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 29

I'm reminiscing my first foray into lippie loving today with Avon Glazewear Lipstick in Gypsy Red. It's delightfully creamy and hydrating, and my younger self adored the sparkles. It struck me a couple of days ago - Avon actually seems to do the most unique/'I-don't-even-know-how-to describe-this-colour' shades. Take Gypsy Red, for example. On my lips it looks like a reddish pink, though it swatches like a corally-red, with a hint of orange. Or is it just me? For some reason I've found it a challenge to describe the colours of the Avon lipsticks that I own - is it a cool red? A berry red? A fire engine red? I settled for describing one as 'sangria', though I'm not entirely certain if that was correct, either!

In other news, I've switched (permanently till the colder weather returns, I think) back to my 'Summer combo' from earlier in the year, for my base - i.e. Nivea sunscreen + MAC Face and Body Foundation, as I've found that Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light tends to be a tad too emollient, and a bit light for my tanned skin. It is a bit of a pain to have to layer the two for the SPF (and to add powder on top to negate the shine...), but for the time being I'll deal with it - and factor in an extra minute or two into my makeup routine! I've also been considering tinted moisturisers with 'built in SPF', such as Invisible Zinc Tinted Daywear SPF 30+, or Becca Mineral Tint SPF 30+ Sunscreen, that are also physical sunblocks. I'm starting to research the different between chemical and physical sunscreens, so please do share if you know a bit about it - it's all a bit science-y and mind boggling to me; (science was never really my forte in school!).

The breakdown:
Nivea Daily Face Veil SPF 30+ Sunscreen
MAC Face and Body Foundation in C3
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard
Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Translucent + EcoTools Retractable Kabuki
Clinique Cheek Pop in 01 Ginger Pop + Real Techniques Stippling Brush
Rimmel Waterproof Kohl Kajal in 012 Bronze
Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler
Avon Glazewear Lipstick in Gypsy Red


For those in the Southern Hemisphere, I hope you're enjoying the warmer weather!
(And for those in the North, enjoy Fall while it lasts!) 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 25

Wowza. It was pretty crazy earlier today - and all over in about five minutes! The heavens opened and rain bucketed town, followed by hail about the size of raisins or macadamia nuts, which left us without electricity for a few hours. My, my - time seems to pass so slowly without the internet! Anyhow, I was definitely 'feeling' the volatile weather today - and as my mood seems to reflect the weather, it made sense to do a more 'full-on', somewhat-more-Autumnal face. No 'sunshine and lollipops' today! Today's lip is one of my favourites Avon My Lip Miracle in incREDible, which is a gorgeous currant red that I usually reserve for the Autumn/Winter months. I especially love that it's a wonderfully hydrating formula that keeps lips happy all day, while packing a punch in the colour department. Side-note: The eyeshadow I'm wearing is a combination of the burgundy Bourjois cream eyeshadow, with Essence Party All Night layered on top - it's strange how the Bourjois one becomes more of a browny shade when blended (see the swatches here).

What I used:
Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Bronze Universel + Real Techniques Buffing Brush
EcoTools Large Eye Brush and Smudge Brush
Avon My Lip Miracle in incREDible
Essence Eyeshadow in 35 Party All Night
Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Natural Beauty + Real Techniques Stippling Brush
Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler
Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eyeliner Pencil in Black
Bourjois Color Edition 24hr Eyeshadow in 05 Prune Nocturne


Hope you're all taking care in this crazy weather! x

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 24

You might remember a few days ago I mentioned that the Avon Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Red 2000 looks great with the Yes To Carrots Color Balm in Soft Plum layered on top... I tried to recreate it for you, though it doesn't look as good as it did when I tried it spontaneously (argh, isn't that always how it goes!). The cherry red of Avon is given a vampier twist, thanks to the muted burgundy of Yes To Carrots - and the added bonus is that it's less drying, too. Win!

What I used:
Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light
Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard
Yes To Carrots Color Balm in Soft Plum
Avon Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Red 2000
Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eyeliner Pencil in Black


Are you a fan of layering lippies?
Recommend a combo? x

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 23

Taking a break from the loud lips today with something a tad more muted - Avon Color Rich Lipstick in Sparkling Blush, which for some reason reminds me the kind of lipstick a fairy would wear - candy pink with sparkles! It's a nice alternative to bright lipstick, as it is of considerably lower maintenance  and is perhaps more everyday appropriate (if you tend to shy away from eye-catching colours for daily wear, like me). I only wear this one occasionally as I sometimes find the iridescent finish a little...uh, tacky, I suppose, but every now and then I'll pull it out when I'm in the mood for something different!

What I used:
Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light
Rimmel Waterproof Kohl Kajal in 012 Bronze
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard
Avon Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Sparkling Blush


Are you a fan of bright lips, or more muted colours? x

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 20

Today's face is a low-maintenance, soft matte 'stained' lip for work, feat. Avon Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Red 2000. I guess you could say that I've been feelin' the red lip these past few days - it's a nice alternative to my usual pared back lip choices. I don't usually wear matte lipstick to work, as they can be quite drying and annoying to touch up, especially as I'm constantly talking to customers. I made an exception today as I've got a short shift, and a stain is easier to work with, in that I know it won't transfer to my teeth or smudge. It's actually intensely pigmented when applied straight from the tube, as you can see in the swatch above, though patted on with a finger it appears quite soft, which I like - just polished enough, but not too over the top. Work appropriate. It also looks lovely with the Yes To Carrots Color Balm in Soft Plum layered on top, which I ended up experimenting with towards the end of my shift, when my lips were feeling a little parched. The sheer burgundy shade adds another dimension to the soft cherry red, which is rather pretty - I don't have a photo, so you'll have to take my word for it!

What I used:
Mecca Cosmetica In A Good Light
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard
Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler
Rimmel ScandalEyes Waterproof Kohl in 012 Bronze
EcoTools Angled Crease Brush
Essence Eyeshadow Single in 35 Party All Night
Avon Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Red 2000

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 18

You've probably noticed a recurring theme these past few days - i.e. the 'minimal' face - and today is no different! It probably sounds a little ridiculous, and I don't pretend to disagree, but sometimes I almost challenge myself to see how I can make a rather laid-back outfit - such as my jeans-and-plain-tee uniform du jour - appear somewhat more polished with the aid of a little pop of colour on the lips, accompanied by illuminated skin and a touch of eyeliner. I love that this NYX Black Label Lipstick in 105 Cherry is a gorgeous deep cherry red hue that gives off a 'just been eating berries' kind of vibe when gently pressed into the lips (I usually use my ring finger). A full-out red lip would probably have been a little too much for my casual get-up.

The 'bare essentials':
Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard
Rimmel ScandalEyes Waterproof Kohl in 012 Bronze
NYX Black Label Lipstick in 105 Cherry

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 10

Phew! So despite looking like a pale, sickly creature, I'm feeling better today and nearly recovered (man-voice and raw nose notwithstanding). I just thought I'd post a quick FOTD to show you what yesterday's lippie - Bourjois Shine Edition Lipstick in 23 Grenade In (Grenadine) - looks like applied straight from the tube (follow the link to read the mini review). You probably can't tell from that photo, but my lips are pretty gross and chapped - thankfully it's a forgiving, moisturising formula!

The other stuff on my face:

Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light
Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Bronzer Universel + Real Techniques Buffing Brush
The Body Shop x Lily Cole Lip & Cheek Dome in 20 Pinch Me Pink
Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler
Bourjois Shine Edition Lipstick in 23 Grenade In / Grenadine
Rimmel Soft Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in Black
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard


Hope you're enjoying the gorgeous Spring sunshine! x

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 9

Bourjois Shine Edition Lipstick in 23 Grenade In

Hey friends, seeing as I'm still kinda gross and germy and 'clogged-upper-respiratory-esque', I thought I'd post another quick review today, of a lippie that's made a few appearances on ze blog already... Bourjois Shine Edition Lipstick in 23 Grenade In (or Grenadine). This has been a favourite of mine throughout the cooler months, as the hydrating formula is kind to dry, chapped lips, and the berry shade is quite nice for Autumn/Winter. While I enjoyed patting it onto lips for a soft wash of colour - see here for reference - the swatch below is an accurate depiction of what it looks like when applied from the tube.

Texture: It has a light, creamy formula that's moisturising and 'balmy'. It glides over flaky bits with ease, and doesn't get caught on them or highlight them. It reminds me of Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butters, except it's less glossy.

Opacity: I'd say that it's close to full opacity, though it can be dabbed on or worn over lip balm for a sheerer finish. To me, it's quite similar to a highly pigmented tinted lip balm.

Hydration: It's rather moisturising, though there's not a lot of 'slip' like a lip gloss - which isn't a bad thing, as it means it stays put relatively well. This is another of my top picks for work days, as it doesn't leave my lips feeling parched.

Longevity: It's staying power is impressive for something so moisturising. It lasts 5 or 6 hours with 'careful' eating/drinking. It also fades evenly, and leaves a pretty stain.

Price: $19 for 3g (I bought mine cheaper from Asos, but at the moment they're 25% off at Priceline!)

Other notes: It has a faint, barely perceptible scent to it, that's not offensive in any way.


Have you tried this lipstick?
What are your picks for work days? x
 

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // INTRO

Woohoo, it's finally Spriiiiiiing! Words cannot describe how thrilled I am that Winter is over - I've missed being able to feel my fingers and toes haha. I'm already looking forward to warm breezes and sunny weather.

So, for ages I'd been meaning to do a whole compilation of the many lippies in my possession, but never really got around to it. As the lovely Valentine of This Is Valentine recently reminded me about it, I thought I'd post a 'lippie a day' to coincide with Liptember. Liptember is an initiative that raises funds and awareness for women's mental health during the month of September, through women buying a Liptember official lipstick and being sponsored for wearing it all month by family and friends. The funds that are raised will go directly to the Centre For Women's Mental Health, and Lifeline. Rather than participate this year in all the rainbow lipstick festivities (working it retail, it's not really acceptable for me to show up with flamboyantly coloured lips, such as yellow, green or blue lipstick!), I thought I'd donate money instead, and challenge myself to actually wear the lipsticks/lip products that I've got (rather than merely hoarding a collection). Seeing as I don't actually have 30 different ones, I don't think (*pats self on back*), I'll intersperse them with little overviews/mini reviews - so get ready for a whole lot of lip lovin' this month!

Lippie collection!

Have you heard of the Liptember campaign - or participated - before?
Would you consider joining the cause?

P.S. Does anyone remember how Burt's Bees was the official partner for Liptember a couple of years back? :D x

WEEK IN REVIEW // 11

A week of...more haulin'. They see me haulin', they hatin'... Well, my bank balance ain't looking too impressed, either. I'd better make more of an effort to shop my now-burgeoning stash!

LUSH It Started With a Kiss lip tint - This has been a lovely alternative to a bright lippie, especially when applied sparingly. It wears comfortably, goes on evenly, and fades well, too. I just hope it doesn't end up drying or going grainy like the last two I've tried!

Sussan Pom Pom Socks - Aaaaaand the pom pom socks have finally come out for Winter! They're a bit of a novelty, too, I suppose, and they keep my feet, and ankles, nice and toasty. I seriously have the worst circulation - can't wait for Winter to be over already!

Lanikai Ukulele - Meet my new baby. She has a gorgeous, warm sound, and is great to play. Perhaps there might even be a musical interlude in the near future...? :O

Bourjois Shine Edition Lipstick in 23 Grenadine - Is this...another lip product?! Sorry, I couldn't resist! The glossy/balmy nature of this makes it perfect for Winter, as my lips aren't in the best shape. It doesn't cling to flaky bits of lip skin (sorry, gross!) and has quite impressive staying power for something as moisturising as it is. I like to pat it on to my lips for a subtle wash of colour, like so.

And still going strong from last week:
Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light - I completely understand if you're sick of seeing this one, given the frequency of its appearances here! But it'd be wrong of me not to include it, when it's the only base I've been wearing as of late... It really is a great 'all in one' - moisturiser, sunscreen, illuminator - a lazy girl's dream!

Nuxe Rêve de Miel - I think this has almost matched Nivea Lip Butter's numerous appearances on here, as well. I am pleased to announce that underneath the hardened top lies a creamier balm, consistent with lemon curd... Mmmmm. This is the only balm I've been using lately.

bareMinerals Correcting Concealer in Medium 2 - Last week I mentioned that I was experimenting with application, and I've found that fingers work equally well for when I'm not overly bothered (lazy girl, remember? :P) It provides decent coverage, and its powder finish gives it lasting power, though I prefer to apply it over something moisturising first, so it goes on smoothly.

Happy Monday! Hope the rest of the week goes swimmingly (: x

#FOTD 5 //

Who said FOTD's had to be serious affair?

Today was a pretty chill day - the kind of day that encourages me to experiment.

('Scuse the eye bags...)
*I had my hair in a ponytail, hence the random bits of hair sticking out!

The breakdown:
1. Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light all over face
2. b Collection by Bloom Cream Blush in Barossa Valley applied with Real Techniques Stippling Brush on apples of cheeks
3. MAC Bronzing Powder in Matte Bronze applied with Real Techniques Contour Brush under cheekbones to contour
4. MAC Select Cover-Up Concealer in NC30 dabbed under eyes with fingers
5. Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eyeliner Pencil in Black gently traced along upper lash line
6. NYX Black Label Lipstick in 105 Cherry patted onto lips (applied over a thin layer of Nuxe Rêve de Miel)

Hope you're having a great start to the weekend!