April Favourites

This Month I have tried a number of products; here are my favourites, which are all under a tenner!

1. GARNIER'S 'SUMMER BODY' GRADUAL TAN MOISTURISER 

I have tried every single gradual tan moisturiser made, and this one is by far my favourite. It's easy to apply, and doesn't cause any streaks! The best part is the smell, as it has a hint of apricot. It's not only a great moisturiser, but also creates a great tan from the first use. It is currently on promotion for €5 at Boots!

2. PRO:VOKE 'TOUCH OF SILVER' SHAMPOO

Okay so this is really only for the blonde girls. I started using this when I had really light blonde hair during the summer as it was great for keeping that 'white' tone. However, I've started using it again as my hair has started to get quite brassy, which is exactly what this product is for! It may say that it's for white, grey and platinum blonde hair, but if you have any shade of blonde it works just the same! It's only €4 at Boots, which is good seeing as you only use it once- twice a week depending on how blonde you're hair is. (I only use it once a week.) It completely changes the tone of your hair from the first wash - I've been getting so many people asking if I have dyed my hair!

3. MAYBELLINE'S 'BROW DRAMA' BROW MASCARA

For ages, I've been on the look out for a 'brow mascara' to keep my brows in place. This one was on promotion in a local pharmacy so I decided to give it a go, which I'm glad I did as it is perfect for not only keeping your eyebrows in place, but also creating a hair effect that thickens your brows. I have yet to use it by itself, I usually just use it after I fill in brows, but I can imagine it'll be very handy just by itself! I got it for €5, but it is usually around the €8 marks!

4. COLLECTIONS ' LASTING PERFECTION' CONCEALER 

I've seen so many Youtubers rave about this concealer so I had to try it myself, and I have to say I can't fault it. It has great coverage, yet it isn't heavy. I got mine in the shade 'cool medium' 2. While the packaging may not be the nicest (the writing is fading already!), for €6 you really can't go wrong!

5. MAYBELLINE'S 'COLOUR SENSATIONAL SHINE' LIPGLOSS

I am loving this lipgloss right now. I got it in the shade '420 glorious grapefruit' which is a lovely chorally pink colour. I've finally managed to find a long lasting lipgloss that isn't sticky! This is the first colour I've tried but I'm definitely going to start building up a collection. The price varies on where you buy it but it is generally cheap; I got mine for €7!

6. RIMMEL'S GEL EYELINER

I can't go a day without using eyeliner to create a 'cat eye flick', but I usually tend to use liquids. I got fed up as the didn't give a great finish and tended to flake, so I decided to try out a gel. This gel is new from Rimmel, and I absolutely love it! For €9 you get both the pot of gel, as well as a brush to apply the gel - which is great and so easy to use! I was surprised at how easy it was to apply as gel has a rep for being difficult to use. I've been using it every day and haven't found the need to re-touch it - it doesn't budge!

7. 'COCOWEL' ORGANIC EXTRA VIRGIN COCONUT OIL

Last on my list is coconut oil; which has a million and one benefits! My mam bought this recently from Dunnes Stores for cooking ( I think it was around €6) but I've been using it for my hair! It is 100% pure, and comes in solid form. To use on your hair  scoop a table spoon into a bowl and heat until a hot liquid - hot oils are better for your hair - and apply it all over, especially at the ends. I usually tie my hair in a bun for a few hours and wash it out later that day. It's great for strengthening your hair and giving it a natural shine. If you have leftovers, coconut oil is great for both your skin and for eyebrow growth! I swear by it for so many uses!

Review: Benefit's 'Agent Zero Shine' powder

One of my biggest problems make-up wise is having an oily t-zone. Between working under spot-lights and long days in college, I need a good compact powder to control the shine. I used to think that all powder was the same, and they all did the same job: to remove oil, but I was so wrong! I was using just a cheap catrice powder, which I found a bit useless as I needed to apply it frequently. Eventually, I gave in and thought I'd try the new Benefit 'The Porefessional: Agent Zero Shine', and so far it's been working wonders! 

At €33.50, it wasn't cheap, but when you take into consideration that it lasts about 3-4 months, and comes with it's own brush it doesn't seem so bad! 

You can choose what quantity of powder you need, as you have to tap it into the lid; which means no waste! The brush is great also; very soft and is easy to use. 

Results wise, I've no complaints. The powder really does control shine, both when I'm at work and when I'm out. (For the first time ever I didn't wake up after a night out to see photos of me with a greasy face!) The best part is it doesn't 'clump' your foundation, and leave those annoying little dots where the powder was applied, which is a big plus for me as they are one of my biggest make-up faux pas! So far, it is the best setting powder I've used and I'm happy with the results!

Emma x

My Favourite Foundations

Finding the perfect foundation is a hard task ; there are so many to choose from, and can be a bit over-whelming. I've tried so many foundations over the years, and I've found my go-to brands. Varying in price from €4 to €40, there's a foundation listed for all budgets. Bare in mind I have combination skin, and like a medium-heavy coverage, depending on the occasion. Also, I'm a fan of dewy, illuminating foundations, so you won't find any matte ones here! If you need a foundation that ticks all of those boxes; keep reading. 

1. Nars 'Sheer Glow'

My all time favourite foundation, hands down. I've tried to branch out to other brands but I keep coming back to Nars. I use the shade 'Sante fe' which is great whether you've a light tan (say from moisturizers) or full on tan as it is buildable and adapts to your skin tone. The coverage is perfect; it hides all your blemishes, without looking heavy or caked on. It feels light on your skin, and isn't bad for your pores as it is loaded with anti-oxidents. It leaves your skin soft and radiant even after removing. At €40, it is the most expensive foundation on my list, but it is so worth the money. It lasts forever; I am currently on my second bottle, and I bought the first one in November 2012!

2. Mac 'Studio Fix Fluid'

At €31.50 Studio Fix is a decent price for a going out foundation; but that is all I would use it for! It is not suitable for everyday foundation as it is heavy, and can cause break-outs. However, for a night-time foundation it is perfect! Heavy coverage which covers all blemishes, not to mention that it lasts on your skin, with little touch-ups needed. 

3. L'Oreal 'Lumi Magique'

Similar results to Nars Sheer Glow but only a fraction of the price! The price varies depending on where you buy it, but it is usually around the €14 mark! This foundation is perfect for daytime. It leaves your skin looking natural and dewy. 

4. Essence 'Stay all day' 

I know what you're thinking; Essence.. Really? Yes, really. I started using this foundation back in 6th year, and at €4 I was very surprised at how well it worked! 

While it may have a strong smell, I actually like it, it reminds me of the days when I wore it. It's not quite dewy or matte, more like a happy medium. It genuinely did last on my skin, and had great coverage! Not too shabby for a cheap foundation. 

5. Rimmel's 'Wake me Up'

Perfect for every day wear. The coverage is quite light which can have it's advantages if you are wearing it to school/college/work as you don't want a heavy foundation clogging your pores! It leaves your skin dewy and radiant, which is perfect for early mornings or to hide a hungover face as it instantly 'wakes up' and illuminates your skin. Price varies, again depending on where you buy it, but it is usually around €11. 

Emma x

Review: Benefit 'Hoola' bronzer

Being the best selling bronzer in Ireland and the UK, I was very excited to try out Benefit's Hoola bronzer. I was in desperate need of a good bronzer, so hoped that the Hoola would meet my expectations. At €33.50 it was a bit steep, but it was part of a present so I thought I'd take the opportunity to see what the fuss is about! 

I've heard many people say they've had their Hoola bronzer for minimum 2 years, which was great to hear as it seemed like an investment piece! It's high pigmentation means very little is needed. Hence, why it lasts so long. 

The bronzer comes with a mirror, and a brush, which is perfect for application. I use the thin brush to create contouring lines, then I used another, larger brush to blend. 

The colour was perfect: Matte and a nice shade of brown. It didn't have any orange tones like many other bronzers. As I'm not a fan of pallets, I found this bronzer perfect for contouring! I've only used it once, and I'm ready delighted with the results; I now see why it was voted no.1 bronzer! Definitely worth buying.

Emma x

Accessory haul: Penny's

I went a little bit accessory mad today at penny's, but I got all this for €15 so I couldn't resist! Perfect

Accessories for Summer.

1. Black lace headband: €1.50

2. Tribal multi-strand bracelet: €3.50

3. Cat eye frame sunglasses: €1.50

4. Hoop earrings: €3

5. Bangle cuff: €5

Best online buys: Choies

Today I will be focusing on Choies.com, and the best finds online I have stumbled across! Enjoy.

1. 'Find your happy place' cropped tee, €15

2. Half-frame cat eyed sunglasses, €15

3. 'Ain't chic' sleeveless hooded jumper dress, €28

4. Blue crystal neck piece, €10

5. Wrap around laced heels, €72

My Style Diary: Outfit of the Day (OOTD)

What I wore: yesterday's outfit for college and dinner; cool, comfy, casual. I teamed this outfit with a pair of white cons, and a black DKNY handbag. 

•Tribal silk beaded kimono: River Island, €55 (current season)

•White knit top: Penny's, €13 (current season) 

•Lion medallion necklace: River Island, €10 

       Emma x

Lust list x

1. H&M CONSCIOUS collection exclusive leather sandals

 

I have been lusting over these shoes ever since I saw them in a magazine a few months ago. I gave up hope of them ever reaching Irish stores. However, I was doing a bit of shopping today and saw them in the window! ( I almost cried with happiness and found it difficult to stop staring at them.) They will be available to purchase from tomorrow, along with other conscious collection exclusives. At a steep price of €119 (organic cow leather from Sweden is expensive apparently) here's hoping they still do student discount! 

2. River Island 'D&G' inspired coin hair band 

At €17 euro this hair band is more in budget, but still just as on trend! River Island are clearly taken inspiration from D&G's SS14 collection. This hair band would be perfect with a braided up-do for the Summer months. 

3. River Island handbags 

Sticking with River Island, I have fallen in love with two of their bags. First up is a slouchy crocodile leather tote, which is available in both brown and navy for a reasonable price of €45. As for the duffle bag, it is priced at €87 (I have expensive taste, I know 😞) but I just adore the blue suede and leather! 

4. Quirky Zara 'eye' shift dress

This dress will either be loved or loathed, and I have to say I simply adore it. It's so quirky and cool I can't help but love it. And at €29 euro I can't resist. 

5. 'Alex and Ani' bracelet

I've wanted an Alex and Ani bangle for months, although I always assumed they were expensive. How wrong was I? Single bangles start at €26, and sets of 3 are available at €41. Put aside the money every other month, and soon you'll have a great collection!

   Emma x

Best buy Vs. Buh-bye: The best and worst highlighters

'Best buy Vs. Buh-bye' will be a regular segment on my blog. Each week, I will take a particular type of make-up, and tell you which brand is worth buying, and what's not worth even trying. First up; highlighters.

An essential part of an everyday make-up look; finding the perfect highlighter can be quite a task. Luckily, I've tried a broad range of highlighters, and have found my go-to products.

BEST BUY

1. Benefit's 'High Beam' liquid highlighter

When choosing a highlighter, always choose a liquid. I can't stress that enough. Liquid highlighters like high beam are easy to blend and appear natural. They work best with liquid foundations (liquids with liquids.)High beam works well with or without tan due to it's pearl like tone. My definite go-to for highlighters. RRP: €27.50

2. YSL's Touché Éclat

A cult product, Touché Éclat lives up to the hype. I am currently using this highlighter in shade '1', and I am loving it. It's always good to have a highlighter in a variety of different shades as everyone has different skin tones. The shades range from 1 to 5. At €35 it is pricey, but the results are worth the price tag. The pump allows the right amount of product on the brush tip, which means you don't waste any unnecessary product! Very similar to high beam.    

3. Rimmel's 'Wake me up'

There has been a lot of hype around Rimmel's 'wake me up' range; mainly around the foundation and concealer. But I think the highlighter is just as good. While it wouldn't be my favourite of the three, I realise that not everyone can afford to splash out on highlighters, so for a highstreet version; Rimmel is the way to go! At €6.65 you really can't go wrong. Available in 4 different shades, it's perfect for any skin tone! I like to use 002: radiant rose without tan, and 003: peach glow with. 

                 

BUH-BYE


1. Benefit's 'Watt's Up' 

While High Beam is the best highlighter I've tried, Watt's up is hands down the worst. The packaging seemed cool; the highlighter stick on top, with a blending sponge on bottom, but the whole product is a nightmare. First of all, the consistency is awful; cakey and difficult to apply. When using it, it is obvious that you are wearing highlighter, which we all know is not the point. There is nothing natural about the result. This is probably due to the colour also. The shade is almost orange-like, with A LOT of shimmer. Even if you had sun-kissed skin, it would be difficult to pull of this product. I felt as if I was applying pan-stick to my face. The blending sponge was useless also as it fails to blend properly. This product ticked no boxes for me, and at €35 it really was a waste.



                                    .



2. Catrice's 'made to stay'


Last on my list is Catrice's 'made to stay' highlighter. I'm usually a fan of Catrice cosmetics, and at roughly €4 I couldn't resist trying it. Luckily I didn't waste too much money on this product, as it was disappointing. Like I said, avoid sticks. Just like 'Watt's up', the thick consistency just does not work for highlighting cheekbones. It looks unnatural. However, I do find it handy for highlighting the inside of my eyes, my brow bone, and my Cupid's bow as the narrow tip makes it easy to reach those difficult place.

So there you have it; my best and worst highlighter picks. And remember; stick with the liquids.

Emma x  

Inspiration: why Brigitte Bardot is my style and beauty icon

 

My love for Brigitte Bardot cannot be described. I love every aspect of her image; her voluminous, curly hair, her feline-like make up, her boyish style with a hint of sex appeal. 

 60’s style, cat-eye liner is a makeup look favoured by Bardot, a look I’ve adopted for myself. I’ve been rockin’ the eyeliner flick for as long as I can remember. I was the only one in school, something which I loved, something which is no longer true as the eyeliner flick is now a phenomenon amongst young women. Regardless of it’s popularity, it’s a beauty staple of mine and I can’t go a day without my liquid liner.

       The beehive, the messy topknot, the grown out fringe, all hairstyles made famous by Miss Bardot. I love volume. What girl doesn’t? Lucky for me, I’ve naturally big (crazy) hair so voluminous updos are easy for me to create. Bardot influences me so much so that I was sporting a white blonde do with messy fringe these past few months - the fringe was greatly regretted (lets not get into it.) My hair is darker, and has grown out, yet, I still adore her hair style… on her.

     

       Finally, style. My favourite style moments of Miss Bardot include her pussy bow tie blouse, her matching navy blue jumper and hair band, and those thigh high leather boots. The balance between laid back, tomboy and glamorous, sex appeal is a balance rarely met by any woman. Then again, Bardot is no ordinary woman. Lastly, let’s talk about the hair bows. Whenever I see a photo of Bardot wearing a hair ribbon, my inner all-American cheerleader comes out. Suddenly I find myself wishing I lived in a diner in the 1950’s. That reminds me, I may dig out my old ribbons, tomorrow’s hair do is sorted! 

 

Beauty Edit: YSL Baby Doll Mascara Review

For months now I've wanted to get my hands on some Yves Saint Laurent make-up products; something which I finally did this month. I purchased both the 'baby doll' mascara, and the famous 'touché éclat', but that will come in a later review.

         For now, lets focus on the mascara that has been all the rage in the fashion world. Ever since I saw Miss Cara Delevingne's campaign for the product, I had to get my hands on it. At €32.50 I was hoping it would live up to expectations, which It definitely did.

         At first, I was put off by the small, stiff, and mono-levelled bristles (I usually opt for 'the bigger the better' mantra when it comes to mascaras.) However, the brush was very easy to work with, and is great for reaching inside lashes!

        The result? Fanned out, curled lashes which are dynamic and almost feline-like, with absolutely zero clumps! This mascara is so feather light, it feels as if you've none on at all. This product earns major brownie points for how easy it can be removed. There's no need to rub your eyes raw, a few sweeps of eye make-up remover is all you need. Baby Doll has become my new favourite mascara, and trust me I've tried out a lot!

         YSL's baby doll mascara is available to purchase at Brown Thomas and Debenhams.

Emma x