To everyone around the world: I am wishing you a very healthy and happy new year! Have fun and stay safe.
An Early New Years Resolution
Today, I'm feeling really rubbish and meh! So, I decided to think of things that might perk me up.
A couple of years back, I signed up to participate in the Bupa Great Manchester 10K Run. Successfully, I completed the run in just over an hour. It give me such a great feeling of euphoria having done my first ever distance run. Though my feet were absolutely killing me by the end of it.
I didn't raise any money from charity. It was something that I told close friends and family. I lacked confidence in my self belief that I could actually get this done. But, I proved to myself and others that I took the challenge by the bulls horns and went for it!
In essence of that good feeling, I have decided to take that same challenge again. This time, I will be raising money for a charity called Marys Meals
Please take the time out of have a look at the website by clicking on the link below. The amount of work they've done is amazing. Its a charity that my employer is supporting this year, so I will also been helping them to raise their overall total of funds to donate.
"Our vision is that every child receives one daily meal in their place of education and that all those who have more than they need share with those who lack even the most basic things."
If you would like to sponsor me then please click on this website: http://www.justgiving.com/Rachel-Wager Alternatively, you can click on the 'Just Giving' Icon on the left hand side of this page for further details on what I am doing and why. Any donations to the charity will be much appreciated and will help hundreds, if not thousands of children.
I will be blogging throughout the months on this blog about training, fitness (or lack of) and much time.
Thank you for your support!!!
A couple of years back, I signed up to participate in the Bupa Great Manchester 10K Run. Successfully, I completed the run in just over an hour. It give me such a great feeling of euphoria having done my first ever distance run. Though my feet were absolutely killing me by the end of it.
I didn't raise any money from charity. It was something that I told close friends and family. I lacked confidence in my self belief that I could actually get this done. But, I proved to myself and others that I took the challenge by the bulls horns and went for it!
In essence of that good feeling, I have decided to take that same challenge again. This time, I will be raising money for a charity called Marys Meals
Please take the time out of have a look at the website by clicking on the link below. The amount of work they've done is amazing. Its a charity that my employer is supporting this year, so I will also been helping them to raise their overall total of funds to donate.
 |
| Mary's Meals Logo |
"Our vision is that every child receives one daily meal in their place of education and that all those who have more than they need share with those who lack even the most basic things."
Mary's Meals (2013)
If you would like to sponsor me then please click on this website: http://www.justgiving.com/Rachel-Wager Alternatively, you can click on the 'Just Giving' Icon on the left hand side of this page for further details on what I am doing and why. Any donations to the charity will be much appreciated and will help hundreds, if not thousands of children.
I will be blogging throughout the months on this blog about training, fitness (or lack of) and much time.
Thank you for your support!!!
L'Oreal Paris Nude Magique Eau De Teint Foundation Review
Here's a look at the new Nude Magique Eau De Teint from L'Oreal.
The Claims:
"Our lightest foundation formula ever. A feather light foundation, feels as light and fresh as water. A new sensation with a lighter than water formula for non greasy zero make up feel. Instantly fuses with the skin blending seamlessly to leave a silky, second skin effect. Perfect bare skin look Naturally even, shine free look. Undetectable coverage. Silky soft touch. No make-up feel."
My Review:
I decided to test out this 'lighter than water' philosophy by adding afew drops into a small glass of water and compared it with a foundation that I use regularly, Maybelline Fit Me foundation. A picture speaks a thousand words. Suddenly, the Eau De Teint looks more appealing seeing that the formula is floating on top on the water rather than sinking to the bottom like the Fit Me foundation. It's just something to note...and it's claims about being it being a light foundation is possibly evident.
The first observation I made is the lovely packaging. The lightweight formula comes in the frosty glass container which feel really smooth to hold. And, has a purple metallic screw on lid. Most L'Oreal foundations do come in a glass dispenser but there's something special about this one. It feels more high end. Though my only issue with the packaging is with the lack of pump. Not very hygienic. Let's hope we remember to wash our hands before usage.
So, to test it's staying power, I choose not to wear a primer underneath. I have plenty of mild acne scars, dark circles and some hyper pigmentation around the cheek area, so I'm always in the market for a magical, wonder foundation that will complement my skin.
Use as directed: Shake well before use, apply a drop to your finger. Now, I wish that one drop would cover my entire face. Truth is, I used about 12-15 drops to cover my face and neck. The formula is very runny and light in consistency and without a pump, it can get alittle sloppy. It's definitely offers a lightweight formula but can be built upto a light/ medium coverage. I tend to prefer something with medium/ heavy coverage so I didn't enjoy using this as much as I hoped. It did leave matte finish to my skin which is what I prefer. So I didn't feel the need to use power over the top.
After an 8 hour day at work, there is barely any sign of foundation on my skin, which really disappointed me. All my blemishes were on all show, my forehead, nose and chin looked incredibly oily (and I have dry skin)! This foundation would be more suitable for those who have normal skin who like a feather to light weight coverage. Later on this week, I tried using a primer underneath but it seemed to make no difference.
With SPF 18 it provides some protection against UV rays. However, it will give some flashback on photography so it may not be suitable for photoshoots.
To sum this product up here's a quick list of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- the packaging of the foundation feels very high end
- the shade of foundation matched my skin tone perfectly. I picked up 'warm ivory' 110.
- SPF 18 for UV protection
- 'lighter than water' formula
Cons:
- not suitable for those with combination, oily and dry skin. Would be better for those with normal skin
- there is no pump to this container, so it does not feel very hygienic
- for 20ml, there is not enough product to make it worth while purchasing the £10 I paid
- on my skin, it didn't last for any longer than 3 hours, which is not suitable for my life style
- With SPF, it would not be ideal for photography
I am really disappointed that this didn't work for me. But I have to take into account that my skin type is dry for this time of year. Unfortunately, the cons outweigh in the pros in my opinion.
It is available from most drug stores across the UK for around £10.
Beauty Advent Calendars for Christmas 2013
Argh! I’m
having one of those weeks were life this taking the mick out of me. And, its only today that I have
realised that my bank cards have been misplaced by me! Damn it. I've clapped my
eyes on these Beauty Advent Calendars and I want one. You have to be quick to snapped one of these little
treasures. My replacement card better be here soon!
Last year,
these types of advent calendars apart to of been a massive hit with beauty enthusiasts
but I was late on the bandwagon so missed out.
Since
September, supermarkets and Department Stores have begun stocking their shelves
with Christmas related paraphernalia Now, due to popular demand, Brands are
realising their versions of Beauty Advent Calendars to gently provoke that merry
feeling.
 |
| L’Oreal Luxe Christmas Advent Calendar |
Exclusively to
Selfridges, the return of the L'Oreal Luxe beauty advent calendar for
Christmas 2013 is coming very soon. It is filled with 24 ‘luxurious miniature’ versions of the world’s
best beauty products to get you in the mood for the festive season. There is no
launch date yet though I anticipate that it won’t be long. The products will include
a selection of makeup, fragrances and skincare from brands such as Lancôme,
Yves Saint Laurent and Victor & Rolf. RRP – Spurge £84
 |
| Ciate Mini Mani Advent Calendar |
Obsessed with Ciate? The very popular Ciate’s MiniMani Advent Calendar is also available exclusively to Selfridge’s stores and
online. Inside will be 17 of the bestselling mini paint pots, 4 caviar blends
and 3 exclusive paint pot glitter shades to keep you on trend this season. Available
now from Selfridges at the mid - range value of £42
 |
| The Boots 24 Days of Beauty Treats |
The 24 Days of Beauty Treats from Boots contains a selection of
24 miniature and full sized products from their favourite beauty brands. It doesn’t
have the luxury of the other two but it is designed for pampering nonetheless. For each day in December there is a new beauty
treat waiting to be discovered. Brands includes are Umberto Giannini, Vichy,
Seventeen and much more. If you buy any of the products found in this advent calendar
you will receive triple Boots points. Bonus! Marketed at the reasonable price
of £30
Little Skin Saver in a Tube: La Roche Rosay Effaclar Duo
As the Autumn season comes closer, my skin often goes
through (what I have dubbed) “the change”. Every year, I am always in the
marketing for a good moisturiser and serum to combat the very dry I develop as
a result of the colder months. This, combined with mild acne skin, can make the
search quite difficult and sometimes laborious.
So, as I continue my search for that ‘all time comfort food’
for my face, I came across a vast majority of reviews for the La Roche Rosay Effaclar Duo, including those from beauty ‘Youtubers’ I watch for inspiration. Then,
before I know it, a tube of this stuff appeared in my basket in Boots one
Saturday afternoon.
Now, it’s part of my skincare routine. I use it day and night for the best results. Any red, irritated spots I got on my cheeks and chin have almost disappeared. I still have some scarring and hyper pigmentation but it’s nothing that a light foundation would not cover. It can be rather powerful on my skin and to ensure that this does not make my skin any dryer, I use my Nivea day cream to give it a gentle boost. And it has worked! I am so pleased with the results
The product comes in a small tube with a gel like formula
and cost around £13 from Boots. The packaging
is simple and the application is easy. It’s an all over facial treatment though
you can use it to target specific area, such as your chin or nose, like I did
to begin with. I would recommend doing a patch test with this just in case this
is not the right product for you. It has
a light, non-sticky consistency without a powerful fragrance. I take 2 pea sized
blobs to begin with; rub it between my fingers, then pat over the areas I want
to treat. Afterwards I apply a normal moisturiser and hey presto! Sorted.
It’s important to establish a good routine for your
skincare. I loved using my Liz Earle products but I wanted to strip back what I
was spending and find something more affordable for the time being. It is recommended for people with oily skin. However, I use this
in conjunction with Neutrogena products that combat the mild acne, and then use
a good moisturiser to tackle my weather skin. And these work together marvelously.
If you are looking for something that will help reduce the
redness and clear up spots then this could be the product for you. If you have
any tips/ routines/ experiences with the Effalar Duo then I’d love to hear about
them! I can honestly say that this has improved my skin dramatically. Better
than creams prescribed from my doctor.
Glossy Box; September; London Edition
This month I re-subscribed to Glossy box after a beauty budget cut down. I got so excited that I turned to Instagram to share my opening experience. As soon as Glossy Box announced it's London Edition box, I knew I had to come back and take part. And, I'm pleased I did.
The box itself and the packaging represents British colours of the union Jack: red, blue and white.
The contents of my box:
Elizabeth Arden: Untold Eau De Parfum
Elizabeth Arden definitely represents a British beauty classic. For years, I've been a fan of products such as the 8 hour moisturising balm though I have not purchased perfumes from the Elizabeth Arden range before. As described by Glossy Box, it's a luxurious, floral fragrance that is fresh and feminine. Unlike some other perfumes sent from Glossybox, I am partial to wearing this and may even invest in a cheeky little bottle.
Full size £48 for 50ML
Eylure Pre Glued Lashes
I have used varies different types of Eylure lashes before but I have always felt skeptical about products that are 'pre-glued' or self-adhesive. Duno why? Perhaps, its with my lack of success with pre-glued, 'stick on nails' that placed doubt in my mind. However, gone is my trepidation. Last night, I decided to give these a trial. And oh yes, these bad boys have amazing staying on. The only problem is, they did irritate my eyes slightly so I could not keep them on all night. But they are a 4/5 for me
One set £5.06
Tony and Guy Shine Glass Serum
Recently, I had about 4 inches chopped of my locks in order to revive some life into. Sure enough, my hair has become healthier showing some signs of strength and shine. However, I want more. I want shiny, glossy, Nicole Scherzinger kind of shine. So, I'm hoping this will give me what I need.
Full sized retails at £7.19
be a...bombshell Onyx Eye Liner
It is the first time I have come across 'be a bombshell' products. and I have to say, this is a great eye liner and offers enough precision to achieve a fine line and bold, thick definition depending on your preference. You definitely want to use a good eye make up remover to shift this stuff off. The longevity lasts almost 6/7 hours on my oily eyelids so I have faith it this little number.
Full size $14
Dr.Lipp Nipple Balm for Lips
This is probably the most disappointing product I received. But, that is not to say I do not like it. It because I'm slightly jealous of those that got all of the above products, plus the HB Brows kit. I have been after one of those for ages!! Nevertheless, I love anything with moisture. Indeed, I had a chuckle when I read 'nipple' and thought, why is Glossy box sending my nipple balm? Then I realised how much of a beauty cult product this is. Originally recommended by Midwives from breastfeeding, it claims to moisturise skin by upto 40%. I might keep this in my handbag over winter as my lips become really dry.
Fully Size (15ml) retails at £11.50
I would love to hear the feedback from you guys. It's not too late to pick one of these boxes up from Glossy Box themselves though availability is obviously limited.
Nail That! Barry M Gelly Hi Shine Nail Paint
Wish List #1
It's hard to believe the at the end of is week, we will be in the first month of Autumn. This blog post is a curated listed of items and products that I have my eye on. If I had an endless supply of cash, I would of snapped these up straight away. With the cooler months approaching, there are some items that I NEED, and some things that just add to the wardrobe.
- Mi Pac Duffle Bag - Love stars, love the colour and I'm always beeding a new gym bag or a nicer looking bag to travel with
- New Look Addicted to Shopping Coin Purse - I've got this in mind for a present for a friends birthday, but I want one too. My current purse is too lsim to carry loose change and this would be perfect.
- Blue Q Ice Cream Money - Cute!
- ASOS Quilt Across Body Bag With Double Lock - This would be a nice handbag for work. Loving the colour and its on trend.
- Gold Tone Gem Drop Earrings These match the gold tone stone necklace further down the list. Loving the detail
- ASOS Jewel Leaf Stud Earrings - Very regal looking. Want!
- ASOS Teardrop Mini Earrings These would match the colour of my eyes. Yes, that's my justification for wanting these!
- ASOS Jewel Cluster Earring - I have a night out coming up in September, and the purple and orange mix of colours would go perfect with my LBD
- Gold Tone Gem Stone Necklace Again, loving the colour and details.
- Silver Tone Gem Stone Statement Necklace - Another statement necklace. Very stricking!
- ASOS Gem Stone Bracelet - Would love to wear this to an evening do, like, to a meal. It's elegant.
- Multi-coloured Gem Stone Ribbon Necklace - This is gorgeous. It really caught my eye!
- Black Shearling Lined Longline Biker Jacket - Absolutely need a new coat/jacket for Autumn/ winter. I've even been instore to take it look. The quality is beautful. I've had the same green coat for 3 years and its ripped and falling apart. Time for an update!
- ASOS Mixed Stud Boyfriend Beanie - Of course, to go with the biker jacket
- Eliose Pin Stud Suedette Ankle Boots - Boots are the best item of footwear during winter and to keep on trend with the stud/ the rock/ biker look these would be great.
- Dior 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette Summer Look - this is a piece of luxary I've been admiring over summer. Why change a habit of a summertime?
Caudalie Divine Scrub - I'm a massive fan!!
- Moroccanoil Oil Treatment for All Hair Types - Im Autumn/ winter, I'm always in the market for leave in treatments to keep my hair looking healthy. My hair dresser used this on me and I loved how smooth my hair was after!
- Sexy Hair - Healthy Sexy Hair - Soy Tri-Wheat Leave In Conditioner Again, looking for a conditioner that can treat my hair and replenish lost moisture. Heard and seen good result with this.
Looking at the list, I noted that I might have an obsession for gemstones right now. It has been awhile since I bought any kind of jewellery so I am possibly over compensating or turning into a magpie. Either way, I love all my choices.
Why's on your wish list at the moment? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment in the section below
Xx
Maybelline Volum' Express Mascaras: Which one to choose? A Quick Overview
The Maybelline Volum’ Express range has many types of mascara
that is can difficult to decide which is going to be the better one for you. It’s
like a “gotta catch them all” situation. Available to the UK, there are 6 different types of Volum’
Express mascara (all listed below) and some even have a sub-types!! Argh!
Choices…..choices…decisions…decisions...
Honestly, it has been a game of trial and error in knowing
which suits you best. But, like me, you all don’t necessarily have the bank
balance to be able to ‘willy nilly’. Therefore,
to help with this dilemma, I have dedicated a blog post that gives a brief overview
of the mascara’s in this range to de-confused and hopefully help you make a
inform decision!
**
Maybelline Volum’
Express ® The Falsies Mascara: I have the original version of this that
claims to give a false lash effect. There
is a “Black Drama” edition that has a black lace pattern on the wand that’s “extra
matte” and extremely black, leaving a more intensive, dramatic finish. In
addition to the Black Drama version, there is also a “Flared” edition that has
a brush that curves. This brush is thicker and denser than the standard “The
Falsies” brush. This is also available in waterproof.
**
Maybelline Volum’
Express ® The One by One: I haven’t tried this one yet. It’s not been
available in my local stores to give this one a go. It claims the “Lash Catcher
Brush” helps lashes look x4 more volumised without any clumps. The brush is
very similar to The Rocket brush. However, it has an oval shape with more
bristles. Best results for those with full lashes, whether long or short. It’s also available in waterproof.
**
Maybelline Volum’
Express ® The Mega Plush: This is Maybelline’s first gel formula that uses
40% less hard wax to create mega volume. This is ideal for you lucky ones who
have longer lashes of the rounder brush pick up the lash better. If you have
shorter lashes (like me) than this can leave a spider eye effect. It also leaves a velvety finish.
*Cannot find the icon image for the Rocket Mascara.
will insert when I find it (thanks)*I
Maybelline Volum’
Express ® The Rocket Mascara: This is my favourite out of the Volume’
Express range. Click here for a further in-depth review on my blog. It claims
to offer the biggest amount of volume (x8) thanks to its fine “flexi” bristles
brush. It has a round brush, with very small bristles at the tip of the wand
that gradually fan out into a standard length. The formula is sleek and glides
on smother than the others. It provides a good lift for all lashes.
**
Maybelline Volum’
Express ® The Colossal: Formula is enriched with collagen and with a bigger
brush. This is available in 3 different shades. Like the Falsies Mascaras,
there is also two other sub types. The “cat eyes” version has a leopard print
effect on the wand. It’s the same formula, just a slightly different brush,
called “the claw”. It’s very similar to the curved brush for “The Falsies” but
longer. It grips onto lashes and flicks
them out to give a more extended look. The “smoky eye effect uses kohl pigments
that leave a deep, matte finish. Great if you have lashes that are limp that is
difficult to curl!
**
Maybelline Volum’
Express ® TheTurbo: The brush is
standard. It’s the ‘old school’, average
wide and length brush. It claims to be long lasting with an anti-clumps brush
to quickly thicken lashes. I wasn’t impressed with it results so I throw it
out!
I like the packaging for all these mascaras. They all have
vibrant, funky colours and patterns so it is easily to identify which is which
in your make up collection. I found that all the formula tends to be similar to
each other, but it’s the brush that appears to make all the difference.
Hope this post helps some of you out there. Please comment
below what your experiences are of using the Volum’ Express range!
Ta! X
DISCLAIMER: I am not promoting Maybelline products, nor I
have they contacted me to do so. I enjoy using Maybelline products and want to
share my experience of using them.
** All image rights reserved by Maybelline New York.
Rimmel London Stay Matte Pressed Powder Review
The Claim: "Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder controls shine for upto 12 hours. It minmises the appearance of pores with a natural, matte finish..."
Its job is to conceal imperfections while maintaining a “natural flawless finish”. As someone with acne scars, wearing this product on it’s own does not give me any coverage to feel confident. However, its great on top of a good foundation and helps reduce redness.
This compressed powder is light; you barely feel it on
your skin. Although, this is available in 6 different tones, I always pickup
the translucent as I find it transfers and matches my pale skin complexion
evenly.
It claims to be suitable for all skin types and I would
absolutely agree. Even for dry
skin types, it does not cling around dry patches. Great for oily T-Zones to reduce shine leaving a matte
finish as suggested.For best results, I found applying this with a kabuki
brush in circular motions worked well and you do not need much to start with.
The packaging is very basic but simple and does the job.
However, it would be more user friendly see it in a more compact fashion, for
example, with a travel mirror and a clasp closing. Such a high quality product
deserves to look more attractive.
A product that I will continue to use and recommend!
Neutrogena Visibly Clear 2 in 1 Wash and Mask Review
As a teenager, I used this religiously for years! Having acne skin certainly bought it's challenges of finding some suitable for my skin. I used this product before I transitioned to Liz Earle's Cleanse and Polish range (extensive review previous done and available on here) which has also been great.
Keeping to my budget this month has meant searching the market for a cheaper alternative for the time being. After much 'researching', I went back to this little old bottle of fresh skin. Why? Because I was impressed with it's results the first time around. But after using constantly for 5/6 years I felt it become immune so to speak.
Neutrogena Visibly Clear 2 in 1 Wash and Mask as a daily wash to helps prevent blemishes or can be used as a 5 minutes mask to deep cleanse and condition skin. Its in the form of a clay texture that is thick and soft in consistency.
Once applied as a mask, you get a cooling sensation which makes it feel like it is getting to work. Afterwards, I am always impressed with how clear and noticeably smooth my skin appears. It leaves me feeling fresh and looking much healthier. Great for sensitive, and spot prone skin!! Also helps to reduce redness.
As a facial wash, it kind of lets me down. Without applying a good moisturizer it can dry my skin, especially in the Autumn/ Winter months. Also, at times, I have to re-apply this twice to make sure I get all my makeup off.
This product is great on a budget and as a mask. The results are clear on first use and I will continue to product and recommend in future, but only as a face mask rather than a facial wash as well.
Aussie Mega Shampoo and Conditioner Review
Working on a tight budget for the passed acouple of months hasn't been as bad as I thought it would. Though, I keep seeing dealing on Feelunique.com for premium brands and I'm using all my will power not to indulge. I've been spending less time online and more time back in the shops looking for deals so I can stick to my monthly budget.
Kudos to Superdrug for the deals recently! I picked up these Aussie products for around a fiver which I thought was a super bargain.
This stuff is awesome! That's all you need to know. Take my word for it!
I've had these products for almost 3 weeks and I'm extremely impressed with how well they have worked with my hair. It does exactly what it says on the bottle. They aimed to break down product build up and throughly cleanse you hair, scalp - the full monty in one wash. Yes, it's clarifying enough to do so. It turns knotty, tried up hair into smooth and glossy locks. It gets it squeaky clean with drying it out.
Best results for hair after a night out - gets all that grubby feeling hair spray out!!
It smells great too. It has a strong, sweet fruity smell that becomes addictive after awhile. It reminds me of that smell when you first open a packet of Haribo. Ah Ma Zing!
Both the shampoo and conditioner are quite quick so you do not need to be too generous with the quantity (will also make it last longer) :P
There's no doubt that I would recommend this to all my friends and family. I've used this every other day on my hair and it's given it some life again!
Kudos to Superdrug for the deals recently! I picked up these Aussie products for around a fiver which I thought was a super bargain.
This stuff is awesome! That's all you need to know. Take my word for it!
I've had these products for almost 3 weeks and I'm extremely impressed with how well they have worked with my hair. It does exactly what it says on the bottle. They aimed to break down product build up and throughly cleanse you hair, scalp - the full monty in one wash. Yes, it's clarifying enough to do so. It turns knotty, tried up hair into smooth and glossy locks. It gets it squeaky clean with drying it out.
Best results for hair after a night out - gets all that grubby feeling hair spray out!!
It smells great too. It has a strong, sweet fruity smell that becomes addictive after awhile. It reminds me of that smell when you first open a packet of Haribo. Ah Ma Zing!
Both the shampoo and conditioner are quite quick so you do not need to be too generous with the quantity (will also make it last longer) :P
There's no doubt that I would recommend this to all my friends and family. I've used this every other day on my hair and it's given it some life again!
Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Original Lip Balm
I picked this little beauty up at Leeds/ Bradford Airport just before my break away to France. To be honest, I didn't particularly look at what other brands were in front of me at the time, I just picked the cheapest one up.
By far, this has become my favourite lip balm of all time and I prefer to wear this than any other lip product at the moment. Why? Because it's so nourishing that it left my lips really soft and subtle.
Safe to say, with the help of good o' Vitamin E, it definitely moisutrisers to the max helping to prevent dry, chapped lips. The cocoa butter formula soothes and softens lips, and helps to protect and hydrate.
Excellent handy size to carry about in your handbag and with it's added SPF 15 makes it beneficial to wear in sunlight to protect you lips from harmful rays. It smells gorgeous and is actually helping my chocolate craving somewhat!!
For £1.26 on offer at Superdrug you cannot go wrong. I am going to continue using this right through the year as we will be heading to Autumn in the next few months. I must recommend to everyone!
Give it a try! Have you used any other products from the Palmers Range?
Holidays! Samoens, South of France
It's been really quiet around here recently, I know. But I have good reason. I've been out and about traveling around in the South of France for my partners, brothers wedding.
Plus I'm also in the middle of transitions jobs. So it has been a hectic time!
France was lovely. We headed to Samoens were the Bride's family is currently living and we spent a couple of days sun bathing and looking around the town. The views are amazing and we throughly enjoyed our time out there. I really enjoyed taking a ride up the ski lift and the views from the top we spectacular.
The wedding was amazing. It had all the little features of a country style wedding with Emma's homemade bunting and cute little black and white hearts for table names.
Congratulations to Stuart and Emma!
I instagramed a photo of the brides dress from the back. She looked absolutely beautiful and I did not envy her wearing such a heavy, layered dress in 34C heat. But she managed to look flawless all day.
My hair wasn't playing fair and I planned on pinning it all up into a fancy bun. But the humidity had other ideas so instead I ended up curling it very quickly and hoped it would stay put.
Here's a full length photo of my outfit. My dress is from Coast and is currently still in the store for this season. Shoes are from Dorothy Perkins in the sale for £15.
Special thanks to Stuart & Emma, and Emma's family is letting us stay and we apart of their amazing day :)
Dove Damage Therapy Colour Radiance Shampoo & Conditioner Review
For the majority of my life, I have been a massive fan of
the skincare products from Dove.
My Mum absolutely raves about Dove and she swears by Dove soap for
everything beauty related. So
since growing up, it’s always been in my life one way or another.
Dove expended their range years ago to hair care products
and it’s only in the past two years that I’ve slowly worked my way though. I’ve
tried almost every single shampoo and conditioner but never really blogged
about them until now or one in particular.
So, on my weekly food shop, I ended up browsing down the
toiletry ails and I bought the Dove Damage Therapy Colour Radiance Shampoo
& Conditioner. They just
happened to fall into my trolley – honest! ASDA had a good 2 for £3 deal (for 2x350ml) and I
needed to try them out.
Now, given the success of the other ranges I’d used
(intensive repair was the best), I am bitterly disappointed to report that this
did not meet my expectations. If fact, I am close to binning the rest of the
bottles. I hate wasting products, but this has not worked for me at all.
You don’t need much of the shampoo – I’d say no more than 2p
sized as it lathers up nicely. However, when I rinsed this out of my hair, it
left is extremely knotty and oily feeling. At first, I’d convinced myself that
I hadn’t washed it all out so I spent a good 5 minutes under the
showerhead. It felt like a greasy
film all over my hair.
I continued on to use the conditioner, applying it to the
ends of my hair and left for a good 5 minutes. As my hair is frequently coloured
I like to leave the product on longer. Then rinsed, and rinsed and rinsed, and rinsed…
After drying my hair it felt awful. It looked greasy, flat
at my roots and frizzy on the ends. No matter how I tried, I couldn’t get any
volume going and it would become greasy the next day.
I’ve repeated this process for about two weeks and ended up
with the same results. I’ve tried using less conditioner, more conditioner,
more shampoo and so on but it just didn’t get on with my hair.
I am very disappointed. In future, I will stick to using the
Intensive Repair from the Dove Shampoo and Conditioner. It wont put me off
trying other Dove products but I don’t think I will be recommending this.
Nivea Daily Essential Double Effect Eye Make Up Remover
I’ve been looking around for a good eye maker removed with a
cheap price tag but had industrial strength. Well, maybe that is a slight over
exaggeration but you get the point.
This product delivered just what I wanted. For me, it’s shifts waterproof mascara,
eye shadows and stubborn eyeliner that facial cleaners and water don’t remover
on their own. In the past, eyeliners
were difficult to remove until I found this bad boy!
It claims that the product is gentle enough for contact lens
wearers. I cannot really comment as I don’t wear them but I found that my eyes
are not irritated nor sting after using this. This is a great bonus when my
eyes are tired after a long day.
The only downfall is that it’s really oily, which is a
given, considering it’s consistency. With that in mind it’s moisturizing and calming.
I used a dry cotton pad to remove the excess oil off.
For £3.49, (125ml: standard size) it is a fantastic
drugstore product that does the job effectively. Would recommend to all.
Maybelline Rocket Volum' Express Mascara
This product has been out on the market for sometime now but
I was late on the bandwagon with purchasing this. Partly because I already own
many mascaras and I wanted to wait and see what the reviews were like before
trying it out myself.
Maybelline claims that this mascara will make your lashes
look 6X bigger with it’s “supersonic Brush with microbristles” for a sleek and
volumised effect. I am happy to
note that my lashes did look more defined and lengthened but not much
volumising happened. I really disliked the way they have advertised it as a
“supersonic brush” – what does that even mean??
In terms of the application, the bristles on the brush helps
to reach every part of the eyelash but you do need to be little patience to use
it properly (nothing “express” about it).
Just remember to get them a good
wiggle with the wand and you’ll coat the lashes nicely.
Compared to my eyelashes without mascara, its safe to say
that I am impressed with how long they did look. The formula can only be
described as ‘wet’ at first but them dries very quickly. For me, its staying power
last about 4-5 hours and leaves clumps of mascara sitting under the eyes.
Panda eyes alert!
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