Monday 29 April 2013

Style Files - Jungle Fever

I am a big fan of the H&M Conscious Collection right now - not only do I feel virtuous in investing in sustainable style pieces, the summer collection is also so pretty that I don't mind if I do! Not to mention the prices are beyond reasonable. I love the tropical print line which makes me wish I could jet off to any exotic location. The print dress would be perfect with flip flops on the beach but, since I won't be nearing a beach any time soon, I went with the blouse version. Pretty chiffon material, amazing print and totally comfy, this adds a little interest to an otherwise simple outfit.

At least I can close my eyes and dream of sunnier climes...! Bisous xx




Tweed Blazer - Zara
Suede Wedges - Topshop (old but similar here)
Bracelets - Handmade & purchased in France
Nails - Revlon in shade '580 Eclectic'

(N.B. This post is not sponsored)

Sunday 28 April 2013

Boots Make Up Haul

I can't resist a nosy around Boots at the best of times, but on this occasion I was on a mission. I went there to buy a spearmint nail polish and foundation brush and came out with all kinds of goodies that were not included in the budget but that I just couldn't pass up!

Beauty bloggers around the globe have advocated that the Real Techniques buffing brush is a winner for foundation application and, cleverly, it is only available in the Flawless Base Core Collection brush set. The set also includes concealer and contour brushes which I am really enjoying using so far.

Another blogger fave is the Revlon Colourburst lip butter. These beauties are like highly pigmented balms - super moisturising with a great sheen of colour which is perfect for Spring. I picked up the shades 'Tutti Fruity', a vibrant orangey coral, and 'Peach Parfait', the perfect peachy nude. I love!

The Revlon products are currently 3 for 2 in Boots so my minty polish was, in essence, free. I picked up the Revlon Nail Enamel in shade '580 Eclectic'. I love this colour but (as I said in my Coral Sands blogpost) I was disappointed with the formula - it was so thin and watery that I needed 3 coats and the brush was thin making each coat a labourious process. Needless to say I got impatient and my nails look less than perfect. Grrr.

Finally, the Smashbox Try It Kit was one of these draw-you-in-at-the-till-queue moments - it contains the best sellers including the foundation primer that gets rave reviews. So far I have found it a little too radiant for my liking but I am trying it with a few different foundations to search for the perfect combo. I will keep you informed and any tips would be welcomed!

All round a pretty productive trip!

Let me know if you want any more information on any of these products and happy make-upping!

Bisous xx



Smashbox Try It Kit
Revlon Nail Enamel in shade '580 Eclectic'
Real Techniques Flawless Face Core Brush Collection

(N.B. This post is not sponsored)

Style Files - Coral Sands

Oh I do love an orange and pink combo - in fact anything in the pink/orange/coral colour family gets a thumbs up from me. Paired with a neutral (or 'sand') blazer tones the look down for day.

I am also loving this spearmint colour on my nails - in my opinion it goes with everything and will be a constant for the warmer months. I must admit, though, that if you are in the market for a minty nail, I would recommend you head for Barry M - as much as I love the Revlon colour I was very disappointed by the formula (too thin and watery) and the brush (too small). I draw the line at 2 coats but this one required 3! So inevitably I got bored of waiting, smudged both thumbs and have to hide my thumbs everytime I look down at my beautiful nails to avoid reminding myself of how annoyed I am! Plus the Barry M version is cheaper so positives all round!

Brights and pastels? It must be nearing summer! Happy face!

Bisous xx






Blazer - Primark
Suede Wedges - Topshop (old but similar here)
Nails - Revlon in shade '580 Eclectic'

(N.B. This post is not sponsored)

Saturday 27 April 2013

Style Files - Ombre Silk

When the harem trouser shape first burst onto the fashion scene I never saw myself wearing the so-called 'pyjama pant'. But the longer it stuck around, and the more interesting the prints became, I have slowly become a little obsessed. If you have followed my blog for a while you will have already seen my amazing scarf print harems here and my geometic monochrome print harems here.

So it will be no surprise that this little number made it into my H&M sale online basket - costing only £7 (no joke) I just couldn't pass them up. Ombre styles are everywhere this season so these bargain trews nail two trends in one. Not to mention how comfortable they are as the nicer weather sets in. I'm sure this won't be the last harem pant to grace my fashion cupboard!

Have a great weekend and enjoy the sunshine! Bisous xx





Ombre Silk Trouser - H&M Sale
Zip Pocket Vest - New Look
Neon Handbag - H&M
Floral Scarf - Zara
Heeled Loafer - River Island (similar here)
Nails - Revlon in shade '580 Eclectic'

(N.B. This post is not sponsored)

Thursday 25 April 2013

Styles Files - Aztec Fantastic

Good afternoon fellow fashionistas! I am really feeling prints this season and this aztec print skirt from Zara is no exception. The material is thick and feels really good quality for the price. The brand has brightened up their prints for Spring so you can now get this skirt in a great pink, red and black combo. My tribal/neon pink flats are super comfy and perfect for summer strolls.
Have a great Thursday!
Bisous xx


Lace Top - Zara (last seen at lunch at the Ivy here)
Aztec Skirt - Zara (last seen here)
Sandals - JustFab 'Grecia' (last seen here)
Multi-Layered Necklace - Accessorize (last seen here)
Lips - No.7 Sheer Temptation Lipstick in 'Excite'
Nails - Gold by Giles Deacon in shade '10'

N.B. This post is not sponsored

Tuesday 23 April 2013

Style Files - Emerald Lace

Today I am experimenting with shades of green in clashing textures of tweed, lace and silk. I haven't worn an anklet in years but the sunshine inspired me to wear my Accessorize charm bracelet around my ankle for a little beach-chic in the city!






Tweed Jacket - Zara (S/S12 but similar here)
Lace Crop Trouser - Zara
Blouse - Zara
Shoes - Office
Bracelets - Forever 21
Bracelet (worn as anklet) - Accessorize
Lips - No.7 Sheer Temptation Lipstick in 'Excite'
Nails - Gold by Giles Deacon in shade '10'

N.B. This post is not sponsored

Monday 22 April 2013

Style Files - Graphic Monochrome

As you saw in my 'Zebra chic' blogpost, I love a bit of monochrome. This classic colour combination can't fail but be chic and never goes out of style. How to wear for 2013 - with the much-loved printed trouser! I may own printed trousers in almost every colour under the sun but when it comes to looking pulled together and sophisticated you just cannot go wrong with the original and classic black and white combo.

Monochrome needn't be boring - the graphic print on my River Island trousers and the sheer panels in my Zara blouse add interest to this chic colour palette. A pop of colour from my red handbag pulls the look together.





Jacket - Mango (last seen here)
Print Trouser - River Island
Top - Zara (last seen here)
Shoes - Zara (last seen here)
Handbag - Topshop (old but similar here and here)
Lips - No.7 Sheer Temptation Lipstick in 'Excite'
Nails - Gold by Giles Deacon in shade '10'

For those who have asked, yes my 'I heart NY' tattoo really is real! A product of my bachelorette in NYC last April - my bridesmaid has a matching version too! Have a bright and happy Monday!

Bisous xx

N.B. This post is not sponsored

Saturday 20 April 2013

Style Files - Golden Girl

It's the weekend and I do like a little glitz on a Saturday! I am brightening up this rather dull grey day with a splash of gold. The cozy knit makes it Scottish Spring appropriate.




Lazer Cut Skirt - Missguided (last seen here)
Gold Fleck Knit - Topshop (old but similar here)
Statement Necklace - Accessorize
Gold Court Shoes - Office (old but I love these)
Lips - No.7 Sheer Temptation Lipstick in 'Excite'
Nails - Gold by Giles Deacon in shade '10'

I am partial to a bit of metallic sheen to my life and wardrobe. I also love a bit of Golden Girls but this look is entirely opposite to what you might see on that show! Metallics are here to stay for Spring and Summer right through to Autumn and Winter 2013. I am loving this rose gold colour for a change from the standard silver and gold. This cut out skirt from Missguided had me at hello! I have dressed it down with a chunky knit but will equally be pairing it with a simply scalloped-edge vest and statement necklace for a night on the tiles with my girlfriends. A super versatile piece if ever there was one! For colder days this gold flecked knit also looks great with jeans and tailored trousers so I will be gleaming gold whatever the weather!
Have a fantastic day and work some precious metal into your life!
Bisous
xx

Friday 19 April 2013

Style Files - Tiger Tiger

I am in love with my nude Zara sandals with perspex heel and was inspired to pair them with my nude Mango blazer - one of my many January sales buys. Still loving a pop of colour on my lips and nails to keep the look fresh.




Abbie was desperate to be involved in the photo shoot today!


Blazer - Mango
Tiger Print Dress - Zara
Belt - Vintage (last seen here)
Nude & Perspex Heels - Zara (find similar at Mango Outlet)
Stud Clutch - Zara (last seen here)
Gold Curb Chain Necklace - Mango
Neon Orange Bracelet - Biba (last seen here)
Nails - Missguided Polish in 'MissTaken' (last seen here)
Lips - No7 Stay Perfect Lipstick in 'Gay Geranium' (last seen here)

My leopard print dress was from last season at Zara but I managed to track it down on eBay - you really can find just about anything on that site and I am a bit of an addict! Since the dress is a little 'busy' on the eye I teamed it with nudes and spashes of gold. My belt is vintage and is another eBay find! I love how it cinches in the waist of this dress and stops it looking too floaty. I enjoy the floaty look sans-belt for casual days but I wanted to smarten up this daytime look so opted for the cinched-in waist and my favourite nude blazer from Mango - it makes anything look more grown up and pulled together.
I am a little obsessed with my Zara nude and perspex sandals (you guessed it - another eBay find)! They look great with dresses but also jazz up jeans and trousers really well. As Kate Middleton has taught us, you can never go wrong with a nude shoe! The perspex heel on this beauty just makes it extra special in my book and the fact that they are really rather comfy just makes me love them all the more!

What are your favourites for Spring?
Have a great day!
Bisous
xx
(N.B. This post is not sponsored)

Thursday 18 April 2013

The beauty review: Beautyblender

If you saw my Cult Beauty haul post you will know that I snapped up the original Beautyblender Duo Pack as I have been dying to try it out for ages.

Reportedly used by the likes of Rhianna and Beyonce, the Beautyblender promises an 'airbrushed finish' - a significant claim for what is essentially a make up sponge. But in the name of research I decided I had to give it a go and make up my own mind.

Of course I am a sucker for an offer and Cult Beauty offers the single sponge for £16 or the duo for £24 - a saving of £8. Obviously, it's only really a saving if you like the product enough to buy a second one.
So the question is:

Is the original Beautyblender worth the hype? I set out to find the answer.
 
LEFT: After water saturation
RIGHT: Before
 
I first used the Beautyblender on Saturday.

I followed the instructions eagerly and held my sponge under tap water, squeezing regularly until it had doubled in size as you can see in the pic.

Once saturated and expanded, I squeezed out excess water and dried the sponge carefully with a towel leaving it slightly damp. So far so good.

I then pumped some foundation onto the back of my hand (Rimmel Wake Me Up Foundation in Ivory is my current make up of choice), dipped the wide end of the sponge into the make up and began applying it to my face in a 'bouncing' motion.

Firstly, bouncing is easier said than done and it did take me some time to get a hang of it. Despite the springy and soft texture, I still felt a little like I was hitting my face at first. But after a couple of goes I worked out how to hold the sponge in a way that gave me enough control whilst allowing the sponge to be as springy as possible against my skin. I found holding it about 2/3 down worked well for me. I also used the pointed tip to work the foundation into the nooks and cranies around my eyes, nose, mouth and hairline.

How did it work I hear you cry? Well, my first impression was a little mixed. Let's start with the bad news:

NEGATIVES
1. I am pretty sure I used more product than I usually would. I found myself pumping a little more product onto my hand half way through which is pretty unusual for me.
2. I have combination skin and I was shiny pretty quickly. I felt that the dampness of the sponge meant less coverage (probably hence the reason I felt the need to add more product) and this possibly led to my oily t-zone after just a few hours.

POSITIVES
1. Once you get the hang of it, the Beautyblender is actually really easy to use. You are pressing the product lightly into the skin, similar to using a stipling brush.
2. The finish is impressive - I suffer from open pores and these were visibly minimised. Also I find brushes leave stripes on my face which this blender does not do.
3. I tried again with the Bblender on Sunday and Monday using a primer before adding my foundation and that made a huge difference, keeping my skin matte all day after just a light dusting of translucent powder to set the make up.

Am I sold? Well, it goes without saying that I will continue to use this product as long as I have two of them and the sponge shampoo by the same brand! But seriously, I am pretty impressed. I wouldn't say it is a holy grail item quite yet but, now that I am more used to how to make the product work for my skin, I will definitely continue using it.

My Bblender rules from now on are:
1. I pledge to always use a face primer
2. I pledge to spend time working the foundation into my skin to get the right finish - when you think you have bounced enough, bounce a little more!
3. I pledge to pat under eye concealer on with my warm fingers then use the pointed end of the Bblender to gently work into place
4. I pledge to dust a light layer of translucent power to set my foundation and keep my face looking matte all day long

I will let you know how I get on as I continue using the Beautyblender. I would also be eager to hear all about your experiences and whether you have a holy grail foundation applicator!

Bisous xx

Wednesday 17 April 2013

Style Files - Floral Bomber

Florals for Spring may not be original but I just can't help but dig out this floral bomber jacket when the sun pokes out from behind the clouds. Bomber jackets are the key jacket shape for Spring - see some great picks from ASOS at the link below. Happy flower arranging!



Floral Bomber Jacket - ZARA (S/S12) (similar at ASOS here)
Faux Leather Panel Trouser - F&F at Tesco (similar at Mango here)
Embroidered Vest - ZARA (from A/W12 sale)
Ankle Boots - River Island (last seen here)
Watch Pendant - Urban Outfitters (similar here)
Lips - Dior Addict Ultra Gloss in shade '234'

My love of eBay is no secret and I found my Zara floral bomber on the much-loved site last summer. The material is silky and light which is perfect for Spring. I am in love with the print which is reminiscent of art gallery prints and reminds me fondly of my paint-splattering stage! ASOS do some great alternatives. I love the laid-back chic look a bomber jacket gives to any outfit. It goes well with anything from dresses to denim cut-offs and jeans and can really lift an outfit. A friend of mine recently wore this jacket to a wedding over a simple shift dress and it looked awesome! Will I ever tire of a good floral print? Not likely!
(N.B. This post is not sponsored)

Bisous xx

Tuesday 16 April 2013

Style Files - Spring Safari

If you haven't checked out the H&M Conscious collection yet then I suggest you do - not only is the fashion sustainable but the designs are lovely and this khaki blouse is really good quality. To make it a little more 'Springy' I put it with floral print trousers and my fringe leather clutch which I love. If you follow me on Instagram you will have seen my initial necklace - it's the 2013 version of the 90's nameplate! Much more chic!
Have a great week! Bisous xx



Khaki Blouse - H&M Conscious Collection
Floral Trouser - H&M
Grey Booties - New Look (old but I love these)
Leather Fringe Clutch - Zara (S/S12 but try eBay for similar)
Embellished Hairband - Accessorize
Silver Initial Necklace - eBay
Nails - Barbara Daly for Tesco in 'Buttermilk'
Lips - Kate Moss for Rimmel Lipstick in '03'

(N.B. This post is not sponsored)

Monday 15 April 2013

Style Files - Feeling Blue

I am a big fan of cobalt blue and will be living in my bargainous H&M trousers (£9.99!) throughout the summer months. My tartan frill jacket picks up on the blue tones and keeps the look smart and put together.




Tartan Ruffle Jacket - ASOS (last seen here)
Cobalt Blue Trouser - H&M
Cut Out Top - H&M
Metallic Court Shoe - ZARA (last seen here)
Metallic Clutch - old but similar here
Turquoise Earrings - bought in France (similar here)
Gold & Turquoise Necklace - Accessorize
Nails - Barbara Daly shade 'Butterscotch'
Lips - Dior Addict Ultra Gloss in shade '234'

(N.B. This post is not sponsored)

Sunday 14 April 2013

Style Files - Print Clash

I love a good print clash and it felt like the right time to bring these River Island beauties out of the closet to wear with pride! They are super comfy and, paired with my Zara tweed blazer and Guess pumps, are super chic too. If you tend to shy away from prints try pairing one print with nude basics or follow my lead and make no apology for teaming print with print! Fashion should be fun after all!
Bisous xx




Tweed Blazer - ZARA (S/S 2012 - but similar here)
Scarf Print Trouser - River Island (similar here)
Bird Print Camisole - AX Paris for New Look
Shoulder Bag - JustFab 'Resort' (also available in emerald green)
Patent Court Shoe - Guess (similar here)
Long Necklace - Mango (I love this one)
Short Necklace - Accessorize
Giant Pearl Earrings - Accessorize
Nails - Barbara Daly for Tesco in shade 'Butterscotch'
Lips - Kate Moss Rimmel Lipstick in shade '03'

(N.B. This post is not sponsored)