Empties 04.

I have never, ever been happier to bin a bunch of empties than I have with this lot. Not because I didn't adore many of the products above, but because it was a long hard road to use them up. In the case of the Umberto Giannini & the Toni & Guy Shampoo, they didn't take much and I liked them both but as with many beauty bloggers you'll know there is always something more exciting around the corner. 

What really took time and commitment was the Vera Wang Rock Princess, believe it or not I actually included it in the last empties post believing it was done and dusted, but the little sucker carried on spritzing for at least a few more times. Tarrah Vera, it's been fun but it's time to go! 

The Sally Hansen nail polish remover isn't anything ground breaking, it's a complete staple of mine and I already have a new one in my drawer. 

My MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural took an age (I'm talking nearly 2 years...) to use up, and I can't believe I finally used it up. Can I actually call this an achievement?! 

Finally, I was sad to use the last scrapings of my Emma Hardie Amazing Face Cleansing Balm, especially as it's turned to gold dust online! I need it back in my life but refuse to pay P&P, I am the eternal delivery scrooge. 

So, to the bin!

xx

Shopping the Stash Take Two.

It's my favourite kind of shopping, the free kind. 

Products I've Been Loving: 

Vera Wang Princess

Benefit Benetint

Prestige My Blackest Lashes

Barry M Lipgloss in No 11

MAC Fleur Power Blush

The Lowdown: 

First of all, I am a big fan of mini perfume rollerballs & this mini Vera Wang Princess is no exception. It was lost in a handbag for a little while but it's now back with a vengeance. It's a pretty, no offensive scent that perks me up throughout the day. I've also managed to find a bargain 100ml bottle AND a rollerball for £33.14, here, amazing!

Now, me and Benetint have a long standing relationship. Along with High Beam, they were amongst the very first make up products I possessed. I often forget about this old favourite, I mean it is the right of a beauty blogger to stray isn't it?! But, I've been reaching for after work if i'm going straight on to something else just to perk me up. Similarly it's been a gem for a quite post gym spruce up. I can never be bothered to put on a full face after showering/hair drying at the gym, but similarly I don't want to look like the living dead if I have a quick coffee after. My only gripe is that is it not the friend of the chapped lip. Looking like you've been scoffing raspberries isn't something I strive to achieve...

Moving onto a sad tale. Prestige My Blackest Lashes has to be one of my all time favourite mascaras, and they only went and discontinued Prestige in the UK didn't they!? So sad. Therefore I rave about this cautiously, I adore it and I rue the day this runs dry.

MAC Fleur Power Blush has won a place in my heart thanks to the recent purchase of the Real Techniques Blush Brush as it applies like a totally different blush when coupled with such a soft, feathery applicator. I've really been shunning lots of shimmer recently and sticking to soft matte shades, it's a trend I can see continuing! 

Finally, Barry M Lipgloss in No11 is firmly back in the mix thanks to a bit of friend envy. One of my lovely friends whipped it out the other day and I was instantly cooing over how nice it is. Low and behold I definitely had it in my collection. It's a soft coral pink that leaves a subtle shine without being too sticky or gloopy, the fact it smells like pineapple only elevates it further up the rankings, yum. 

What have you been rediscovering recently? 

xx

The Red Lip.

Nothing screams classic glamour like the perfect red lip. Polished skin, groomed brows and a killer red pout pretty much scream make up ecstasy.

Three red lipsticks in particular have found a place in my heart. One old staple, two new favourites.

MAC Lady Danger: This has long been my red lip of choice. Matte but surprisingly moisturising and practically foolproof to apply, it's a winner. It's quite heavily yellow based so if you're looking to utilise the teeth whitening tricks of a blue based red, steer clear. But it's a youthful spin on a classic red and one that will remain in my top ten for a long time.

Yves Rocher Rouge Crème Hydratant 101 Framboise*: Surprisingly both of my new dalliances arrived wrapped up neatly in a Glossybox. I wouldn't put this down as a raspberry as described, but it's a lovely shade all the same. Yves Rocher is fast becoming a favourite, I've placed an order for a couple of products so expect thoughts soon.

Sleek True Colour Lipstick Stiletto*: The second Glossybox gem. This is a tricky one to pull off but when I do, it's a goodun. Very matte, meticulous preparation needed! A perfect party red, slightly more blue based which is perfect for the camera. I take time applying this though, it's not the easiest nut to crack!

(l-r) MAC Lady Danger, Yves Rocher Fromboise 101, Sleek True Colour Stiletto. 

What's your go to red lip?

Laura xx

*PR Samples

Wednesday Wishlist #1

It's that time of year when we think of others and have to put our own feckless desires on ice (sob) so in order to keep the shopping for myself bug at bay, I've put together a little Wednesday wishlist. 

1. Topshop Croc Quilted Bomber Jacket: I've wanted to invest in a leather jacket for the longest time but I'm really not down with the whole easy rider style. I am however very much down with a bit of mock croc. Yes Please. 

2. Topshop Aztec Fairisle Snood: Can you tell i've been stalking the toppers website like a woman possessed? It's festive, it looks warm. I'll take it. 

3. Yankee Candle Red Velvet Cake: Are you kidding me? Red Velvet Cake in a candle...having thoroughly sniffed this to the point of looking a little bit mental, I can confirm it is the best thing since Mango Peach Salsa. Maybe, probably. 

4. Loakes Brogues: Yes, there are for the males. But I really want a pair. I've been keeping a beady eye on eBay for some and they will be mine. I just need to find a seller with tiny little man feet. 

5. MAC Russian Red: I already own Lady Danger, but Russian Red just feel so much more festive. Despite my embarrassing mountain of lipsticks I just don't own anything remotely blue based. I'm as shocked as you...

6. Origins Ginger Essense Rollerball: I already own a bottle of this nectar, but I want to carry it around with me all the time. Do we really need to discuss my love of ginger anymore, see previous post...

Let me know what's on your wishlists.

Laura xx

Satin Taupe Staple.

It's a MAC classic, It's been ranted and raved about, but I haven't owned it until now. Why? Who knows! 

After a mildly (read very) upsetting palette massacre due to a clumsy fiend who I'll spare any blushes by not naming (my mother) I decided to buy a few shadows to replace the fallen few.

I'm really not a massive eyeshadow person, but I've found myself reaching for Satin Taupe more than I care to mention over the last few weeks. 

I've been wearing it one of two ways, either slapped all over the lid like the intense eye close up above, or paired with MAC Jest and placed in the crease for a bit of natural definition. 

J'adore. 

If you haven't discovered the wonder of Satin Taupe, find it here. 

Laura xx

New Stuff & Things.

I went shopping, I bought some (more than I anticipated) things. 

My first mistake was wandering in Space NK. I went for a cheeky browse, I left with Emma Hardie Amazing Face Cleansing Balm & my good old friend, Caudalie Vinosource SOS Thirst Quenching Serum. Is my wallet glad I picked these up? Nope. Is my face? Yep. 

I won't rave on too much about the sneaky MAC item here, I did a whole post worth here. Read it, love it. 

Finally, Boots lured me in and I picked up L'oreal Voluminous, just because I want to give it a whirl. My current Seche Vite is like superglue so I picked up a new one. The end. 

Stay tuned for reviews etc when I've given these beauties a whirl. 

Laura xx

Oh My MAC: Extra Dimension Skinfinish in Superb.

Before I begin, shall we take a little trip down blogger memory lane? If I could just cast your mind back to the heady days of MAC fantatasism, major lemming and sold out LE collections, I could reel off a list of 'must have' collections that whipped the blogosphere up into a frenzy. Hello Kitty or Naked Honey anybody? 

As far as I'm concerned, I just haven't bought (literally and figuratively  into MAC hype for a good while, I like my staples but I haven't ran sweaty palmed to a MAC counter in a good while. 

Whilst I didn't exactly plan on picking up this absolute beauty, I'm ever so glad I did. 

Enter Extra Dimension Skinfinish in Superb. 

After a recent disaster with my By Candlelight MSF and the gym changing room floor I've been after a replacement that isn't in danger of exploding shimmer all over my make up bag. I was originally after Dior Amber Diamond but the MAC counter caught me first. 

To paraphrase a certain 80s chick flick, it had me at first swatch. Superb applies almost like a liquid metal, it is that smooth. In comparison By Candlelight seems almost chalky. It's not super glittery, just a smooth champagne highlight. 

I've applied it on cheekbones with a stippling brush for a gorgeous night look, and don't even get me started on how it looks on the brow bone and cupids bow. Yum.  

MAC claim is lasts 10 hours, but I'm yet to put it to the test. 

So, it's nice to have a little trip down MAC hype memory lane, I think this product might just be worth it...if it was socially acceptable I'd probably coat my entire face in it. 

Available here. 

Laura xx

Like, Love, Loath #1.

I spotted this lovely little idea for a post over on Lauren's blog, and decided to join the gang.

LIKE - MAC Studio Sculpt

I go through phases with MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer. Sometimes I love the coverage it gives, and other times I think it's far too thick. But at the moment, after a concerted effort to use it up, I actually really like using this under the eyes. It's not one of my favourite products, but I can live with it. 

 LOVE - Revlon Colorburst Lipstick in Coral

I have a new found love for rouge, and Revlon Colorburst in Coral has come out on top. I wouldn't actually say this is a coral at all, more bright fire engine red. It's not drying and really goes the distance if you pop a lip liner on underneath. J'adore.

LOATH - Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream

I gave this a whirl last week. It did not impress. 

I don't consider myself to have oily skin, but I was powdering on the hour, every hour when I wore this. I also noticed that it oxidises quite badly and I felt on the wrong side of orange by the end of the day. I'm sorry Maybelline, but this wasn't a hit for me.

What are your likes, loves and loathings this week? 

Laura xx

'No Make Up Make Up'

As the weather gradually warms up, I always find myself drifting away from la slap. 

I rely on a few lifesaving products whenever I want to look polished, but not 'done'. It's the perfect look if you're on holiday, having a relaxed day, or even if you want to pull off the "I'm just this naturally beautiful" look when you're with that special someone. 

I wear this look a lot, It works for me and it's a quick and easy cheat. 

SKIN:

Benefit Porefessional

Origins Vitazing

Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection

BROWS:

HD Brow Palette*

HD Brow Beater*

Spoolie

EYES:

Curl!

Blink+ Go Mascara*

LIPS:

MAC Calm Mode

CHEEKS:

YSL Creme de Blush No2. 

Laura xx

*PR Sample

April Favourites.

This month, I didn't even need to think about what I'd been loving... 

Products: 

Collection 2000 Cream Puff in Powder Puff & Cotton Candy

Murad Skin Perfecting Primer: Dewy Finish*

Origins VitaZing

Monu Rosewood Reviving Mist*

Caudalie Vinosource SOS Thirst Quenching Serum*

MAC Myth Lipstick

YSL Creme de Blush No.2

Figs & Rouge Rambling Rose Lip Balm* 

Although I only realised whilst I was compiling this post, there is a definite theme this month. Skin. To be more specific, fresh healthy skin. I've ditched the foundation in favour of my Origins VitaZing in the daytime, and I just pair it with a bit of my trusty Lasting Perfection Concealer & I've founding pairing it with the Murad Primer is heaven if you want a fresh dewy glow. Obviously, If you want to go minimal on the make up, you need to take care of your bare skin. I've been in love with the Caudalie Vinosource SOS Thirst Quenching Serum, as it's light, smells divine and I really think has made a difference despite only getting it about a week ago. I'm so convinced I placed a Feel Unique order last night! 

Another Glossybox gem I've fallen for is the Monu Rosewood Reviving Mist, it's fresh, clean and really peps up the skin. I was days away from repurchasing my Dermalogica Antioxidant Hydramist, but I'm glad I held off as this is definitely kinder on the pocket. 

One of the few make up items I've been constantly reaching for this month is the YSL Creme de Blush, it's leaves a beautiful fresh rosy glow and smells like roses, it's a winner. I can't mention a YSL product without taking a second to mention you feel like a million dollars when you reach for the expensive gold packaging, divine. 

Finally, I've been loving simple make up with a nude lip. After initially dismissing the Collection 2000 Cream Puff in Powder Puff I have to admit worn over a good lip balm (I'm talking about you Figs & Rouge Rambling Rose) It acts as a brilliant base for taking brighter tones down a notch. I've found mixing Cotton Candy and Powder Puff together is the perfect midtone pink shade. 

Along a similar vein, I've also been using MAC Myth & Revlon Lipgloss in 15 Peach Petal to do a similar job if I fancy something a little less matte. Funnily enough, I have never really worked out how to get the best out of either of these products, but now i've cracked it, It's even more satisfying! 

What are your favourites this month? 

Laura xx

*Products Marked with a * were provided for consideration, but they're favourites for a reason yo! 

Daily Make Up.

Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer in Fair 1. 

MAC Zoom Lash Mascara. 

MeMeMe Seventh Heaven Moisturising Face Base*.

HD Brow Palette in Vamp*. 

MAC Creamblend Blush in So Sweet, So Easy.

Urban Decay Quickie Blush.

Korres Lip Butter in Plum*.

This is what's on my face today...I did it in about 10 minutes flat, hence not actually showing my face today! The Korres Lip Butter really makes the biggest difference, when applied carefully it gives a healthy stain to the lip, almost like I've consumed a whole punnet of raspberries and blackberries, bliss. 

I've cracked out a few old favourites and neglected products, Quickie Blush used to be my staple, but I'm far more inclined to go down a peach/coral route for the cheeks now. Paired with So Sweet, So Easy, it made a nice pink change!

What have you worn on your face today? 

Laura xx


*pr sample 

The Lipstick Project: MAC Creme Cup.

To continue on with the project, I've rediscovered a past staple of mine and an absolute staple. 

Creme Cup is probably my all time favourite nude shade. I've come to realise that super peachy nudes just don't do it for me, and I'm far better suited to pink/neutral based lip product. The lipstick itself is a smooth, soft formula that simply glides on, beware though, as they melt like a bitch. My Creme Cup had a brief encounter with a laptop fan and has been maimed ever since. 

I've been alternating between this and Hue over the past week, expect to see Hue very soon! 

Laura xx

The Lipstick Project: Shy Girl.

In my last post, I talked about trying to get more use out of my lipsticks, and so far, it seems to be working. 

My new/old favourite has definitely been Shy Girl, I wore it to go out on Saturday night and then again on Sunday. It's the perfect understated peachy nude, it's not too offensive and not too orange that it clashes with my skin tone. It's a safe colour, but just adds a little something if you want a chic, polished look.

Shy Girl is the perfect lipstick to ease myself back into lipstick wearing, it's just been too long! 

Laura xx

Everyday Face.

Surprisingly for a Beauty Blogger, on a day to day basis. I don't wear that much make up! 

My daily routine goes a little something like this... 

BASE: Origins Perfect World Moisturiser 

FOUNDATION: NARS Sheer Glow or Illamasqua Skin Base 

BROWS: HD Brow Kit in Vamp 

EYES: Blink+Go Long Lasting Black Mascara 

CHEEKS: NARS Penny Lane 

POWDER: MAC MSF Natural 

LIPS: Bare or Balm. 

BRUSHES: Real Techniques Buffing Brush (Absolute New HG Brush for Liquid Foundation) 

MAC 129 

Angled Eyeshadow Brush 

Spoolie

MAC 130 

Real Techniques Contour Brush 

Of course, I tend to grab different things depending on my mood, but I usually stick to these products.

Little Extras 

If I want to make my make up last longer I'll add a foundation primer like the Arbonne one I'm using up at the moment. 

My top eyeshadow choice on a day to day basis (If I can be bothered) is MAC Jest or Orb, such staples! 

My mascara changes with my mood, I'm trying to use up about 8 at the moment...oops! 

I also use ELF Mineral Blush in Coral & MAC Harmony to sculpt etc. 

What are your everyday staples? 

Laura xx

Make Up Lesson.

Santa obviously knows me well, as he decided to treat me to this little box of tricks this Christmas. 

The little set contains: 

Zoom Lash 

Graphblack Technakohl

212 SE

275SE

Carbon Eyeshadow

Ambience Eyeshadow

Bisque Eyeshadow 

I haven't indulged in anything new from MAC in months, so it was a lovely treat to play with some bits and bobs. 

The brushes excited me most as I am a brush fiend. They'll be perfect for travelling and I don't own either of these or anything similar. 

As far as the eyeshadows go, they're all no-brainer shades. Not exactly pigmented, but decent matte shades that will definitely get used. As for Graphblack, you can't go wrong with black eyeliner!

However, the winner in this box is Zoom Lash. 

I've never touched MAC mascara, as they never seem to get good press. But I'm actually really loving it. If you like the longer, separated lash look. Give this a go. It's becoming one of my new favourites. 

I'm going to attempt to give this little lesson a go in the next week on video...so watch out for that! 

Laura xxx

The Fail-safe.

In an ideal world, I'd create some sort of inventive and interesting look to wear everyday. Yet as we all know too well, life just gets in the way! Recently, I've fell into a very lazy, yet pleasant routine. 

It's just one paint pot, and one eyeshadow. You can't get any easier, and this my friends is why it's a fail-safe...

The two products in question are MAC's Paint Pot in Bare Study & MAC Jest Eyeshadow. 

Both greatly loved, and never let you down. 

It really is a case of slapping Bare Study over the lid, then pressing Jest over the top. It pretty much doesn't even warrant an explanation, you could probably do it in the dark. 

What's your fail-safe eye combination, I'd love to know! 

Laura xx