that matter.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtHUI9r0h3kVoLyUyQqpN3ecZPf2svAB18K1hQ3K3dR7rjjJFVXS-V_SCK_BabG4fhp1mJAUjnegQQt-a_oEF2RuL8yPZl6JGHJV3oKHenUiOIHmA1nqGZ7Cn6a9r_3VGv0GFQAshHk9H/s1600/Lush+Oatifix+fresh+face+mask+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtHUI9r0h3kVoLyUyQqpN3ecZPf2svAB18K1hQ3K3dR7rjjJFVXS-V_SCK_BabG4fhp1mJAUjnegQQt-a_oEF2RuL8yPZl6JGHJV3oKHenUiOIHmA1nqGZ7Cn6a9r_3VGv0GFQAshHk9H/s640/Lush+Oatifix+fresh+face+mask+review.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
75g of product is packaged in a neat, black, (recycled) plastic tub with a screw top lid. It's not the most beautiful thing in the world but it's certainly very functional and secure and I love that it's eco-friendly. I also adore the scent of Oatifix, it's light and sweet and you can really smell the fresh ingredients - it's something akin to a fruity flapjack with a hint of vanilla. As an added plus, it's preservative free and suitable for vegans.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-6rm1LEeQmfOMfTuTOq8YW3WdahQdaqgjOv10Ef3NdnfzjfGuVo0C0V-luxuX_lHm7-GtFaDRqDNn5g3hcSlYsOCW6-1R2XsmE5Xxu6SsIWgbalG9bVeT1geT7RGO7B8R6lphERgbp0E3/s1600/Lush+Oatifix+fresh+face+mask+review+open.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-6rm1LEeQmfOMfTuTOq8YW3WdahQdaqgjOv10Ef3NdnfzjfGuVo0C0V-luxuX_lHm7-GtFaDRqDNn5g3hcSlYsOCW6-1R2XsmE5Xxu6SsIWgbalG9bVeT1geT7RGO7B8R6lphERgbp0E3/s640/Lush+Oatifix+fresh+face+mask+review+open.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi6PoRVREyMiFdvXyQLtYEvoQX1LrJYSLZV8BK7_SfBS3kKahCUxvUjpOeNt1fsTtD5gPYYB4ATacxPneTrLk73251cx64fB7iSED1UEOp4n6nMksyjvQXyUrnLElWsIvHgZ7c41qumf_K/s1600/Lush+Oatifix+fresh+face+mask+review+swatch%23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi6PoRVREyMiFdvXyQLtYEvoQX1LrJYSLZV8BK7_SfBS3kKahCUxvUjpOeNt1fsTtD5gPYYB4ATacxPneTrLk73251cx64fB7iSED1UEOp4n6nMksyjvQXyUrnLElWsIvHgZ7c41qumf_K/s640/Lush+Oatifix+fresh+face+mask+review+swatch%23.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's definitely a bit of a pain to put on but a little goes a long way. I only used a dab more than shown above for my entire face and it was really well covered. When you first scoop it out it's fairly solid and a bit intimidating but as I went on I found that the best way to do it is apply in small circles so that the oils within warm up and help to spread it more easily. This has the added benefit of lightly exfoliating the skin with the ground almonds for a brighter complexion. I still had to catch a few stray lumps though!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3QyZp_5YHCTAVMon5p0Uq_bTf96mvuOcmIodZufK4TUCQuR7I97IcEyab8NopzXjsem8kPYk6HHEDLMSDhOwPHCXC_-vJwHw5r4bSmgEFScMhw_CHgyQkKpfN5QFPK9Fsq-gAEKacgnDQ/s1600/Lush+Oatifix+fresh+face+mask+review+face+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3QyZp_5YHCTAVMon5p0Uq_bTf96mvuOcmIodZufK4TUCQuR7I97IcEyab8NopzXjsem8kPYk6HHEDLMSDhOwPHCXC_-vJwHw5r4bSmgEFScMhw_CHgyQkKpfN5QFPK9Fsq-gAEKacgnDQ/s640/Lush+Oatifix+fresh+face+mask+review+face+swatch.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It was definitely a bit of trial and error for me as I've never applied a face mask like this one before but I don't think my coverage was <i>too </i>bad. I'd appreciate some advice in the comments in regards to application and the amount I should use if you have any!<br />
<br />
After letting it do it's thing for 10 minutes I rinsed it off and was left with, I kid you not, baby soft skin. My skin has never felt this smooth I swear! It appeared brighter and more radiant than usual - simply lovely. I don't think it did much for my redness but perhaps with a few more uses? Who knows. I think with the amount in the pot I could get another 3 uses at least so I shall update if anything special happens! I didn't experience any sensitivity or breakouts but I've read some reviews saying that it can do for those with oily skin so do bear that in mind. For £5.95 I wholeheartedly recommend this for people with dry skin, I loved it.<br />
<br />
Final Verdict: Fiddly but worth it. Leaves dry skin smooth and radiant.<br />
<br />
Have you tried Oatifix? What do you rate most highly from Lush?<br />
<br />
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-49021995919376245432013-05-13T17:28:00.000+01:002013-05-13T17:28:03.240+01:00Review: Maybelline Color Sensational Popsticks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ahh my first review after a whole month! And it's not going to be pretty. I'll be honest straight away and say that these products are the worst that I've <u>ever</u> tried from Maybelline which is usually a brand that I rely on for high quality drugstore makeup. Luckily I bought these Color Sensational Popsticks from Wilkinsons where they were only £3 each in a little bargain box. I'd be a lot more upset if I'd paid the usual £7.99 for them. I imagined that these were going to be something akin to a more waxy version of the Clinique Chubby Sticks. In theory this is great, a little sturdier and less prone to melting but still imparting sheer, shiny colour with a moisturising balm texture. Sadly these actually do nothing. I feel like Maybelline were relying on the gimmick of the translucent bullets to sell these and forgot to make them do anything.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXOFWDXsE-bp9g6djVbxeOym-4ioVHzRCgiLTuy3SoTSkXdF4hZ8AJ-w3J-PMchIE0sQJ9EoRYkb_3tgiiHliT965QVBKt9dQbqlDKy-ueMX17P7CLynJJA6oR9QOBKViaanjtg0Ycafy/s1600/maybelline+popsticks+base.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXOFWDXsE-bp9g6djVbxeOym-4ioVHzRCgiLTuy3SoTSkXdF4hZ8AJ-w3J-PMchIE0sQJ9EoRYkb_3tgiiHliT965QVBKt9dQbqlDKy-ueMX17P7CLynJJA6oR9QOBKViaanjtg0Ycafy/s640/maybelline+popsticks+base.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVeiTm1GwzTNypTuotbMOm06bUQZcKbiNZPAkMlGn16XpSVHrzpbDHD6umQRirXbMzgEPRlOb41APnYxMV2LazZCsCSJXxyc16oVsX1-WJ-_GSxUN-si64wa1JGeMXr3JkcWkzjBlvmQB/s1600/maybelline+popsticks+tube.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVeiTm1GwzTNypTuotbMOm06bUQZcKbiNZPAkMlGn16XpSVHrzpbDHD6umQRirXbMzgEPRlOb41APnYxMV2LazZCsCSJXxyc16oVsX1-WJ-_GSxUN-si64wa1JGeMXr3JkcWkzjBlvmQB/s640/maybelline+popsticks+tube.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgx4BXRAiMl2PjwDwvmafEOfaETX6zQrG3QCYicMgRn8IPBD6l17WADzm4ndEKczOUXubcCJwOspLb_hEUcVLQe8Yxvh2RvuA3RmxtoAy3nmm_E_gSKMsmH5s5O17tseFt131tGqTc738/s1600/maybelline+popsticks+bullets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgx4BXRAiMl2PjwDwvmafEOfaETX6zQrG3QCYicMgRn8IPBD6l17WADzm4ndEKczOUXubcCJwOspLb_hEUcVLQe8Yxvh2RvuA3RmxtoAy3nmm_E_gSKMsmH5s5O17tseFt131tGqTc738/s640/maybelline+popsticks+bullets.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of the few praises I have for these products is the cute neon pink packaging. It's similar to what Maybelline uses for their other lipsticks but really fits in well with the bright translucent theme of the product. It also has a slight fruity scent which I personally don't like - it's very acrid and fake smelling. The colours themselves <i>seem</i> very vibrant and I loved the idea of a solid lip balm for Summer. However, if I'd wanted a clear lip balm, I would have bought one.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzi27HIyybqu_KU4sEFQgnLJ6TZd4RzEZW9VheASTXc7at7_hMCyIS71lezB17eXZCF56w83wsQF4RdT8LLSOPO4Nf4aBn1xM74dPOq9EdwFazwwNqp5w7Frmk2LsG2I0bSg3cjCVOSBW/s1600/maybelline+popsticks+citrus+slice+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzi27HIyybqu_KU4sEFQgnLJ6TZd4RzEZW9VheASTXc7at7_hMCyIS71lezB17eXZCF56w83wsQF4RdT8LLSOPO4Nf4aBn1xM74dPOq9EdwFazwwNqp5w7Frmk2LsG2I0bSg3cjCVOSBW/s640/maybelline+popsticks+citrus+slice+swatch.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I don't even know if this is Citrus Slice or Crystal Pink as they are literally identical. There was really no point putting more than one swatch up. I wouldn't have been quite so heartbroken if it wasn't for the fact that these aren't even that moisturising! The only thing I can liken them to is very cheap children's lip balms. Waxy, thin and short-wearing. Just disappointing all round.<br />
<br />
Final Verdict: It's pretty clear, I am very unhappy with these. If you're looking for moisturising colour I'd definitely recommend the Revlon Balm Stains or Lip Butters or even better, the Clinique Chubby Sticks. If it's just lip care you're after, save your pennies and get a Nivea lip butter - they're awesome!<br />
<br />
Lauren<br />
<br />
P.S. Thank you so much for all your kind and supportive words on my last post. I really appreciate your patience and understanding and am very happy to be back! I hope you liked this (particularly scathing) review!Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-87407921290339829092013-05-11T00:47:00.000+01:002013-05-11T00:47:45.678+01:00Hello AgainSo you may or may not have noticed that this blog has been quiet for almost a month now. Things took a turn for the worst with my Grandma's health recently and she ended up in hospital. She's been living with a broken hip for several months now and they're refusing to operate until her respiratory problems clear up since they don't know if she could survive the anaesthetic. Sadly her breathing only got worse and she had to spend a few days in hospital. She was discharged on April 16th (her 78th Birthday bless her) and I'm happy to report that she's feeling a lot better! She couldn't do anything around the house though so I've been spending a lot of time over there helping her out. She's literally the most important person in my life, we've always been close and she took me and brother in when my Mum died so she's essentially the only parent figure I have.<br />
<br />
Honestly I've been feeling so miserable at the notion of anything worse happening that blogging just totally fell to the wayside. I actually had my birthday on April 23rd and spent two days in Cambridge with my wonderfully supportive boyfriend from April 30th - both things that I would have loved to share with you lovely people - but I just haven't felt up to it. As with most things, the longer I stayed away from blogging the harder it felt to jump back into it. I somehow felt that I'd no longer be any good at it or that people would no longer care about me and all sorts of ridiculous notions that one thinks when miserable and anxious about uncontrollable things. But my boyfriend sat me down and reminded me how happy this made me and that no matter what I may think right now, there are so many amazing people that really do care about my feelings and opinions, and that's everyone who cares enough to still be reading this right now. I was amazed today when I logged on to see that I actually had several new followers and even people asking where I was on Twitter. So I just wanted to say thank you and that Peachy Curves is going nowhere soon.<br /><br />LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-65054092166392298682013-04-13T20:58:00.000+01:002013-04-13T21:00:16.850+01:00NOTD: Models Own in Juicy Jules and Barry M Gelly Hi-Shine in Prickly Pear<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's taken me a long time to purchase any of the Gelly Hi-Shines from Barry M and I'm not really sure why... Fast forward from 3 weeks ago and I've now got a mini collection of six shades which I'll be reviewing once I've finished swatching but, spoiler alert, I really like them! Prickly Pear is a beautiful pastel lilac which is perfect for Spring. I decided to pair it with Models Own Juicy Jules just to inject a little girly glamour into the look. I've recently been on a week long varnish ban to give my nails a rest since they were beginning to get a little dry and even flaky in some places. I can report that after some intensive moisturising they're back on form and look lovely and healthy! I definitely recommend taking a week out and applying some thick moisturiser (I used The Body Shop Shea Body Butter) if your nails are looking less than perfect. It felt really weird having naked nails for so long and I feel much better now I have my colourful talons back!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5UbzLvBRZefHPPSEpdFHYOOwvXbbvyF5egvtCV7O_vawiGyFwk3lHL1MGMmaLXeqXfFuco5TCaFup0I6R1ZmmaGiHZwa1bxmQNvSk1_AWEiBYjkg75dT8gvEVEjpjZTV_1oIed88REAt/s1600/barry+m+and+models+own+notd+prickly+jules.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5UbzLvBRZefHPPSEpdFHYOOwvXbbvyF5egvtCV7O_vawiGyFwk3lHL1MGMmaLXeqXfFuco5TCaFup0I6R1ZmmaGiHZwa1bxmQNvSk1_AWEiBYjkg75dT8gvEVEjpjZTV_1oIed88REAt/s640/barry+m+and+models+own+notd+prickly+jules.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjno4MfKCxE3U7A1pOBy0KEPuM7TRHrUNGQHu40Fi-EbxZ64fJcmBmRcqZls_h55Ytvo0ZZ5YFBDkaNa0_dE4QA6LWr-RyUbS26ZJ9mDyEo4GWz9vDNVIwOH_DhxkV0eswoomMNURRJEtfG/s1600/barry+m+and+models+own+notd+prickly+jules+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjno4MfKCxE3U7A1pOBy0KEPuM7TRHrUNGQHu40Fi-EbxZ64fJcmBmRcqZls_h55Ytvo0ZZ5YFBDkaNa0_dE4QA6LWr-RyUbS26ZJ9mDyEo4GWz9vDNVIwOH_DhxkV0eswoomMNURRJEtfG/s640/barry+m+and+models+own+notd+prickly+jules+swatch.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I think this is a fab combo. Sadly the glitter wasn't photographing very well but I can assure you it looks lovely and catches the light beautifully with pink and green shimmers. I'm wearing two coats of Prickly Pear here and one coat of Juicy Jules. This is the first time I've tried to do something like this using a glitter polish but it was really easy and worth the little extra effort.<br />
<br />
Have you been embracing the Spring shades lately (despite the weather not cooperating)? What do you think of my look?<br />
<br />
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-53417922984992550792013-04-09T19:36:00.000+01:002013-04-09T19:36:07.570+01:00Joules Leather Clutch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've always been someone who's a total pain for carrying things. If my boyfriend tries to make me carry more than a single bag of groceries I will whine all the way home about how awful my life is. Bizarrely it doesn't seem to affect me when shopping for make-up, jewellery and skincare though... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I do find that the one thing that really softens the blow of hauling around my essential items is something truly gorgeous to haul them in. I've been keeping an eye out for a gorgeous clutch for a little while now. I'm having a weekend in Cambridge at the start of May and I've spent longer than I'd like to admit fantasising about looking totally chic and heritage-cool with a new clutch bag. Imagine my surprise and delight when an email popped into my inbox asking if I'd like to try out a clutch from Joules. I'll admit that I'm not overly familiar with Joules. I was aware that they were a British brand that sold toiletries (thanks Boots Christmas 3 for 2) and I had a vague idea that they probably sold other things too. I wasn't told exactly what style or colour I was getting so I decided to leave it a surprise for myself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And this is what I got:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyFgvVNkOH8rdfnUNdYLpFhLR044vuIwvZGKbe19lhyNqTu8ayhD6EbfffyqBLSOSid1HtKHIuI-n0M8PwDksqqHO2vCvedk0gTJCrchCXXAyAVq0P8QM7FQu562PF5Q-ToMzwcjnVhnV/s1600/clutch+tan+leather+joules.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyFgvVNkOH8rdfnUNdYLpFhLR044vuIwvZGKbe19lhyNqTu8ayhD6EbfffyqBLSOSid1HtKHIuI-n0M8PwDksqqHO2vCvedk0gTJCrchCXXAyAVq0P8QM7FQu562PF5Q-ToMzwcjnVhnV/s640/clutch+tan+leather+joules.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirh2UJ8gi0jwpMHKk04ubzVfzqJRg21T-sd27czU-FIeKV_JUwaH7kcv3bwx2KxhjgGII4RiKm5OQhb5Ae64AO6YLF7BHFk9oZGIqRadhp4OQzfehEIaGtrv2pR3NpwA4VG9u_vfepR_wY/s1600/clutch+tan+leather+joules+hare.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirh2UJ8gi0jwpMHKk04ubzVfzqJRg21T-sd27czU-FIeKV_JUwaH7kcv3bwx2KxhjgGII4RiKm5OQhb5Ae64AO6YLF7BHFk9oZGIqRadhp4OQzfehEIaGtrv2pR3NpwA4VG9u_vfepR_wY/s640/clutch+tan+leather+joules+hare.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I so love the Joules hare! Such an adorable logo.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqSmwP-TGYIFLmMapMVrEbRgfH2a6ta6DlvPNpZPhFhLFOIUUsOsEHajgzoJ-PhBzCb3cCynnC4skQuxHs7irUslNLCot7dsM6j3st1LJfHyrs5WlEV6NjWDZry8Pb6-AYydsjxVhxSFK/s1600/clutch+tan+leather+joules+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqSmwP-TGYIFLmMapMVrEbRgfH2a6ta6DlvPNpZPhFhLFOIUUsOsEHajgzoJ-PhBzCb3cCynnC4skQuxHs7irUslNLCot7dsM6j3st1LJfHyrs5WlEV6NjWDZry8Pb6-AYydsjxVhxSFK/s640/clutch+tan+leather+joules+side.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fZPWh8vSt8IVqEhWLXkndFqOY0xD5MvVqarM8w9Z5ARTQC-WT9XPPUg-4G-CAtuqeNIMcXdsV_v5ZXotjrWfqhF9ytN0tjTeIwwywDZml0CrMiLraUkaS_HRmFshKbfHOdrBHnU7BuxS/s1600/clutch+tan+leather+joules+lining.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fZPWh8vSt8IVqEhWLXkndFqOY0xD5MvVqarM8w9Z5ARTQC-WT9XPPUg-4G-CAtuqeNIMcXdsV_v5ZXotjrWfqhF9ytN0tjTeIwwywDZml0CrMiLraUkaS_HRmFshKbfHOdrBHnU7BuxS/s640/clutch+tan+leather+joules+lining.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I was immediately in sweet dreamy love. I mean really, I don't even know if heritage-cool is a term that should ever be used in real life but I genuinely think this is the epitome of it. It's exactly what I had in mind when I imagined myself strolling by canals and lounging in cafes (I can dream.) The clutch is a tan leather envelope which seals with a magnetic "popper". It contains three separate compartments including a zip-up centre compartment ideal for storing money and other valuables.The lining is a beautiful, floral printed, silky material which I'm assuming is polyester but I can't be sure since it isn't listed on the website nor on the label. It's an ideal size for carrying around essentials like money, a mobile phone and a few cosmetic items but obviously, there isn't an enormous amount of space. I also have to say that I love the colour pop of the pink strap and think it acts as a perfect contrast to the neutral clutch! But... it was £70. My jaw nearly hit the floor when I turned the ticket over. I'm a girl of limited means and I know that hand on heart, I wouldn't really have been able to afford this for myself. However, after having fully examined it and after using it for a couple of weeks, I completely agree that it's worth it. It's a timeless piece that will age with you and the craftsmanship is impeccable. There isn't a stitch out of line and the leather feels soft and supple. The colours are beautifully rich and vibrant and the lining pattern is stunning. I'd have no qualms about ordering anything from Joules in the future and am tempted for a duvet set as a post birthday-money treat! (So long as my long-suffering boyfriend will chip in!)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_jUnrKRB25RmZmSREpiWSG0cUK5FGC4DLc7zdWWSXhyphenhyphenGZ-TgwGGnXa_OqVqd3oRxOLWJVNtw1G53DeSaTgXHnTIVww-bkMnNJVYNYsMQA5M3tnv4j_BL3TejXQuv6rq-J3MFhKmx4ufdL/s1600/clutch+tan+leather+joules+care.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_jUnrKRB25RmZmSREpiWSG0cUK5FGC4DLc7zdWWSXhyphenhyphenGZ-TgwGGnXa_OqVqd3oRxOLWJVNtw1G53DeSaTgXHnTIVww-bkMnNJVYNYsMQA5M3tnv4j_BL3TejXQuv6rq-J3MFhKmx4ufdL/s640/clutch+tan+leather+joules+care.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some handy tips for leather care that were included! So cute.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Final Verdict: Absolutely beautiful and wonderfully made but certainly not cheap.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Joules Tan Leather Clutch £70*</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This particular clutch is no longer available online but may be in stock at your local store. You can still get it in a pastel pink shade (yay Spring!) <a href="http://www.joules.com/Women/Handbags-Purses/Clutch/Womens-Leather-Clutch-Bag/Babypnk" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Have you ever shopped at Joules? Know of any gorgeous handbags I should be looking at?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Lauren</div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-6455376290444791932013-04-08T18:13:00.000+01:002013-04-08T18:14:26.273+01:00Review and Swatches: Rimmel Apocalips in Apocaliptic, Celestial, Stellar, Big Bang and Nude Eclipse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pretty much everyone has heard of the Rimmel Apocalips by now. Hailed as a revolution in lip colour, these super pigmented lip lacquers exploded onto the market and onto a ton of blogs very, very quickly. I know a lot of people got bored very quickly of reading about these and I'll admit that whilst I'm not a fan of seeing the same products over and over, I just can't help myself clicking every single post that features them! I must be mad. It took me a week after release to finally track some of these down since my woefully poor local Boots and Superdrug simply didn't stock them. It's enough to drive a beauty blogger crazy! But eventually I had a nice little collection of the colours I "needed" (wink) and wanted to share my thoughts on them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlFbkIgnqKUM41JHJGQ6Rk-xO3AW7TIBiaFQq8_2qHhDH-o_wzquF6xUDKFNE-kQuSNTInd9Y0y9sReNTIWfImk3ZnSU084rBEaV75tL2P821iQbqPM1MeIubQ9I2UyJbMV0TkEQZIjAq/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+tubes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlFbkIgnqKUM41JHJGQ6Rk-xO3AW7TIBiaFQq8_2qHhDH-o_wzquF6xUDKFNE-kQuSNTInd9Y0y9sReNTIWfImk3ZnSU084rBEaV75tL2P821iQbqPM1MeIubQ9I2UyJbMV0TkEQZIjAq/s640/apocalips+rimmel+tubes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1uiTKEfquYroDPqx8Vsss483W2G_YzanVoVUVoe5HEfKExlkftLtHHweYg1dyBh5bBPbxYST3YUOopL-U4fGMARIbe9Mf_IqRojmZQeNRWWdEaSH3iprJxMp1jH3-bqS3Pml52n0CtfS/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+ends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1uiTKEfquYroDPqx8Vsss483W2G_YzanVoVUVoe5HEfKExlkftLtHHweYg1dyBh5bBPbxYST3YUOopL-U4fGMARIbe9Mf_IqRojmZQeNRWWdEaSH3iprJxMp1jH3-bqS3Pml52n0CtfS/s640/apocalips+rimmel+ends.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tkANU04jJ6R2KfT5CHJW4LeXWPB0Z-OODCezHXo_cI3BSUF-i2i3X8OlunBZuJGNs2Qex5zWgc15dPZkxmTCsmnTqzf54opTHQRmOfAFijZPWM87Xu8-33VXKtCwksyxIGyLkGXhyphenhyphenezk/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+wand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tkANU04jJ6R2KfT5CHJW4LeXWPB0Z-OODCezHXo_cI3BSUF-i2i3X8OlunBZuJGNs2Qex5zWgc15dPZkxmTCsmnTqzf54opTHQRmOfAFijZPWM87Xu8-33VXKtCwksyxIGyLkGXhyphenhyphenezk/s640/apocalips+rimmel+wand.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
It's been said a hundred times but the packaging really is super cute and very functional. The clear base is ideal for displaying the colour and the meteoric lids fit wonderfully with the apocalyptic theme. As do the fabulous names. A* for marketing. The lids fit nice and tightly and I'm not at all worried about it coming undone. The wand itself works as an almost perfect applicator for this product and the well inside the doe-foot catches just the right amount for one full application. I've read some reviews saying that the applicator felt clumsy and applied too much product but I have to disagree. I work from the back of the applicator and begin applying to the centre of my lips. It's then just a case of flipping it over to add more product and smooth it over bit by bit. It's very easy to add too much if you don't go slowly and applying anything other than a thin layer will make a total mess (trust me. Oops.) The colours are undeniably beautiful but I do wish they had included a strong orange colour because Luna looked a little pale for me personally. Just think of the awesome names they could have for an orange! The only real negative I have at this point is the rather bizarre scent. A plastic/watermelon hybrid which does nothing for me. I really do hate melon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXKOLCbFmgf_DNSTNlN50jFtBsAWIAhYICpbGAtUhmY8b5QsT_DHSDwLuHytW_wr4-A3VzNtFq-cYGi0hctTtHwgiIFL1ho7rbCOoZDgvBtoKFeR9rfCanMUh86MOixvQLZzAZ0y85MhBX/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+apocaliptic+swatch+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXKOLCbFmgf_DNSTNlN50jFtBsAWIAhYICpbGAtUhmY8b5QsT_DHSDwLuHytW_wr4-A3VzNtFq-cYGi0hctTtHwgiIFL1ho7rbCOoZDgvBtoKFeR9rfCanMUh86MOixvQLZzAZ0y85MhBX/s400/apocalips+rimmel+apocaliptic+swatch+front.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC1u1QO5s8MDr5XMuay0C8YYKfhyphenhyphenUnYGtxenm6sCZSZXo3qGBAJ9iwuRAVI2DGmjLhShgH3v4Yk-jBavrOMaF230CGRDgfZWQcrl_zX8DwltQgzf3XQYs0E7xOwnAGELOqdR0Ez6mKkcw2/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+apocaliptic+swatch+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC1u1QO5s8MDr5XMuay0C8YYKfhyphenhyphenUnYGtxenm6sCZSZXo3qGBAJ9iwuRAVI2DGmjLhShgH3v4Yk-jBavrOMaF230CGRDgfZWQcrl_zX8DwltQgzf3XQYs0E7xOwnAGELOqdR0Ez6mKkcw2/s400/apocalips+rimmel+apocaliptic+swatch+side.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Apocaliptic</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLuqQLoh10VS7azz_FxKfb1I-pHgcA7E3EnxwwWZnKLCPeALlcTk4K8lPj7sSlvjr_pCT9t6byKXPkGPOqQyKzscIjikPALaaHylQoRqbqEuovUThGnBvgLp2zyiGin-Yoz3vBHpf2aZqY/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+celestial+swatch+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLuqQLoh10VS7azz_FxKfb1I-pHgcA7E3EnxwwWZnKLCPeALlcTk4K8lPj7sSlvjr_pCT9t6byKXPkGPOqQyKzscIjikPALaaHylQoRqbqEuovUThGnBvgLp2zyiGin-Yoz3vBHpf2aZqY/s400/apocalips+rimmel+celestial+swatch+front.jpg" width="400" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ZTJjAQbrB5ftT3VGIK77Qnj5zGS3gGP3p-U-Pbr-1yrakVB_2LZK0Z9jMu82kC9WUP2c46yTpk9RiRsH0dQpFBNvPJVrAE08FlT-npYt3rAXIj3PDjTge5m-FibVoVkz1gJcLDbDoJew/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+celestial+swatch+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ZTJjAQbrB5ftT3VGIK77Qnj5zGS3gGP3p-U-Pbr-1yrakVB_2LZK0Z9jMu82kC9WUP2c46yTpk9RiRsH0dQpFBNvPJVrAE08FlT-npYt3rAXIj3PDjTge5m-FibVoVkz1gJcLDbDoJew/s400/apocalips+rimmel+celestial+swatch+side.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Celestial</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHIe0Bj9jvyZpSlZm0ePxkiUelqTyMcfb-VWfjNUMzjnjOYKPEc8kaYFmdTPswq0yepDlyHoBjzTLLLykHmafANZtwfByjmneaq4dkRHbb-VaE5Z24HNVH5rJEWlIUNHl1WlK9APNo07DJ/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+stellar+swatch+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHIe0Bj9jvyZpSlZm0ePxkiUelqTyMcfb-VWfjNUMzjnjOYKPEc8kaYFmdTPswq0yepDlyHoBjzTLLLykHmafANZtwfByjmneaq4dkRHbb-VaE5Z24HNVH5rJEWlIUNHl1WlK9APNo07DJ/s400/apocalips+rimmel+stellar+swatch+front.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppb92SpN-mFqM3EJojw0_Cr3B2QQ0GSN73NR_3D135D-X8BquDcUrnSNGqBYKL9H69ToJoFYML3w3z1Tonj8R_nkqIx_Ajhi5PcD11GGsmDcFOBmn1So91oGDnMVEkxG8AZwTCBZkKC0U/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+stellar+swatch+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppb92SpN-mFqM3EJojw0_Cr3B2QQ0GSN73NR_3D135D-X8BquDcUrnSNGqBYKL9H69ToJoFYML3w3z1Tonj8R_nkqIx_Ajhi5PcD11GGsmDcFOBmn1So91oGDnMVEkxG8AZwTCBZkKC0U/s400/apocalips+rimmel+stellar+swatch+side.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stellar</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlAzt5o_qYK4DqvcMB2i1icFymWxl4m2WBkVm5Q2Gb9yMTIhZAUBJILUTTxhiCIY14baeqHc7k3xOBZrE-ADE9c7vkQ_6FuT8nx15QkXotw5rxYPdWWqf2tLWzzjLmo-GGMS5S7DqCs1_/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+big+bang+swatch+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlAzt5o_qYK4DqvcMB2i1icFymWxl4m2WBkVm5Q2Gb9yMTIhZAUBJILUTTxhiCIY14baeqHc7k3xOBZrE-ADE9c7vkQ_6FuT8nx15QkXotw5rxYPdWWqf2tLWzzjLmo-GGMS5S7DqCs1_/s400/apocalips+rimmel+big+bang+swatch+front.jpg" width="400" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZ_BG3YojD5Dk97gA7K5qx7wsLUslM9eXXjPjpS1Kd7eMIFWEeoXqXQr2LWMHfzl17xg2a1m1LuxE6yDkgABdqwsQE8PUxrEa5OclBboQ1fH12WvhZWdi6wzQeEzTIrNz_9lOEbJMMDVq/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+big+bang+swatch+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZ_BG3YojD5Dk97gA7K5qx7wsLUslM9eXXjPjpS1Kd7eMIFWEeoXqXQr2LWMHfzl17xg2a1m1LuxE6yDkgABdqwsQE8PUxrEa5OclBboQ1fH12WvhZWdi6wzQeEzTIrNz_9lOEbJMMDVq/s400/apocalips+rimmel+big+bang+swatch+side.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Big Bang</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5WA-zZn7aCZ42UdCFDk1gJLGNCwFI824qor_c9kZ9yvD0fXcylMHvrWXus1z7Dhlwcxb6XZiXPmLfLMEJYLv4tOAjzIu2X8Jgi9aD0Apj2QB7QJgpqtZIXU0PbhltPkJlEkm4w-mv2Dbg/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+nude+eclipse+swatch+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5WA-zZn7aCZ42UdCFDk1gJLGNCwFI824qor_c9kZ9yvD0fXcylMHvrWXus1z7Dhlwcxb6XZiXPmLfLMEJYLv4tOAjzIu2X8Jgi9aD0Apj2QB7QJgpqtZIXU0PbhltPkJlEkm4w-mv2Dbg/s400/apocalips+rimmel+nude+eclipse+swatch+front.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibtofriVhJ-Zvwwg6gGYeMaACZlMbPBnrFOvHQfNUaqaGxiefZmZmMvW43SAWbUKsKNItc5u7RJGqemRrqAro5H6SHPga7IaTzmsWv0iHojDOkuC4IyupSIJBjoM44x7LKMECDYDTn2P28/s1600/apocalips+rimmel+nude+eclipse+swatch+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibtofriVhJ-Zvwwg6gGYeMaACZlMbPBnrFOvHQfNUaqaGxiefZmZmMvW43SAWbUKsKNItc5u7RJGqemRrqAro5H6SHPga7IaTzmsWv0iHojDOkuC4IyupSIJBjoM44x7LKMECDYDTn2P28/s400/apocalips+rimmel+nude+eclipse+swatch+side.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nude Eclipse</div>
<br />
Nude Eclipse was such an enormous disappointment for me. It was just so wrong for my skin tone and for some reason it felt much drier than the others. you can see in the photo how it settles into my lip lines and just looks awful. As if I needed any more proof, the first time my boyfriend saw me wearing this he said "Why do you look like a chav?" Yes that's right, he thought I'd done concealer lips. Kill me now. However, I do quite like using this to blend with other lipsticks to create more of a pastel tone so it's not all doom and gloom.<br />
<br />
The other colours however are just total dreams. Mega pigmented, smooth and non drying. I think my favourite is Apocalyptic - it's similar to Revlon's Raspberry Pie on me but even brighter. The darker colours do have a slight tendency to bleed (particularly if you apply them as poorly as I do) as seen on the Big Bang swatches. They have a gorgeous glossy finish which does matte down over time but I don't find that it becomes uncomfortable at all. They also transfer onto EVERYTHING, even when blotted. You absolutely have to check your teeth before leaving the house with these. They do last wonderfully though provided you don't eat. One sandwich later and you will definitely be rocking the heavy lip liner look so do top up after meals! I've worn Stellar out to drinks though and whilst my straw looked pretty butchered my lips were still practically perfect after 2-3 hours.<br />
<br />
Final Verdict: Beautiful colours that look fantastic but will transfer onto everything. Try at least one if you can, you might just fall in love!<br />
<br />
Love them or loathe them? Do you have a favourite colour?<br />
<br />
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-66831472095768894712013-04-07T14:12:00.000+01:002013-04-07T14:12:35.365+01:00Review: Sleek Face Form in Light<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've been wanting to try one of Sleek's contouring kits for an absolute age. I'm lucky to have fairly pronounced cheek bones but my chubby face kind of obscures them! I always thought that a bit of help from contouring would do me a world of good and this particular product was recommended to me by a whole host of knowledgeable beauty bloggers. Luckily I had a 25% off voucher so I popped in an order a few weeks ago. See what else I bought <a href="http://peachycurves.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/sleek-haul.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-M4qeGrpCXFpdV9LH7QttMUWmWzwYKOP3TpfmDZb2ruipTTVCzl20DZrKGbu85kp5zvsRwbxyFfCIrQ4eIu86on1_PFYVP3je4NJjr277Q6yoowG7wSLFpJo8DbgtfbZVycS06CPBRcLE/s1600/sleek+face+form+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-M4qeGrpCXFpdV9LH7QttMUWmWzwYKOP3TpfmDZb2ruipTTVCzl20DZrKGbu85kp5zvsRwbxyFfCIrQ4eIu86on1_PFYVP3je4NJjr277Q6yoowG7wSLFpJo8DbgtfbZVycS06CPBRcLE/s640/sleek+face+form+box.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGZhDWuqKXL_m8StbbfENMH7smUYPNrRHV7ZEjjGuWNWo6aCdBALIAnZNT09KFY_zToXq3sYM2j9bx_HYwxmK2H6bwMJmAX6AW4WTxVOdiqSGrMCY-Cen_fWVMOuMjgsnt_JNdq3Aq4W2f/s1600/sleek+face+form+packaging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGZhDWuqKXL_m8StbbfENMH7smUYPNrRHV7ZEjjGuWNWo6aCdBALIAnZNT09KFY_zToXq3sYM2j9bx_HYwxmK2H6bwMJmAX6AW4WTxVOdiqSGrMCY-Cen_fWVMOuMjgsnt_JNdq3Aq4W2f/s640/sleek+face+form+packaging.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD4CO3gqICrPb7JDDGNTIDHd7YKUT_FXx5qC_al2G5DF6hoQnIsQ5S8b3r1QADggJZ_PzMLr53DePRewnyyxTrGD8WXm3cQqSxNKP5q3cHH1uGpPMWFAZi2EzQl6zf-fgg3MyCeG63BQ1z/s1600/sleek+face+form+pans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD4CO3gqICrPb7JDDGNTIDHd7YKUT_FXx5qC_al2G5DF6hoQnIsQ5S8b3r1QADggJZ_PzMLr53DePRewnyyxTrGD8WXm3cQqSxNKP5q3cHH1uGpPMWFAZi2EzQl6zf-fgg3MyCeG63BQ1z/s640/sleek+face+form+pans.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The packaging is very typical of Sleek. They're cute little black palettes with a matte coating and shiny logo. They also come in their own box which is always a nice touch and gives a product more of a "high end" feel. It closes very securely and I'd be happy to travel with it if it was well packed but definitely wouldn't want to risk dropping it; the product is so soft I'm almost certain it would shatter. As with all Sleek Palettes, this contains a large mirror which is always handy. Face Form comes in 4 different shades, Fair, Light, Medium and Dark. I plumped for Light which seems to be a good match for most pale skinned girls. Light contains a matte brown contouring powder, a champagne coloured shimmer highlighter and the famed Rose Gold shimmer blush (a supposed dupe for NARS Orgasm.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd7mXIYAKuk5qyYo82c0DMt8XFdv8GMzz-CRCcuwxIKHCiFqXA3XUDnDTfRHyXvnxTVq7x3pbxw0_kT1BZpLdAbBcLyXi-nH1jnRR33mnmITga_eNqv-pySoSD7ds0RrsYX6jGHKoaA-ym/s1600/sleek+face+form+swatches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd7mXIYAKuk5qyYo82c0DMt8XFdv8GMzz-CRCcuwxIKHCiFqXA3XUDnDTfRHyXvnxTVq7x3pbxw0_kT1BZpLdAbBcLyXi-nH1jnRR33mnmITga_eNqv-pySoSD7ds0RrsYX6jGHKoaA-ym/s640/sleek+face+form+swatches.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Every powder is extremely soft and blendable and feels lovely to work with. I swatched heavily above to show the colours and the contouring powder looks a little chalky but I assure you it isn't. The pigmentation is fantastic so you really need to go slow and build up when applying; the great news is that it'll last forever.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Hb9g2MuYpTMeH_lJ1S6mlE9gfMjWHm5qY-pQygYpsoJGKC0yUvP09intSfN2yZiPJV2R1ZZ0-qNKarlHn7ROUZi-GUMgxkllaIjag_rTuGKL4PEH3VF9WtpmYoYOuM31ZaMBq_zVVv53/s1600/sleek+face+form+face+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Hb9g2MuYpTMeH_lJ1S6mlE9gfMjWHm5qY-pQygYpsoJGKC0yUvP09intSfN2yZiPJV2R1ZZ0-qNKarlHn7ROUZi-GUMgxkllaIjag_rTuGKL4PEH3VF9WtpmYoYOuM31ZaMBq_zVVv53/s640/sleek+face+form+face+swatch.jpg" width="585" /></a></div>
<br />
I am new to contouring so I'll admit that my application is far from perfect (also I apologise for the wonky eye liner, whoops) but I was really happy with how the products looked on my face! The colours are very rich but look so natural and pretty when applied with a light hand. I think this is such a versatile palette and could easily be used all year round for a variety of purposes. The shimmer isn't too heavy at all and I love how multi-faceted Rose Gold is. The base is a warm coral-pink which works beautifully with the gold shimmer. I think this is a shade that could work for all skin tones - just build it up for darker skin. Wear time is really good but I do have dry skin and it seems like hardly anything disappears on me.<br />
<br />
Final Verdict: Fantastic product for a very reasonable price. Very versatile and well pigmented. Another hit from Sleek.<br />
<br />
£10 from Sleek or large Superdrug stores.<br />
<br />
Have you tried this product? Have you tried contouring? What products do you use for it?<br /><br />LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-40290626958305113762013-03-29T21:52:00.001+00:002013-03-29T21:52:24.263+00:00Zalando Home and Storage Mini Haul <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A little while ago I was contacted by a company called Zalando to see if I'd like to review anything from their <a href="http://www.zalando.co.uk/" target="_blank">website</a>. Zalando to me is like a giant online TK Maxx. It's a great mix of European designer and high street products to match all budgets. Naturally, I immediately said yes and went shopping. I first started trawling through all the beauty items and was very tempted to try a Shiseido lipstick but as I was exploring the website I absolutely fell in love with the homeware. Zalando is best known for it's women's clothing (<a href="http://www.zalando.co.uk/womens-clothing/" target="_blank">here</a>) and extensive range of fabulous shoes (<a href="http://www.zalando.co.uk/womens-shoes/" target="_blank">here</a>) but nothing in the plus size range jumped out at me and the only shoes I need are trainers (functional but painfully boring to review I fear.) In the end I plumped for the cutest little candle holder I've ever seen and some brand new makeup storage.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0nTfN1Ei-P6mIBE4_txTOzBZ3oKncAJn3SejywY6zqJ7GkH13FiB8JZAoxJ50wOJMJk_2ZIP1pg-p8GSA454EXsd1PWefjvzQOteJ8guIuw4fKmnoLk8l8LgGjxYG6r8SDxH-za53E0v/s1600/zalando+candle+house+day+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0nTfN1Ei-P6mIBE4_txTOzBZ3oKncAJn3SejywY6zqJ7GkH13FiB8JZAoxJ50wOJMJk_2ZIP1pg-p8GSA454EXsd1PWefjvzQOteJ8guIuw4fKmnoLk8l8LgGjxYG6r8SDxH-za53E0v/s640/zalando+candle+house+day+front.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWSbUhLj4O6ktH_JxrreZAl-hftLNak4Lh8LcEuwoZFRsmiNgrQ6dr-eB5IQrKK6OHf8WBbLA1njiuqxLhr7beulEVCQlc7Ih4s2AlypQBD_d9lbkwxHkEkuxWJz3rMl7FHSwrPO_ES44j/s1600/zalando+candle+house+day+yankee+candles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWSbUhLj4O6ktH_JxrreZAl-hftLNak4Lh8LcEuwoZFRsmiNgrQ6dr-eB5IQrKK6OHf8WBbLA1njiuqxLhr7beulEVCQlc7Ih4s2AlypQBD_d9lbkwxHkEkuxWJz3rMl7FHSwrPO_ES44j/s640/zalando+candle+house+day+yankee+candles.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcECEEHrh1yywAKXJf8TFfnurlfvxibjJcx0zLYYRCmiNokfyMvdbjxYEv91jIMZbrT59vynbrIVsxfLMBtPM_EzuckXMYLci2bGOH2sGdyHsKMvizI6DWG4BfwhxlcmMVRhf9X5b5BxJ/s1600/zalando+candle+house+night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcECEEHrh1yywAKXJf8TFfnurlfvxibjJcx0zLYYRCmiNokfyMvdbjxYEv91jIMZbrT59vynbrIVsxfLMBtPM_EzuckXMYLci2bGOH2sGdyHsKMvizI6DWG4BfwhxlcmMVRhf9X5b5BxJ/s640/zalando+candle+house+night.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This adorable and surprisingly massive candle holder was only £4 and I love how it looks when it's lit up. I think this is going to be perfect to take away to University with me to remind me of home. The only slightly infuriating thing about it is that it doesn't lift off the base so you have to physically reach in to put the candles in and light them. Luckily it is really wide so you can get your arm in easily but it's such a pain! I can forgive and forget though since it's so beautiful. Coincidentally, the Yankee samplers are amazing. It was just what I needed to give my mood a boost and remind me that Summer will eventually come. I definitely recommend the scents if you haven't tried them yet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTc7yOjtRmyM10Vs0l6S_hHGg4N6BkRsJuH1ea0P15Rlx6FGnn3D5aKMiONatnPQQoZU6feASi3ltmOC8oCluxMiL3lM9sBt3-kGVmjlergAjc5ReFxhByuVm7cRo6t2zAj_1vU9u-1mQb/s1600/zalando+nomess+acrylic+storage+profile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTc7yOjtRmyM10Vs0l6S_hHGg4N6BkRsJuH1ea0P15Rlx6FGnn3D5aKMiONatnPQQoZU6feASi3ltmOC8oCluxMiL3lM9sBt3-kGVmjlergAjc5ReFxhByuVm7cRo6t2zAj_1vU9u-1mQb/s640/zalando+nomess+acrylic+storage+profile.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3XGVCpgpP4XtqQx5lsXXPZ5KrSqwkKMFigygNANMJqjB3mUjrufz5w3lX4TE12ovszEizec9JMRkryJCwb4Qy34bQmohlKBz5vhTGH32GItg30jizenBif1hFXg8ukKkMgLrsylidy0Hc/s1600/zalando+nomess+acrylic+storage+filled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="572" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3XGVCpgpP4XtqQx5lsXXPZ5KrSqwkKMFigygNANMJqjB3mUjrufz5w3lX4TE12ovszEizec9JMRkryJCwb4Qy34bQmohlKBz5vhTGH32GItg30jizenBif1hFXg8ukKkMgLrsylidy0Hc/s640/zalando+nomess+acrylic+storage+filled.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigL6ulYdrz1M0A1eV8WDvBzZve-aIrC8R4dUxjc8blAX4jdbuvk8DKciwRo7H86CV8WGHjKQzUbPwmsmBXkohEdOzYhyXJkfq3IGgwQ0xYmo0lcfFbzYKLPQs2A_xa4Y-Dfl6BoLGr6iQ/s1600/zalando+nomess+acrylic+storage+filled+drawer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigL6ulYdrz1M0A1eV8WDvBzZve-aIrC8R4dUxjc8blAX4jdbuvk8DKciwRo7H86CV8WGHjKQzUbPwmsmBXkohEdOzYhyXJkfq3IGgwQ0xYmo0lcfFbzYKLPQs2A_xa4Y-Dfl6BoLGr6iQ/s640/zalando+nomess+acrylic+storage+filled+drawer.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And here is my storage. This was by no means cheap at £25 but I definitely think it was worth it. My collection <i>just,</i> and I mean just, squeezes in completely. It's an absolute dream to not have lying all over the house. So much more organised! I really like the milky, translucent acrylic. Very neat. It feels really sturdy and you can open the drawers all the way without any ominous creaking. It's also fairly light and easy to transport which is a big plus for me. Even being completely filled I can easily carry it up the stairs without wobbling. As you can see, I've included a photo of my favourite drawer - the lip drawer! Let me know if you'd like to see any collection posts. I've actually shamefully added to this since I took the photo...oops. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have to say, Zalando shipping is great. Free delivery and returns no matter what you order and it's really fast and well packed. I definitely recommend having a least a browse! I have my sights trained on some jewellery... and maybe a handbag or two!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Zalando Home Tealight Holder £4* (sadly no longer in stock)<br /><a href="http://www.zalando.co.uk/nomess-copenhagen-bathroom-storage-white-nc672b001-002.html" target="_blank">Nomess Copenhagen Bathroom Storage</a> £25*</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Have you bought anything from Zalando before? What do you think to my picks?<br /><br />Lauren</div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-14509269995729904772013-03-27T22:35:00.002+00:002013-03-27T22:35:49.204+00:00Review: 17 Mirror Shine Lipstick in Beehive | A.K.A The Most Perfect Shiny Nude Ever<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've been on the lookout for a perfect natural lip colour for ages and Beehive has been at the top of my wishlist for months. After a long fruitless search I just so happened to nip into Boots for a drink at St Pancras Station and the make up stands caught my eye (as usual.) Much to my surprise, there was the illusive Beehive. All nonchalant and beautiful. Needless to say I was ecstatic and it immediately went into my basket, along with a few other things... read about my day in London <a href="http://peachycurves.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/what-ive-been-up-to-london-and-mini-haul.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6zsMAVl81noIVIXlnRQvSD4QteYnNP9h31GujFV4EGGf0k7OpbwFzyRAe6g1iVRQuIZeQWeFo32_Ysjtnab6ZqEQTvEOjgSX2GWSbNg6pJX9cHJZUdIUdH-HBZosYC4YLt9vH3fWurW5/s1600/beehive+lipstick+17+tube.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6zsMAVl81noIVIXlnRQvSD4QteYnNP9h31GujFV4EGGf0k7OpbwFzyRAe6g1iVRQuIZeQWeFo32_Ysjtnab6ZqEQTvEOjgSX2GWSbNg6pJX9cHJZUdIUdH-HBZosYC4YLt9vH3fWurW5/s640/beehive+lipstick+17+tube.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMDzI05YLCINweB18c4SV8zD_tUA41e5Shk5KLxgkj5rTWjHAU2bZDg9_Q3WW9WJ4hmmgWfYsL0F_oJMxzAtVrXrjxcYuKEIN0qBGv4C5zmYr4qxUL6B0zDfi1bFnTVHISgEXHqcdwkAxH/s1600/beehive+lipstick+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMDzI05YLCINweB18c4SV8zD_tUA41e5Shk5KLxgkj5rTWjHAU2bZDg9_Q3WW9WJ4hmmgWfYsL0F_oJMxzAtVrXrjxcYuKEIN0qBGv4C5zmYr4qxUL6B0zDfi1bFnTVHISgEXHqcdwkAxH/s640/beehive+lipstick+17.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I genuinely had no idea that the packaging had changed so dramatically from the old metallic turquoise tubes. I was totally unaware of the handy little mirror that popped out when I opened this! I definitely prefer the new sleek black look and find it much less garish than the old ones. They're still very easy to find in my collection because of the distinctive oblong shape and because this is actually my only lip product in black packaging. The only downside to the mirror is that it often pops out as you open the tube, but I've found that it's doing this less and less as I use it so I guess it's just a little snug at first. The lid fits very securely and there's a satisfying click as it snaps shut which I find very reassuring. There's no strong scent either, just a light typical lipstick scent that's certainly not offensive.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzIsfrmYjwyCS3ovPqjf1IyO_VmJkTsjkIqDbBWL5BVeDe-bW1110shYHmhkL40IXNRbaXF9U-0jr_Yh6Lv-dQ3ldXSzxQe_DFvNrwA7OZragsTBKY83y1QN0OgEWXvYEknZCwDhdx2HxS/s1600/beehive+lipstick+17+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzIsfrmYjwyCS3ovPqjf1IyO_VmJkTsjkIqDbBWL5BVeDe-bW1110shYHmhkL40IXNRbaXF9U-0jr_Yh6Lv-dQ3ldXSzxQe_DFvNrwA7OZragsTBKY83y1QN0OgEWXvYEknZCwDhdx2HxS/s640/beehive+lipstick+17+swatch.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Qrd0ITmchGdpzfCwTjr-r4wJgiakvPBVw1qpu_e4R6KK6RIAx9hXfOxsCl6S5zs3h1lC3ensKEReTuar03QJc2iFHk-ESXWM5T3zfAWixgETFnjbIhyphenhyphenhAS5OBU0UJbrcP97A_dqy1hOM/s1600/beehive+lipstick+17+swatch2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Qrd0ITmchGdpzfCwTjr-r4wJgiakvPBVw1qpu_e4R6KK6RIAx9hXfOxsCl6S5zs3h1lC3ensKEReTuar03QJc2iFHk-ESXWM5T3zfAWixgETFnjbIhyphenhyphenhAS5OBU0UJbrcP97A_dqy1hOM/s640/beehive+lipstick+17+swatch2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">I had to take swatch photos from two angles here because the lighting washed the colour out a little. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ahh I love it! It was love at first swatch. Smooth, shiny and moisturising with a beautiful sheer peachy-pink tint. It's almost like a lip butter texture because it's so soft. I've worn this ridiculously often since purchasing and I love how full and shiny it makes my lips look. It's certainly not an opaque lip colour so the natural pigmentation of your lips will change the shade to what I like to think of as a custom match. It's so easy to slick on with any make up look and is the ideal finishing touch to a natural every day look. Wear time isn't amazing due to the texture but it fades very evenly and I really don't mind topping up every three hours or so. I generally try not to buy into blogger hype but this one was well deserved!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
£4.59 from Boots and currently included in the 3 for 2 deal!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Final Verdict: The blogger hype is well deserved. A perfect sheer, shiny, neutral for all skin tones.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Have you tried Beehive? What's your neutral lip holy grail product?<br /><br />Lauren</div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-64376739727020093572013-03-24T17:31:00.001+00:002013-03-24T17:31:31.903+00:00Sleek Haul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;">A little while ago Sleek had an offer on their Facebook page where you could get a 25% off voucher in return for a quick opinion poll about the products and their image. I'm forever wanting Sleek products and sadly they're not stocked in my local Superdrug so this seemed like the ideal time to get a few of the things I've been dying to try! There's a couple of other things I bought but they're not for me so I want to keep them a surprise.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKAw_PQ8Q9gZejCcLrciGZ2qxaEx-_UQJG05jHM76blx6SjYxzkdTXUobay6TECYEhyphenhyphenNX0qgE0JjX4Ll2_qkG2oKAVKkfPmU1cWm3lGzadL52uR6PHQt4W2CKqcIn2Dozs3Uikes8TXZS-/s1600/sleek+haul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKAw_PQ8Q9gZejCcLrciGZ2qxaEx-_UQJG05jHM76blx6SjYxzkdTXUobay6TECYEhyphenhyphenNX0qgE0JjX4Ll2_qkG2oKAVKkfPmU1cWm3lGzadL52uR6PHQt4W2CKqcIn2Dozs3Uikes8TXZS-/s640/sleek+haul.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmCGFuzDdXlXTUu0Ymf-oCd7_HHmWDiF8_yHIWiRpQHO1HnBUNqp7DwAigUUuxBBwjf3vYsniyO4bRKm57UkjhA6UEqeWyJqyWk-kzgKUo5KHXSDdCelItfzjCgVptgbkTkE3L7ojTmv5K/s1600/sleek+haul+face+palettes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmCGFuzDdXlXTUu0Ymf-oCd7_HHmWDiF8_yHIWiRpQHO1HnBUNqp7DwAigUUuxBBwjf3vYsniyO4bRKm57UkjhA6UEqeWyJqyWk-kzgKUo5KHXSDdCelItfzjCgVptgbkTkE3L7ojTmv5K/s640/sleek+haul+face+palettes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Pout Paints in: Cloud 9, Lava, Peek-a-Bloo, Port and Pin-Up £4.99 Face Form in Light £10 Blush by 3 in Lace £10 True Colour Lipstick in Barely There £4.99 Kohl Pencil in Green Ivy £1.99</i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Pout Paints have been on my wishlist for months and months and I'm really excited to start custom designing my own shade. I think I picked a nice mix of colours and will get a lot out of them. Barely There was recommended to me on Twitter during a #bblogger chat as a pretty much perfect nude so I'll be putting it through it's paces this Spring (if it ever comes.) The stunning face palettes are going to be perfect for injecting a bit of colour into my lacklustre complexion and I'm thrilled that I'm going to be trying the much hyped Rose Gold. And finally, my new kohl pencil was such a gorgeous colour I couldn't resist it. I remember years ago that my Mother had similar one from Avon called Jungle Green which I wore to death in my early teens. I really hope it lives up to my rose-tinted memories!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have you picked up anything from Sleek lately? Do you have a favourite Sleek product? Is there anything you'd particularly like reviewed?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Lauren</div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-6639539585419343642013-03-20T19:06:00.002+00:002013-03-20T19:06:34.296+00:00NOTD: Essie, Bikini So TeenyI've actually had this little gem knocking about in my collection since December when I picked it up in a spur of the moment <a href="http://peachycurves.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/nail-varnish-haul-nails-inc-and-essie.html" target="_blank">TK Maxx haul</a> and have only now tried it. This is my first ever Essie polish and I have some mixed feelings...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg53xNoNeLZQ5zSbhjXriZiWbCINo9nvN_q_NDc42WrxzUtft9glb-lmz77dcFYfRrvGLOTG8v8dLu8kR_E63Sy59G2P9BRYevTk6JjrDvreTN74KM1T66Yam80aS1WEkpKWQ8LiqtbCu7y/s1600/essie+bikini+so+teeny+bottle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg53xNoNeLZQ5zSbhjXriZiWbCINo9nvN_q_NDc42WrxzUtft9glb-lmz77dcFYfRrvGLOTG8v8dLu8kR_E63Sy59G2P9BRYevTk6JjrDvreTN74KM1T66Yam80aS1WEkpKWQ8LiqtbCu7y/s640/essie+bikini+so+teeny+bottle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Essie polishes come in rectangular bottles, contain 15ml of product and retail at £7.99 each. This shade is from the Summer 2012 collection and was enormously popular at the time. I'll admit, I'd been lusting after it for an absolute age. I'm a huge fan of pastels and pale blues are a particular favourite of mine so it was only a matter of time (and TK Maxx sales) until it was with me. Bikini So Teeny is a beautiful cornflower blue which can read almost sky blue in artificial light. The pale shimmer running through it makes for a really multi-faceted colour and I constantly find myself looking at my nails when I'm wearing it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjariBHBsOqdIp14Y1VUsPhZLjlqtcGyFEEj5d1_dDSGYXchwrLcKm7nGGCUlGWjs2PbfJT5oIthJUN1C2zyanIM1OgKxurxWJwoH6weyXTfN7tMcaW6he5-Amg9byL49dWP75K6d15OfG9/s1600/essie+bikini+so+teeny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjariBHBsOqdIp14Y1VUsPhZLjlqtcGyFEEj5d1_dDSGYXchwrLcKm7nGGCUlGWjs2PbfJT5oIthJUN1C2zyanIM1OgKxurxWJwoH6weyXTfN7tMcaW6he5-Amg9byL49dWP75K6d15OfG9/s640/essie+bikini+so+teeny.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMhuM3gLY_Rgx9sA5X47wb0I-LfeIhaSi6dYmaiskziqxGmtZcOmEjAM4ZtzgMuOp7fT1vsCZbmIbgcwFqVKVfZpfAM97folDSz3RyrM6GXYV0pL9v2N5yIhdTylw1RoxQzEORkL_CwoS/s1600/essie+bikini+so+teeny+bottle+swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMhuM3gLY_Rgx9sA5X47wb0I-LfeIhaSi6dYmaiskziqxGmtZcOmEjAM4ZtzgMuOp7fT1vsCZbmIbgcwFqVKVfZpfAM97folDSz3RyrM6GXYV0pL9v2N5yIhdTylw1RoxQzEORkL_CwoS/s640/essie+bikini+so+teeny+bottle+swatch.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I really like the packaging of Essie polishes, they're very distinctive and the raised logo on the glass gives them a slightly higher end feel. The biggest disappointment for me was how sheer this shade is. I ended up having to apply four coats which is absolutely ridiculous. I could still see the faint outline of the white tips after that. The drying time was fair but nothing to get excited about. BUT, the wear time is outstanding! It's been a week now and there isn't a single chip. I applied it without a base coat or top coat and it's still just as perfect as when it was first applied. For that reason alone I can understand why Essie is so raved about. However, I'm usually the sort of person that changes my nail varnish every two or three days so longevity isn't so much of a selling point for me personally so I wouldn't pay full price for them. Luckily there are a few great bargains around and you can usually find select colours on <a href="http://www.fragrancedirect.co.uk/" target="_blank">Fragrance Direct</a> for £1.99 each.<br />
<br />
Final Verdict: Takes several coats to reach opacity but lasts forever when it's on. Beautiful colour.<br />
<br />
Do you have a favourite Essie shade? How often do you like to change your nail colour?<br />
<br />
LaurenLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-85957330586620702512013-03-18T16:41:00.001+00:002013-03-18T16:48:47.006+00:00What I've Been Up To: London and a Mini Haul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Howdy stranger! As it usually is, your slowest blogging months are invariably your busiest "life" months. I was pretty shocked when I looked at the calender and realised it's been almost a week and a half since I last blogged! This is by far my longest break and I've really missed blogging. I could have squished in a couple of posts but to be honest they would have been very lack lustre. This week has been all about University preparation. Last Wednesday I had an interview at Westminster University to try and win a place on their Journalism course. I've always loved writing but blogging has been a total revelation for me; I never imagined myself forging a career in journalism but now I know what I want to do with my life. In a dream world I'll one day be working in the beauty department for a magazine but any kind of writing would be great for now, you never know!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm one of those people that always remembers the camera and then totally forgets to take photos. Halfway through my great London journey I suddenly remembered it nestled in my bag and whipped it out to take a few shots in the Natural History Museum. If you get a chance to go exploring around London I wholeheartedly recommend a wander through it, if for nothing but the stunning architecture in the foyer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwm7jBALGtsVbWOlbHJRRvmd8CG5Sp-yEujeAL3NBe6el9sfK9CCQ-X55bBIqnL08CUDlDSr8SXWdWO1UhjlxgEaNV5BFncDCJUx1lzz7OucUc4fQ5VOoO_qb5fYEyppwgECgAbReitN6Y/s1600/london+nat+history+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwm7jBALGtsVbWOlbHJRRvmd8CG5Sp-yEujeAL3NBe6el9sfK9CCQ-X55bBIqnL08CUDlDSr8SXWdWO1UhjlxgEaNV5BFncDCJUx1lzz7OucUc4fQ5VOoO_qb5fYEyppwgECgAbReitN6Y/s640/london+nat+history+4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-41G6YsIsAmyCjdHWvRlFhPUKaFwVkBA9ZGLOP_OHxbK53rACPBGUv_HF2VHO1nmG4SqWbyHl5qu6WIImFnZ57gZDeeO8ONvAd-CG3x0YgkjPL-dsEO2qWtdn-Fi_LuusI0sfr6vyzTtE/s1600/london+nat+history++1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-41G6YsIsAmyCjdHWvRlFhPUKaFwVkBA9ZGLOP_OHxbK53rACPBGUv_HF2VHO1nmG4SqWbyHl5qu6WIImFnZ57gZDeeO8ONvAd-CG3x0YgkjPL-dsEO2qWtdn-Fi_LuusI0sfr6vyzTtE/s640/london+nat+history++1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCjul9x92YuRQYjR9xWL8J7gq6pt1PVDooSoeO-NYr8wI8C90DCdfmLlINNrWPGoPqdQHbvsyiInsda4Gb4yoTEIFrRAhbCllnxmqYKC1mN7f_BNvlS6G965fzfQzeH0oShqhAqew2ZaP1/s1600/london+nat+history+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCjul9x92YuRQYjR9xWL8J7gq6pt1PVDooSoeO-NYr8wI8C90DCdfmLlINNrWPGoPqdQHbvsyiInsda4Gb4yoTEIFrRAhbCllnxmqYKC1mN7f_BNvlS6G965fzfQzeH0oShqhAqew2ZaP1/s640/london+nat+history+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-Bs4ZUkpFEgKdrV7x1QAMbgZqcor5udMTHmI5DKtEE0CZEUN4yy6RXFd-dFmnMcFJu1gByQPbhyphenhyphen57uxV8VEYU4syKKr2LvqvBoV83EPX6kS-zsQCJj3dP7yvlFkD4KUPfMWHXhGe9AGT/s1600/london+nat+history++2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-Bs4ZUkpFEgKdrV7x1QAMbgZqcor5udMTHmI5DKtEE0CZEUN4yy6RXFd-dFmnMcFJu1gByQPbhyphenhyphen57uxV8VEYU4syKKr2LvqvBoV83EPX6kS-zsQCJj3dP7yvlFkD4KUPfMWHXhGe9AGT/s640/london+nat+history++2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Bar the first image which is the foyer, all of these photos were taken in the mammal room. There's something truly awe-inspiring about the sheer size and majesty of these animals. There were a lot of interesting exhibitions but this was one of my favourites (hence I remembered I had a camera!) The museum also housed a mini gallery of works inspired by nature. Animals and plants have always been my favourite things to work from and I'd actually forgotten how much I enjoyed and appreciated art so it was wonderful to see everything. The most bizarre and disturbing thing for me was the human biology exhibit - lots of terrifying massive babies and glowing red "womb" walls. I'm the least maternal person ever and myself and my flatmates were all suitably disturbed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqsG3CTC_Uu9YYzEaYqI-FKGaHBxWGhrwpaGS5TaQkpa8LzRS0gIsC8e_DhoJwcvc4BYCAeHEx26I81QqG-wJ15cleX57pcXMI8Xgaq5PBQeMuzqTL_lhfTSsSDpsGFxOUYaLHoy8v_55/s1600/london+sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqsG3CTC_Uu9YYzEaYqI-FKGaHBxWGhrwpaGS5TaQkpa8LzRS0gIsC8e_DhoJwcvc4BYCAeHEx26I81QqG-wJ15cleX57pcXMI8Xgaq5PBQeMuzqTL_lhfTSsSDpsGFxOUYaLHoy8v_55/s640/london+sunset.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Just as we were leaving the museum my boyfriend pointed out the sunset and I had to a nab a photo. It was so beautiful and the surrounding buildings were stunning. A very fitting end to the day.<br />
<br />
If I sound like a major tourist it's because I really am. I've only been to London once before and it was an awful College trip experience. All I did that day was walk up and down a packed Oxford Street (it was January 3rd and ridiculous) whilst other people tried on clothes in stores that didn't carry my sizes. This second trip has shown me a whole new side to the city and I really want to study there. It's so full of inspiration and colour. It's also full of some seriously stylish women. I remember in particular this one Asian girl in the tube station with a slick, black graduated bob, bare skin and bright red, matte lipstick. She was wearing a big voluminous coat and black tights and I just kept thinking about how incredible she looked. So if you're ever in a style rut, go and people watch in London, you wouldn't ever get bored.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-eM1YHaas9AuIUPTvTIreiJGkcP1yr-ho8eqzGHvNPMr20xj8VHPoIcJoLhiRnmRPsqKx5GQ6trO0isYxLT0jsYaWC3JwEIOJoyVlDhVHl5_ReSLoSq_NPviDqNXhqjr-sC_DwRfx8Ag/s1600/london+yo+sushi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-eM1YHaas9AuIUPTvTIreiJGkcP1yr-ho8eqzGHvNPMr20xj8VHPoIcJoLhiRnmRPsqKx5GQ6trO0isYxLT0jsYaWC3JwEIOJoyVlDhVHl5_ReSLoSq_NPviDqNXhqjr-sC_DwRfx8Ag/s640/london+yo+sushi.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This mine and my boyfriend's ridiculous tower of plates at Yo! Sushi. We'd never been there before but he and my flatmate were adamant that it's where they were eating dinner so off I went. I have to honest, I'm a firm cooked-food eater. The one piece of raw tuna sushi that my boyfriend forced on me was horrific. All I could taste was blood and it had the most repulsive texture; squishy, slimy and jelly-like. I still haven't forgiven him for his enthusiastic offering. I was also rather perplexed at the wait staff's apparent disgust when I asked for tap water. The glasses were tiny so I had to ask for a second and they seemed very stressed about it. Certainly not the best service I've ever had. Regardless, the noodles, prawns and chicken dishes were fantastic and I'd definitely eat there again.<br />
<br />
And of course you know me... I couldn't leave without buying some beauty bits!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs7cobAV4yEced9zNDKA-fskqwfTL-tct5RM1XzXwyY144I4lSXleyCq3ughyIqpAd8YS86Mhbw19y4CzCheE7iv63kor6ZfJ6RkEgKMwetemXFrpc1_IC9_5FkXcdxr8THzImNjDQpyV2/s1600/london+z+boots+haul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs7cobAV4yEced9zNDKA-fskqwfTL-tct5RM1XzXwyY144I4lSXleyCq3ughyIqpAd8YS86Mhbw19y4CzCheE7iv63kor6ZfJ6RkEgKMwetemXFrpc1_IC9_5FkXcdxr8THzImNjDQpyV2/s640/london+z+boots+haul.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwlb9ajNBP0BuFo7wau4fQoPuchvxzmH_U1u4fzpyvR_fYIpBkW-gU_DcPoAQtSD7Q1f6kY5SO-4HS-im9B0_tbvLXg1oFos-AusKAB_-gAsQ7m0aNAjMjn4lTZXaXqHIrXfkCzJ_GkJmI/s1600/london+z+boots+haul+base.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwlb9ajNBP0BuFo7wau4fQoPuchvxzmH_U1u4fzpyvR_fYIpBkW-gU_DcPoAQtSD7Q1f6kY5SO-4HS-im9B0_tbvLXg1oFos-AusKAB_-gAsQ7m0aNAjMjn4lTZXaXqHIrXfkCzJ_GkJmI/s640/london+z+boots+haul+base.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Clearly I was in an orange mood! Sadly I didn't have time to go for a serious shop at Selfridges or Debenhams so these were actually nabbed at the St. Pancras station Boots. I originally went in on the off chance that they'd have 17's Beehive in stock since I've been searching for it for lord knows how long. Lo and behold, the whole glorious shelf was filled to the brim! I also considered buying the Doll'd Up mascara that everyone has been raving about but decided to try "Belle," another rarely-found lipstick (at least in my local Boots.) The rest were kind of bought on a whim which is a bit unusual for me but they'd all been fully researched so why not?! I've been putting off buying the Tangle Teezer for so long because of the price but I figured since it was a day out I could treat myself. I've also decided that this Summer I'm going to really embrace orange cosmetics so I popped a couple more Revlon products in my basket to add to my collection.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr-k-fIgN1YxvbXM5yHsgo0r_sDXiyRHK8Qwlp8C47PMTYtSK3jcxYdsQ8jq_SRsyJq9avrLZaRkvlEhgeHAyk2aBxFmXoA95BmQaQX-RBFSqA8qrAlwiWGdXuaTa8cb8zGGM7i8Jc5J8n/s1600/london+doughnut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="588" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr-k-fIgN1YxvbXM5yHsgo0r_sDXiyRHK8Qwlp8C47PMTYtSK3jcxYdsQ8jq_SRsyJq9avrLZaRkvlEhgeHAyk2aBxFmXoA95BmQaQX-RBFSqA8qrAlwiWGdXuaTa8cb8zGGM7i8Jc5J8n/s640/london+doughnut.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Honourable mention of the day goes to this ridiculous doughnut. They do say everything is bigger in cities. Unbelievably it was only 99p which I think is a very fair price for something that could feed a family of four.<br />
<br />
And that's my little trip all summed up! The University was really wonderful and I'm so hoping I get in. If anyone else has a group interview coming up please don't stress too much about it. I almost made myself ill with worrying and it was so unnecessary. Everything was really relaxed and informal and I turned up in black trousers and a red shirt and was completely overdressed. There was even a couple of people in jumpers and leggings and they looked much more at home than I did. So try not to worry and don't be afraid to chat to the other interviewees, they're all feeling the exact same way and you might even connect with someone. I was really lucky and managed to meet another beauty and fashion blogger who was absolutely lovely and happens to be the first blogger I've ever met!<br />
<br />
Are you hoping to attend University this year? Do you spend much time in London? Let me know where I should visit when I (hopefully) start studying there!<br />
<br />
Lauren<br />
<br />
P.S. I know there's been a total palaver over Google Reader (which is being killed soon) and GFC recently. I'm fairly certain that GFC isn't going anywhere in the near future, but just as a little bit of shameless self promotion and precaution, I'd love a follow on Bloglovin'! You can find my profile <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/peachycurves" target="_blank">here</a>.Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4222855881118152028.post-19126660499070650692013-03-08T13:58:00.000+00:002013-03-08T13:58:00.080+00:00Review: Deborah Milano 5 in 1 BB Cream in 00 Fair RoseBB cream is something that I have very little experience with. I've always used quite a light coverage, dewy foundation but I really wanted to try a BB cream because of the added promise of skincare benefits. It really sounded like the perfect thing for "good" skin days, particularly in warmer weather. <a href="http://www.deborahmilano.co.uk/" target="_blank">Deborah Milano</a> is the leading cosmetics provider in Italy so I really felt like I was in good hands when they offered to let me try out their BB cream!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXfEtkMy62AUTly9Q6gARwEBWK0zr10KrJA-vMo79KZMYMBZgOTIyjJzQ8wq6kMaDfcyxWY8OBwgaUgsutE_Y-F95nR50VPt1V8U52NT50yJYjyRfUqnOPfPyrIRFpTWjZmqGwT1rf6Qu/s1600/deborah+milano+bb+cream+and+24ore+mascara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXfEtkMy62AUTly9Q6gARwEBWK0zr10KrJA-vMo79KZMYMBZgOTIyjJzQ8wq6kMaDfcyxWY8OBwgaUgsutE_Y-F95nR50VPt1V8U52NT50yJYjyRfUqnOPfPyrIRFpTWjZmqGwT1rf6Qu/s640/deborah+milano+bb+cream+and+24ore+mascara.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Shown here is also a gorgeous mascara which I recently reviewed <a href="http://peachycurves.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/review-deborah-milano-24-ore-absolute.html" target="_blank">here</a>. For me this is the bare minimum for makeup, I could quite happily go out with just mascara and a light foundation!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJn3wd4d7Q1xm6XBF_mXLoKz_4_7tqiv9RPKHheUQBQLiT1pOh_hIGHTE_y6_Ws3q5sQP-zMdTrHpeESxOOs4Vq0lH5ccHjkgwEz3BCA_ZO5amRDUJcFcXF0IY3yfVONFwJgC7r_-J6t-/s1600/deborah+milano+bb+cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJn3wd4d7Q1xm6XBF_mXLoKz_4_7tqiv9RPKHheUQBQLiT1pOh_hIGHTE_y6_Ws3q5sQP-zMdTrHpeESxOOs4Vq0lH5ccHjkgwEz3BCA_ZO5amRDUJcFcXF0IY3yfVONFwJgC7r_-J6t-/s640/deborah+milano+bb+cream.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3whYjcJw9k4ZgR6l4WpMbikQ99B6Rvc_sqffAvcumVsFjjsY74JpGmErO87Bsu7D4oNESnDG1tyUCYMbG97-32lGoC6_5FnYswxlC5ix7CZujoGf2yatBz-ihHuWG4bNt0VR6onGIXVd/s1600/deborah+milano+bb+cream+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3whYjcJw9k4ZgR6l4WpMbikQ99B6Rvc_sqffAvcumVsFjjsY74JpGmErO87Bsu7D4oNESnDG1tyUCYMbG97-32lGoC6_5FnYswxlC5ix7CZujoGf2yatBz-ihHuWG4bNt0VR6onGIXVd/s640/deborah+milano+bb+cream+back.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Like 24 Ore mascara, Deborah Milano BB cream comes in sleek, shiny black packaging. Like most BB creams, this one is simply squeezed out of the tube and has a small opening which helps prevent product wastage. The cap fits tightly and securely and I'd feel comfortable chucking it in a bag and travelling with it. This product comes in 6 shades which would fit a wide range of skin tones. I think BB creams are possibly the worst offenders when it comes to tiny shade ranges so it's refreshing to see a brand cater to so many people. I received shade 00 Fair Rose which is the lightest in the range and honestly, absolutely PERFECT! I was thrilled with the colour match. It's possibly even a very very tiny bit better than my current foundation so it's quickly become my go-to base for every day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHoSoWdU9Jm2cqYCEEiNtmg5o6Y39ir14Sp6_ECbxC1oI09bzk7MT4kd2cgN93tNjeGPaiTE9f2q3PwFuEb3Dgk-Vzqg6p1qgTZWtHhzCCrSBXLatXZgUGyPHYruHogODmnuy_1HeAF0xC/s1600/deb+bb+cream+swatches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHoSoWdU9Jm2cqYCEEiNtmg5o6Y39ir14Sp6_ECbxC1oI09bzk7MT4kd2cgN93tNjeGPaiTE9f2q3PwFuEb3Dgk-Vzqg6p1qgTZWtHhzCCrSBXLatXZgUGyPHYruHogODmnuy_1HeAF0xC/s640/deb+bb+cream+swatches.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Swatched-Blended</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYF9Q_A3BDXV22WwrIgS84MLoyIZRd_g43fPVQGQ4AdSwhJV6hTgAdAyIcn8B7XLEbVafpqBX6tukBG8uqbiO30Lx6MWCWKXwNex9DgWwGPQg4kp2dfrmXu1Kc3PRgBhRzgHbGnsUEHQGJ/s1600/deborah+milano+bb+cream+before+and+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYF9Q_A3BDXV22WwrIgS84MLoyIZRd_g43fPVQGQ4AdSwhJV6hTgAdAyIcn8B7XLEbVafpqBX6tukBG8uqbiO30Lx6MWCWKXwNex9DgWwGPQg4kp2dfrmXu1Kc3PRgBhRzgHbGnsUEHQGJ/s640/deborah+milano+bb+cream+before+and+after.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Before-After</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You can see from the swatches above that it evens the skin out beautifully. My main issues with my skin are it's dryness and uneven tone so this is an ideal match for me. It really eliminates redness and I also feel it gives a brightening effect, you can see that the area under my eye is much lighter and less "tired-looking." The formula is really light and smooth and I completely agree that it's moisturising. It doesn't cake or cling to dry patches and blends perfectly into the skin. It's also hypo-allergenic and contains SPF 20 so it's ideal for those with sensitive skin and allergies. I'm totally in love with this! The only possible negative is that initially it has a strong sweet scent that reminds me of parma violets but this does fade quickly when you're wearing it. Personally the scent doesn't bother me and could in no way outweigh the enormous positive aspects of this product.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.deborahmilano.co.uk/p_bb-cream-foundation_87" target="_blank">Deborah Milano BB Cream</a>* £9.95<br /><br />Final Verdict: A fantastic and affordable product which I personally adore!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What do you think to this product? Do you have a favourite BB cream?<br /><br />Lauren</div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02243720663337241732noreply@blogger.com20