Birds Words | Beauty, Fashion, Lifestyle: bourjois

Showing posts with label bourjois. Show all posts

Wednesday, 18 March 2015

Bourjois Colour Boost Lip Crayons | New Spring Shades

I'm a big fan of lip crayons. They're perfect to throw into your handbag for on the go and I often have one sitting on my desk at work as they're so easy and fuss-free to use - no mirror required. Personally, I prefer ones that have a slight glossy finish or moisturising quality to them as opposed to a matte, fully opaque coverage, but finding one with a good bit of lasting power as well as a consistency that is comfortable on the lips can often prove a bit of a challenge. I was so excited to try Bourjois' new additions to their 'Colour Boost' range - I'd never actually tried any of their crayons despite them being largely raved about last summer and it was about time I found out what all the hype was about. Promising 10 hour hydration as well as radiant, glossy colour and a 'bare lip' sensation, these crayons sounded like they'd be just my cup of tea...

Firstly, the three new shades are just perfect for the time of year as we're transitioning into Spring/Summer - 'Proudly Naked', a subtle, neutral pink/nude, 'Sweet Macchiato' a warm berry/rosewood sort of colour and 'Pinking of it' - a bright, fresh fuchsia. My favourite has to be 'Sweet Macchiato' - it's a stunning brick red/berry shade which gives a nod to a statement lip without being too over the top. I've been after a colour like this for absolutely ages - it's been my go-to shade for work just recently and it definitely has that on-trend '90s' vibe going on due to the slight brown undertone it has. It makes a nice alternative to your average berry reds. 'Proudly Naked' is also a winner for me - it reminds me of Mac's 'Creme Cup' and is so easy to wear. It's the perfect everyday shade.

The colour is surprisingly long lasting despite the glossy finish. I drink copious amounts of tea at my desk and the colour is still left on my lips even after a couple of mugs throughout the morning - it appears as more of a stain as opposed to a full on glossy look after a couple of hours but the colour really does stick around. I really like the fact that these crayons don't compromise on colour pay-off despite their more moisturising formula.

Swatches L-R // 07 - Proudly Naked // 08 - Sweet Macchiato // 09 - Pinking of it

Overall, I have to say I've been completely sold on these Bourjois crayons. I can really see why these beauties received so much praise when they were first released. I haven't got the foggiest why on earth I didn't try them sooner and I really can't wait to grab 'Peach on the Beach' (one of last year's shades) in time for Summer. I'm so chuffed that Bourjois have added more shades to the range this season - 'Proudly Naked' and 'Sweet Macchiato' are perfect additions for neutrals fans like myself. The Colour Boost Crayons retail at £7.99* each and are available in 9 different shades. You can find them online here.

What are your favourite lip crayons?

Sunday, 14 September 2014

Bourjois Bronzing Products | Contouring Powders & Gold Shimmer Compact

Although summer is most certainly on it's way out, bronzing products are something I tend to use all year round. I always find that a subtle glow through the winter months really brightens up my face and keeps my complexion looking healthy and fresh - provided I take it down a notch from my summer bronzing regime! I've been a fan of Bourjois' 'chocolate' bronzer for quite some time now. For me, it was always my go-to winter bronzer because it's a little lighter than some of my darker summer favourites. That's why I was rather excited to see 2 new versions of the much loved 'chocolate' bronzer released this year.

Bronzing Powder and Highlighting Duo | £7.99* | Link

I do love a good contouring product - especially when it's something I can use when I'm on the go. This duo is perfect for subtle contouring and sculpting - the highlighter provides a gorgeous flash of shimmer to the cheekbones, whilst the matte finish of the bronzing powder creates a nice, natural appearance. I like it because it adds a touch of warmth to the face and works well as a subtle contour as well as an all over bronzing product. I like these powders because they're pigmented but not so much so that its difficult to blend - its so easy to use and it's definitely something I'd recommend for somebody new to contouring. It's not something that's going to give you a strong 'chiselled' appearance but it's perfect for everyday use and for adding a quick bit of definition. It's something I'll be throwing in my handbag from time to time - it's lightweight and compact, and the '2 in 1' bronzer and highlight feature is just perfect for travelling with.

Gold Bronzing Powder | £7.99* | Link

I was a little unsure about this product at first - I usually hate bronzers with too much shimmer and this one is most certainly packed with the stuff! However, the name is a little misleading - this isn't really intended for sweeping all across your face but more as a 'second step' in your bronzing routine. Instead of a normal highlight, the gold shimmer in this product emphasises your tan and adds a healthy, natural looking bronzed glow to your face and body. I've quite taken to using this on my 'decolletage' (i always feel so posh and well-spoken when I use this word...) and also very lightly on my face. However - it doesn't really work as a highlight! I swept this across the tops of my cheekbones and instantly regretted it as it's quite dark! I use if more for adding a glow to the cheeks - in a similar way you'd apply a shimmery blush. I've found it works much better when I've got a bit of a natural tan or a touch of false tan on beforehand - I've continued to use this now my skin seems to be getting paler and it definitely doesn't look as flattering without a bronzed base to begin with. It's well worth popping a subtle fake tanner on the night before, bronzing your face as usual in the morning and then using this to emphasise the colour you've achieved as it can look a little false if not. This is definitely one of those 'summer' products to pack in your suitcase however, if you fake tan now and again, its subtle enough to be used any time of year provided you don't go overboard with it!

Overall, 2 fabulous releases from Bourjois. I really wish I'd had the shimmery powder earlier on in the summer as it would have been perfect for my holiday! Both products have that lovely 'chocolate' scent that the original bronzers have - I personally really like the subtle fragrance and chocolate inspired packaging and appearance.

Have you tried any of these bronzing products? What will you be using now that autumn/winter is coming around the corner?

Sunday, 3 August 2014

Bourjois | 1 Second Volume Mascara

When it comes to mascara, I'm not the most experimental of the blogger bunch. I stick to what I know and I've repurchased the same mascara for yonks. I have long lashes but sadly, I wasn't blessed with curly, swoopy ones and if I didn't attack them with my trusty lash curlers on a daily basis, I'd be stuffed. As soon as I find one that actually manages to hold a flutter, I'm sold - but so far, only a handful have managed to impress me. It's fair to say I never really hold out much hope for mascaras and I never feel compelled to try the newest formula on the market simply because once I find one that works, I'll stick to it. However, when I first heard of Bourjois' new release - the '1 Second Volume' - I have to admit I was rather intrigued. The idea of a 'roller' inspired brush to inject volume and definition to your lashes was something I really fancied trying, so when it arrived on my doorstep a few weeks ago, I couldn't wait to give it a bash!

The unique wand design with it's 'spherical' bristles means that lashes are coated in a 360 degree motion. This paired with the standard bristles makes for a spiffing combination and I have to admit I really do like it. The brush is undoubtedly quite large - if you're not a fan of larger brushes then I'm not sure you'd get on with it as it can be a little bit cumbersome if you're not concentrating - however, for me, it works perfectly and I really like how easy it is to apply. It separates every lash whilst providing amazing definition - I definitely agree with the 'clump-free' claim as there isn't a spider-lash to behold - yippee! This is definitely helped by the fact the brush is plastic - if you've ever tried Benefit's 'They're Real' (one of my faves) then I find that this feels rather similar to apply. But - the big question is... did it hold the curl? A mascara can separate, volumise and define all it likes but if it doesn't help to lock in the 'swoopiness' then it won't float my boat. I was actually really happy with this - it really does seem to hold a curl very well and my lashes stayed in place all day. Result.

Overall, I have to say I've been impressed with this mascara and I'll most certainly make a purchase on it in future. I was really happy to discover that they offer a waterproof version too as I usually wear water-resistant mascaras on a daily basis (saying that, I never noticed any smudging or flaking with this one - another big plus point!). Although the brush is a little on the large side, I was sold on the unique design and the way in which it's so easy to apply - literally a few sweeps and you're sorted. If, like me, you have fairly straight lashes and struggle to find mascaras that hold a curl, it's well worth trying this one - it defines every single lash, is quick and easy to apply without the need for endless coats and it holds your lashes in place once you've curled them. For £9.99*, it's reasonably priced too. You can find it on the Boots website here.

Have you tried this mascara? Are there any others from Bourjois that you'd recommend?

Sunday, 15 June 2014

New Bourjois Releases | Nail Treats

Magic Nail Polish Remover Hands & Feet | £5.99* | Link

When it comes to painting my nails, it's fair to say I'm pretty high maintenance. My talons have really grown just recently and because of this, my strive for perfection has somewhat intensified. I paint my nails up to 3 times a week - maybe I'm a little bit of an obsessive perfectionist (or maybe I just have far too much time on my hands) but at sign of first chip, I'll take it all off and start again. One thing I hate, however, is removing the stuff. I'm the type of girl who will prefer to sit there and meticulously pick it all off bit by bit through an entire episode of TOWIE (not good for your nails - i might add!) rather than grab a bottle of remover and a cotton pad and simply scrub it off - to me, that's just added effort. This, my friends, is why Bourjois' Magic Hands and Feet Polish remover has become one of my new must-haves - it's the lazy girl's solution for all of your polish removing needs. I must admit, I never bought into their original one and I always bypassed the blogger hype, but after using this the past few weeks, I can honestly say it deserves the praise it gets. The new version is even better though - as well as the sponge within the tub for your fingernails, this one has a foam applicator concealed in the lid so that it can be used for the toes too - perfect for the upcoming warmer weather (don't tell porkies - I'm betting a fair few of you attempted to dip your toes in the original version, no?) As far as the 1 second claim goes, it's more of a 5-10 second thing - but even so, much snappier than faffing around with cotton pads and bottles of remover. I've used this for weeks now and the sponges haven't dried up at all - I'll definitely be taking it on holiday with me as it will be perfect for touch-ups and re-applying polish mid-way through. It's really lightweight so it's great for travel, and it also doesn't smell ridiculously offensive like some of the nail polish remover pads you can buy (i hate the smell of those...yuck). It's non-greasy, quick, easy and fool-proof and never again shall you spill half a bottle of remover on your bathroom floor... (surely this can't just be me?) Oo - it's also worth mentioning that it's acetone free and the formula is enriched with almond oil and pro-vitamin B5 - much kinder for your talons!

Instant Dry Nail Drops | £5.99* | Link

Whenever I paint my nails I can't be without a fast-drying top coat (Seche Vite and Sally Hansen are 2 of my faves). I paint them so much that simply wafting them around for a good half an hour isn't an option and I could honestly never go back to using a standard top coat. This is why Bourjois' Instant Nail Dry Drops intrigued me - sometimes, I've been known to paint a nail and rush out of the door 20 seconds later - I'm all for reducing drying time! I've never used drops before, but I used to go for pedicures a couple of years back and the girls always used to use these to dry the polish quickly between coats. I have to say these work very well - just one drop on each nail and you're pretty much good to go in a swish of a puppy dog's tail. I've found that I still use a topcoat for extra gloss afterwards but if you aren't too fussed about an extra glossy finish then there's no real need to use one. One thing I will say is that I expected it to feel cooling on the nails (if you use Sally Hansen or Seche Vite you'll know exactly what I mean here) but it doesn't feel at all like that - you can't really feel it working, which made me a little nervous about doing the 'tap' test at first but you soon get used to it. I also find i have to wash off the excess afterwards as the formula can linger a little. Nevertheless, it's a really good bottle to have in your stash if you're a speedy nail painter like myself! It's also enriched with cuticle nourishing ingredients - so if you're growing your nails or like to be mindful of what products you're using on them, this is a great option.

So Laque Glossy Nudes Polish in 'Peace & Mauve' | £5.99* | Link

This little beauty has fast become one of my favourite nail polish shades to wear and I've had so many compliments on it recently. 'Peace and Mauve' from Bourjois' Glossy Nudes collection is a gorgeous pale lilac colour with a slight grey-ish/white tone. It's really quite unlike anything else in my stash and it's a little more subdued and classy than other lilacs I've tried in the past. I find i have to apply 3 coats to get an opaque finish but the finish is really smooth and glossy (I still use a topcoat afterwards to really seal it in). I've also found it resists chipping quite well - I got through 3 days at uni without any chips or peeling (which is really good for me as i usually chip my polish the day after! Clumsy elf!) One thing I will say is that brushes tend to make or break a polish for me - this one really impressed me as it's the perfect size for coating the nail with ease and it's really neat and tidy - no awkward flyaway bits! The nail wheel above really doesn't do this justice and I wish so much that I'd managed to snap a photograph of it on my nails - with a bit of a tan, trust me, it looks amazing! This is the first Bourjois polish I've ever used (*gasp*) and I will definitely be buying more in the future - they're a little more pricey than other high-street brands but for the quality - you certainly cannot grumble.

Have you tried any of these nail treats? Did any of them float your boat?!

Sunday, 11 May 2014

Monthly Favourites | April

Nothing like a favourites post to highlight the fact that you have a serious beauty product obsession, is there girls? We're such a fickle bunch, us bloggers - never satisfied - constantly on the hunt for new products to get our mitts into because the substantial collection we already have simply won't suffice! Once you start blogging - there's no such thing as a fixed makeup routine and your bathroom cabinets and dressing tables become over-run with lotions and potions. April saw the weather brighten up a notch or two (although I can't say much for it now - it's raining cats, dogs and goodness knows what else outside my window) - I've found myself reaching for lighter bases, bronzing products and summery-scented goodies the past 3 weeks. Without further ado, I shall give you the run-down on what I've been loving for the month of April...

Barry M | Gelly Hi-Shine Nail Paint in 'Rosehip' | £3.99

April saw me give in to the new spring shades of Gelly Hi-Shine polishes. Like the indecisive, impulsive little tinker I am, of course, I bought all 3. I adore these polishes. The glossy finish, smooth application and amazing pigmentation tick all my boxes for what makes a good nail polish. Admittedly, these spring shades can be a little streaky to apply and I do have to adorn my 'concentration face' in order to get a perfect application, but that I can overlook for the beautiful pastel, milky tones that these provide. My favourite is 'Rosehip' - a gorgeous white-pink shade. I won't harp on about it too much as I have a post on the full spring range here. (I also have a post on the rest of my collection here if you fancy having a read...although I have to say it's considerably grown since...)

YSL Touche Eclat in 'Luminous Ivory' | RRP £25.00*

I'm a massive fan of YSL's Touche Eclat foundation (it's my summer favourite!) and I love the dewy, flawless finish it provides - that's why I had high hopes for the ever-famous Touche Eclat highlighting pen. I was sent this product a while back and I must admit it didn't blow me away like I thought it would. However, I've been using it quite a bit just recently to highlight my under-eye area and I've found that I've been reaching for it a great deal. A lot of people believe this product is used for concealing dark circles and are disappointed with the light, sheer coverage it provides. It's actually more of a highlighting pen as opposed to a concealer and works a treat in bringing light and radiance to certain areas of your face. If you use it in the right way, it really is such a wonder-worker! I apply my concealer as normal before dabbing a few dots of this underneath the eyes, near to the tops of my cheekbones before blending out. It gives such a lovely finish and the peachy tone helps to counteract any darkness that my concealer didn't quite cover. I also use this around my nose and on the centre of my forehead to highlight those areas. Will I purchase again once this one has had its day? I have to say I probably wouldn't considering that the foundation is only a few pounds more than this and there are now many fabulous dupes for it on the high street for a fraction of the price. However, I've been enjoying using it nonetheless and I can see why it receives the praise it does. It makes for a lovely treat now and again if you fancy something luxurious. I have a review of the foundation here.

Guerlain 'Terracotta' Bronzer | £31.00*

Ok. Let's just take a moment to appreciate just how beautiful this packaging is. The camera really doesn't show it up to its best potential but it is without a doubt one of the most luxurious bronzing compacts I've ever laid eyes on. The tortoiseshell-y domed lid, the way it fits so snugly in the hand and the way it clasps shut with a small 'click' of perfection... oh I could go on, I really could. I'm now choking back tears because a week after I took these photographs, I opened the lid a little too hastily in my half-asleep slumber and it's now broken into two. I could have shed tears... This bronzer is just divine. I didn't expect to enjoy using it as much as I have. The slight warm tone it has and the subtle shimmer would usually equal a bronzing nightmare for me but I have to say - Guerlain have got it just right with this. The shimmer doesn't transfer onto the face - it just provides a touch of radiance and a slight sheen that awakens the complexion without turning you into a disco ball. It looks incredibly natural and applies and blends like a dream (I use my Real Techniques Blush Brush with it). It's perfect for bringing warmth to the face and giving your features that lovely 'sunkissed' look - it's almost impossible to apply too much because it's so light and subtle - but it's also easy to build up. To top it off, it even smells beautiful - it has a slightly perfumed, fresh sort of scent that only adds to the luxurious feel of this bronzer. I'm not sure if it quite overtakes my beloved Nars 'Laguna' in the 'holy grail bronzer' stakes but it is definitely a close second - whereas I'd use my Nars one for contouring and a stronger bronze finish, this Guerlain offering is much better for all over bronzing and 'general dusting' and it really does refresh and awaken the skin for a natural, sunkissed finish.

Bourjois | 123 Perfect CC Cream | £9.99*

Again, another product I didn't really expect to enjoy using as much as I have done. This CC Cream really is as good as everybody says it is. Yep - i'm sorry to say it but I simply must agree with the blogger hype around this one! It blurs imperfections, smooths out the skin's appearance and feels nice and moisturising to apply. It actually provides pretty decent coverage to say it's a CC Cream - it's definitely got the consistency and coverage of a light foundation as opposed to a sheer wash of colour. I have to apply a primer or powder over the top to get it to last all day but it's perfect for those days where you don't want to go all out with your base. It's easy to apply with fingers if you're in a rush but it also works really well with my buffing brushes - it gives a subtle, smoothed out effect to the skin without looking and feeling heavy or cakey. It gives a gorgeous dewy effect which I really like as it brightens the complexion and although I do have to use a few dabs of concealer alongside it, it does do a very good job of masking imperfections and counteracting dark circles/signs of fatigue. It also smells really fresh and lovely. I'll definitely be getting another tube once this one runs out - it's going to be perfect for summer. I speak about this product a little more in this recent post.

Nars Matte Multiple in 'Altai' | £30.00

I won't say too much about this one as I have a full post on it here - i feel as if all I've done all month is harp on about this product. Broken record or what?! All I will say is that it's my new baby. I love it. For me, it really is worth every single penny! It's so versatile and I use it for all over bronzing as well as contouring. It blends so nicely into the skin and looks so natural - providing that much desired airbrush finish. If you're a fan of contouring products, it is well worth checking out the new range of Nars Multiples. Have a read of my full post if you're thinking of treating yourself to one.

Barry M Lip Liner | £2.99

And the award for 'worst example of sharpening a cosmetic pencil' goes to.... me. Oh goodness - it looks as if I've tortured this poor little pencil within an inch of its life doesn't it?! Somebody needs to invest in a new sharpening tool for their makeup bag... clearly! Slightly wonky appearance aside, this pencil works a charm. I'm not entirely sure what the shade is called because it doesn't seem to have a label, but it's a lovely natural colour that is perfect for everyday wear. It literally goes with anything. I've quite taken to just filling my lips in with this and popping a little gloss on the top - it's also perfect for outlining the lips and smudging slightly for a very natural 'just bitten' sort of look. I love these lip liners - for £2.99 they're some of the best high street liners I've ever tried. They stay put and do a really good job of making your lipstick look more perfected as well as helping it to last through the day without bleeding or smudging.

Organic Surge | Moisturising 'Tropical Bergamot' Shower Gel | £4.35*

Organic Surge has fast become one of my go-to brands for all things skin and body care! I really like their range of shower gels as they last forever and lather up really nicely. This one is perfect for this time of year - it smells like Solero ice lollies (yummy!) and is really zingy and fresh. Nothing more I can really say about a shower gel aside from the fact it's stood at the front of my shower shelf all month... always a good sign.

Have you tried and loved any of these products as much as me?!

Wednesday, 9 April 2014

New Release | Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet Lipsticks

Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet Lipsticks | £8.99*

When Bourjois released their Rouge Edition Lipsticks last year, it was instant love (you can read my post on them here). That in mind, you can only imagine how excited I was when I heard of these newbies to the Bourjois range - the Rouge Edition Velvets. Due to be released mid-April, these beauties promise a soft, velvety texture, a bold, matte finish and 24-hour hold. Now then, I hate to break it to you if you're a nude lipstick fan - this range definitely isn't for the faint hearted and will most certainly be favoured by those of you who are partial a bold lip or two. There are 8 shades in the collection, ranging from classic reds, bright pinks and nude-y corals to deep burgundy shades. Sound like your cup of tea? Read on...

The shades I received are 'Frambourjois' - a reddish berry pink tone, 'Hot Pepper' - a stunning bright orangey-red, 'Peach Club' - a pale orangey-coral shade and 'Pink Pong' - a bright, vivid fuchsia. My current favourite has to be 'Peach Club' - it's a lovely mid-toned orangey coral shade that looks lovely for daytime wear - although I have to say, even though this is the lighter of the 4, it's still pretty bright! Firstly, I have to say that I love the application and lip-laquer styling that these lipsticks have - they're very much more of a lip cream as opposed to your typical lipstick formula. They're easy to apply and set to a velvety matte finish. Now, I have to hold my hands up here and admit that I'm never the biggest fan of matte lipsticks - so I do wish that they remained a little more glossy when on the lips, but I don't find them uncomfortable to wear and they really do feel very soft and weightless when worn - perfect if you prefer the matte look but hate the dry feeling! Personally for me, a little balm or gloss over the top and I'm good to go! The pigmentation is simply incredible and these shades definitely make a statement - they really do pack a punch let me tell you! Wear time is also impressive- they don't budge easily at all.

Overall, I have to say I'm impressed with these lip laquers. They're so creamy and smooth and apply like a dream - although I always end up popping a gloss on top due to my preference for a bit of a sheen! Saying that, they aren't overly matte so don't let that put you off if you're like me! I really cannot wait to start wearing 'Hot Pepper' in the summer once I have a bit of a tan - it's so vivid and bright! If you're more of a nudes girl, it's worth looking into shade '07 - Nude-ist' which is more of a rosewood, brown-y nude - I will definitely be popping in store for a cheeky swatch of that one as soon as they're released. If you loved the original Rouge Edition lipsticks or if you're a fan of bold, matte colour - these little beauties will be right up your street!

Which shade do you reckon you'll be trying?

Friday, 21 March 2014

A Selection of Bourjois Goodies...

Bourjois really are pulling out all the stops just recently with lots of new releases - it's no surprise that many of their products are being propelled swiftly into the blogger limelight! I'm particularly fond of their range of lip products and you can often find me having a good ol' swatch sesh at their stand - so I was really chuffed to have the chance to try out a few of their liners and, of course, the ever famous CC Cream! It's received one heck of a lot of praise amonst the blogger community just recently, hasn't it? As the warmer weather seems to be creeping around the corner (albeit extremely slowly), it's good timing for this little tube to arrive on my doorstep. I'm all for a dewy, light coverage as soon as the lighter nights start drawing in...So what did I reckon to this bunch of lovely Bourjois goodies? I shall get cracking with the nitty-gritty...

123 Perfect CC Cream | £9.99* | Link
This clever little colour correcting base is filled with a selection of pigments in order to counteract dreaded dark circles, redness and dark spots. Been out on the tiles one too many times over the weekend? Fear not, this CC cream makes you look fresh, dewy and awake in a flash. I'm all for a light coverage as soon as spring/summer rolls around, and although I must admit I'm not quite ready to put down my trusty bottle of Nars Sheer Glow yet, this CC cream has been my answer for those days where you just want a little bit of coverage but don't want to go all out with the foundation. It's so lightweight and blendable, and actually has a pretty good amount of coverage to say it's a CC cream - it counteracts any redness with ease, covers any blemishes or dark spots and even does a jolly good job at knocking out those pesky dark circles (and by heck - have I got a lot of those just recently!). In the past, I've often found BB/CC Creams can lean much too pink or orange for me - but this little beauty matches my Simpson-esque yellow-toned skin perfectly! Hooray! It's almost undetectable and it doesn't look like I'm wearing anything at all - I love it! If you do suffer with a little bit of redness (I don't tend to get a great deal of it so I can't vouch too much for this aspect) I can imagine it would be a great option to try due to the pigments it contains and the fact it leans a little more yellow. Oh, and to top it all off, it also smells really nice and fresh - just what you want from a lighter coverage base. The CC Cream comes in 4 shades, however, it's worth swatching in store - I have the shade 'Light Beige' and it seems to match my skin perfectly as it has more of a yellow undertone. Overall, I have to say I am very much in the rave camp when it comes to this product...Pat on the back, Bourjois. You have suitably impressed me.

Liner Feutre in 'Moka' and 'Violine' | £6.99* | Link
When it comes to liquid liner, I'm very much stuck in the 'black and nothing but black' rut - I know, call me boring - but I just stick to what I know. However, these coloured options have certainly shook things up a little of late. I've discovered I'm actually rather partial to a pop of subtle colour across the upper lash line now and again, who would have thought?! I love the purple because it really sets off the green tones in my eyes, and the brown version puts a neutral twist on my usual liquid-liner. It's good to mix things up sometimes, right? I love the shape of these liners - they're very much my cup of tea and are so easy to get a good 'weight of line' going on. The felt-tip style works in their favour and they're super easy to apply and last pretty well too. Yep. These are right up my street.

Mega Liner | £7.49* | Link
Ok. I'm still a little undecided about this one. I love the colour - the intense black shade really does crank up the definition and the staying power really is unbelievable. Honestly, could I get this swatch off my arm? No. No I couldn't get this swatch off my arm. It was the same story for my eyes - this stuff stays put - and it doesn't fade easily either. So if intense, long lasting black-ness is what you're searching for, this is well worth looking into. However, I just can't seem to get on with the shape of the nib. I very much prefer a tapered, felt-tip styled tip and if you have a tendancy to be a little cack-handed (even slightly) - you might find this will drive you up the wall. It's easy to achieve a variety of weights of line and it's quite good for getting a good flick going on - but it might take a bit of getting used to. If you're the type to think 'aint nobody got time for that' when it comes to fiddly things, then you might prefer the Liner Feutres featured above (much easier to get on with in my opinion!)

Beauty'full Volume Dark Kohl Mascara | £7.99* | Link
I'm extremely, extremely fussy with mascaras. I can only think of 2 I actually love and repurchase on a regular basis - to say I'm a blogger and therefore try a great deal of different mascara offerings, that's saying something isn't it? It takes a lot to impress me. I must admit I do like the wand - the hourglass-typed shape really works at getting all of those piddly little lashes coated and it's quite good at getting into the inner corners of the eyes. I'm a big fan of Benefit's They're Real and one of the selling points of that one for me is the little 'spines' (is there a technical word for those things?!) at the tip of the wand - this one is quite similar in that aspect. I also like the 'fullness' it provides my lashes with and it does give an intense black look. I do like this mascara, but I'm not head over heels in love as yet. However, I always prefer mascaras once they're dried up ever so slightly, so I shall reserve judgement until then. It has good potential.

Overall, a fab selection of products from Bourjois and I wasn't disappointed with any of them. Personally, the CC Cream has to be my favourite of the bunch - it really is as good as everyone says (believe me I tried to fault it - I can't - shucks!) The 2 coloured liners are also really lovely - I like the fact they aren't too bright or 'in your face' - they provide a subtle pop of colour that's very wearable for daytime wear (even for a colour-phobe like me!)

Have you tried any of these Bourjois products? What did you reckon?

Thursday, 8 August 2013

Monthly Favourites | July

July has been such a lovely month for me. As well as enjoying some scorching weather at home (the sun has most certainly got his hat on just recently, hasn't he?!), I've also been away to Crete for a week of Pina Coladas and relaxation with the fam, and tottled off to London for 6 days with my uni course to exhibit some of my work. Cor Blimey ;) What a month! As well as this I've also been to an interview for a placement and am now building up for my birthday weekend. It's fair to say I've had a lot of chances to discover new products and re-vamp my makeup routine, and I certainly have found a lot of new cosmetic favourites this month. So much so I've actually had to cut them down! I settled on a few that might tickle your fancy. Far to often I bombard you all with my lipstick favourites but I figured I've had about 4 I've been wearing constantly this month so I'd better save those for a summery post soon... Anyway, I shall kick off with a selection of July's favourite products...

Victoria's Secret | Body Spray Fragrance in 'Sensual Blush' |

If you saw my recent holiday haul, you'll have seen this little beauty sitting amongst the things I bought. It smells amazing. It's so light and fresh and so summery - and looks really pretty sitting on my dressing table. Just a few sprays drenches you in the fragrance and for a body spray it actually lasts pretty well. In fact, i've had people ask me what perfume I'm wearing! It also lingers in my bedroom once I've spritzed it so it's also doubled up as a handy room fragrance this month for me - it's safe to say I am addicted to it. I'm slightly gutted that when this one runs out I'm going to struggle to get another... unless I fancy booking a flight to America solely for the purpose of stocking up my fragrance stash, that is.

Urban Decay | Waterproof Eye Liner in 'Demolition' |

I won't say too much about this as I dedicated my most recent post to this little beauty (you can have a read here if you're interested). In summer, I much prefer a brown eyeliner as opposed to black. I tend to kick the liquid out for a few weeks and settle on a more subtle, natural option for my peepers. This one is a dream to apply, stays put all day and makes my eyes stand out without looking too smokey.

Collection | 'Work the Colour' Eyeshadow Pencils |

I've never been intrigued by eyeshadow crayons before up until my Motherbear let me borrow one of hers on holiday. As soon as I arrived home I swiftly popped out and bought the 3 colours I liked - including the Vintage Pink shade that I'd loved so much in Crete (thanks, Ma!) For the price they are absolutely amazing and are bang on the mark with pigmentation and application. Once they're on, they're on - they last ages on my eyes and are so fuss-free and simple. The brown colour is perfect for a subtle smokey look for daytime whereas the lightest shade (a gorgeous yellow/white colour) is perfect for the inner corners to brighten up your eyes. LOVE.

Bourjois | Bronzing Primer |

Okay. This is product has fast become my favourite product of the whole month and I'm sure it will remain one of my favourites well into next summer. The consistency is so unbelievably blendable and smooth and it looks so natural buffed in over my foundation. I also like to apply some underneath my foundation as it helps to smooth the skin and help your makeup stay in place, at the same time as adding a soft, bronzed glow. It's kept my holiday tan going all month - I often lose colour on my face first so it's been handy to have in my makeup bag for a bit of a boost (it's not a good look when your face is paler than your body is it?!) I'll definitely be buying another pot as soon as this runs out - it's so versatile and I'm determined to make it work for me through autumn/winter too.

Harley Street Skin Care | Spot Less Buster Solution |

I have a full review of this product here if you want to have a nosey, but this spot treatment is now a staple in my skin care routine. I was actually sent this to try and I've already ordered another bottle for myself. It treats any blemishes you have really quickly, but without the horrible dry appearance that other treatments tend to leave, meaning that this one is perfect for underneath your makeup. It can be used as either a topical treatment or used over an entire problem area, meaning that it's more versatile than other treatments I've tried.

Mark Hill | Holiday Hair Cover Up Protection Spray |

This little mini has been a suitcase essential for me this month! My hair often gets a little frazzled in the sun and I often end up battling with a load of frizz towards the end of a holiday. This little spray came in so handy for sunbathing - simply spritz over the ends of your hair and over the scalp area and it helps to protect hair from the heat of the sun. It smells beautiful and I found it helped my hair to remain softer and frizz-free for longer.

Mac | Paint Pot in 'Rubenesque' |

I have a full review of this paint pot here, but it's been my go-to eyeshadow base this month. I use it constantly and am totally obsessed with the peachy-gold colour it gives. It looks beautiful both with or without a tan and looks amazing both on its own or with powder shadow over the top.

Seventeen | Wild Eyes in 'Wild Purple' |

I often get a little scared of applying any form of colour to my eyes - I'm very much a neutrals girl. However, I thought I'd give this purple shade a whirl just recently and I have to say I love it! I have green eyes and it really helps them 'pop'. I put a little in the outer corners for a subtle flash or colour and then use a liner brush to apply some under the lash line. I'm definitely tempted to grab a few more shades!

And so there we have it - an edited version of this month's favourites! I really struggled knocking them down to 8 so I hope I didn't ramble too much! I didn't post any favourites last month so it's been even tougher choosing them this time around. I'm currently planning a few things for my birthday at the weekend - I turn the grand old age of 23 so I'm thinking a round of bowling (got to be a little childish!) and a night on the tiles is in order!

What have you been loving this month? Anything here take your fancy?

Monday, 8 July 2013

Last Minute Holiday Buys

Evening my little cupcakes. I hope you've all been enjoying today in the sunshine - it's sure been a scorcher i tells ya! I arrived back from London late last night so it's fair to say I've been absolutely cream-crackered all day. For those of you who don't know, I've been on a trip with uni to a big exhibition for 6 days and it's been so exciting to be showing my work - I've had lots of good things come from it including interest in my children's book and potential jobs for the future/placements for summer - I've even had my work featured on a very well known graphic design site so to say it's been successful is an understatement! I'm grinning like a cheshire cat right now (and a very tired one at that...that'll teach me to wear wedges for 10 hours straight ;)). There's no rest for the wicked though - I jet off on holiday in the early hours of Tuesday morning, so I'm currently in the process of unpacking one case and packing another (nightmare! my floor has never seen so many carrier bags and clothes!) - I definitely feel as if I'm ready for a holiday - I really need to recharge my batteries. Anyway, I took a drive down to the nearest retail park last week to pick up some last minute bits for my holiday as I won't have chance tomorrow and I thought I thought what better thing to do than show you what I picked up... Everyone loves a holiday haul right?

| St Tropez Self Tan Dark Mousse |

Call me high maintenance, but one cannot simply arrive in a sunny country looking like a milk bottle on legs. Whenever I go away, I fake tan beforehand so that I don't stick out like a sore thumb once I arrive. St Tropez is my go-to fake tan. I find the mousse so easy to apply and fuss-free and I like the colour it gives. I've never tried their dark version before but I thought I'd give it a whirl. I've since tried it and I have to say I think I prefer the normal version - the dark just looks a bit too muddy on me. I can usually get away with not washing the guide colour off the normal version if I'm going out, but with this one I absolutely have to make sure it's off before I pop out as it looks too much. Oh well - atleast I've tried it. I'll still use it but I much prefer my St Tropez normal mousse.

| Tangle Teezer Travel |

I cannot live without my Tangle Teezer - me and that hairbrush are like the ultimate little dream-team and without it i simply can't function and my hair has a mardy. I travel quite a bit, so I figured I'd whack the travel version in my basket. It's really handy because it's slightly smaller and has a little protective case so that the bristles don't get damaged in your suitcase. I took it to London with me and it was a little life saver - it kept my hair from throwing it's toys out of the pram and going all frizzy on me! Just what you need if you're a fellow traveller like me.

| Sanctuary Pore Refining Toner- Travel Size |

Ahh mini products... Every time I go away I relish shopping for mini bottles of stuff. They're much more interesting and cute than normal sized bottles of stuff! Sanctuary do some lovely skin care and this is my favourite of the bunch - their Pore Refining Toner. It keeps my skin looking and feeling fresh and gets rid of any cack (Cack - be gone!) If you're in need of a good toner then it's worth trying this one. I loves it.

| Bourjois Bronzing Primer & Maxi Delight Bronzer |

I really tried not to get sucked in by Bourjois new summer offering. I failed. Their new bronzing range is really tempting and as soon my holiday was booked I justified grabbing their bronzing primer as I've had my eye on it for a while. It's said to be similar to the infamous Chanel Bronzer so we will see if it lives up to those claims (i own both so I shall be testing on holiday!) Their products were on offer so I picked up the Maxi Delight bronzer too. It's flipping huge. Honestly, the photos don't show the size but it's almost bigger than my head (slight exaggeration there...) I have a review coming up shortly of these 2 - I'm really liking the Maxi Delight at the momento.

| Charles Worthington Mineral Hair Rescue Masque |

My hair is partial to a masque or two. I picked this one up for my jollydays as my hair tends to get a bit straw-like in the sun. Being blonde it often has the tendency to look really brassy too so I always pick up a conditioning treatment to use half-way through the holiday to refresh and revive my poor little frazzled ends. I really liked the sound of this one.

| Soap & Glory - Archery Brow Pencil |

I've never really tried Soap & Glory's make-up offerings but really wanted to give their eyebrow pencil a whirl. It has a pencil on one end and a brush tip on the other that works more like a pen. I really like this so far although I have to say the colour is really light. Now, I'm not a fan of a 'scouse brow' but I do like my eyebrows to look defined and the blonde version is possibly a touch too light - but I still like it anyway as the pen works as a great base for my HD Brows. Nevertheless, I'd definitely buy one of these again - i really like it so far.

| Batiste - Conditioning Mist with Argan Oil |

When I saw this I had to grab it. I'm a big fan of Batiste and I'm also a big fan of conditioning hair oil so the two combined was just a must-have! I often smooth a bit of oil over any frizzy-bits after I've styled my hair so this sounded like the perfect finishing touch without the risk of over-doing it with the oil. I haven't yet tried this but I really cannot wait to give it a spritz - It's such a good idea and something that I haven't really seen on the market yet. Thumbs up Batiste - you have pleased me.

And so that's yer lot! I have a few reviews coming up involving some of these products I'm sure - but these are just my first impressions. I'm currently in the middle of packing my suitcase so wish me luck with that - I'm always always overweight with suitcases - give me a weight allowance and I'll bloody well use it (and more!). Any tips on efficient packing for a girl who loves to take everything including the kitchen sink will be welcome...

Have you tried any of these products?

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