Maybelline The Falsies Volum' Express

Hey lovelies

Hope you've all had a very lovely week.

I recently mentioned in my teeny tiny haul post that I picked up Maybelline The Falsies Volum' Express Mascara.

Firstly, I love the colour of the packaging and I love how it's actually identical to Barry M's Bright Purple nail paint, my fave ATM!

Secondly, I really like the brush. It did take me a few applications to get used to it. At first I found it messy, as the formulation is quite wet and I kept smearing it under my eye when trying to do my lower lashes. But once I got used to it I found it applied very nicely.

As for the results...?

My lashes are already quite long but I felt like it still added a decent bit of length to them. I really liked the level of volume they added to my lashes and how they don't look really clumpy, as I've found a lot of volumising mascaras tend to do that. Finally I really like how they are still fairly separated. I don't think this mascara actually makes my lashes look false, but I'd certainly be happy to use this mascara on without false lashes on a night out. It really made me want to flutter...

Do you guys rate this mascara?

x.x.x

Weight Loss Diary - Week 3

Good evening ladies

Can I just start by saying how bloody excited I am to have broken through the 100 followers barrier :) With a little Twitter help from the lovely Stavroula at Drugstore and Bargain Lover (go check her blog).

Deborah is a very happy lady!

So this week went okay as far as I knew. I didn't have any fast food, I ate healthy lunches, a tiny bit chocolate BUT I did have wine! (Note to self: Don't!)

Does anyone else have a love/hate relationship with Mrs Vino?

Anyway, I attended two hour long spin classes as well and I have to say I am actually starting to enjoy it. I'm past the horrid painful, numb bum stage and I am on the the stage where I am able to and actually want to push myself that little bit harder than I did the class before. Now I ever thought I would say that, but hey, I guess exercise can be fun!! :) Haha.

So it was with dreaded anticipation I stepped on the scales and my heart sunk, HALF A POUND! I know, at least I didn't gain anything but I was hoping for more! I did feel disheartened BUT I got out my tape measure and was quite thrilled to discover I'd lost 4 inches from my waist!

So all in all, 4 and a half lbs off and 4 inches lost. Another week begins....

[image from weheartit.com]

x.x.x

Thierry Mugler - Alien

Hey Girls

So I really wanted to show you one of my all time favourite perfumes. I got this set from my boyfriend's Mum for Christmas and I was extremely excited. This is the 3rd bottle I've had and I NEVER get bored of it.

I really love the deep amethyst coloured bottle, and with the design being so unique, it really looks great on my dressing table.

The scent is so distinctive, there is no confusing this with any other. It has a strong floral smell, with deep Jasmine and Amber notes. It's not for those who like soft fragrances, this really packs a punch. You will either love it or hate it. This benefits me though as I only need one or two spritzes and the smell lingers all day long. I believe this is a Mugler trait as Angel is the same, very strong. However, Angel has always been too sweet for my liking.

Have any of you guys tried this? What do you think? Personally, I adore it!

x.x.x



Accessorize New Collection - Jewellery

Hey Ladies

So I was browsing the Accessorize website intently (as you do!) and came across their amazing new jewellery collection. As always, the pieces are gorgeous, delicate and extremely affordable, so I thought I'd share my top 5 picks...

1. Long feather pendant £9

2. Secret garden key knuckle duster ring £8

3. Vinatage robin long pendant £12

4. Lady jewel cameo ring £7

5. Summer ditsy printed statement ring £10

Are you guys Accessorize fans?

x.x.x



Weight Loss Diary - Week 2

Good Evening

Hope you all had a lovely weekend! I was working, and had a poorly boyfriend so the weekend came and go in the blink of an eye!

My week diet wise was up and down. I tried to follow my plan as best as possible, except my work had a "team lunch" on Wednesday and we went to our local Chinese restaurant (aaah all you can eat buffet!) I did control myself though and had only two small plates and NO fried rice.

But in true diet failure style, I had a domino's pizza takeaway on Saturday night so I full well expected to have gained when I stepped on the scales.

As for exercise, I only attended one hour long spinning class. I had a dentist appointment on Thursday night so I couldn't go to the second one, although I would much rather have been spinning than getting a filling!!!

So this morning, I got on the scales to discover I had stayed the exact same as last week. I am quite happy with this, of course I would love to have lost, but with my rather bad week I can't really complain.

Back on it all saddles blazing this week...wish me luck!

x.x.x

EOS Lipbalm

Hello Lovelies

So this week I ordered myself an EOS lipbalm from Amazon. I don't know if it retails in any UK stores but you can get it online. I opted for the Summer Fruits flavour and so far I'm really impressed.

For those of you who haven't seen this before, it's an egg shaped lip balm with a screw off lid. It makes for a non messy application and it's also a cute, unique design.

It has a really strong fruity scent, which I really like!

I've also found it to be pretty moisturising. This is a really nice everyday lip balm.

Have you guys tried EOS?

x.x.x



Couldn't Resist Any Longer...

Hey Girlies.

I finally gave in. I had to find out what the hype was about...

...And now I know.

I've seen so many bloggers and you tubers rave over the Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish hot cloth cleanser that I just had to try it out for myself. I also purchased the Instant Boost Skin Tonic. I've only been using them for about 4 days but already I am hooked. I really love how smooth and bright it's made my skin in such a short time. I also love how cute and pretty the packaging is!

I'll definitely let you know how I get on...

x.x.x

Raspberry Kiss Me

I believe I have died and gone to body scrub heaven...

A few weeks ago I picked up Treacle Moon's The Raspberry Kiss body scrub and it has fast become one of my new favourites.

First of all, it's bright pink. What girlie girl does not love pink bath products (HELLO SNOW FAIRY) and this is what first caught my eye when browsing the aisles of my local Tesco. I then proceeded to pop the cap and have a little whiff....oh my days it's amazing. The scent is soo delightful, bursting with raspberry goodness and I could not resist. In the trolley it went.

But we all know the proof of the pudding is in the tasting. Well, in this case the washing. I massage this into my skin in the shower two or three times a week and it really does get rid of all the dead skin and leaves my skin feeling totally soft. It contain tiny black scrubbers which are powerful and gentle at the same time. Now what more could you want?

Treacle Moon make various other scented scrubs, shower gels and body butters and they are all deliciously tempting. They are owned by the same company who have created such brands as The Sanctuary, Nicky Clarke, Umberto Giannini, Elle Macpherson and Normandi. The range is available at Treaclemoon.net or exclusively in Tesco.

Have you guys tried this or any other products from this range?

x.x.x

Weight Loss Diary - Week 1

Afternoon Ladies

I mentioned last week that I was beginning a new diet and fitness regime and decided I would blog about my results.

I've been feeling uncomfortable with my body for a while now, and knew that I needed to do something about it. I'd try for a few weeks then give up. I think my problem with my weight lies around my portion sizes and my control. I do eat a very varied diet, and certainly lots of veg and fruit, but also LOTS of rubbish too. It's mainly bad habits that have gotten me to the place I am today and now I feel ready to do something about it. And hopefully, stick to it.

To be honest, I've found this week easier than I thought it would be. I've made a few important changes to my diet, starting with breakfast. Instead of two slices of buttery toast, I've been having porridge. A sachet of the Quakers Oat so Simple. It really is simple, two minutes in the microwave and it's ready. Plus they have a great range of flavours so it never gets boring.

Second change is lunch. I must admit I've been quite lazy in the past when it comes to lunches. I'd gotten to know my work's canteen too well and macaroni cheese, lasagne, pasties and chips were all too easy. I've found this week preparation is the key. Buying in what I will need for the week and making sure I take time to prepare. I have been taking a tub of salad everyday and mixing it with lots of different things to keep it interesting. Tuna, chicken, ham, pasta....I never imagined how filling it would be, and tasty. I have also been taking plenty fruit to work to stop me snacking on sweets. Also, I have still been having a packet of crisps at lunchtime, but making sure they're low calorie such as Squares or French Fries.

Finally, dinner is just whatever my mama bear prepares! I've found these changes quite easy to stick to and I know that as the weeks go on I'll need to make more tweaks to it to accommodate the weight loss but I'll deal with that as it comes.

As for exercise, this week I've been to two hour long spinning classes. The boy has come with me as he is also trying to get fit so it's been nice that we can do it together. These classes absolutely kill but I'm sure they are working and I can definitely feel the "burn".

So down to the important bit. At the end of week ONE I have successfully managed to lose

4lbs.

I'm over the moon at this and seeing how a few simple changes have made such a difference I feel completely motivated to keep it up!

Have you guys been trying to lose weight/shape up this year?

x.x.x

Maybelline Superstay 24hr Foundation

I recently picked up a bottle of Maybelline's Superstay 24hr Foundation. Having heard some good things about it, I was keen to give it a go.

First off, let me say I am sceptical about ANY foundation which claims to last 24hrs! But I was looking for a good 8-10 hours wear out of this, I didn't want to get to lunch time and there was none left on my face.

Here's what Maybelline say:

Why You'll Love It

SuperStay™ 24HR Makeup stays comfortable and looks naturally flawless all day

Micro-Flex formula provides 24-hour wear and No Transfer

Withstands heat, sweat and humidity

Oil-free, dermatologist tested, fragrance-free. Suitable for all skin types.

Sounds good right?

I chose the shade 010 ivory and I was pretty pleased with the match. The first thing I noted about the product is that the application is thick. It also dried very quickly so you have to be fast with applying and blending. The foundation gives good coverage but I found it looked pretty cakey. If you have any flaws, ie dry patches or spots, this is going to just clump around that area and not look nice at all. Because it's oil free, it's not great for dry skin.

One way I did get round this was to add a little moisturiser (E45 lotion) to it and it did definitely help with the application and finished look.

The final observation about this foundation is that it definitely did not last 24hrs. Not even 10hrs. I reckon it looked good for about 6hrs then it started to wear off, and that was both with and without being mixed with moisturiser.

I will continue to use this foundation, mixed in with E45 cream until it's used up but doubt I would repurchase. Have you guys used this product? What was your opinion?

x.x.x



NOTW + Help!

Hi Girls

This is my first NOTW post. I've finally kicked my filthy nail biting habit (only recently mind you) and so this is the first time I've actually wanted to share my nails with you lot. My nails are still short and by no means perfect but thought I'd share this anyways.

Two coats of Barry M 293 Grey.

Now that I'm getting more into nail care and design, I really want to venture into some nail art. But I have no idea where to start. Can you guys offer any advice/tips for simple but pretty nail art for a beginner with a shaky hand like me?

x.x.x



I Got Naked!!!

No, not literally.

The Naked Palette to be precise.

Yaaaaahooo!

After looking at it lovingly for ages, I finally got it for Christmas from my lovely Brother & Sister-in-law! Thanks guys!

I won't do a long post swatching every colour 'cause you've probably seen them all a million gazillion times. I just want to point out my two faves.

Sidecar and Smog are my two favourite shadows from the palette and have been making an appearance together on my eyelids almost everyday since Christmas, but the other colours are so deliciously beautiful also, it really does make choosing my eye make up a difficult decision. HELLO having to get up ten minutes earlier!! Hehe.

x.x.x



Tiny Little Haul

Hey lovelies

Hope you have all recovered from the New Year frolics and are feeling nice and refreshed after a little break. I go back to work tomorrow and back to the mundanity of everyday life. And of course as I already mentioned, BACK TO THE GYM! Aaaah!

Just thought I'd share my tiny little shopping haul from the last few days. Enjoy.

1. Bourjois Delice de Poudre Bronzing Powder.

I really needed a new everyday bronzer as my Hoola is hitting pan so I picked up this Bourjois one, I really like the fact that it's quite light so no orange patches and there is some really subtle flecks of shimmer in it which add a lovely highlight to the face.

2. Barry M nail paints in Bright Purple & Grey.

Believe it or not, these are my first Barry M nail paints and so far I'm very impressed. Have been wearing the bright purple since New Years Eve and have not had to do any touch ups! I think this is incredible. I love the colour but I'm gonna take it off and re-paint in grey tonight.

3. Maybelline The Falsies Volum' Express Mascara.

I only purchased this today so haven't had the chance to try this out, but I have heard good things about it. Hopefully it will live up to the praise but I shall do a review on this very soon!

4. MUA Eyedust in shade 6.

I haven't tried any of the MUA eye dusts yet so picked up this lovely colour. It's a kind of greyish purple but has tiny pink and green shimmery reflects in it. It swatches beautifully so I am very keen to actually try it out.

Have you guys tried any of these products?

Love

x.x.x



A Disappointing Buy...

How disappointing is it when you buy a product that just doesn't live up to your expectations...

After reading some really positive reviews about L'oreal Volume Million Lashes, I picked it up from Superdrug last week. I got the extra black version and I checked out the wand and thought it looked really great.

The first thing I noticed was the smell, as soon as I held it up to my face ready to apply I could smell an awful chemical stench. Not pleasant, but if it gave me beautifully voluptuous lashes I would be willing to put up with the smell for a minute until it dried. However I was somewhat disenchanted to discover it didn't do much...

The mascara was really easy to apply, I really do like the wand as it's so smooth. My lashes were very black, yes, and they were very separated. But not the voluminous lashes I'd hoped for. The formulation is very wet and smudged when I blinked. Not great. The worst part however, was that my eyes stung/watered like hell from that chemical smell. I just wanted to take it straight back off. And I did. Yeuch.

I was really shocked to discover this as I normally really love L'oreal products, and even my own Mum raves about this mascara. When I asked her she said it didn't make her eyes water but I do not consider myself to have sensitive eyes and haven't experienced this from any other mascaras. Could I have just gotten a bad one? Have any of you guys tried this and what do you think?

So all in all, it's a thumbs down from me.

x.x.x

Goodbye 2010...Hello 2011...

Hey Guys

I'm back after having a lovely Christmas and New Year. Thought I'd just take a quick moment to wish you all a very Happy New Year...

[borrowed from weheartit.com]

I am not making any specific new years resolution, cos I think when you make a rule it's easily broken. The biggest thing I aim to do this year is healthy eat, shape up and ultimately feel better bodywise and health wise. I may even do a little weekly weigh in here. Let me know if you would like to see this. This is going to start from Tuesday 4th Jan, when my holidays are over and I'm back to work (boohoo). I already have a gym membership which I barely use, so instead of throwing away £37 a month I am going to throw myself into it wholeheartedly. Wish me luck. Are any of you guys making new years resolutions?

I will be doing a couple of posts over the next week or so, including some lovely Christmas gifts and some reviews on some new products I've got. Let me know if you have any requests also.

I hope you are all having a lovely New Years and that 2011 brings everything you want and more...

Lots of Love

x.x.x