SHINY NEW ADDITIONS //

What's new 'round 'ere?

Newbies

Those of you who have been following along may recall that I've been on a self-imposed makeup ban, in a bid to force myself to use what I have, rather than pointlessly hoarding a monstrous collection (something that I'm rather talented at doing...) On my birthday I made the first makeup purchase in a few months, Becca Mineral Tint SPF 30+ Sunscreen, and since then I've added a few other bits and pieces to my stash.

A big, hearty welcome to...
Becca Mineral Tint SPF 30+ Sunscreen in Medium - I first mentioned this early last month, and yes, ended up caving when I saw it discounted on Adore Beauty. My only concern was the shade match - I ended up purchasing 'Medium', which ended up being a good fit for my NC30-ish skin-tone. I've tested it out on a few occasions and I'm quite pleased with it - it's matte, but not too matte, which is ideal for my normal-to-dry skin, which tends to be on the slightly greasier side in warmer weather. At first I was disappointed with its lack of coverage, but then reminded myself that it's primarily a sunscreen with a hint of colour. It does what it claims - provides a bronzy tint, with no ghostly white cast. Plus it smells delicious, like caramel fudge!

EcoTools Retractable Kabuki - This brush was recommended to me by a friend, who said she found it handy for bringing with her to uni for touchups. I've been using it to apply translucent pressed powder, and I have no qualms about it. It's quite soft and perhaps on the denser side for a powder brush, but it works well for translucent powder, and is of a portable size, which I'm sure will come in useful for travel.

Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Colour Balm in 03 Roly Poly Rosy - This was a gift from my lovely Godmother who spoils me excessively! I was after a cream (or non-powder) cheek product for warmer months and this sparked my interest. It has a most intriguing texture that seems almost...spongy. It's difficult to describe... But it looks beautiful on, and blends well to provide a natural-looking flush (I prefer to use my Real Techniques Stippling Brush for this purpose, rather than fingers). I also enjoy the stick packaging, which is more compact and hygienic, and means I don't have to keep dipping my fingers in.

Chi Chi Glamorous Sultry Eyeshadow Palette - Something my mother purchased on a whim... Though it wasn't my purchase, I've been getting a lot of use out of it (I'm grateful my mum doesn't mind sharing!). Admittedly, these shades aren't really what I naturally gravitate towards - I'd actually been eyeing the Chi Chi Glamorous Nudes Eyeshadow Palette for ages, which is supposedly a dupe of the Urban Decay Naked Palette, but for a fraction of the price. I was impressed that all of the shades are smooth and buttery, and most are also heavy pigmented (bar one or two matte shades), and they're generally all quite wearable colours, too. I've been using the matte indigo shade as eyeliner, and it works a treat.

Korres Lip Butter in Wild Rose - So my willpower has finally crumbled, it seems! I'd been eyeing these lip butters for literarily yonks, ever since I first spotted them sleepandwater, and decided I had to make them mine. When I found myself at a Mecca Maxima recently, I resolved to bite the bullet, and ended up taking home Wild Rose, though I was tossing up between that and Pomegranate for a little while. Had I not so many lip products in my stash already (as my Liptember series reminded me) I could easily have bought both, methinks. Overall, I'm quite thrilled with my purchase - it's a lovely, pigmented lip butter, and the berry-red shade is stunning. It could be applied lightly for a sheerer effect, or worked up to a bolder colour. I definitely prefer tinted lip balms or lip butters for everyday, and I can see this one fast becoming an integral member of the rotation.


What new beauty bits have you added (or are planning to add) to your collection this month? x

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

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 30

Wowza. Has it been thirty days already?! Admittedly it's been tough averaging a post a day, but doing this challenge has prompted me to rediscover many lippie loves that I've neglected for too long, and encouraged me to shop my stash rather than adding to the collection! For today, I thought I'd compile a little summary of the month, in case you got lost along the way (besides, you're probably sick of my face by now - as I am! - with all of those #selfies...). It's probably easiest to use the 'Blog Archive' sidebar down the side - happy scrolling!

- Refer back to Intro to see what this month was all about, and for more info about the Liptember initiative.
- If you're after tinted lip balm suggestions, see days 1-3, with a review on day 4.
- Burt's Bees Lip Gloss got a special mention on day 5, with a review on day 6.
- Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butters were featured on days 7, 11 and 15, and reviewed on day 19.
- Check out my lip balm wants on day 8!
- Bourjois Shine Edition Lipstick was reviewed on day 9, and worn on day 10.
- Clinique Chubby Sticks were worn on days 12 and 13, and reviewed on day 14.
- LUSH Lip Tint was worn on day 16 and reviewed on day 21.
- See Rimmel Apocalips Lip Lacquers on days 17, 22 and 26, and the review on day 27.
- NYX Black Label Lipstick was worn on day 18.
- Various Avon lipsticks were worn on days 20, 23, 25 and 29.
- See day 24 for 'lippie layering'.
- See the 'red lipstick roundup' on day 28!

Sidenote: See here for a tasty greek salad recipe, and here to learn how to make curry puffs!


Hope you had a great September! :) x

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 28

Doing this challenge has made me realise that I actually own quite a few red lippies, so today I thought I'd do a little roundup of the ones I've used this month. These six are of various formulas - e.g. lip tint, lip lacquer, matte, cream, etc. - and varying shades of red - e.g. berry red, fire engine, sangria, etc. - so if you're on the hunt for a red lippie, you may find this useful. This is obviously by no means an exhaustive list!

L-R:
- Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in 035 Candy Apple - a warm, glossy/sheer red.  (See it in action here; review here.)
- LUSH Lip Tint in It Started With a Kiss - a pinky-red tint. (See it in action here; review here.)
- NYX Black Label Lipstick in 105 Cherry - a creamy, currant red. (See it in action here.)
- Avon Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Red 2000 - a matte, cool red. (See it in action here.)
- Avon My Lip Miracle in incREDible - a creamy sangria. (See it in action here.)
- Rimmel Apocalips Lip Lacquer in 400 Big Bang - a liquid, fire engine red. (See it in action here; review here.)


Do you have a 'signature' red lipstick?
Any recommendations? Do share! x

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 19

Woo, happy Friday! Today's offering will be a brief review of the Revlon Colorburst Lip Butters, which you'd have seen earlier (here, here and here). They're a lip balm and lipstick hybrid, I suppose, in that they're highly pigmented, but also balmy in texture - like tinted lip balms, only more opaque. These are a great pick when I'm after something more moisturising that still packs a punch, colour-wise. The three that I've got are 015 Tutti Frutti, 035 Candy Apple and 010 Raspberry Pie. Tutti Frutti is a peachy coral, Candy Apple is a warm orange-based red, and Raspberry Pie is a cool fuchsia - and the most opaque of the three.

L-R: Tutti Frutti, Candy Apple, Raspberry Pie

Texture: These have a balmy feel and glide comfortably over the lips. They do, however, have a tendency to get caught on, and highlight, dry or flaky bits.

Opacity: These are quite highly pigmented - the lighter shades are slightly sheerer, while the darker shades seem to be more opaque. They can also be dabbed on for a softer wash of colour, though generally I wouldn't apply them straight from the tube without a mirror. The darker shades do leave behind a slight stain.

Hydration: These are more hydrating than most lipsticks I own, and they wear quite comfortably for the most part. They can leave my lips feeling a little dry if I don't reapply after wiping my lips, or after eating and drinking.

Longevity: As they are 'denser', i.e. less glossy, than the average lip balm, they do last quite well throughout the day on me (say, 3-4 hours), as long as I'm careful with eating and drinking.

Price: $21.95 for 2.55g (which is kind of exxy, but luckily they're often discounted as places such as Priceline and Chemist Warehouse - I picked up Raspberry Pie from Chemist Warehouse for half price earlier this year!).

Other notes: They have a faintly sweet scent about them that isn't noticeable upon application. I also find the packaging especially handy as it indicates the shade clearly.

Are you a fan of Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butters?
Which shade is your fave? x

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 15

Today's fussier-than-usual face for a meet up with a friend in the city, and a little audition... I decided to do a 'punchier' lip (010 Raspberry Pie), as I knew I'd be on camera for the screen test. I played it safe by first smoothing on a thin layer of Nuxe Rêve de Miel to take care of the flaky bits, and to tone the opacity down a notch - Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butters can be quite opaque!

The breakdown:
Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard
Essence Eyeshadow in 35 Party All Night applied all over the lid with Ecotools Angled Crease Brush
MAC Fluidline in Black Track applied with Ecotools Angled Eyeliner Brush
Rimmel ScandalEyes Waterproof Kohl in 012 Bronze traced over the top
Kevyn Aucoin eyelash curler
b Collection by Bloom Cream Blush in Barossa Valley applied with Real Techniques Stippling Brush
Nuxe Rêve de Miel used to prep lips
Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in 010 Raspberry Pie


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

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 11

How gorgeous is the weather?! I just can't get over it - it's such a novelty after the Winter chills. Speaking of chills, today is a rather relaxed day, so I've been experimenting with 'Spring-appropriate makeup' for the warmer weather. Not to say that I'll be retiring the berry shades altogether, but I thought it was time to introduce some peachy/coral shades to the mix. Today's 'tropicoral' lip is courtesy of Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in 015 Tutti Frutti. The colour is quite punchy, but can be worn sheerer for a softer look. ...And in other news, today my legs saw the sun for the first time in months. Scaring off neighbours and passersby FTW...

In using La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF 50+ sunscreen, today also marked the first time that I have reached for something other than my perennial pick, Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light. With the sunnier weather I figured it was appropriate to amp up the SPF, though as you can see, it's caused my face to turn a ghostly shade, despite me layering Chanel Bronzer over the top to tone it down - and not using flash. The washed-out effect is actually more subtle in person, but it's always good to check out these things before using them for occasions where there is likely to be photography! Luckily, you pale ladies probably don't have to worry too much.

What's on my face, you ask?
La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF 50+ sunscreen
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard
Rimmel ScandalEyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal in 012 Bronze
Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in 015 Tutti Frutti 
Chi Chi Mosaic Blush in Pink Peach + Ecotools Tapered Blush Brush
Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Bronze Universel + Real Techniques Buffing Brush


I hope you're basking in the sun, if you're in the Southern Hemisphere! x

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 8

Ugh. So I'm sick...again. With the flu. Most likely caught from my brother who's just recovered. Cheers, bro. And I'd say that I look about as delightful as I'm feeling (read: not very), so instead of a charming photo of my face, I'll leave you with a little list of lip balms that I'm currently contemplating - 'lip balm longings', shall we say?

It's no secret by now that I have a peculiar penchant for lip balm. I don't know how to explain it (or justify it, for that matter!), but it's probably got something to do with non-chapped lips, smooth, subtle glossiness, a hint of tint, and occasionally, pretty packaging... Though I've still got a few (*cringe*) unopened/not-yet-used-up tins, I've already been eyeing the ones I'll add to my collection when I'm in need (read: probably not any time soon). It's embarrassing enough that I've got a Word document titled 'Lip Balm', which is basically a huge list of lip balms that I've come across and become interested in...so you can imagine the tough time I had trying to narrow it down to just five. C'mon, a girl can dream!

1. Mecca Cosmetica Lip De-Luscious SPF 25 - $28
I've been eyeing this one for ages, ever since I saw it on Beauty Swatch! Mecca Cosmetica's own range recently got a reboot, and the new packaging looks pretty swish. I've just been having a difficult time justifying spending that much on lip balm...

2. Go-To Skincare Lips! - $14.95
You know how I feel about this one - I'm pretty keen to get my hands on this lippie created by Ms Zoë Foster herself! So far it's the most affordable option of the lot.

3. Korres Lip Butter in Wild Rose - $16
I've also had my heart set on this one for a couple of years now. Perhaps it's the allure of a cushiony, hydrating tinted balm that's got me - hook, line and sinker. It's just a struggle trying to decide which one to get first - ideally I'd like to collect, Pomegranate, Mango, Quince, and Wild Rose ;) This option is surprisingly affordable, too.

4. Honest Skincare Lips - $10gbp
I heard about this homegrown (well, local British) skincare brand from Sophie of A Private Life of a Girl, and was instantly smitten with their pared back approach to skincare, and 100% natural ingredients. I've just been putting off purchasing this because of international shipping costs...

5. Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 in Berry
I heard about this much-raved about tinted lip balm a long time ago but gave up hope after seeing how ridiculously overpriced it was online, as it's not available here. My interest was reignited with the announcement of Sephora's arrival later this year and reports that they would match US prices.


Have you tried any of these?
Do any take your fancy? x

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 7

#FOTD

Finally, a punchier colour for a Father's Day dinner. Okay, not really - I suppose I'm only taking it up a notch with the Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter (in 035 Candy Apple), a balm and lipstick hybrid. To be fair, I'd say it's pigmented enough to be considered more a lipstick than lip balm, though admittedly the colour in the photo above is more diluted than usual, as I applied it shortly after applying Nuxe Rêve de Miel...

The other stuff I used:

Hope you all enjoyed Father's Day celebrations and spoilt your dad! x

#FOTD 4 //

A low-key work look for those 'minimal effort' kind of days.

The breakdown:
FACE:
MAC Face and Body Foundation in C3 
Nivea Daily Veil Sunscreen SPF 30 applied under foundation
Chi Chi Mosaic Blush in Pink Peach (Applied with Ecotools Tapered Blush Brush)

EYES:
Chi Chi Eyeshadow Single in Rock With You (Applied as eyeliner, with Ecotools Petite Shader Brush)
Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eyeliner Pencil in Black (Smudged into lash line with Ecotools Smudger Brush)
Kevyn Aucoin eyelash curler

LIPS:
Nivea Lip Butter in Caramel Cream (to prep lips)
Bourjois Shine Edition Lipstick in 23 Grenadine (patted on to lips with finger)

What are your makeup solutions for lazy days? :)

WEEK IN REVIEW // 8 (AKA 'SICKY-SICK')

A week of sickness (not again!) and blocked nasal passages...yay.
Firstly, I ought to apologise that it's been a bit quiet on ze blog this week. I worked twice as much as usual, and got sick half way through the week. Thankfully there was only one day of overlap - where I both was sick and had to work.

The breakdown (clockwise from top left):
Wuthering Heights and Textbook Romance Pink Penguin Classics - I spotted these at my local Dymocks while browsing aimlessly - what can I say, I am instantly drawn to anything pink! Seeing Textbook Romance made me take a closer look, as it was published 'too recently' - I thought - to be considered a 'classic'. I'll be perfectly honest, my decision to purchase it was partially influenced by the fact that it's written by Zoë Foster. I haven't read it yet, but if it's as good as her beauty articles, then I expect I'll be in for a treat...

Britney Spears Fantasy Perfume - I've had this perfume for ages, and only just started using it again. It was my favourite eons ago, and I don't know why, but I've been using it nonstop lately. #oldfave.

Butter-Menthols - You know how I feel about these. Placebo effect potentially, but whatevs. If they're able to stop me from having a huge coughing fit in the middle of work, then so be it.

Vicks VapoNaturals - Ditto.

Kleenex Aloe Vera tissues - My nose was in a disgustingly raw state previously, but is now feeling better thanks to these! Some much-needed TLC for my poor shnoz.

Nivea Lip Butter in Caramel Cream - If you haven't guessed by now, this has been my go-to lip balm (unfortunately not the Zoë Foster variety) of late. It has been failing me this week, however, as my sore, chapped lips are in dire need of something more nourishing. I toyed with the idea of pulling out the much-hyped-about Nuxe Rêve de Miel from my drawer, but decided it against it, as my lips were hanging in there okay before. We'll see how this goes...

Elms + King Lexington bag - After realising that I had so much crap in my handbag that I couldn't find the exact item I was looking for - and after coming across a seriously random article - I decided to do a handbag clean-out. Thankfully things are looking a little tidier now, though I'm willing to bet that it's not going to stay that way!


Yup, I had a 'sick' week, alright!

What was the highlight of your week? Hope you're in better health than me!

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?

#FOTD 3 // OFF DUTY

Taking a break from attempting a smokey eye today... And instead going for something lighter and fresher, inspired by the gorgeous weather outside, and the equally wonderful fact that I don't have to work today.

FACE:
Mecca Cosmetic In a Good Light Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30+
MAC Select Cover-Up Concealer in NC30
The Body Shop Lily Cole Lip and Cheek Dome in 20 Pinch Me Pink

EYES:
L'oreal Color Infallible Eyeshadow in 33 Tender Caramel - A cool iridescent taupe-y mauve-y brown that is rather difficult to describe, spread over the lid as a base (patted on with fingers).
Revlon CustomEyes Shadow and Liner Palette in 20 Naturally Glamorous - Warm chocolate-laced-with-burgundy shade (second from right) blended into the outer 'V' using Ecotools Petite Shader Brush.
Rimmel ScandalEyes Eye Shadow Stick in 03 Bad Girl Bronze - Used as eyeliner and smudged along the upper lash line and outer 1/3 of lower lash line using Ecotools Smudger Brush.
Ecotools Angled Crease Brush used to blend.
Avon Ultra Luxury Eye Liner pencil in 100 Eggplant - An oldie but a goodie. The perfect purple eyeliner.
Kevyn Aucoin eyelash curler
Maybelline The Colossal Volum'Express Mascara in Black - Finishing touch to the eyes.

LIPS:
Nivea Lip Butter in Caramel Cream - To prep the lips (you know the drill!)
Clinique Chubby Stick in 07 Super Strawberry

Have a great rest of the weekend! (:

#FOTD 2

I think I'm having an 'eyeshadow moment' - or at least, I'm willing to keep trying until I get it right (bear with me, please...) Today's look - Le Subtle Daytime Smokey Eye Take Two, courtesy of a private lesson from industry heavyweight, Ms Zoë Foster-Blake herself (and an excuse to test out the eyeshadow palette!)

Clockwise-ish from top left:
MAC Face and Body Foundation in C3 - My fave and only foundation at the moment.
MAC Select Cover-Up Concealer in NC30 - My only concealer at the moment.
Ecotools Deluxe Concealer Brush - Does a pretty good job of applying liquid concealer.
Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Liner Pencil in Black - An old fave that I recently dug out; very soft and perfect for 'smudgy' looks.
Revlon CustomEyes Shadow & Liner Palette in Naturally Glamorous - The warm shades were what attracted me in this first place, and so far I'm not disappointed.
Nivea Daily Face Veil Sunscreen SPF 30 - Sits nicely under makeup. SPF is a must!
Burt's Bees Lip Gloss in 239 Spring Splendor - A lip gloss that contains no nasties. However, it's disappointing that the writing on the packaging has rubbed off, as I've only had it since Christmas. It's a natural pinky-mauve colour and has slight scent reminiscent of Lip Smackers...
Chi Chi Mosaic Blush in Pink Peach - I'll refrain from gushing on about this one today. You're welcome.
Ecotools Tapered Blush Brush - I was about iffy-diffy about this one at first, but it's growing on me.
Kevyn Aucoin eyelash curler - Pretty standard stuff. It's not 'life-changing', but does the job.
Ecotools Eye Brushes (from 6-piece set): all over lid, blender, petite shading brush, smudger - these are a great little set; portable, versatile and soft. The smudger is my favourite.
Maybelline The Colossal Volum'Express Mascara - I avoid wearing mascara where possible because it irritates my eyes. I didn't love this one - I'd say it's average. It doesn't make a huge difference for me, though on the plus side, it doesn't clump too often.
Nivea Lip Butter in Caramel Cream - I've been enjoying using this as a treatment or base before applying lip colour, as it helps the product glide on smoothly over dry patches, and keeps lips hydrated for longer.

Which is your go-to palette for a daytime smokey eye?

WEEK IN REVIEW // 6

A week of illness and painful return to reality. And a bit of beauty loot to make it all better.

You'll notice that there are more beauty products thrown in there than usual - but when you're sick more is required to make you look socially acceptable, right? That's how I'm justifying it, anyway...

Clockwise from top left:
Clinique Cheek Pop in 01 Ginger Pop - Aside from it being a totally adorable little product, I find it quite versatile as well. Applied with a light hand it gives a sheer wash of colour, but can also be built up for a real 'pop'. In this photo it looks more peachy, but it's actually more of an earthy rosy russet. I love that it gives a natural, healthy flush - like I've just been for a brisk walk. You can see it in action (applied very sparingly) here.

Chi Chi Mosaic Blush in Pink Peach - I've just raved about this, so I will refrain from repeating myself in such a short time frame, though I'll do a proper post on this soon!

Butter-Menthol - I've gone through two sticks of these and a pack of Strepsils. They seem to make things better, though it could just be a placebo effect... Having said that, I'd rather not be without them!

Revlon CustomEyes Shadow & Liner Palette in 020 Naturally Glamorous - Perhaps I could blame sleepandwater's featuring of this in her Top 5 Low End Eyeshadow Palettes post as the final push for my purchasing. I've eyed it for a long time, though could never justify spending nearly $30 on a teeny-weeny eyeshadow palette. I figured it was meant to be when I spotted it on sale at Priceline (and was able to claim a bit more off with my Priceline Sisterhood card points. Win!)

Bourjois Shine Edition Lipstick in 23 Grenadine - I first mentioned this newbie not long ago and have been relying heavily on it for work days, as I figure a bright lip will hopefully detract attention from my panda eyes. It's a lovely creamy formula that's glossy and moisturising, fades evenly and leaves a pretty stain. It lasted a good five or six hours on me, with drinking and a bit of eating (snacking?).

Nivea Lip Butter in Caramel Cream - I've gone back to using this as a lip treatment before bed, and I find that it doesn't leave a nasty white cast as often, which used to frustrate me. I think the trick is in the amount used: I find that spreading a thin layer on is best - too much and it just sits on top of the lips. I know I've already mentioned this, but it smells absolutely heavenly!

Chi Chi Baked Eyeshadow Single in Rock With You - Described quite accurately as a 'burgundy plum', I pounced on this when I saw it on sale at Target. It's a gorgeous colour, shimmery but not glittery, and can be used wet or dry. The photo really doesn't do it justice. I'm looking forward to testing it out; stay tuned.

GAP Cashmere Waffle Scarf - I've barely taken it off since I bought it! It's wonderfully soft and warm - perfect for days when I'm feeling under the weather.

What were your favourites this week?

#FOTD 1 //

Please excuse the 'sick' face...

While my FOTD's are generally very simple and natural-looking (partly due to lack of time and partly due to laziness), today I had extra time on my hands to play around and experiment. As a self-confessed eyeshadow noob, I usually avoid using eyeshadow and 'smoky eyes' - especially as it often seems to attract comments from my mother about how much I resemble a drug addict or a panda (read: smoky eye gone terribly wrong). I focused on eyes today and kept the rest of the face quite neutral (and realised how out of practise I was, while attempting winged eyeliner).

The breakdown:
FACE:
- MAC Face and Body Foundation (Shade C3) applied with fingers
- MAC Select Cover Up Concealer applied under eyes and over blemishes with Ecotools Deluxe Concealer Brush

CHEEKS:
- Clinique Cheek Pop in 01 Ginger Pop applied on apples of cheeks with Ecotools Tapered Blush Brush
- Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Bronze Universel used to contour; applied with RealTechniques Expert Face Brush

EYES:
- Wet'N'Wild Comfort Zone Palette (left side) following the 'instructions'; applied with Ecotools eye brushes and the random Manicare brush...
- Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner to draw the wing

LIPS:
- Just a slick of Nivea Lip Butter (Caramel Cream)

What do your 'experimental' FOTD's consist of?
Do you have any eyeshadow tips for me?

ARRIVAL // THE MINI HAUL

Hello! Yes, I am back after a painful twenty-four hour flight delay. With several pieces of luggage in tow - and a mini* beauty haul. And along with twenty-one pairs of socks (don't ask), and an embarrassingly large stack of GAP clothes, but more on that later...

As I am also sick (thanks, kid who was coughing his lungs out in the seat behind me the entire trip!), I will leave you with a little snapshot, instead of rambling endlessly - but expect to see them in more detail soon!

The 'mini haul'

The breakdown (clockwise from top left):
- Innisfree cloth masks
- EOS Smooth Sphere Lip Balm in Summer Fruit
- Ralph Lauren RALPH EDT miniature
- Burberry Body EDP miniature
- Salvatore Ferragamo Signorina EDT miniature
- Clinique Cheek Pop blushes in 01 Ginger Pop and 03 Berry Pop
- Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief (15ml)
- Revlon nail polish in 270 Cherries In The Snow and 480 Chic
- Nivea Lip Butter in Raspberry Rosé (bought here just before I left)
- Bourjois Shine Edition lipstick in 23 Grenade in (aka Grenadine) (bought from ASOS while overseas...)


...And I also brought this baby back with me, so better quality photos are headed your way.

The newbie

That is all for now, I'm off to blow my nose and open another pack of Strepsils...

Talk soon x

*Given the amount I brought with me, and the ridiculous stash I've been accumulating as of late, a larger beauty haul was really out of the question!

DEPARTURE // GOODBYE (BUT NOT FOREVER)

This will be my last post for this month, as I'll be overseas for three weeks, returning at the end of April. I never really know what to take overseas - I feel like there's an art to it, and I'm not one who has packing down to a science! I used to be far more organised - in fact, I'd be the kid who'd start planning for months before the actual trip, writing and rewriting; collating lists of things I'd need, 'the essentials'; what I could potentially buy, etc. Now, the definition of 'packing' is the equivalent of me throwing things haphazardly into a suitcase, hoping that some of it might come in handy, and that I won't have forgotten something I really need.

My makeup bag is no exception:

The breakdown:
Real Techniques Buffing Brush and Stippling Brush
ModelsPrefer Airbrush
EcoTools Deluxe Concealer Brush
B Collection by Bloom Cream Blush for Lips and Cheeks in Barossa Valley
Nivea Daily Face Veil SPF 30
Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Liner Pencil in Black
Neways Barrier Cream
Tweezerman tweezers
Clinique Chubby Stick in Super Strawberry
Rimmel Stay Matte Translucent Powder
Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in Candy Apple
Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Bronze Universel
Maybelline Baby Lips in Anti-Oxidant Berry
MAC Select Cover Up Concealer in NC30
Agnès B. makeup pouch
Natio gwp makeup pouch

The verdict:
Do I really need four brushes? Probably.
Can I really do without a base? If I can get away with it, yes!
Only four lip products? (Am I going to survive?) Oh, don't worry, I'm sure that total will have doubled by the time I return...

See you soon! x

SKIN SAVIOURS OF YESTERYEAR //

The weather of late has been...temperamental to say the least! Lovely sunny days with a gentle breeze quickly succeeded by rainy days with a bitter wind...followed by beautiful weather again. With the chillier weather fast approaching, I thought I'd recap the few products that provided much needed relief and comfort to my skin in Winter last year - and remind myself of what I need to have in my arsenal before Winter hits!

Avène Soothing Moisture Mask - One day I discovered that my regular night cream just wasn't cutting it anymore. Maybe it was my wind-chapped face, or the hot water I used to wash my face with in the shower (naughty, I know)... I'm still not too sure what caused it, but suddenly I found that my face was very sensitive, red, dry, irritated and itchy. I grabbed this on a whim, as it looked thick and hydrating - and gentle enough for highly sensitive skin, and sure enough, within a few days my skin had returned to normal. Over Winter I used this as a 'booster' or a mask for when my face was feeling especially dry or sensitive. I found it also worked wonders on other parts of my body, such as elbows and patches of mild eczema.

Avène Cold Cream Hand Cream - I also toted this around with me so I could apply it when my hands became dry and chapped. My circulation is poor to begin with, and even worse in cold weather, exacerbated by indoor heating and chilly weather outside - therefore hand cream is my best friend! I found this one by Avene to be soothing and hydrating; it absorbed quickly and acted like a moisture-retaining barrier.

Natio Moisturising Lip Balm with SPF 30 and Vitamin E - I know I've already harped on about this sufficiently, but it really is my favourite lip balm. I like a lip balm with SPF even in Winter, especially for those surprisingly sunny days. This one is rich enough for Winter during the day, though I prefer something heavier for night.

Nivea Lip Butter in Caramel Cream - Enter this little tin of scrumptiousness. I loved slathering this on before bed for the scent alone to keep lips moisturised throughout the night. After a while it seemed oddly drying - it seemed to sit on the lips rather than sinking in, but I found it worked well with a wash cloth to exfoliate lips. I would apply a generous layer, before gently buffing lips with a wash cloth soaked in warm water in circular motion. It's of a lovely buttery, creamy consistency and doesn't harden like some other oil-rich lip butters.

Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion - This has been a firm favourite of mine for years now - not too heavy for Summer, but hydrating enough to use in Winter. It's also sensitive skin-friendly and non-comodogenic (doesn't block pores). It has a slight scent that isn't very noticeable or unpleasant. This is definitely one of my can't-be-without skincare basics.

Reniu Coconut Body Lotion - Oh my, this smells absolutely delightful. This is perfect for when my legs need a bit of extra TLC to stop them from being dry and flaky. It's fast absorbing and provides lasting hydration (plus it makes my clothes fragrant, too). I'm not sure where you can buy this from as it was a souvenir from Fiji, though I'd say The Body Shop has some equally delicious coconut-scented offerings.

What are your Winter skincare essentials?