OCTOBER CATCH-UP //

Whoops. So I've been MIA a little while... I guess I needed a little break after the craziness of September, 'tis all.
This month I relied on my trusty fave beauty products, devoured a popular series, celebrated my birthday, ate too much food, and 'treated myself'...a lot (#soznotsoz).

Read on to see what I got up to in October...

Makeup-and-skincare-wise it's been pretty pedestrian. The temperamental weather (e.g. 30 degrees one day, and 19 degrees the next!) has made me less adventurous with makeup, so I've tended to stick to the products that work well for me. You're probably quite familiar with them by now, I imagine, seeing as they crop up so frequently! I've also waxed lyrical about the brilliance of this Clinique duo, and they're yet to disappoint - they are definitely a versatile pair, whether for cooler seasons or warmer weather.

L-Rish:
Real Techniques Stippling Brush
Chi Chi Mosaic Blush in Pink Peach
Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Rose
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion +
Nivea Lip Butter in Caramel Cream
Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief
Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light
Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eyeliner Pencil in 061 Jet Black (I only realised the other day that I've been calling it 'Black' this whole time, sorry!)
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard

And I finally read the Divergent series, as I wanted to read Divergent before watching the movie - and yes, I also can't believe they'd been sitting on my bookshelf since May! Embarrassing, right?! I thought it was alright - I do have a few critiques of the series, but maybe we'll save that for another time... It is quite an impressive achievement for a 24-year-old author though! And side-note: Anyone else suffering 'Theo James Eyebrow Envy', or was it just me?

A few birthday gifts (and a couple from myself...):
A couple of candles to add to my candle collection, and a few beauty bits (you can bet that they'll be making an appearance again shortly.)

Candle Story Blackberry Candle (A gift from Mother)
Archipelago Botanicals Pineapple & Ginger Candle (A gift from a friend)
Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Colour Balm in 03 Roly Poly Rosy (A gift from my Godmother)
Becca Mineral Tint SPF 30+ Sunscreen in Medium (A gift from myself...)
Korres Lip Butter in Wild Rose (And another from myself...)


Hope you're having a great start to the week! :D x

CURIOSITY PIQUED #2 //

I've been trying to 'shop my stash' more, and not spend my hard earned cash on things I don't need. I like to think I'm a little more judicial, but some days I cave wayyy too easily. It's funny though - when I'm waiting for my pay check I'll spend ages online ('window'-)shopping, thinking about all the things I'll purchase when I'm paid, but when payday actually comes, I find myself more reluctant to part with it...

It's not to be unexpected that a few things have caught my eye yet again - though I suppose the element of surprise lies in the fact that it's taken me so long to put this post together! My apologies.

But without further ado, I present to you 'curiosity piqued' - take two:

BareMinerals Original SPF 15 Foundation ($35 for approx. 8g) - I'd previously written this foundation off as 'incompatible' with my normal to dry skin. During a recent catchup, a friend of mine raved about the original formulation (for Winter), as well as the matte version (for Summer), rating them as 'Holy Grail-worthy'. I had tried the compact Ready version of the foundation, but was far from impressed - it was chalky and unflattering (and the shade I was matched with was too light, so it made me appear corpse-like)! But re-inspired by my friend, I headed into my local Mecca Cosmetica to have a play. My MUA talked me through the correct method of application ('swirl, tap and buff') and I was impressed when I found that it did provide an airbrushed finish, though a couple of dry patches were highlighted (but nothing a good moisturiser or primer wouldn't fix). I'm considering it for Summer when my skin tends to be a little oilier. Natural sunscreen through titanium dioxide is a bonus, though I'd probably layer it over something with higher SPF if I'm spending an extended amount of time outdoors.
Despite their wide range of shades, an exact shade match was tricky to find, especially as my skin has neutral-yellow undertones. 'Light' was a good match for my Winter skin, though I was recommended to head back around November for a proper Summer skin match. Admittedly, I was a little put off by the packaging - or rather, the general messiness involved with finely-milled powder foundations (I just imagine a Hiroshima-esque mushroom cloud of powder every time!). I wore it around for the rest of the day and am glad to report that it did not irritate my sensitive skin. You may hear more about this one from me come November!

Becca Mineral Tinted SPF 30+ Sunscreen ($35 for 40ml) - I stumbled across this product quite by chance. To cut the long story short, I was reading an article by Zoë Foster about why she now prefers physical sunscreens over chemical formulations, in which she provided a couple of suggestions for physical sunscreens for various skin types - one being Becca Mineral Face and Body Sunscreen. After discovering that it was no longer available online at Becca, (though I saw it on David Jones' website), I continued to browse randomly, coming across the zinc oxide-based Mineral Tinted SPF 30+ Sunscreen - their only offering in the 'sun care' category. At a rather reasonable price, I'm practically sold, though my only reservation is the shade match - it comes in three shades, 'Light', 'Medium' and 'Tan', and I'm tossed up between 'Medium' and 'Tan'. Some companies make a very dark 'Medium' and others make it very light - what even constitutes 'Medium', anyway?! For my NC30-ish skin, it's always a bit of a challenge - it'd be nice if there were a Becca counter nearby so I could test it out before purchasing.

Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Cheek Gelée ($27 for approx. 5g) - I'd actually been eyeing these for ages, but put it in the back of my mind, as they aren't readily available here in Australia. But with recent news that Mecca Maxima is now carrying Josie Maran, my interest was instantly reignited. I have a particular soft spot for cream/gel blushes, and considering that the mark up isn't ridiculous for once, compared to US prices, this has certainly earned its place on my list of potential purchases.

Ecoya Limited Edition Guava and Lychee Sorbet Candle ($39.95 for 400g) - Uh oh. Not again! You may recall that I had been eyeing the Sweet Apricot and Orange Blossom candle from Ecoya's previous limited edition offerings, and ended up purchasing it. I stumbled across the current limited edition candles while (somewhat less-innocently) browsing in David Jones. While I wasn't so taken by the other candle, Sea Grass and Water Lily, I was immediately enraptured by this gorgeous, fruity-scented one. I mean, as if the name alone was not appealing enough!

Marc Jacobs Daisy Dream Perfume ($60 for 30ml, $90 for 50ml, $120 for 100ml) - Being quite a fan of Marc Jacobs' Daisy perfume, and Daisy Eau So Fresh as well, you can imagine how excited I was to see Daisy Dream launch at Myer. It reminds me of Lancôme Trèsor Midnight Rose (which I also adore) - Daisy Dream a little headier than Daisy, which is lighter and fresher. While I definitely can't justify purchasing another perfume for a long while, I can't deny that it smells delightful - and the bottle is seriously adorable!


*Images from Google



What are you currently eyeing? Do share! x

WEEK IN REVIEW // 13

I'm alive! Sorry it's been dead this week - I got sick again, believe it or not. (I know - I can scarcely believe it myself. I haven't a clue why my immune system has been so pathetic of late!). I blame the freezing gale-force winds (and my own stupidity for spending so much time outside, despite the weather). So this was a week of runny nose, sore-ish throat, and little comforts, though thankfully I'm feeling much better now:

Clockwise from top:
Ecoya Sweet Apricot and Orange Blossom Candle - Yes, I've had it a little while now, and this week I finally burnt it instead of merely sniffing it! I have to say that its scent is prominent enough when unlit, and lighting it was somewhat disappointing for me, as it wasn't distinctly more potent. I've found it a nice accompaniment to reading, as a way to wind down after work.

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion+ - I've also had this for nearly a year now - it had previously been sitting on the shelf during the warmer months as it is quite emollient. Now that the weather calls for something more moisturising, I find this fits the bill perfectly. It's lightweight, easily absorbed, kind to my sensitive skin and rather hydrating. You can expect to see this one again soon.

Pretty Powerful by Bobbi Brown - I've been taking it easy this week, to give myself the best chance to recover (after learning the hard way from past experiences). I headed to the library with the intention of getting lost in the pages of all kinds of books, when I came across this. I've been meaning to read it for a long time now, and I'm glad I finally got the chance to. I love Bobbi's books for their detail and photographs - and her writing style, which is frank in clarifying the essentials and the 'nice-to-haves'. More to come on this one.

Reese's Peanut Butter Cups - I concede that I may be slightly obsessed. I'd thought Reese's were not available here, and tried Whittaker's Peanut Butter block, which I thought was the next best thing, but I came across these the other day. I must say that I have newfound respect for Aldi! Trust me, they're goooood.

Nuxe Rêve de Miel - I know I've waxed lyrical about this already, but I thought it was worth a mention again. With consistent use, I've found that its texture has changed a bit. I don't know if it's just mine, but at first it was hardened at the top, and creamier underneath. It went through a 'melty' stage, and a 'lemon curd' stage, and now it's kind of in between the hardened top and creamier middle. Strange. But consistency aside, I haven't any issues with it.

Soothers Refresh medicated throat lozenges, Forest Berry flavour - These are quite nice - I saw that they'd released a new flavour and thought I'd try it. These have been 'soothing' for my throat while at work - talking to people for 5+ hours really wears me out!

Confidence Aloe Vera tissues - You know the drill! Though I think I prefer Kleenex...


Hope your week was better than mine! x

CANDLE CURATING, TEA TASTING, FRESH BLOOMS & GOOD READS //

Welcome to the nicest smelling corner of my room...

Sometimes it's easy to overlook the joys of a fragrant room, a comfy armchair, a cup of tea, a good book, and flowers fresh from the garden - especially when other shiny objects seem to call my name. I've been reminded not to dismiss these little luxuries in favour of buying another lipstick or pair of shoes. They are - for the most part - far more affordable to begin with, and the perfect way to relax after a long, stressful day. Strapping on a pair of heels or swiping on a bright lippie just doesn't compare (not in this instance, anyway)!

Candles

I like leaving the lids off my candles (see first pic) to create a subtly-fragrant atmosphere that requires no supervision - and I often find that the candles smell better when not burning. For me, being greeted with sweet scents when I walk through the door is an instant mood-lifter.

L-R:
Ecoya Sweet Apricot and Orange Blossom Maddison Jar Candle
Glasshouse Cuba Candle
Mango and White Tea Soy Candle
Ecoya Sweet Pea and Jasmine Mini Metro Jar Candle
Marseille Soy Candle in vintage teacup

Tea + Teacups

There's nothing better than a cup of tea on a cold day. Especially when it's presented in a pretty little tea cup. Sometimes they're a great incentive for me to wake up early, a lovely post-dinner treat, or something to unwind with before bed.

T2 Choc Chip Chai, Creme Brûlée and Strawberries and Cream (glass jar) Teas
Floral Tea Cup and Saucer
Milk + Sugar Expresso Tea Cup and Saucer (from Sussans)

Books, blooms + pretty things

Revlon nail polish in 270 Cherries in the Snow
Bourjois Shine Edition Lipstick in 23 Grenadine 
Ralph Lauren RALPH Mini EDT
Salvatore Ferragamo Signorina Mini EDT
Amazing Face by Zoë Foster
Love Your Hair by Richard Kavanagh
Style by Lauren Conrad
Beauty Rules by Bobbi Brown


Have I inspired you to sit in front of the fireplace with a good book and cup of tea?
What are your little luxuries? (:

WEEK IN REVIEW // 7

A hectic week of catch-ups with friends, and several attempts at eyeshadow...

Nike Free Run 5.0+ Shield running shoes - I've been enjoying wearing these lately, as they're ridiculously comfy, and waterproof too - and they're neutral enough to go with most of my wardrobe.

Divergent series by Veronica Roth - I've heard many rave reviews about this series, so I thought I'd add it to my collection when I spotted them on sale at Dymocks. I'm still not sure if I'm emotionally ready to become attached to another series, though!

Ecoya Sweet Apricot and Orange Blossom and Sweet Pea and Jasmine candles - So I caved. Hooray for payday. I wasn't going to, I promise! But it just so happens that when I went for a second sticky beak, I noticed that they were offering a free Sweet Pea and Jasmine Mini Metro Jar with the purchase of a Madison Jar. So in my mind it was justified. And they both smell delightful!

With my recent eyeshadow attempts: one, two, and three, I've been digging out previous purchases and old favourites - L'oreal Color Infallible Eyeshadow in 33 Tender Caramel, Avon Ultra Luxury Eyeliner in 100 Eggplant, and Rimmel ScandalEyes Eye Shadow Stick in 03 Bad Girl Bronze. I'm looking forward to getting more use out of these!

And still going strong from last week: Revlon CustomEyes Shadow & Liner Palette in 20 Naturally Glamorous and Nivea Lip Butter in Caramel Cream. I'd also like to revise what I said last week regarding Nivea's lip butter (see link above) - it's not only the amount used, but also method of application: I find that I get the best results (i.e. no white cast, no weird layer sitting on top of the lips) when I use a small amount and keep smoothing it over the lips until it has melted in. I've also found that it makes a great 'treatment' before applying lip colour.

What were your weekly loves?

CURIOSITY PIQUED //

I'm usually pretty good as resisting hype about products, but lately I feel my resolve weakening. I once heard a lady tell her son that he shouldn't look at things while out shopping, because once you see you start to want. She was right. (Why are mothers always right?)

Here are a few products that have sparked my interest:

Go-To Skincare Lips! - Firstly, I am a huge lip balm fanatic, so when beauty guru Zoë Foster-Blake released her own range of skincare, I was instantly intrigued. It must be good. I've toyed with purchasing Lips! on a few occasions now, despite my determination to not buy any more until I've finished 5+ that I'm currently using. I have to admit that, while it was Lips! that originally drew me, the Properly Clean cleanser and Very Useful Face Cream also look interesting. Uh-oh, this isn't going to end well (for my debit card)...

Ecoya Sweet Apricot and Orange Blossom Candle - This one snuck up on me while I was very innocently shopping for curtains in a homewares store. I came across a stand of Ecoya candles and found that they had just released two limited edition candles in the Madison Jar - Sweet Apricot and Orange Blossom, and Violet, Fig and Cassis. After taking a whiff of each, I decided that Violet, Fig and Cassis was a little too heady for me, but the Sweet Apricot and Orange Blossom was lovely and fresh. I didn't buy it, but I think a seed has unfortunately been planted!

Schmidt's Natural Deodorant in Ylang Ylang and Calendula - I've been interested in natural deodorant for a while now, due to my easily-irritated and eczema-prone skin, which seems to worsen with the colder weather. Schmidt's offering seems like a good one, along with this one by Black Chicken and this one by Soapwalla, though I'm not thrilled that shipping to Australia costs more than the product itself.

Tender Love + Carry - These New Zealander toiletries bags have just landed in David Jones, and the prints are adorable! I'm particularly smitten with this pouch from the Patchwork line. They are surprisingly affordable, too, compared to brands such as Uchi and Cath Kidston. I can't really justify buying one at the moment, but they're just so damn cute.

Tangle Teezer - Hold up. If Emma Watson raved about it, it must be somethin'. I haven't used a hairbrush for the last few years, simply because my hair often looks worse afterwards. I previously brushed this one off (see what I did there?) as another fad, but lately I've been reconsidering it. I particularly like the idea of this compact styler - a portable version that comes with a cover, so it doesn't get stuck on bits and pieces in your handbag.

Clarisonic Mia - I previously thought I didn't need to wash my face with a fancy contraption that had a spinning head to ensure a proper clean - especially not one as expensive as the Clarisonic. Lately I've been rethinking this, and doubting the humble washcloth's ability to remove the sunscreen/makeup/sweat/grime/whatever else that accumulates on my face as the day transpires. Plus, I've been told that it's like having a face massage - actually, that's kind of what sucked me in in the first place...

Are you hype-resistant?
Have you tried any of these? Do they live up to the hype?

*Images from Google

MONOCHROMATIC INSPIRATION //

Berry and wine hues are huge favourites of mine for Autumn/Winter, though lately I find myself equally inspired by good ol' monochrome. As they say, you can't go wrong with black, white and grey (check out Harper and Harley if you're feeling uninspired). Here are my picks:

Clockwise from top left:
Country Road Herringbone Crew Socks
Diptyque Baies Candle
Tory Burch Robinson Chain Wallet
Jo Malone Blackberry and Bay Cologne
Country Road Pom Pom Stripe Beanie
Mecca Cosmetic Lip De-Luscious Night Lip Treatment
CHANEL Perfection Lumière Velvet Foundation
Wittner Harpie loafer
Larsson and Jennings LÄDER watch
ZARA TRF Leather Biker Jacket

Do any of these take your eye?
What do you think of the switch 'back to black'?


*Images from Google

AUTUMN WANTS //

As Summer becomes Autumn I've got my eye on leather accessories in 'cosy' tones, beauty products to combat parched, dull skin, and little luxuries that will end up being Winter warmers, bringing cheer when the weather is dreary.

   
Clockwise from top left:
Citizen Eco-Drive watch
Wittner Helsinki brogues in Black
LUSH Bubblegum Lip Scrub
Brown Pot Rouge in Raspberry
Glasshouse Triple Scented Candle in Fudge Brownie (Peter Alexander Limited Edition)

T2 Creme Brûlée tea

Fossil Sydney Satchel in Cranberry
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard
Salvatore Ferragamo Signorina perfume

(Images from Google).

'MY FAVO(U)RITE THINGS' //

...is a great song. Though, come to think of it, practically anything featuring Julie Andrews could be considered 'great'. That lady is freakin' incredible. But I digress.

Given my established aversion to Awkward Introductions, rather than do a get-to-know-me 20 Questions, or a spiel in which I assault your ears with my fascinating life story, I thought I'd do a little summary instead. A (literal) snapshot, if you will.

"These are a few of my favourite things..."