Perfect Pastels | Easter Edition

Nothing epitomises Easter more than the fun colours that accompany the holiday. As its too early for an Egg Hunt, I decided to hunt for a few on trend pieces. You can pretty much find anything pastel in regards to fashion: clothing, accessories, make up and hair. I believe that each one of these pastel picks, will add a touch of life to any outfit and have you Pretty In Pastel in no time. Whether or not it's making the statement with the clothing or the accessories. Pastel clothing is very complimenting, especially if you have a good old tan to go along with it. These items will sure spice up a basic outfit for those of you looking for some inspo. 

1. Silver Lace Embellished Top (LE) - Topshop £38

2. River Island Purple Box Clutch - Asos £30

3. Shelly's London Mint Blue Lace Up Ankle Boots - Asos £60

4. Topshop Round Sunflower Sunglasses - Topshop £20

5. Giggle Geek Yellow Shoes - Topshop £28

6. Polkadot Shift Dress - So In Fashion £25

7. Mint Satchel - Asos £30

8. Pink Teardrop Stone Drop Earrings - Topshop £10

9. Bailey Pale Blue Heeled Pumps - KG by Kurt Geiger £95

10. Crepe Cigarette Trousers - Topshop £40 

As you can see Topshop and Asos have been big features in this collage. They are sources who I found to mostly accomodate for the pastel trend. River Island and So In Fashion also have a few bargains for pastel pieces. 

The Silver Lace Embellishment Top really caught my eye due to the leaf and flower embellishment design to promote the yellow canvas. This would work well styling it with a white midi prom skirt and the Giggle Geek Shoes (a very greese-esque style). This Purple Box Clutch is the most beautiful shade of purple and created in a classic box shape. This would be perfect to accessorise a basic white shift dress or even the Peach Cigarette Trousers if you are daring enough to colour block. Platform trainers have been quite popular recently and these Mint Ankleboots look really edgy with the boot and chunky heel design. They can be dressed up with a printed dress or down with jeans or shorts (which will be very popular in summer). Aviators move over, circle lens sunglasses are the ones to go for. These Round Sunflower Glasses from Topshop are so fashionable. It happens to be that the sandals my mum would have styled me in my toddler years are back. I am crushing over these chic Giggle Geek Shoes. The innocence pours out of them. 'So In Fashion' are retailing this pretty Shift Dress in Polkadot Pink, it's perfect for the girly girls out there. A statement satchel can brighten up anyones wardrobe and this Mint Green Bag from Asos is no exception. The scallop bar detail on it is also a cut that I have been seeing a lot of lately. I couldn't resist these Teardrop Earrings from Topshop, plus at £10 they are a steal. I am loving statement earrings at the moment. Those KG Pale Blue Pumps are just stunning and a must have. I am partial to a pair of Kurt Geigers and would die to have these in my shoe collection. They ooze class and the style of them is timeless. Cigarette Trousers are everywhere right now and looking at these ones from Topshop I know why. They appear so modern and I bet they would make me feel all dressed up like a proper LADY! 

I would love to know if you have your eye on anything pastel for this season? 

ttyl, 

The Month Of March | Favourites

I am waving goodbye to March and welcoming April with open arms. April for me means another birthday and this year it will be extra special as my mum and her husband are visiting my boyfriend and I in Australia. We haven't seen them in what feels like an age, but its just been over 6 months. As Autumn has just crept up on us, most of my favourite items of the month have been on account of the hot weather.

Here are a few of the items that have made the cut this month.

Le Tan Coconut Lotion - SPF 15

Seen as I've had the opportunity to enjoy sunbathing this March, this sun tan lotion has been my go to! I just love applying this lotion due to its coconut scent. It smells divine, moisturises the skin, whilst most importantly protecting me from the sun. It's also non greasy and the brand are against testing on animals.

Victoria's Secret Sheer Love Fragrance Mist

I made this purchase a few months ago and I feel like I've been inclined to choose a mist over a heavy perfume lately. This bottle describes it as "white cotton and pink lily" with aloe vera and chamomile infused. t's very fresh and feminine.

Swatches: Left to Right
MAC Pink Pearl Pop, NYX Istanbul, Milani Luminoso,
MAC Pink Cult, NYX Glam Nude.

Milani Blush in 05 Luminoso

Luminoso is a lovely warm coral shade with fine gold shimmers. As most of my blushes are matte finishes, I love wearing this blush on days that I want a glowy look. As this blush is baked, it is highly pigmented and can look chunky if I apply too much.

MAC Blush in Pink Cult

Pink Cult is a cool toned pink and has a matte finish. I feel like this blush is under-rates. It id the most natural blush and gives a. 'flushed' impression. I have been reaching for this on the days that I wear very little make up. 

NYX Glam Liner in Glam Nude

Glam Nude is definitely not a yellow toned gold. There is a hint of rose glld in there so it's very flattering. I have turned to this when I've been bored of a standard black liquid liner.

MAC Lipstick in Pink Pearl Pop

Pink Pearl Pop is a girly popping pink shade as the name suggests. As it is a cremesheen formula, it moisturises well. This lippy comes in handy for beach days when my lips need a slight wash of colour.

NYX Soft Matte Lip Creme in Istanbul

Istanbul is a dusky, natural pink shade. Although, they can be a wee bit drying on my lips, I love the finish of them. They apply so smoothe and silky and dry as a matte finish. I've nearly ran out of this shade and will definitely repurchase it.

The Body Shop Lip Butter

How adorable is this little miniature pot? I've been carrying this around with me all month and cannot get enough of the cocoa butter scent. 

Benefit The Porefessional

Yes really, this product again! I am a fan of the formula and the feeling of it on my face is silky smoothe. I just finished this tube up, so decided to stick it in my faves. It definitely does the job, although I'm going to look into testing some alternatives.

Sunset Bikini from Cotton On

I have really gotten the use out of this bikini this month. It's very comfortable and the bikini top holds everything in! I feel good in it and I adore the print.

My favourite song of the month has to be Chris Brown ft Tyga & Lil Wayne - Loyal. Don't get me started on the video either, I won't stop. It's so good to see him dancing again! 

My favourite blogger of the month has to be The Sunday Girl. Her posts are always so informative and helpful and I'm still working my way through all of her amazing posts.

I'd love to know if you have been loving any of these products this month :)

TTYL!

Review | LUSH Mask Of Magnaminty

I have just recently caught the Lush bug. Quite dangerously at that - as every time I approach one of their stores, I drag myself away to ensure no more damage can be done to my purse. They offer various products ranging from bath products to make up. About two months ago, I noticed that my forehead had broken out in small bumps. This was a big change in my skin as I've been fortunate enough never to suffer from acne or any skin issues (a blemish on my chin area would have been my biggest problem). This left me totally baffled as I had no idea where to even look for products to treat this. My skin type had also vastly changed from dry to having an unwanted oily T zone. I put this down to the change in climate after recently travelling to Australia. These issues led me to the light - The Mask Of Magnaminty. About three months ago I made the purchase and haven't looked back. This little tub of genuis has tackle my skin issues. 

Lush describe it as "A multi purpose mask with a mixture of gentle yet effective ingredients to clean, calm and clear the skin."

What you need to know.

The mask is quite thick and gritty due to evening primrose seeds and aduki beans which when removing the mask will gently scrub and exfoliate your skin. The honey and vanilla ingredients will pack moisture into the skin and prevent dehydration (woop). The peppermint oil included in the mask can soothe any skin irritation or issues. The scent is evident - peppermint. It freshens and gives a tingle to the skin (although it could verge on painful, you can really feel the cooling power working). 

What do I think?

I picked up the 125g tub as I didn't want to buy the full size tub to then dislike the mask and waste a lot of product. I use it once every two weeks and I still have a good amount of product left. This is because I tend to use it on my problematic areas (forehead and chin) rather than do a full face. I apply the product with my fingers and leave it on for approximately 15 minutes. I haven't used it on my back as the mask suggests. This mask pulls the impurities from beneathe my skins surface and relieves my blocked pores and congestion. After using this mask, each time I notice how clear and radiant my skin looks. It calms my breakouts and gives me efficient results. My verdict gives this mask a 9 out of 10 in terms of quality and results. The price wasn't that appealing though, retailing for $16.95. 

You can pick up The MOM mask here on the Australia site, although it's currently sold out at the moment. Keep an eye out for it coming back in stock! You can also pick up The MOM mask here if you are in the UK! 

I would love to get some other recommendations for Lush face masks! Whats your favourite? 

TTYL! 

FOTD | Featuring The Naked 3

I wanted to share a Face Of The Day that I wore a couple of Saturdays ago for a night at the lovely Darling Harbour and dinner at the Hardrock Cafe. I haven't been all dolled up in a while and the heat here in Australia makes any effort with hair and make up a complete waste of time. Picture a melting face and frizzy hair - not attractive! But against all odds I decided to try and make it work for a night out in the City. 

The Naked 3 palette - Shades used are marked with a heart.

The infamous Candy Yum-Yum by MAC

As it was still technically Summer, I felt like I would create a favourite combo of mine - Rose gold eyes and Hot pink lips. I prefer to be bold and bright with my lips whilst keeping my eyes simple or neutral. I think this look complimented my dress of choice: a white dress with floral print. I was literally squeezing every last drop of summer that I could as you can see.

Product Details:

Base

Benefit Porefessional

L'Oreal True Match Foundation in Rose Beige

Benefit Hoola

Milani  05 Luminoso Blush

Benefit High Beam

Eyes

MUA eyeshadow in shade 19 for brows

Urban Decay Primer Potion

Shade 'Nooner' from the Naked 3 - Crease & Inner corner

Shade 'Trick' from the Naked 3 - Centre (using MAC Fix+ on brush to intensify shimmer)

Shade 'Darkside' from the Naked 3 - Outter Corner

Shade 'Strange' from the Naked 3 - Brow bone.

Lips

MAC's Candy Yum Yum.

I hope you all have a lovely day, TTYL!

Review | COVERGIRL Lash Blast Volume Mascara

As the UK has been neglected of having the pleasure of retailing Covergirl, I instantly thought about all of the brands I would be able to try when arriving in Australia (including Covergirl). It was even difficult to purchase online, whilst I was trying to pretend the cost of shipping didn't bother me. I purchased this mascara in Big W, after much deliberation on which Covergirl mascara to scoop under my wing as they do have a few options. I passed on the waterproof version of lashblast, as I have heard that even the strongest of make up removers wouldn't budge that bad boy. With that being said, I decided on Lash Blast Volume in Black.

First of all, the tube has a larger width than that of the 'norm'. This made it quite difficult to grip the wand whilst applying the mascara. The bright neon orange colouring is fun and different. The brush applicator is plastic, which is my preference over the other bristle brushes. This seperates the lashes as the plastic bristles are more stern. Adding volume is simply done by how thick the applicator has been created. It is able to pack on the formula without making them look too clumpy. The formula is the perfect combination of lengthening and volumising. I am a curler of the lashes - so mascara's that are too heavy are not a good time for me. I can wear this mascara for 4-5 hours without needing to re-curl. I am a HUGE L'oreal Telescopic mascara fan, and I think the results both mascara's give are very similar. Overall, I am very happy with this purchase and will be re-purchasing soon!

Pros: 

• It does what it says on the tin - adding volume to your lashes.
• The formula isn't too heavy considering it's a volumising mascara meaning it doesn't weigh down the lashes.
• I haven't experienced any smudging, (although I don't normally have this problem).

Cons: 

• The size of the packaging? Only because I prefer a smaller wand to turn whilst applying.
• If you're not a fan of the 'clumpy' lash look, then stick to 1 or 2 coats. Any more than that will pack on too much formula for your liking. I however don't mind this look.

If you're interested in testing out Covergirl make up or specifically their mascara's but live in the UK, I suggest browsing on Ebay and Amazon. East End Cosmetics sell a few Covergirl products including: Lashblast Length, Fantastic lash high volume and Lastexact mascara's too. You can visit their website here. 

Tag | The Beauty Tag.

I am one of those people who loves to stumble across tags. Whether it be on Youtube or Blogs. I think it's the most informative and straight to the point way of gaining a perspective on a persons style and what interests them. I read this tag on Sailboat's page. You can go have a nosey at her take on The Beauty Tag here. I'm unsure if it has been around for a while, but it seems like a fun one to do and you may get to know my beauty style. Lets do this!

Q1) Do you remember your first make up item?

I'm pretty positive that my first purchase and make up items were two of the Barry M dazzle dusts. When I was younger I would compete at freestyle dancing competitions, so these were bought for that. 

Photo courtesy of: BarryM.com

Q2) What kind of coverage do you prefer for your foundation?

Medium coverage. I don't like anything too heavy, I like to let my skin breathe. I also wear my Maybelline BB cream for a light coverage on a day to day basis.

Q3) Favourite High End brand?

Most people wouldn't categorise MAC as high end. But in terms of price and quality, I would say MAC is my favourite.

Q4) Favourite drug store/high street brand?

L'oreal, no hesitation! I have rarely been disappointed with L'oreal products. True Match foundation and Telescopic mascara in Carbon Black are two staples in my make up bag.

Q5) What cosmetic brand have you always wanted to try but still haven't?

Illamasqua. I know, I've been living under a rock. I am yet to get my hands on the latest craze. In the beginning, there were no stores close for me to test their products. I'm not one to buy before I try by shopping online either. Now they have a store in Glasgow, its a MUST that I check it out when I return home from my travels. 

Q6) Do you wear fake lashes?

I do wear falsies only if I'm going on a night out or if its a special occasion. I always opt for the natural ones though. I feel like they complete an eyelook.

Q7) Is there any kind of make up you can't leave the house without? 

On a day to day basis- lipbalm (chapped lips problems). If I have to look more presentable, I'll grab some mascara and concealer. 

Q8) What is your most cherished beauty product? 

Its a make up tool for me. My Sigma E75 Angled Brow brush. This thing makes my brow routine quicker and has them looking so slick when using powder.

Q9) How often do you shop for make up? Do you pick out a lot of products at a time? 

I only shop for make up when I need to repurchase or when I tell myself that I need something. I try to limit my make up buys to two or three items at a time.

Q10) Do you have a 'beauty budget'?

I don't set myself a budget, I aim to only purchase things I know I'll get the use out of so that keeps spending at a minimum. Although, I am guilty of going all-out on the beauty front when its time to spend birthday or christmas pennies.

Q11) What type of product do you buy the most?

Lippies. I convince myself that I need them all, even when I have something of a similar shade. Ooops, straight into the basket it goes.

Q12) Do you have a favourite place to shop for make up? 

I prefer Boots and Superdrug to Debenhams and House of Fraser, its a little less overwhelming. Shopping on online websites that sell American brands is also a favourite of mine.

Q13) If you could only choose one brand, which brand would you choose?

Would I sound generic by saying MAC Cosmetics? They cover pretty much everything you would need: skin care, base, eyeshadow, lipsticks and my weakness- brushes. 

Q14) Which brand has the best packaging?

In my opinion, YSL steals the show. Instead of going down the classic black packaging route, the gold is a winner. It looks very glamourous and luxe. 

Photo courtesy of: yslbeauty.co.uk

Q15) Which celebrity always has great make up?

I love the look of Michelle Keegans make up. It's always simple yet classic. Very timeless. She's a natural beauty who needs very little.

Photo courtesy of: Heatworld.com

Q16) Which do you apply first, concealer or foundation?

I love to highlight with my concealer too. To do that I apply foundation first, then use a concealer that is about 3 shades lighter to achieve that effect.

Q17) Do you like multifunctional products? Like lip and cheek stains?

I am partial to a lip stain but wouldn't use it on my cheeks. In terms of highlighting, if an eyeshadow is a pearlescent champagne of gold shimmer shade that would go well, I may use it to highlight and vise versa. 

Q18) Do you apply your foundation with a brush, sponge or fingers?

I apply my foundation with my Real Techniques Buffer brush or Sigma F88 Angled Kabuki brush. Those brushes make it a breeze. 

Q19) Which foundation do you use the most?

It would have to be L'oreal True Match in the shade R3.C3 Rose Beige. It's a little too dark for me at the moment as I'm on the pale side. The foundation blends well and lasts for approx 6 hours before it needs touched up.

Q20) Do you use a make up base or primer for the eyes?

I use MAC paintpot in Soft Ochre or the original primer potion from Urban Decay. Especially if I'm using cream shadows as my eyes are prone to creasing.

And thats a wrap :)

 

From Scotland To Australia

As I am currently living in the Southern Hemisphere and playing the real life Dora the Explorer Down Under in Australia, I thought I would kick start a new adventure... Blogging. I have been obsessing over reading blogs for quite some time and have been interested in starting my very own. As I made the 2014 New Years resolution to say 'Yes' more, I thought to myself... Is this the year I transform from Blog Reader to Blogger? 'YES'. Of course, I will still spend hours upon hours indulging into other blogs and taking beauty/lifestyle/fashion recommendations on board as this is how I like to spend my free time. But, I would like to give others a wee insight to what I get up to and what interests me day in day out (if anyone out there will listen to me rant).

Being away from home comes with the down fall of missing family and friends. I also view this as a way for those people to catch up on the exciting things that Australia has to offer a small town girl. This post will just contain a few photographs of the journey so far (Adelaide and Sydney- where I am situated currently). The pictures aren't of the best quality as they are from my phone. I know I should have brought my DSLR camera with me, right? Although, it's a battery operated one so it's a total nightmare.

The River Torrens, Adelaide. Lovely view whilst on an afternoon jog.

Glenelg Beach, Adelaide.

 

An icon of mine who always looks flawless: Khloe Kardashian. Her appearance in Parramatta had me starstruck, we all love a Kardashian.

Top tourist attractions: Sydney Opera House and The Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Catching some rays at Bondi Beach.

Darling Harbour Fireworks.

As I don't want this post to be forever long and pic heavy (too late!), I will finish off here and hopefully leave you keen beans wanting more? Remember that it's never too late to do something you have always wanted to do... Start today!