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 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 14

Just a mini review on Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturising Lip Colour Balms (L-R: 07 Super Strawberry and 15 Pudgy Peony), which I rather adore. In these last couple of posts, you've probably gathered enough about these fun jumbo Crayola-esque lippies, but I thought I'd compile a little summary for y'all.

Texture: They have a glossy/balmy feel, and glide on smoothly generally-speaking, though in colder weather they do take a little bit of time before melting into the lips - presumably due to the various nourishing oils (e.g. mango and shea butter) that they contain. To me, they are quite similar to tinted lip balms, except with more colour. They also glide over dry lips with ease, and don't highlight flaky bits.

Opacity: These are actually rather opaque for what they are - semi-opaque would be more accurate (refer to Day 12 and Day 13 to see what they look like on). They are pigmented enough that I wouldn't apply them without a mirror, though some of you talented ladies probably could! They can also be 'dabbed' on for a sheerer hint of colour, though I usually use them like I would a crayon.

Hydration: These are wonderfully moisturising and balmy, and have a bit of slip, so they don't give off a weird, uncomfortable feeling if you rub your lips together frequently, which I tend to do! That said, they can leave my lips feeling a little dry if I don't reapply after wiping it off my lips or after eating/drinking.

Longevity: As they are so hydrating, they don't last for too long - maybe an hour or two with careful  (very careful) eating and drinking.

Price: $35 for...? (I couldn't find it on Clinique AU website, but according to Sephora, it's 0.1 oz, so around 2.8g, which is kinda steep if you think about it!)

Other notes: I find the twist-up design super handy - no sharpening required, and also love that they come in so many colours (16 in the regular Chubby Stick range, plus 8 in the 'Intense' range). They are also quite handbag friendly and portable - and have no discernible scent.


Are you a fan of 'jumbo pencil' style lippies?
Have you tried these Chubby Sticks? 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 4

Maybelline / Burt's Bees / Yes To Carrots

Today's post is just a quick tinted lip balm roundup, featuring the ones mentioned earlier, which you may or may not be familiar with. (Personally, I'd previously never heard of the one by Yes To Carrots!) As you may know, (if you've been reading along), I am particularly fond of tinted lip balms for everyday wear, as the provide a good dose of hydration, along with a hint of tint - something low maintenance that is 'just enough but not too much'. Keep reading to see a little summary of each...

1. Maybelline Baby Lips in Pink Glow

Opacity: This one comes out clear, then develops into a sheer pinky shade that is supposedly unique for each wearer, depending on their lip colour. On me, it ranges from a muted rosy colour, to a pink that's actually surprisingly bright (see Day 2 for reference). It's not very pigmented, but there is a slight wash of colour.

Hydration: It glides on with ease and is rather moisturising. It can leave my lips feeling dry if I don't reapply after eating and drinking.

Longevity: Because it is so hydrating, it doesn't stand up to eating and drinking very well (which isn't unexpected, anyway). It lasts for around an hour or two without eating/drinking.

Price: $3.95 for 4g

Other notes: This one has a pleasant, fruity scent. Also, I tried to swatch this, but it didn't show up at all on my skin.


2. Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Rose

Opacity: This one is the most pigmented out of the three. In terms of opacity it's closer to Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butters than a regular tinted lip balm, though it's not quite as pigmented, and on the balmier side.

Hydration: This one is quite hydrating, and provides lasting moisture over a decent period of time (it keeps my lips happy during work in an air-conditioned environment).

Longevity: It lasts surprisingly well through my shift (4-8 hours), even through eating and drinking if I'm careful.

Price: $15 for 4.25g

Other notes: It has a slight scent about it that is kind of difficult to describe - most probably due to the natural ingredients it contains - it's not quite a chemically scent, but it's not really distinguishable and it doesn't bother me, though it might bother some people. It can also get a bit 'melty' in warmer weather, which makes it a good pick for the cooler months. This one swatches better than the other two, which didn't show up at all.


3. Yes To Carrots Color Balm in Soft Plum

Opacity: This one also provides a sheer hint of colour that's very natural and barely perceptible (I could tell the different, but my mother couldn't!) It's slightly pigmented, but not more than your average tinted lip balm.

Hydration: It has a creamy consistency that has less slip than Baby Lips, and it does glide on with more resistance than the other two mentioned above. The oils in it can take longer to melt into lips especially in colder weather, and it makes my lips feel a little dry if I don't reapply frequently, or after eating and drinking.

Longevity: It lasts about an hour or so until my lips feel dry and I need to reapply.

Price: $6 for 3.3g

Other notes: It has the same 'natural ingredient-y' scent as Burt's Bees, which doesn't really bother me. As it is of a more solid consistency, it'd probably be a good choice for warmer weather, or you may need to stick it in your pocket to warm it up a little before application. I tried swatching this, and it didn't show up very well on my skin, either.


Overall, I think Burt's Bees is hands down my favourite, if not for the ridiculous price tag, compared to the other two. It ticks all the other boxes - Yes To Carrots doesn't quite compare, though it is a more affordable option. Maybelline is quite a good option, too, especially considering what you pay for. I've also got an unopened tube of the tinted version, Maybelline Baby Lips Loves Colour, that I've yet to try - perhaps that'll bridge the gap, but I guess we'll have to wait and see...


Have you tried any of these tinted lip balms?
Do you have a favourite? Please share! x

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 3

Yes To Carrots Color Balm in Soft Plum

The newbie - Yes To Carrots Color Balm in Soft Plum. Yup, another pre-work selfie (a quick snap I took before dashing out the door!)... I enjoy wearing tinted lip balms to work more than lipstick because then I can be sure that it won't fade weirdly or rub off onto my teeth when talking to customers! Because I'm often not able to keep tabs on how my lippie is wearing throughout the shift, I prefer something that I know will be reliable and won't end up looking less-than-pleasant after a few hours, or require touchups. Also, I despise getting lipstick around the top of my water bottle (it's just a pain to clean).

#FOTD

This tinted balm is not as moisturising as I'd prefer, but I like that it gives a sheer wash of colour that's nicer than bare lips. It lasts well enough without eating or drinking, though it's not the most long lasting of the bunch. I think it'd be a good pick for warmer weather, when lips don't require as much hydration (though I suppose the colour could be classified as more autumnal). The Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm (see Day 1), on the other hand, while lovely and moisturising in the cooler weather, can get a little bit 'melty' in warmer weather. Not that it's a bad thing, but just an FYI.

What's on my face?

The other stuff I used:
- Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light
- NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard
- Wet'N'Wild Comfort Zone Palette - Light brown shade from the left side applied with Manicare Eyeshadow Brush
- MAC Fluidline in Black Track applied with Ecotools Angled Eyeliner Brush
- Clinique Cheek Pop in 03 Berry Pop applied with Real Techniques Stippling Brush
- Yes To Carrots Color Balm in Soft Plum


Hope you're all having a great week so far! (And sorry that I'm a bit behind! :|) x

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 2

Maybelline Baby Lips in Pink Glow

#FOTD

Today is a relatively chill day-off, so I'm just wearing Maybelline's Baby Lips in Pink Glow, which provides a sheer layer of colour and a good measure of hydration. It applies clear-ish, then develops into a pinky tone - a colour which is supposedly unique for each wearer. It lasts pretty well until I eat or drink, but that's not unexpected for a balm. Perfect for relaxed catch-ups with friends - nothing too garish or over the top, but it still looks like I kind of made an effort ;)

The other stuff I used:

*I actually didn't put anything on my cheeks, other than In a Good Light, so I'm not sure why it looks a little pink. #datnaturalglow ;)

LIPTEMBER CHALLENGE // DAY 1

Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Rose

#FOTD

I'm easing myself into the Liptember Challenge (see previous post for more info) with a soft wash of colour, courtesy of my longtime fave, Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Rose. It's a semi-opaque, pretty shade of pinky-red, hydrating, and lasts surprisingly well throughout the day. It's my go-to pick for work days, as it doesn't dry out my lips, but instead gives them a little extra TLC in my air-conditioned work environment.

What's on my face

The breakdown:
Face:
Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard
NYX Blush in Desert Rose applied with Real Techniques Stippling Brush

Eyes:
Revlon CustomEyes Eyeshadow Palette in 020 Naturally Glamorous - second shade from left applied all over the lid with Ecotools Angled Crease Brush
Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eyeliner Pencil in Black - smudged into lash line with Ecotools Smudge Brush
Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler

Lips:
Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Rose


Happy Monday! x

AUGUST // MONTH IN REVIEW

Noteworthy August goodies

Hi friends!
You may have noticed that I have stopped doing those 'Week In Review's, simply because my week is usually pretty standard and not-overly-fascinating - thus leading to a monotonous repetition of the same products* that you've seen countless times before... But what can I say? I am a creature of habit, after all!

This month was characterised by mad exam-prepping, procrastination at its finest, and a few other unexpected bits and pieces - such as a lovely bit of light reading.

In a Good Light / Rêve de Miel / DDML+

The usual suspects:
Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light - So, so perfect for the crazy weather we've been experiencing lately. Wonderfully hydrating, quickly absorbed, SPF, and a good dose of illumination to combat dullness and dryness. Totally worthy of HG status for Winter!

Nuxe Rêve de Miel - I know I've already mentioned this nifty jar of goodness nonstop, but it's been getting me through Winter quite nicely - these smooth, non-chapped lips speak for themselves (heh. see what I did there? :P) I've made a significant dent in it now, but it's still nowhere near depleted!

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion+ - I've been reaching for this moisturiser post-shower, as it is soothing and gentle on my dry and sensitive skin. Plus, it's easily absorbed and delightfully hydrating for Winter (though in Summer I do find it a tad emollient).

Color Balm / Cool Water Sea Rose / Radiant Creamy Concealer

The new kids on the block:
Yes To Carrots Color Balm in Soft Plum - My spoils (spoil?) from the Priceline 40% off Skincare Sale last month. Given that I'm technically still on makeup ban, I figured I'd sneak in a little something - I could hardly let the opportunity pass me by! It's a lovely shade of burgundy - 'soft plum' is quite an accurate description. I was tossing up between getting this one, or the Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in another colour. At a fraction of the cost of Burt's Bees' offering (which I adore), I had my fingers crossed that this would be almost as good, or just as good. It's not bad, but unfortunately it's not as moisturising or long lasting - you get what you pay for, I guess! Though I must say that at $6, Yes To Carrots is far more enticing than $15 for Burt's, plus I got mine for 40% off.

Davidoff Cool Water Sea Rose EDT - I've been wearing this all month and I really love it - I kid you not, I'm not even sick of it yet! I'll admit that this was another winner that I pinched off Mother's dresser... It's a lovely fresh fruity-ish rose scent that reminds me of Marc Jacobs' Daisy mixed with Dot? Something like that. Plus it's only $29 for 100mls from Priceline! Win.

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Custard - I mentioned this one a little while back and it's about time I did a proper review of it (coming soon). I've been using it nonstop since I bought it, and have absolutely no complaints - I'm glad to report that it does live up to the hype! It's been my go-to remedy for dark circles, and it lasts all day.

Tangle Teezer / Blow Dry Faster

The, erm, old kids on the block that I've been loving:
Tangle Teezer Compact Styler in Feline Groovy - I bought this a while back and stopped using it after a little bit - I was reminded of why I don't normally use a hairbrush in the first place. What really grosses me out is when lint and hair and other gross stuff collect in the bristles - I can't stand the thought of brushing it back into my hair! But I've taken to brushing my hair before showering to detangle it beforehand, and I've also been making exceptions when my hair is so disgustingly greasy that it doesn't make a difference anyway. I've been amazed at the ease with which it detangles and brushes out knots painlessly.

Cedel Blow Dry Faster - This has been an absolute godsend this Winter, as it usually takes ages for my hair to dry - plus, I've been washing my hair later in the evening, or even late at night, because I can't stand how yucky it feels (ah, the joys of being caught in the rain!). With this hardworking spray I can blow-dry my hair straight without brushes or combs in a few short minutes - #totesamaze is an understatement.

The none-of-the-aboves:
'The Minimal Wardrobe' - Lately I've been intrigued with the idea of creating a harmonious streamlined 'capsule' wardrobe, where each piece perfectly complements the others. After a brief appraisal of my wardrobe, I was less than thrilled with the amount of clothes I have that I don't wear (and probably won't ever wear). I have a right mind to just start again from scratch (Jokes. Too expensive!) But more to come on that topic, so stay tuned.

The Messenger by Markus Zusak - (I borrowed the book and have since returned it, so apologies for the lack of visuals.) I'd been intending to read this since it was recommended to me by a lady I met camping way back in January (Camping. Yeah - who'd have thought?) I thoroughly enjoyed it - it's beautifully written and tugs on the heartstrings so delicately, in a most unassuming manner. It's also very typically-Australian, and a great Young Adults' pick. I found it difficult to extract myself from the world within the pages of the novel once I had finished reading it!


What was your August like? I hope it was a good 'un! :) x


*Sorry if you actually enjoyed those posts!

#FOTD 7 // FEAT. FAVES

I realised it's been a little while since I did one of these.

I was catching up with a friend over lunch, so I felt obligated to make an effort! I decided to go back to my 'tried and true' beauty faves, after doing a bit of tinkering lately. Much like the humble sloppy joe that you reach for automatically when you want something comfy to lounge about in, or the killer pair of heels that you feel great in for a night out, I think each chicka has a stash of beauty products that they know are reliable for no-fuss days. I'm a bit hesitant to use the label 'holy grail', because to me that product has got to be the most incredible thing ever to deserve such a title, but along the lines of an HG. So most of my picks will come as no surprise as you've probably seen them before (or even numerous times!):

The faves*

Mecca Cosmetica In a Good Light tinted facial sunscreen - You may be sick of seeing this one by now, and I hear ya. But it's just such a winner! How could I say no to a moisturiser, sunscreen, illuminator and face perfector all in one?! It really is a winter essential for me.

b Collection by Bloom cream blush in Barossa Valley - I wore this one to death in the summer months, though I've found that it gives a pretty pop of colour to brighten up my pastier winter face, too. It's especially kind to the dry patches on my cheeks, which I appreciate - and which is what influenced me to pick this over a powder blush, which often highlights dry areas and can sometimes looks patchy.

MAC Select Cover-Up concealer in NC30 - I do prefer this one in the summer months as it adheres well (i.e. won't sweat off) and has a powdery finish. For winter I find it a little dry, unless applied over quite an emollient base (like In a Good Light). It's not a bad pick for redness and spots, and the shade thankfully still suits my complexion.

Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal eyeliner pencil in Black - I like using this eyeliner pencil for subtle definition - it can be smoked/smudged in for barely-detectable eyelash beefing up. While it's not the most long lasting, it does a decent job if I remember not to touch my eyes!

Clinique Chubby Stick in 07 Super Strawberry - One of my first 'proper lippies'; I love this for its moisturising properties, and the pretty MLBB tint it imparts. It's quick and easy to touch up - no mirror required. What's not to love?

*Apologies that the pink tones in the photo above aren't very accurate! (Cream blush is more of a coral pink IRL, and the Chubby Stick packaging is a muted raspberry colour).

If you're in the Southern Hemisphere, I hope that you're enjoying the last vestiges of sun!
Which prods have made it into your collection of beauty faves? x

WEEK IN REVIEW // 5

A week of largely crappy weather, last-minute things-to-do, and a revisiting of old (old-ish) favourites.

Clarks boots - These have long been a favourite of mine since I bought them last year. With the rainfall this week I had the excuse to pull them out again.

Glassons knit sweater - I love the colour of this jumper (which goes perfectly with Revlon's ColorBurst Lip Butter in Raspberry Pie, btw), and had the chance to wear it with the cooler weather.

Packing for HK - I'm leaving for an overseas trip to the motherland in 5 days' time! I should probably start actually packing...

Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel Bronze Universel - With the dreary weather I've been reminiscing of Summer, which has made me pull this bronzing beauty out, in the desperate hope to retain (or at least fake my way to) my Summer tan.

Nivea Light Feel Daily Face Veil SPF 30 sunscreen - The last few days were surprisingly sunny, so I've loved layering this under MAC Face and Body, or wearing it on its own with concealer and a touch of cream blush for a no-fuss weekend face.

Maybelline Baby Lips Glow tinted lip balm - I've been using the untainted version for the past couple of weeks, but recently fished this one out of the depths of my makeup bag - perfect for days when I want a slight hint of colour and something that doesn't require precision in application.

Elizabeth Arden Pretty EDP - I've loved this perfume for years now, and have only recently gone back to using it, after switching over to her Pretty Hot sister.

WEEK IN REVIEW // 2

A week of temperamental weather, long shifts at work, more Disney soundtracks, and a fun weekend project (stay tuned!).