Showing posts with label make up. Show all posts
Showing posts with label make up. Show all posts

Tuesday, 23 August 2016

Low Price Lashes

A few weeks back I had a full day of well needed retail therapy with a friend and bought way too many things I didn't need, with way too much money I shouldn't have spent but did this form of therapy work for us? Oh yes!

We went into all the usual retail shops for clothes, make up and shoes, wandered around for hours finally topping the whole thing of with a McFlurry and a couple of selfies for IG. However, one of my favourite shops we went into was Outfit where I found these bargain lashes! Now although I've never been huge on full falsies I thought I would give them a go as later this year I've got a lot of night outs, special events and excuses to get glammed up for.

I've always liked the look of Eylure lashes and so when I saw them on sale didn't think twice about seizing the moment. This offer featured '3 for 2' and so I picked some up to give them a go!

035- light, fluttery and lengthening! What I loved most about these lashes is the way they ever so slightly grow longer towards the very center and are even on the eye completely.

100- fuller, darker and ever so slightly lengthening (perfect for day time). I find with the other lashes I need to apply a slight coating of mascara to blend them into my real lashes, however with these I really don't think it is needed which makes them so comfortable and easy to wear.

Cheryl 114- I definitely saved the best until last here with these lashes from Cheryl's collection. These ones are the most light weight out of all 3 and if I had the time and effort to, I would wear them everyday! They're so soft and easy to apply which meant throughout the day I hardly remembered I was wearing them. I also received a lot of compliments on these as they're clearly not natural lashes and they do stand out, however they're not ridiculously thick, long or dark and I think that's why I love them. They're the perfect mixture of everything and I will definitely be repurchasing these very soon!

The only thing about Eylure that isn't great is the glue provided but I think one application could last me around 5 hours securely before I would feel the need to re-apply. I wore the 035 to work to test the staying power and although after a 6 hour shift they weren't hanging off, I definitely think the last hour I could feel them on my eyes more than previous and they began to move around. However, the quality and consistency of the lashes are outstanding.

I would 100% recommend Eylure to anyone after some budget-friendly, top quality lashes. Not only have they got one of the most varied selection of lashes I've ever seen but also do special occasion and seasonal lashes which I think, especially at Halloween, you could have a lot of fun with!

Do you wear falsies? Would you try them? What's your favourite brand?

Until next time, Toni. xo

Saturday, 20 August 2016

I'M GOING TO BE A BRIDESMAID!


I have some exciting news to share... I've been asked to be a bridesmaid in November along with 7 others, that's right SEVEN,  big wedding! I've been a bridesmaid twice in the past (admittedly both quite a while back) and also work at a hotel part time which hosts 2/3 weddings every weekend so feel like I understand the general running of the typical wedding day so hopefully this will help me out in November. As it's been a while- I better dust off my best aisle walk and polish up on small talk for the big day. This wedding is going to be very big, very busy and very beautiful.

The date is November 19th and I'm praying for snow, imagine the perfect white wedding! It is a church marriage then onto a 200+ room hotel for the reception and evening-do. By far the most nerve racking part for me will be in the church, I am the first to walk down the aisle along with the only flower girl so all eyes will be focused our way. This I am not excited about and any of you who know me will know I'm one of the most naturally clumsy people going. Here's hoping I don't trip in front of a church full of people who will either:
A. be in my life forever and remind me endlessly of my embarrassment with photos and videos
or
B. have never met me and be presented with this moment as their first impression...

Anyway, lets not dwell on the horror that could become all too real on the day, but instead think up a helpful and handy list all bridesmaids should read prior to the wedding planning beginning (I love lists).

All Things Bridesmaids Should Know, Have and Do

1. Help to dress shop - for bridesmaids dresses and bridal gowns! Attending shopping trips for dress hunting, appointments for alterations and final fittings closer to the date can be tiring and time consuming but are very important dates for the diary you need to allow for.

2. Try and remember guests names and make small talk with them (drunk or not!) You are a representative of the bride and as she will be busy 99.9% of the day, help her out by giving guests attention, strangers included.

3. That takes me onto this point: try and stay as sober as possible not to humiliate yourself, the bride or anyone else, but also drink enough so that you dance all night and fill up the dance floor constantly.

4. Be prepared to help with the final details, colour scheme, flowers, decor, timings etc. This may be long winded but the bride will value and appreciate the time and effort you make.

5. Toilet duty! Hold the bride's dress and stand in the toilet with her - no complaining...

6. The bride is bound to be a bundle of nerves both leading up to and on the big day. You and any other members of the bridal party are there for support and you must remind her she is making the right decision and running off and leaving him at the alter isn't the best plan (not always anyway).

7. Carry tissues, lipstick, concealer and gum with you. You never know when things could get emotional and you need to be able to clean yourself up quickly as photos will be being taken from all angles, all day. You will also be meeting a lot of people so keep your manners in check and make the bride thankful she chose you, use gum and even hand sanitizer if you're going to be the social butterfly for the day by getting round as many guests as possible.

8. Gifting the new happy couple is important as a bridesmaid in wishing them all the best and setting them in good stead for their future. You could take the easy option and offer to pay for something towards the wedding as a token gesture and early gift or you could be like me and make everything 10x more difficult for yourself by leaving those opportunities to pass you by and be stuck thinking up different ideas to top the 'regular' guests presents. Oh the wedding politics!

9. Both the bride and bridesmaids need to discuss the hair, make up and nails for the day. Obviously all the bridesmaids can't be totally different, but never the less should still be sporting their own style within reason. This is where the bride comes in, she has to A-OK every detail as of course its her big day. Also, as a bridesmaid, be financially ready for this! I know a lot of brides now pay for most of the treatments bridesmaids have as part of the 'package deal' but if not, get saving. Hair, make up, nails and tanning isn't cheap, especially if you are having trial runs prior to the day.

10. This is the biggest and best yet: the HEN-DO/BRIDAL SHOWER/BACHELORETTE party!! You and the other bridesmaids must organise and host the most outstanding celebration of the bride's final moments of 'single' life that she will remember and cherish forever. Think themes, costumes, location, invites, surprises, cocktails, clubs etc. etc. We have actually already planned, paid for and prepared for this (OCTOBER 7th-9th) but I will be writing a whole separate blog post on this afterwards!!


Have you ever been a bridesmaid? Are you going to be? Do you have any helpful advice? Let me know!


Until next time, Toni. xo


Monday, 1 August 2016

Shopper Savings



Happy August! Everyone loves saving money or even better being given free products, so I've gathered together a few of my favourite loyalty rewards cards this month that help save money and reward shopping for products I love with even more of those same products!
http://www.boots.com/en/Advantage-Card/

1.   The Boots card is by far my favourite card of those I’ve included. It’s a free membership you sign up to online at http://www.boots.com/en/Advantage-Card/ when you receive your card through the post with your name on you can start collecting 4 points every £1 you spend online and in store. Eventually these points will start to add up and allow you to use them like money – when you have enough points to pay for an item you wish to buy you will get the option to use them – effectively getting the product free! You also receive vouchers through the post allowing you to earn double points or even hundreds more than usual with a certain amount spent. It is by far the easiest card to use and own, rewarding you regularly, all for absolutely no price.
http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/loyalty/love-your-body/

2.   The Body Shop card is equally as rewarding giving you 10% off all purchases for a year, free products when you have collected a certain amount of stamps, a free birthday present every year, exclusive offers, event accessibility and discounts as well as being the first to see new products. However, this card is not simply a reward scheme but a membership meaning it is a cost of £5 for sign up. I don’t think this is a large price to pay for what you are given and the exclusives you have access to for this quality product range. Sign up here: http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/loyalty/love-your-body/

http://www.debenhams.com/beauty/beauty-club/about-your-beauty-club-card
3.   Debenhams rewards card is a card you can pick up in store and register over the counter or online here: http://www.debenhams.com/beauty/beauty-club/about-your-beauty-club-card . It works much like the Boots card as when you shop throughout the store on beauty products you collect points which amount to monetary rewards. The rewards include discounts, free samples, make over opportunities and even free online shopping delivery!
http://www.superdrug.com/beautycard?gclid=CPeDzOOFxcoCFWj3wgodJ8wBYg&gclsrc=aw.ds

4.   The ‘Beautycard’ from Superdrug is offered over the counter with registration in store or online at: http://www.superdrug.com/beautycard?gclid=CPeDzOOFxcoCFWj3wgodJ8wBYg&gclsrc=aw.ds . The card gives you £1 to spend for every 100 points earnt; allowing you to be rewarded with discounts, exclusive offers and specialist pricing, free online delivery and even birthday gifts every year. There are also often online offers for card holders allowing triple points to be earnt with every purchase. This is one of the most popular cards on the market with the user friendly access and availability to start earning points straight away with no upfront costs or long winded sign ups.

http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Recognition+Rewards+card/recognitionLoyalty,default,pg.html


5.   House of Fraser also offer a recognition rewards card that can be picked up in store and registered online here: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Recognition+Rewards+card/recognitionLoyalty,default,pg.html  . This is a free membership points card that can be used online or in store with card and cash transactions. You are given 1 point for every £1 spent and when you collect 500 points you are given a £5 reward to spend how you like. The card also allows access to exclusive offers and discounts, events and even bonus points throughout you birthday month. With easy online management and tracking of your card you will always know how many points you have and any upcoming events and offers.

I would recommend all 5 of these beauty rewards cards to anyone who shops regularly for new products, keeping up to date with the newest beauty trends. Before you know it you will have enough points to earn yourself something free and you will be receiving offers and discounts from nearly all the leading cosmetic shops on the high street. Having vouchers, free testers and exclusives sent to you through the post to try before you buy is always helpful for any cosmetic enthusiast.

Until next time, Toni. xo

Wednesday, 27 July 2016

Summer Secret? Setting Spray!


In the UK at the moment we seem to be having the best summer I may have ever witnessed but let's not jinx it! I would like to keep the temperature between 20°- 30° for as long as possible to actually go out and enjoy my days off work and make the most of my summer wardrobe! HOWEVER the biggest problem that this beautiful but very hot weather poses is that my make up literally runs off my face, now obviously I don't wear a full face of make up every day in these high temperatures but when I do I want it to actually stay on...

Well I think I've found the answer, the secret to keeping your make up on so your face doesn't look like a melting panda: Urban Decay's Setting Spray!

Although the setting spray has been available for quite a while now and sat in the back of my make up collection waiting to be used I've only recently picked it up and fell in love with it thanks to this hot weather and my goodness am I glad! The spray I have been using is the 'All Nighter' long lasting formula however there is also a 'De-slick' oil control and 'Chill' cooling and hydrating formula.


The 'All Nighter' spray prevents make up melting, moving into lines or creases and fading promising to last up to 16 hours. When spraying it over your make up to get best results you should spray in and 'X' and 'T' formation, the formula is very light weight but requires a few minutes to dry properly to set you off for your day/night.

I think although the formula alone is very effective for best results I've noticed my make up lasting longer with primer and plenty of setting powder also. This is simply an addition at the very end of my normal make up routine to hold everything in place and fight against the humidity in the hot summer months or nights out.




What are your best tips for keeping your make up in place during summer? Let me know!

Until next time, Toni. xo

Thursday, 30 June 2016

Garnier Make Up Removal


Garnier has always been one of my favourite lines for skin care with creams and facial scrubs etc. so when I found out they were releasing a new make up remover and cleansing water I had to get my hands on it and give it a go!
 
It's fair to say I now love it and couldn't be without it.
 
The 2-in-1 Eye Make-up Remover product is made up of two parts, one slightly oily and the other a less dense, clear liquid. I've seen some people saying it leaves a greasy residue however I find that comes only if you don't shake the bottle which is the whole idea of the product. By shaking the bottle the two liquids mix and form a non-greasy, efficient and soft make up remover- DREAM!
 
The thing I love most about it is how gentle it is on my eyes. A lot of make up removers sting or irritate the skin around my eyes but as this is specifically designed to remove make up easily and quickly its not exactly 'heavy duty'. Although it removes all make up I wouldn't rely on this on it's own and still use other products to cleanse and tone my skin afterwards.

The Micellar Cleansing Water works wonders for quick and easy make-up removal which means it literally takes me a minute to soak a cotton pad in the formula and wipe the day's face away. Depending on how much make-up you're wearing it may take you a couple of cotton pads worth of the cleanser to remove all make-up and freshen up your face. Again, I don't rely on this as my cleanser and use it more as a make up-remover only, using my trusty No.7 products that you can see [HERE] after these products have done all I need them to.
 
 I have quite sensitive skin and find these products don't irritate or affect it in any way. I also have a 'combination' skin consistency which is neither solely greasy or dry
 but a mixture of both and I think these products work well across my entire face- yay!

These products have not only made my night skin routine 10 times quicker and easier, but also helped to maintain my skin condition keeping acne at bay and helping to increase the hydration level which I find to be a big chore: how bad of me! I would recommend these skin care items to anyone like me who loves make up but hates taking it off at the end of the day and just wants the process to be as quick and easy as possible; however, if you're looking for a 30 minute rejuvenation process these are not for you.

Until next time, Toni. xo
 


Sunday, 29 November 2015

No7: No Noticeable Difference?


I have always sworn by No.7 products and the brand is normally my safety net for all things beauty. No.7 is actually the brand that started my interest and collection of make up. However, this time I'm not so impressed. A mascara I've been a fan of for as long as it has been on shelves has an extended version and being the lover of No.7 I am, I didn't question to give it a try.

The original mascara claims to offer a waterproof, extreme length effect which I can agree it does, it works wonders on my eye lashes and I'm proud to say I'm a repeat customer. It's extension claims to do that and more, with a 'fibre enriched formula' and new packaging, things looked promising! I have been testing the new and 'improved' version for a few months now and am still yet to see a difference or improvement.


No.7 have let me down on this one: the brush is the same, the product consistency looks the same, applies the same and lasts the same amount of time. Both products are good; both products extend lash length and both products I would recommend. I suppose my only question is what on earth is the difference?

The 'extend' claim is not visible in results on my lashes and as I've read other's reviews after purchasing and testing, the same conclusion comes from many people similar to myself. My advice to any No.7 lovers out there is try not to get too excited if similar extension products are released, wait for reviews before spending unnecessary money on a product you already have in your collection!

Original Mascara: here.

Extend Mascara: here.


Until next time, Toni. xo

Sunday, 22 November 2015

The Perfect Red Lip


http://www.loreal-paris.co.uk/make-up/lip/lip-colour/color-riche-collection-exclusive-pure-reds
 
As party season is just around the corner and Christmas is in sight it's time to pull out the red lippy and with long days shopping and late nights out you need a trusty one to see you through. I have the answer. L'OREAL's 'Color Riche' collection holds some beautiful colours but one of my favourites by far is 'Blake's Pure Red'.
 
The colour is deep and powerful with a matte smooth finish on the lip, this is perfect for any occasion night or day. Matching with Christmas jumpers and dresses, there is every excuse to pull out a bold, bright and beautiful red.

http://www.loreal-paris.co.uk/make-up/lip/lip-colour/color-riche-collection-exclusive-pure-reds
 
Not only is the product itself beautiful to wear and look at, so is the packaging, a matte black animal print touched with gold detailing and print, this is an essential for your make up collection this year. The quality of the product is a steal at only £6.99 from your local drugstore. The level of pigment and staying power is something only dreams are made of and I've never quite had anything like it. The product doesn't bleed off the lip or smudge and loose the shape. It has held strong through all tests of eating, drinking, talking and even heavy rain - you could say it's a super lipstick.
 
This is a must buy for yourself or any fellow make up and lipstick lovers this Christmas with seasonal colours matching the deep red pigment perfectly. This has been my favourite red lipstick I've ever tried and potentially the best lipstick find this year. You simply must try it.

http://www.loreal-paris.co.uk/make-up/lip/lip-colour/color-riche-collection-exclusive-pure-reds
 
Until next time, Toni. xo

Sunday, 8 November 2015

Smashbox Contour Sticks Trio


http://www.smashbox.co.uk/product/13595/34191/contour/STEP-BY-STEP-CONTOUR-STICK-TRIO/index.tmpl?77tadunit=b92211fb&77tadvert=50473102532&77tkeyword=smashbox%20contour%20sticks&77tentrytype=s&cm_mmc=ppc-_-77agency-_-brand-_-smashbox%20contour%20sticks&gclid=CjwKEAjwwbyxBRCS74T049iEp0wSJACkO5v1K7pLA5t2XtIPq4Ditk1k7ocK6ymc06CKOaSChSqr_xoCzbzw_wcB

These have been at the top of my must have list for a while now and since opening the box I haven't put the Contour Sticks Trio back! It's clear to say I'm loving these products. They have a smooth and silky, cream texture making them so easy to apply and blend.
 
The box also comes with a sharpener to fit the pencil sticks so worrying about ever being left with an unusable product is not necessary! I had heard some great things about these sticks and wanted to try them as soon as I got my hands on them.
 
I find that the contour stick works best for me with the bronze stick as a touch up for the top of my head. However, the highlight is surprisingly too dark for me but it will be perfect for if I get a tan or want just a tiny touch of highlight on a basic make up day.
 
As well as the sharpener, the trio comes with an instruction sheet including guides on where to apply the different colours and how to use the sticks depending on your face shape and how you want to look. I found this very useful as I was able to see exactly what shapes to draw, where and with which sticks.
 

http://www.smashbox.co.uk/product/13595/34191/contour/STEP-BY-STEP-CONTOUR-STICK-TRIO/index.tmpl?77tadunit=b92211fb&77tadvert=50473102532&77tkeyword=smashbox%20contour%20sticks&77tentrytype=s&cm_mmc=ppc-_-77agency-_-brand-_-smashbox%20contour%20sticks&gclid=CjwKEAjwwbyxBRCS74T049iEp0wSJACkO5v1K7pLA5t2XtIPq4Ditk1k7ocK6ymc06CKOaSChSqr_xoCzbzw_wcB 
 
A lot of people I know and those that use the sticks, blend the product with a flat, buffing brush but I prefer to use a beauty blender purely because I feel like I have more control over the product on my face and the finish is a lot more flawless. Since using the product I've really got into getting a good contour on a night out or even just a bronzed touch on a day-to-day basis for a slightly more defined shape.
 
The product is £35 which I personally think is very reasonable for the quality of product. I've had this product nearly two months now and have used the contour stick every day, I am yet to need to sharpen it more than once! You don't need a lot of product per application as it is so well pigmented and blends so well, therefore the trio will last a long time and probably save you money in the long run in comparison to your usual product that may run down quickly, due to you needing to use a lot of it per day.
 
I would recommend the trio to people who are already into make up and want to explore and venture further into face sculpting as this is quite a complex, heavy product for someone just beginning to get into make up. Alternatively, I would recommend a simple bronzing powder not to irritate or harm the skin and gradually build to using heavier products such as this one. The staying power is fantastic so they can be used day and night, any weather, any occasion to give you the extra pop to your face structure! The hype is totally worth it and I'm so grateful I can finally say I own a set of these heavenly products. You can find the sticks trio here.
 
http://www.smashbox.co.uk/product/13595/34191/contour/STEP-BY-STEP-CONTOUR-STICK-TRIO/index.tmpl?77tadunit=b92211fb&77tadvert=50473102532&77tkeyword=smashbox%20contour%20sticks&77tentrytype=s&cm_mmc=ppc-_-77agency-_-brand-_-smashbox%20contour%20sticks&gclid=CjwKEAjwwbyxBRCS74T049iEp0wSJACkO5v1K7pLA5t2XtIPq4Ditk1k7ocK6ymc06CKOaSChSqr_xoCzbzw_wcB
 
Until next time, Toni. xo

Saturday, 19 September 2015

My Top 3 Drugstore Foundations

 
I've always stuck to No7 foundation throughout my make up loving years however a few weeks ago I decided to give a selection of drugstore foundations a go to see if going for slightly cheaper alternatives made much of a difference. Turns out a few of these foundations actually work wonders on my skin so I've picked my top 3 from those I purchased to talk about.
 

http://www.boots.com/en/LOreal-Paris-True-Match-Foundation_16049/
 
This is the lightest foundation of all 3 but provides a great, even coverage. The pigmentation isn't amazing but the texture and easy application makes it perfect for those confident days when you're skin is looking fresh and clear. I've been using this a lot throughout the summer because it allows your skin to breathe without moving or streaking on your face. The colour I have this foundation in is 'Ivory' which I've found is a great colour match for me. The foundation also has an SPF of 17 which is perfect for me! This foundation ticks all the boxes for a light, even and breathable foundation: providing what feels like a new top layer of skin that stays throughout the day without caking or slipping. It is also only £9.99 which is a great price for just how great this product looks and feels on the skin.
 
http://www.boots.com/en/Max-Factor-Face-Finity-All-Day-Flawless-3-in-1-Foundation_1279334/
 
This foundation is the smoothest foundation I've ever used! It is titled to be 'Primer, Concealer and Foundation in one' which I can absolutely believe, when putting it on it glides onto my skin as if I have a base of primer and covers the darker areas or blemishes on my skin perfectly. I purchased this foundation in the colour 'Beige 55'. This foundation would be perfect as a first foundation for people just getting into make up; the consistency is smooth yet buildable but not cakey or drying. This foundation offers a high SPF of 20 which is unusual with a lot of drug store foundations. This foundation is a great quality product for a fantastic price of £12.99.

http://www.boots.com/en/Rimmel-Wake-Me-Up-Make-Up-Foundation-30ml_1246748/
 
 My favourite out of three has got to be this one: everything about it ticks all my personal boxes! The colour, coverage, staying power, breathability, SPF and even the smell! My colour is 010 Porcelain and I honestly cannot get enough of it! This foundation brightens my skin, covers all my dark circles and imperfections but isn't heavy or cakey. I feel like this is the only foundation of the three I can feel going onto my face but after a light powdering you can't feel it on your skin. I would recommend this foundation to anyone and at only £8.99 its a bargain!

 
Until next time, Toni. xo

Saturday, 29 August 2015

Bourjois Buys





Bourjois is an unfamiliar high street brand to me and to be honest I've always just walked past the stand whenever I've been in a drugstore. However, a few weeks back my friend introduced me to one of their lipsticks which I ended up going out to buy just days later!




The lipstick was from the 'Rouge Edition' range and was in the colour '18/Violine Strass'. I actually saw the product in my friend's make up bag and was drawn to the packaging, but I was instantly put off by the deep colouring with purple undertones. I've never been brave when it comes to my lip colour and often stick to nudes or understated pinks so this was a big jump for me to take. However, my friend encouraged (basically forced) me to try it and my goodness am I glad she did! 

Although not at all similar to my usual picks and far from my comfort zone; I loved how it felt and looked on my lips and I suddenly found my comfort zone expanding to make room for this unexpected, new love for colour. The lipstick has a matte, yet slightly smoother finish (making it easy to smudge and move around throughout the day) so I find it best to wear with a base of lip liner or even powder to set it in place. 

As the colour is fairly dark I'm saving it for autumn and winter seasons: my favourite time of year! I'm already excited to pair this colour to dark and warm clothing colours and textures as well as big chunky knit wear. 



  Onto eyebrows now which aren't really a big priority for me, and up until a few years ago I did nothing with them! Now, I fill them in lightly and just keep them neat, so as I was already at the Bourjois stand something I also picked up was the Bourjois 'Sourcil Precision' eyebrow pencil in the colour '07 Noisette'. 




I have mixed feelings about this pencil, although the colour is a well matched, build-able and easily applied product the lasting power isn't the best. I find that half way through the day it has faded and even smudged sometimes. 

I am going to continue using the product and using it alone, as well as along side my previous favourites, however I don't think I will repurchase and will continue my search for the best eyebrow pencil for me. 

Be brave with make up choices and try things you never normally would - you never know, your comfort zone may change - you might even learn a thing or two about different undiscovered products! 

Until next time, Toni. xo

Thursday, 2 July 2015

Current Favourite Lip Combo.

I've been reaching for these same two Mac products ever since I've bought them and I'm so glad I did.


I would reccomend this lipstick to anyone looking for a slightly deeper nude tone however, after reading a lot of other reviews a lot of people have had problems with the shading against their skin tone and found it's left a grey undertone to the skin's colouring. So when I went in and found the lipstick, I tested it out first on my hand and made sure to check it under different lights to check it complimented my complexion- turns out I'm one of the lucky ones who can wear this tone! 



I asked a friend who I was with about lip liners and if she could suggest any good matches for Velvet Teddy, as I wasn't having much luck finding one to match close enough to what I wanted - she reccomended 'Whirl' as it's one she had seen paired with this lipstick before and sure enough as soon as I tested it against the lipstick it was perfect! 


Ever since purchasing the products I haven't been able to keep them out of every make up look I've done - some how they seem to go with anything and everything - including a darker smokey eye or even a slight pink natural lid!

Thank you Mac and well done on some of the best lip products I've ever used. 



Until next time, Toni. xo



Sunday, 25 January 2015

New Make-up Brushes.

 
Although I wash my brushes every couple of weeks on average, I found them to become worn out and loosing the quality they once had when I first bought them around a year ago, therefore I decided to invest in a whole new set of brushes from Real Techniques!
 
I had not up until this point ever tried any of the real techniques products so wasn't sure on what to buy, this is what I went for in the end:
 
 
1. Duo Fibre Collection [here]
 
2. Travel Essentials [here]
 
3. Core Collection [here]
 
4. Starter Set [here]
 
 

 
 At the moment I have found myself using the Duo-Fibre face brush the most as it gives even, perfect coverage for the face using powder, the brush is soft and blends the powder perfectly against my foundation base.
 
I have also been loving the multi-task brush for my blush and the buffing brush for bronzer with the contour brush to blend.
 
The only brush I haven't yet used is the pixel perfect eyeliner brush as I am still on the hunt for the perfect gel liner!
 
 
I would highly recommend these beautiful brushes as not only are they amazing quality and a great feel in your hand when you're applying, Sam and Nic Chapman use them throughout the real techniques Youtube channel and their personal channel on tutorials as they are the founders of Real Techniques [more on the story of real techniques here] - this allows you to learn how to use your brushes to the best of their abilities and apply the techniques and tips in your make up looks!
 
The brushes are more expensive in the UK than in the US due to the fact the business is an American business and therefore VAT, distributor mark up and shipping charges apply to UK prices. However, the brushes are of excellent quality and definitely worth the price.
 
For anyone new to the real techniques range or to make up brushes entirely, I would recommend the core collection to begin with as a starting point to slowly build on and I guarantee that over time you will grow to love the brushes and expand your personal collection.
 
 
Until next time, Toni. xo
 


Saturday, 10 January 2015

My Everyday Eye Make-Up.

I get asked a lot how I do my eyeliner and eye make up in general and it is a bit of a strange thing to explain so I thought I would just show you exactly how I do it. I'm no expert and I'm not saying this is the right or best way to do your make-up, this is just the way I do an easy, everyday look.
 
First I always make sure I have no product on my eye lid when I begin because I find that the makeup lasts longer on my eye when it is applied straight to clean and clear skin.
 

This is the eye liner I will be using throughout this demonstration for my winged eyeliner. It is called 'Stay Precise' Liquid Liner in the colour 'Black' by No.7.
 
 I will then draw a thin outline of the wing I want. I usually start with the bottom line, drawing from the corner of my eye, very slowly outwards and gradually upwards. For the top line I start from the middle of my eye and slowly upwards to the point of the bottom line.
 
 
 Then, still using the Stay Precise Liquid Liner I simply fill in the wing with single strokes going from my eye outwards until I am happy with how it looks. Note: it doesn't have to be perfect! There is plenty of time for touch ups.
 
 To complete the flick, I draw from the inside corner of my eye to the edge of the wing, adjusting the thickness as I go to make sure the lines match up.
 
I then go to eye shadow, using W7 In The Buff Palette starting with the colour 'Buff'.
 
 Following along the flick and going right up to the brow brown, I cover my eye lid with this colour as a base.
 

Still using the W7 Palette this time with a brush and the colour 'Chocolate'.
 
 I lightly brush this colour though my crease and upwards towards the brow bone, again using the flick as a guide. It is important to always take darker eye shadows upwards to avoid your eye looking droopy and small.
 
 Going onto the colour 'Storm' now, using a brush again to apply.
 
With a darker colour I find it easiest to apply it very gradually, blending as you go to make sure you get the look you want. I apply this half way along the flick line and upwards, still following the wing.
 
For just under my brow and on the brow bone, I use The Body Shop's Radiant Highlighter. 
 
You only need a very small amount of this as it spreads very well and gives a beautiful, bright shimmer. 
 
Next, onto No.7's Extreme Length Mascara in the colour 'Black'.
 
Applying this only to my top lashes, on both sides to build up layers and keep it lasting longer and giving the perfect length and volume to my lashes.
 
For my bottom liner I use Avon's Kohl Liner in the colour 'Black' which provides a long lasting pencil liner and smudge tool.
 
I apply the liner along my water line from corner to corner, smudging outwards into the wing and onto my bottom lash line.
 
Using the No.7 Extreme Length Mascara again, I apply lightly to my bottom lashes.
 
After touch ups this is my final look, easy, quick and still very effective!
 
 

 
Products used:
  • No.7's Stay Precise Liquid Liner in 'Black' [here]
  • W7's In The Buff Eye Shadow Palette [here]
  • The Body Shop's Radiant Highlighter [here]
  • No.7's Extreme Length Mascara in 'Black' [here]
  • Avon's Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in 'Black' [here]

 
Until next time, Toni. xo