Daily Makeup Brushes

The key to fabulous makeup is great brushes. I am disgusted with the relationship that I had with my brushes about 5 years ago. Washing them about once every 3 months. Ew, I know. I'm surprised my skin has made it out alive. Now, I ensure that I take care of my brushes as they are investment. I have a good few (slight understatement) and my daily makeup brushes are a little different to my going out/event brushes. The difference in scale being from a selection of approx 7 (daily) to 18 (evening). Apologies that a couple of the brushes are dirty, I photographed this after I applied my makeup today. Oops.

From Left - Right

Sigma F88 Angled Kabuki Brush

This brush is the ultimate star of applying and buffing in foundation. It is densely packed with bristles and so soft. The angled design allows me to buff around the nose and smaller areas. I love sharpening my eye makeup with the edge on it aswell. Due to the size, I can whizz through a quick makeup application in the morning. 

Real Techniques Pointed Foundation Brush

I personally use this brush to applying and blend out my concealer and/or highlighting. Unless you have the face size of a 4 year old, I can't see it being big enough for foundation.

Mac 168 Angled Brush

I get multi uses out of this one. Mostly, I will use it for applying contour and chissling my cheeks but it can also be used for blush (I switch it up sometimes).

Mac 129 Blush Brush

I have been loving this lately for applying a wash of blush to my cheeks. When I bought it, I struggled at first to use a brush this big for blush. But with a light hand it blends beautifully. It can also be used for setting powder or bronzing.

Real Techniques Contour Brush

I love the tapered shape of this brush and I love using it to highlight my cheekbones and down the nose. I have used it to contour in the past but find it a little thin.

Sigma F50 Duo Fibre Brush

A MUST HAVE. Duo fibre brushes are a combination of natural bristles and goat hair. They can be used with cream, liquid or powder products (triple win). I use this brush to blend everything out after my base is applied. Its also great for a super quick application of foundation.

Elf Spoolie Brush

Here we have a boring spoolie brush. I give my brows a brush through before applying some powder. Tame those brows girl! 

Sigma E65 Small Angle Brush 

Luuuurv this wee brush. Its so thin, dense and precise that it allows me to create crisp lines and fill in my brows perfectly.


ttyl,

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Casual Picks SS14 | Ebay Edit

Some people tend to stay away from Ebay when it comes to shopping online. They think that it is filled with people selling used and practically old items, when that's not the case. There are some great businesses/websites that go via Ebay to sell their products/goods to buyers. For me, I'm always on the Fashion listings as you can grab clothing and accessories at unbeatable prices.

I will be showcasing my casual picks of the moment that will maybe give you some style inspiration. It may also motivate you to browse a site that has everything you could possibly desire. Simple and sometimes cheaper than high street shopping! Here are some Ebay gems that I have discovered that tickle my fancy.

  Dogtooth Bralet £6.99 Acid Wash High Waisted Shorts £14.99 Metallic Platform Sandals £19.99 Statement Necklace £10.79 Messenger Satchel £10.99 Fringe Kimono £9.99 9 Piece Ring Stack £1.74 Round Hippy Mirror Sunnies £4.99

  ttyl,

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Current Top 5 Lipsticks

I do love a good lippy. They are probably my second favourite beauty product (a close second to highlighters). I have a range of different brands and colours in my collection, although you'll mostly see me sporting a bold lip.

Its Autumn in Australia, but the hot weather makes it feel like summer to me. So, I seem to have a range of shades in my current favourite lipsticks at the moment. 

01. MAC Pink Nouveau (Finish - Satin).

A mid toned rose pink. I have returned to Pink Nouveau after having a slight love affair with my Candy Yum Yum. Pink Noveau is easy to wear due to its satin finish, pigmented formula and pretty shade. Its longevity is average.

02. YSL Rouge Volupte Shine in Shade 02 (Finish - Glossy Sheen).

Pourpre Intouchable is a berry brown shade. I love this as it's an unusual colour in comparison to what lip shades I usually stick to. It glides on effortlessly and feels silky smooth on the lips.

03. MAC Pink Pearl Pop (Finish - Cremesheen).

A popping coral pink. This beautiful shade is sheer enough to be natural looking - just adding a hint of colour. Cremesheens are a delight to apply and wear. The formula is amazing and its the most prettiest pink of all.

04. Wet N Wild 24 Carrot Gold (Finish - Matte).

A neon orange shade. I have a review on this lipstick that you can view - here. Although the formula isn't too creamy, I love throwing on this colour with a smokey brown and gold eye. It's long lasting (about 4 hours wear) so fab for summer nights. 

05. Lime Crime Great Pink Planet (Finish - I would say its Amplified?).

A candy floss pink with a neon undertone. Last but not least, my current ultimate shade. As it's a blue toned pink, it doesn't alter your teeth colour (yey!) and is that creamy, pigmented and silky - its crazy! Inthefrow rocks a shade very similar to Great Pink Planet, maybe it is this one? 

Have you been loving any of these pretty shades too lately? 

ttyl,

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Favourite MAC Eyeshadow Duo | Jest & Haux

I only have a few MAC eyeshadows in my collection as I am more of a palette buyer as opposed to singular shadows. I'm also not too adventurous when applying my eye makeup as I prefer a bold lip accompanied with a simplistic eye. So you could say that most of my eyeshadows are pretty much neutral.

Todays post will be my favourite 2 MAC eyeshadows that I have inserted into this x2 pan palette. They are in my favourite shades - Jest and Haux. This x2 palette is great for carrying in your makeup bag, on a night out and also travelling. You can also swap and change the shades for your preferred eyeshadows of the moment.

Jest and Haux With Flash / Without Flash

JEST (Finish - Frost)

A soft pink shade with shimmers. Super creamy and can be used with Fix + to amplify the shimmer. I bought this as it compliments those of warm complextions like myself. Its a neutral highlight shade that I love highlighting my inner tear duct with.

HAUX (Finish - Satin)

A red toned brown. Versatile to be used with many other shades and is easy to blend. This shade enhances my blue eyes and looks even more amazing on green eyes. If you find that cool browns do not suit you, check out Haux as its not as dull.

Example of JEST all over lid and HAUX in the crease and outer third

I use this duo in a few different ways - Jest in the inner corner and Haux all over the lid for a smokey night time eye OR Jest all over the lid and using Haux just through the crease for a simple daily look.

 

You can find these shades on the MAC website here, or any MAC retailers! 
ttyl,

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Bikini Bombshells

As I have been ever so lucky to escape a miserable British winter and instead enjoy a hot Aussie one, I have had my fair share of beach days lately. Having said that, I will be home and back in Scotland for Summer 2014 and I very much doubt that I will be going anywhere with hot weather. Boo! So, no more bikini buying for a wee while, but that doesn't stop a girl from looking. Online stores have had me green eyed with jealously by the gorgeous new styles and creations of this years holiday collections on super hot models. Let me show you just what I mean...



White Bandeau / White Bottoms - River Island
Lips Top / Lips High Waist Bottoms - River Island
Palm Print Swimsuit -Topshop
Tropical Bikini Set - Topshop
Monochrome Top / Bottoms - River Island



 

 

I love these high waist bikini bottoms, they are flattering on curves and make your waist appear smaller! Fun prints always pack a punch and make your summer wardrobe more exciting. I can see this palm print one piece being popular for pool parties.

One Pieces

White Suit - Missguided
Monochrome Halter Plunge - Asos
Black Cut Out - Asos

 

The classic black or white swimsuit... Or both black and white if you fancy it? Missguided are killing it with their all in one swim wear, I just hope that the material is of good, thick quality to avoid any see-through-ness. How stylish is this deep V monochrome suit from Asos? I'm in love. Lastly we have this black cut out swimsuit from Asos. Which is perfect for you if you want something practical but fashionable. All three pieces are designed with a plunging neckline and will have you looking fabulous this summer! 

Florals

Multicolour Set - Boohoo
Stone Blue Top / Bottoms - Urban Outfitters
Ribbed Top / Bottoms  - H&M

 

The flirty florals. I think that florals are fashionable in any season. But you cannot pack a suitcase for a summer holiday and leave a floral bikini behind. Boohoo have this multi colour bandeau twist bikini, which is guaranteed to make your tan pop. Next we have Urban Outfitters with this beauty of a stone wash blue with floral design. Perfect for sporty shapes! H&M has always been a favourite of mine for a holiday shopping spree and this ribbed floral bandeau bikini is so on point.

 

Let me know if you happen to pick up any of these pieces! 

ttyl,
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Elf Gotta Glow “Blush” | Review

Knowing that highlighters are hard to come by on the high street in drug stores, I thought I would share my thoughts with you on this little treasure from Elf. I know that it is only available online within the UK but the price categorises it in the high street/drug store spectrum (in my mind anyway). Elf promotes this product as a blush, despite buyers purchasing it to use as a highlight shade. Maybe it could be mixed with a blush to create a shimmery blush? I have yet to work that one out.

After falling in love with Nars' Albatross, but refusing to pay the expense, I heard that Elf's Gotta Glow was an exact dupe. At the tempting price, it would be silly not to order it. When it arrived, I instantly noticed the Nars packaging replica, although the feel wasn't as rubbery. The 'blush' is homed in a sleek black case with a small mirror inside. The highlight has 'Elf' imprinted on it and is so very pretty.

The shade is a gold toned, champagne shade with fine glitters and shimmers. I am a sucker for anything sparkly and was hopeful that it would show up just as pigmented as it appears in the pan. It did just that. I feel like this would compliment all skin tones as its not too warm or cool hued. I have noticed that it works best when used on my cheek bones and on my brow bone. Due to the consistency being a little chunky, I wouldn't recommend using it to highlight other areas of the face.

Overall, its of excellent quality, a beautiful luminous shade and easy on the purse!

You can purchase this product from the UK Elf site - Eyes Lips Face and also on Ebay.

ttyl,

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Wearing | Rebel

Navy Top - Similar
Yellow Bandeau - River Island (Old)
Joni Jeans // DIY - Topshop
Cut Out Boots - Similar
Lion Head Necklace - Similar
Watch - Michael Kors
Grey Cardi - Similar
Bag - Similar
Lipstick - MAC Rebel

I was hesitant on whether or not to upload this OOTD as most of the items I am wearing I have purchased in Australia. But I thought I would show you all and include some alternatives to the pieces I am wearing. The weather was quite dull today, so it's the first time in a while I've gotten to throw on some jeans and boots. Hope you all like!

ttyl,

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Style Steal | Jessica Wright

Mint Jumpsuit - With Love Jess
Nude Platforms - Christian Louboutin

Most girls fan girl over Mr Mark Wright, however I find myself crushing over his sister, Jess Wright's style. How fresh and stylish is this mint jumpsuit? Stunning, right? Jess epitomises style and sophistication whilst keeping it fun and fabulous. She always dresses with class and lucky for us - her online store 'With Love, Jessica' allows us to browse and purchase exactly what she struts. Jess' collection carries a wide range of the latest trends and at affordable prices. Most of her dresses are created in a midi style which is the perfect length for all ages. What more can you want? I have chosen a few ensembles that I think will hang beautifully in everyones wardrobe and for various occasions.

Shopping & Lunch Date

Flower Jumpsuit - With Love Jess
Black Heels - Similar
Handbag - Louis Vuitton Neverfull

Summer Holiday 

Flower Power Shift - With Love Jess

Girls Night Out

Chiffon Playsuit - Rare London
Nude Heels - Similar
Clutch Bag - Similar

Wedding Reception

Midi Dress - Lipstick Boutique
Nude Heels - Similar

Birthday Celebrations/Races

Midi Dress - Lipstick Boutique 
Nude Patent Platforms - Similar

Date Night

Jacket - Lipstick Boutique
White Cami - With Love Jessica
Skort - Lipstick Boutique
Bag - Similar
Necklace - Similar

You can find more of Miss Wright's collection on With Love Jessica, Lipsy and Lipstick Boutique.

ttyl,

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How To | Achieve Fuller Lips

Some of us aren't blessed with full and plump lips. But luckily enough, there are easy tips and tricks (non surgical ways may I add - yay) to give them that little oomph that they need if you aren't satisfied with them.

The Lip Eraser 

A lip eraser or concealer can mute out the natural lip line and therefore allowing you to over draw the line of your lips without it being noticable.

The Lipliner

Your best friend when it comes to creating a fuller lip look. Drawing slightly above (the top lip) and below (the bottom

lip) will create the illusion of larger lips. Emphasis on 'slightly', as over doing it will over step the fish look. 

The Highlighter

Using a satin or fine shimmered highlighter will enhance the cupids bow of your lips (Middle region of the lips, under your nose) giving your top lip the desired pouty look.

The Contour

Contouring underneath your bottom lip with a contour/bronzer 1-2 shades darker than your skin tone will create a natural shadow, therefore boosting your bottom lip.

The Gloss

Placing some lip gloss in the centre of the lips and leave out the edges, will create that desired plump look and attract the light to them.

Natural Lips | With Liner & Lipstick | With Highlight, Contour & Gloss

PRODUCTS USED:
Rimmel Wake Me Up Concealer
Bourjois Lip Pencil #20
MAC Ruby Woo
L'Oreal Glam Bronze Duo
Benefit Dandelion Lip Gloss

You can use these tips individually if you are seeking a quick and simple boost, or all together to achieve a full on lip makeover (no expensive cost or needles required). 

ttyl,

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MAC Pro Longwear Concealer | Review

MAC Pro Longwear Concealer in NW15

This product was purchased after many beauty guru's and bloggers could not rave more about it. The recommendations of MAC's Pro Longwear Concealer were through the roof with heaps of beauty lovers classing it as their holy grail concealer. My first impression of this product however, wasn't a positive one. 

The reviews stated that this concealer: barely ever creases under the eyes, covers dark circles, has long lasting power, a flawless formula and that it cannot be faulted. Previously, I have struggled with concealers settling into fine lines and creasing on me. Therefore, I finally felt like I could rely on Pro Longwear to banish my creasing issues ha! Alas, I was wrong. I continued to try and work with it. Always priming before concealing and setting it with a powder afterwards. I applied it with a flat concealer brush and my fingers. Nothing changed. The formula also feels very sticky and appears to seperate despite its thick base.

Apologies for the negative notes, but I had high expectations for this product. Maybe I got given a bad batch or our relationship just wasn't meant to be. Who knows. But, I will remain hopeful and continue to try and make it work for me as it is a lot of product to waste. 

Do you have any recommendations of any concealers that could work for my awful creasing eyes? 

ttyl,

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Trending: Co-Ordinate's

I highly doubt that I have been the only one crushing on the co-ords trend currently taking its spot in the world of fashion. They are delivered in many styles and by many brands, spotted on cat walks and our high street's. I personally prefer matching seperate items in an outfit over a dress. It's a little bit more creative. Therefore I thought I would put together this post to showcase some of my favourite's that I have had my eye on. Included will be a variety of various styles so there's bound to be something for everyone. I have quite a few to display but have shortlisted it to my top 15!

The A line & Flair Skirts

Square Print Peplum Top £22 | Square Print Peplum Skirt £18 - Rare London

Dog Tooth Lilac A-line Skirt £14.99 - Missguided

Dog Tooth Lilac Crop Top £9.99 - Missguided

Woven Checked Box Top £12 | Woven Checked Plaited Skirt £15 - Boohoo

This Square Print in Monochrome outfit from Rare London is on trend and easy to accessorise. I have included this pretty pair of Dog Tooth Lilac Set that is easy to experiment with and mix and match with other pieces.

The Midi Skirt and Trouser

Floral Bandeau £12 | Floral Midi Skirt £15 - Boohoo

Green Craze Crop £21 | Green Craze Tube Skirt £19.60 - Stay Sick

Retro Vibes Tie Neck Crop £28.99 | Printed Joggers £31.99 - Stay Sick

High Neck Crop Top £14.99 | Curve Hem Midi Skirt £14.99 - Missguided

Two pieces are so effortless to wear but make a big statement. As you can see, you can go for a busy print if you want to keep it fun and upbeat or simple with a neutral colour such as this elegant High Neck Crop & Curve Hem Midi from Missguided.

The Shorts & Skorts

Black Paisley Embossed Skort £22 | Spaghetti Crop Top £26 - Oh My Love

Brocade Print High Neck Crop £19.99 | Shorts (Not in stock) - Missguided

Sequin Box Top £35 | High Waist Sequin Shorts £35 - Oh My Love 

I just had to feature this Brocade Print Blue Set despite that the shorts currently sold out. The straight cut edges create a more classic, defined look for a formal event. The Sequin Box Top & Shorts are definitely my favourite co-ordinates. They look so edgy and quirky paired together and would also work well with alternatives.

The Bodycon Skirts

Contrast Mini Skirt £12 | Panel Shell Top £15 - Boohoo

Pink Dogtooth Skirt £14.99 | Pink Dogtooth Crop Top £14.99 - Missguided 

Paint Mark Tube Skirt £22 | Paint Mark Crop £18 - Motel Rocks

Cable Quilted Sweat £15 | Cable Quilted Skirt £12 - Boohoo

I am not usually a fan of bodycon skirts, but I couldn't resist these cute pieces. They are also in two superior trends at the moment - Pastel and Monocrome. Spaghetti straps have also been making an appearance on a few of the tops I have chosen. As well as aysemmetric skirts which are unusual and really popular.

Have you been loving any co-ordinate pieces lately?

ttyl,

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Zig Zag

I have been experimenting with some hair styles lately and this has been my ultimate fave (Excuse the crazy baby hairs). When I'm in a rush and have no other option but to leave my hair in its natural mess, I style my shed in this zig zag pattern. It's a little different than my normal middle shed and creates that effortless, boho chic look.

I haven't (or my hairdresser hasn't) touched my hair colour in months. I decided that I just wasn't happy with the condition and length of my hair after being basically a white/ashy blonde colour for 2 years. My natural colour is a medium brown although it seems to be growing in darker than normal. Now, I am just letting it grow out and hopefully I will have my lucious locks back soon! 

To achieve this simple look, use a tail comb to seperate the hair and draw a zig zag shape starting from the front of the hair line and move backwards.

Do you like this pattern? Leave recommendations of some other hair styles you think I would like! 

ttyl,

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