tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33393565202065436032024-03-13T23:19:33.844-07:00Raspberry RougeNathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.comBlogger213125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-50008526396395544842013-04-30T08:01:00.000-07:002013-04-30T08:01:06.497-07:00NOTD Butter London Teddy Girl & An Attempt At Some Nail Art<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A quick post on one of the shades I mentioned in a recent pink polish post, Butter London's Teddy Girl. I've been really into pink nail colours lately and Teddy Girl, which is a milky, opaque pink has been one of my favourites. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's not the easiest of shades to apply and I find it takes three coats of colour to get an even finish. I think it's worth it though, as it's a pretty shade. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I actually painted my nails with Teddy Girl on Saturday and came across a watercolour nail art post on <b><a href="http://www.makeupsavvy.co.uk/2013/04/no-mess-watercolour-nail-tutorial.html" target="_blank">Makeup Savvy</a></b> on Sunday, which I decided to try. I'm normally quite rubbish at any sort of nail art, but the tutorial and instructions looked easy enough, so I got out a few more Butter London shades and gave it a go. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The whole sandwich bag/smooshing process was easy enough, but the end result wasn't quite as pretty as results posted in the tutorial.....</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4z2uu8Gp9HwGYtOXV13-gAlw71C-1Wzl1QsMelYTBubWeMrTX3RteCCK_go3-tu_ZSeqIIP3XWqdGSnf9r14rxIVJIwBQkiXWRBfVPmqwqnJzxXdP4gILATPZ1BUQzZ7lKVBq98XiXf0/s1600/Water+Colour+Nails.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4z2uu8Gp9HwGYtOXV13-gAlw71C-1Wzl1QsMelYTBubWeMrTX3RteCCK_go3-tu_ZSeqIIP3XWqdGSnf9r14rxIVJIwBQkiXWRBfVPmqwqnJzxXdP4gILATPZ1BUQzZ7lKVBq98XiXf0/s1600/Water+Colour+Nails.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm not really sure where I went wrong, but the effect doesn't look half as good the result in the tutorial (it does look a bit better from a distance). Maybe I need to use less polish next time, or practice my smooshing technique? Anyway, although my attempt didn't look quite pretty as I was hoping, I have to say, I'm quite liking the whole watercolour effect, and will definitely be giving it another go/practicing with some different colour combinations. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Also, I just wanted to say that the Clarins Lipstick giveaway is now closed. The winner will chosen using random.org tomorrow, and the original post will be updated with the winners name. Thanks to everyone who entered! </span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-54264379265216169342013-04-27T07:46:00.000-07:002013-04-27T07:46:59.548-07:00A Few Favourite Pink Nail Colours <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In a recent Spring Shades post, I mentioned how much I've been enjoying pastel colours for nails lately and talked about a few shades in particular that I've been sporting on nails over the past month or so. There's another colour I've loving lately as well though, pink, so I thought I'd do a little post on some favourites/shades that have made an appearance recently. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Butter London's Primrose Hill Picnic, Rose Insolent and Lolly Pop look quite similar in the nail wheel swatches, but they're all different. Primrose Hill Picnic is a bright, opaque fuchsia creme. Chanel Rose Insolent is a medium, rosy pink. And Lolly Pop is similar to Rose insolent, but is brighter and has a touch of red in it. They're all quite bright, summery pinks, but as soon as the sun makes an appearance, these sorts of colours are the first I reach for.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The softer pinks I've been liking a lot are Butter London's Teddy Girl, which is a milky, opaque pale pink and OPI's Bubble Bath, which is more of a nude with tiny hint of pink. Bubble Bath has actually been a favourite for a while. It's the shade I reach for when I don't fancy colour on my nails, but want them to look clean and fresh. Essie's Vanity Fairest is another favourite, soft pink, too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">All of the swatches above are with two coats of colour apart from Bubble Bath and Teddy Girl. Bubble Bath is quite sheer after two coats, so I normally add a third, and I find application with Teddy Girl to be a bit uneven, so it takes three coats of colour to get a completely even, streak free finish. The three brighter shades all apply perfectly. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So, those are a few of the pink nail colours that I've been reaching for a lot lately. When having a bit of hunt through the collection, I was quite surprised at how many fuchsias and bright rose shades I've actually managed to collect over the past few years and don't think I'll be adding to the stash for a little while. I do have my eye on Chanel's Rose Confidentiel, though which looks like a pretty, medium rose pink with a jelly-like finish - a really lovely colour! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Are you a fan of pink polish? Any favourite shades? </span></div>
Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-73264277345466649532013-04-25T02:44:00.000-07:002013-04-25T02:44:35.315-07:00Alpha H Micro Cleanse <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When it comes to exfoliating, I've sat happily in the chemical exfoliating camp for quite some time. I first discovered the wonders of glycolic acid around 6 years ago when I added Peter Thomas Roth's Acne Clearing gel to my routine and for quite some time after, I paid hardly any attention at all to manual exfoliators/scrubs. That was until I purchased a sampler kit from Alpha H about a year ago, which happened to contain a generous trial sized tube of their Micro Cleanse, and since giving the stuff a go, I've been completely hooked. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Micro Cleanse is a granulated exfoliant, which is formulated with micro beads and 12% glycolic acid to remove impurities from pores and exfoliate dead skin cells. It also contains cucumber and refreshing mint, which according to Alpha H banish signs of stress and fatigue. Micro Cleanse has been part of my routine for around a year now, and while I'm not sure about the stress and fatigue banishing claims, I can say that this stuff works wonders in the exfoliating department. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've been using the scrub which has quite a thick, creamy consistency 2-3 times a week on thoroughly cleansed/clean skin. Alpha H recommend using two to three times a week on normal, combination and oily skin types (mine's combination), and once a week on more sensitive skins. They also recommend mixing with your cleanser if you have a more delicate skin type. You are warned on the back of the tube that a mild tingling sensation may be experienced when using Micro Cleanse, and I have to say, I do get a slight tingle when I use it. It is mild though, and it actually feels quite nice, not uncomfortable or unpleasant. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The minty scented scrub feels quite cooling and the micro beads, which aren't overly gritty do a fantastic job at removing dead skin cells and smoothing any dry areas that I happen to have going on. After I've finished gently scrubbing, I let the exfoliant sit for a few minutes while the glycolic acid works it's magic and gently remove with a warm, damp muslin cloth. After rinsing off, my skin feels incredibly smooth and clean and whatever serum or moisturiser I decide to stick on after sinks in beautifully. The combination of the micro beads and glycolic acid really do work together amazingly well, and since adding Micro Cleanse to my routine, I've definitely seen an improvement in blocked pores and texture. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Overall, it's an excellent product that does exactly what it promises without being harsh or drying. I love the instant results I get after a gentle scrubbing session with it and it's a product that I really do look forward to/enjoy using. I'm currently making my way through a mini 30ml tube that I picked up recently with another Alpha H set. When I've finished my current tube though, I will definitely be investing in a full size tube, which costs around £24.00. Not bad really considering you get 100mls of product and a little bit of scrub goes a long way. </span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-9311494974121450272013-04-23T05:08:00.000-07:002013-04-23T05:08:32.758-07:00Shopping The Stash For Spring Shades <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The weather has finally started to warm up here over the past week or so and we've had a few lovely, sunny days, so I've been shopping the stash for Spring shades. I've been sporting Springy pastel colours on my nails for the past month now, but the warmer weather has had me digging out similar Spring like shades for eyes, cheeks and lips, too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I haven't done a monthly favourites post for a while, so I thought I'd share some of the colours I've dug out of the collection. Some of these are products I've mentioned quite a few times (Vicuna & Jersey Rose), and some are fairly new additions/purchases. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laura Mercier Sweetheart Lip Glace, Chanel's Jersey Rose & Revlon Peach Parfait Lip Butter</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My berry and sheer red lip colours that I've loved so much over the last few months have been swapped for lighter peaches and pinks. Chanel's Jersey Rose, which is a perfect mix of peach and pink has been a shade I've been reaching for a lot, as is Revlon's Peach Parfait. I've also been really liking Laura Mercier's Sweetheart Lip glace, which is a delicate pinky peach that adds a hint of glossy colour to lips. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtN8yHYvImFe2DoZ1Sk-A_UsVSgpXjk2BC_buTzD6n7QerVzleAPGe9aXZ8jkdKga6AeFmwcTWRtt1AIu0y1ko0jph0cdQQRxdnfhkA0IYfHCtKjK5PnjjU7GMofRNEPewozNciPbu_IM/s640/Spring+Make+Up+Products.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chanel Orchid Rose, Diorshow Catwalk Pink, Becca Vicuna Eye Tint & MAC's Yogurt</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've also been favouring peaches and pinks on cheeks lately. Chanel's Orchid Rose and Diorshow Catwalk Pink are a couple of colours I've fished out and have been wearing quite a lot. Orchid Rose is one of those shades that looks a bit drab and boring in the pan, but it adds beautiful hint of peachy colour to cheeks and the shimmer in the shade creates a lovely glow. Catwalk Pink is quite a bright pale pink that actually looks surprisingly natural on - it's quite fresh and creates a lovely, believable flush of colour. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm still completely in love with the NARS And God created the Woman palette I picked up last month and have been reaching for it almost everyday, but I have also been wearing Becca's Vicuna Eye Tint and MAC's Yogurt. Vicuna is a soft champagne shade that adds a hint of subtle colour to lids and creates a lovely base for other shades, and Yogurt is a pretty, matte, pale pink. Both create a lovely wash of natural colour and work well with a variety of different shadows and shades. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdvWJjvlpUt46jshjd5mL1QKwQf_JOW9mKPTxSU2WzofR1ossnimH2tqXVmR7bkNRJDbMPoIHrZu8uZ6-FbAZNv9gENIbnIRpDxEKw1PxUcEmZaHGjD5Uta7pI_sngk4qnsmw3kd3N74/s640/Butter+Teddy+Girl+&+Fiver+&+Leighton+Denny+Whatever.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Teddy Girl & Fiver & Leighton Denny Whatever</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've gone a bit mad on the pastel/spring nail colours this year and have been loving the shades I picked up from Butter London's Sweetie Shop collection. Out of the six colours from the collection, Fiver has been the one I've reached for the most. It's a minty green that's fresh, pretty and perfect for Spring. Butters Teddy Girl, which is a white based, pale pink has also been a favourite, and I've been liking Leighton Denny's Whatever a lot, too. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgindwMearD8btVgbY6Ml9O0bhwHdAyk8aYg9ytPErXrXDX2AgJuUVKID5eJhEei949KeAPG6EBFRvwyVaZrqdSK3P0YoY7zWUylahx5tphJv0M0igGrxYr3JhcF2oH3FzTgQW5XHmgZiw/s640/Fiver,+Whatever+&Teddy+Girl.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top-Bottom: Fiver, Whatever & Teddy Girl</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Some swatches of the blush colours and Vicuna. Orchid Rose still looks a bit drab swatched on my arm - it's much prettier blended out on the face. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">And some swatches of yogurt and the lip colours I've been loving. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Has Spring sprung where you are yet? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Are there any particular shades you've been reaching for lately?</span></div>
Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-36468033870096091262013-04-20T07:56:00.000-07:002013-04-20T07:56:01.401-07:00A Few April Wishlist Goodies <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="580" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1h_KiEuha2w-EHxyEvmiyolpDGnN8vToA69IuMZqH6vLeth7MvQRT1Eq6rh1njA0FNGbsxmx0inpb2voPEVl-CaqRDkaBoE_awLd6VReyAqcEQneS7hISxhet8Soi-UP_xPdPY5TmciE/s640/April+Wishlist.png" width="640" /> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>NARS Ethno Run Duo</b> - I'm actually liking the look of almost all of the pairs/nail polish duos from the NARS Pierre Hardy Nail Polish collection, but the Ethno Run Duo which contains a bright orange creme and a dark navy blue looks particularly appealing. The collector in me loves the idea of the mini shoe box and dust bag these come with, too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Armani Fluid Sheer No 6</b> - Armani have recently expanded their Fluid Sheer range and have added 6 new lovely colour options to the existing shade range. I'm currently lusting after no 6, which is a beautiful, translucent coral colour that I reckon would make a pretty, very natural summery blush. Swatches <b><a href="http://bestthingsinbeauty.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/giorgio-armani-beauty-armani-new-fluid.html" target="_blank">here</a></b>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder</b> -I've been eyeing one of these since they started popping up on blogs a few months ago and have been stalking Zuneta and Space NK. I spotted Space NK now have them in stock, so I just need to decide on which option/colour to go with. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Bumble & Bumble Thickening Hairspray </b>- I've been hunting around for a decent product to add volume to my fine, flat hair recently and have come across some really positive reviews for Bumble & Bumble's Thickening Hairspray. I've tried a few different things from the brand over the last few months and have been pleased with all of them, so I'm dying to give this stuff a go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Clarins Instant Smooth Crystal Lip Balm</b> - I'm a sucker for lipstick/gloss hybrids and have become slightly obsessed with Clarins lip products lately, so these are right up my alley. Clarins claim these give the colour of a lipstick, the transparency of a gloss and the comfort of a balm, which sounds absolutely perfect to me. There are four, pretty shades available, but Crystal Rose is the colour that's caught my eye. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I hope everyone's having a nice weekend. </span></div>
<br />Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-35373838420752342052013-04-20T07:38:00.000-07:002013-04-20T07:38:13.356-07:00Space NK Voucher Code: £10 off of £40 Orders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhsUCa3cM43JhaC6imGwrKDj0XtgPrgjgJGwmUSKxI_YrWlxZ_xLJ_QTMPRdH4ngA4v5EnTVGuPtrnYbsQ1-j8kYK3IsatV6gtpHjPzPqvSAP_afc3MzJaNfd1tbM_c20oHNsBOimDblM/s640/Space+NK+Code.png" width="640" /> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This popped up in my inbox this morning; <b><a href="http://uk.spacenk.com/WOMEN/SPUK101,en_GB,sc.html" target="_blank">Space NK</a></b> are currently offering £10.00 off when you spend £40.00 with the voucher code <b>discover 14</b>. The code is valid from today and expires on the 25/04/13.</span></div>
Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-697295417849315372013-04-17T01:37:00.000-07:002013-04-17T01:37:01.148-07:00Make Up Storage<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I decided to give my makeup storage a bit of a spring clean last weekend and since I absolutely love reading storage posts and having a nose at other peoples storage solutions, I decided to take a few photos and thought I'd do a little post of my own.</span><br />
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<img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_JRu23KhJVnsy4HKhEuTQro-st-7uArepVKH6hnJBQPxvh_Hw0NJQw18_6se_B62_0iKgsiUsg7BgBg8kXwvPLiRiPseOYYbX81q2SdBlGOPklfn_V0WnrxmuqFj1fT-hwNbLgjvausE/s640/Make+Up+Storage+Boxes.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Most of my makeup has lived in these two Ikea Fira Mini chests for the past few years. I think these were actually discontinued a couple of years ago, but they've been replaced with these very similar<b> <a href="http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/40216357/" target="_blank">Moppe Boxes</a></b>. Before I bought them, most of my makeup was scattered around in various different drawers and boxes, so I was looking for something inexpensive to organise and tidy everything up and I have to say, these have worked quite well for me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">They're not the prettiest of storage solutions and I had a few issues getting all of the pieces to fit together snugly (my DIY skills could be to blame), but a good sanding session and a couple of coats of cream paint tidied them up nicely. </span><br />
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<img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwttOV-tMYborjz4DwWdcA3Ykfxm37dPtDKBeUVAQ37qnGPFNdaTAjhPs5wKTSctzFvUeM5yMxjvMgk92LOQOiU1kGFL8xxaXFOLlMSEckQhjjyrhvGcTWAmft6EsWk3tWctmuao7lcM/s640/Make+Up+Storage.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The six large and three mini drawers comfortably fit all the products I use on a regular basis. In fact, I was quite surprised at how much these do hold when I emptied them to reorganise. The drawers are quite large and deep enough to fit most of the bottles, compacts and tubs I have. The only thing I haven't managed to fit in is my La Mer powder, which is housed in a ridiculously large jar. </span><br />
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<img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_rxKhLVDTtLQnpLM66ikFrBkbRIrgYCmaGCsiXlBtk7q1bOQ2ufHnZjCuHuAbcRF9tOBldJe98N7fVdsaMQR4SnVRLfFAGI6Byf_5SIKVbomiptT-rCNf5-mop2rgfu6kHAY1FyxpgkM/s640/Make+up+Storage+Drawer.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The skincare products I'm currently using live on top of the boxes in a basket. Not the tidiest of solutions, but everything's easy to see and grab when I need it. I tend to forget about things if I hide them away in cupboards and drawers, so the basket works for me. </span><br />
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<img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzemrIWPT9UruqZXYXUZ17iIRxu5IORSWvBrjbK3f3z2__cSZSv38bP45KHMvi2yQxZKxvfAvg2soZ8eaCnGPkuIqF1TgJVtLYlvqhPT6C4xOA_y-Gi_UN0G7OJMwG7B38AzsCUT911U/s640/Skincare+Storage.png" width="640" /></div>
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<img border="0" height="463" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6A_w1Y_NNMvL-ux1qXgQuf_6apXmp_U_toldu9vYKxl6JwETEvWOkmzs7dOjN4lQ6fh51zeNk5h-SvOd1ke10bOe8SEdFLQYX84N6HZMPuSKeI_Q08Z7k5LM0HbUiF65a6SEJ5At-lJE/s640/Skincare+basket.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I used to keep all of my brushes in these square glass vases, which I also picked up from Ikea, but I found the clean ones that I don't reach for often were getting a bit dusty, so I only keep out the brushes I use regularly now. The rest are stored away in a little box.The vase is filled with rice which actually does a pretty good job at keeping them all upright. </span><br />
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<img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT00BWTSD7qIqShZ6wn3E6SAJVXk1gMonfOS6EAG2UODz62ymiFC9G_winQamE3Hj7ejr3b0EZ9wVht8N6YgU2xhDjKJ07ehi4qiptm-DL0fkzjE_jV-bamED6X_K5MwiG3lsXzJ9xuos/s640/Brush+Storage.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have a bit of a habit of collecting/keeping jars and pots because they're handy for storing random bits and bobs. An old glass candle jar makes a nice little lipstick holder. </span><br />
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<img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqORPRLGCKrKNTlPfTbF9JJYlXHfHtjb2_TkzD95uc9NqxuOkf6vbRvzTkuHvCaP26HKH8ZkGLlLyiibh1wBCZ2STEmHoejb5zBJ3wPfG9mmgTqkThGW09zMXIAAUo0VVucXJX4gUrQDY/s640/Lipstick+Storage.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">And finally, a little photo of the nail polish shelf. I didn't take a picture of the whole thing because I repainted it last weekend and haven't had chance to rehang it yet. As with the skincare products, I tend to forget about things if I stash them away, so having a selection of shades where I can see them works well for me. The shelf doesn't hold all of my nail colours, but it holds a good 40 bottles or so.</span><br />
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<img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCjM-owBMZGuE5VZZ8wRHOGp8G8qiHQMn0DLn1W1LNd-5bGUycMwGUuDOEed3B2AWFKiCDzrRZZsjG8RL6GrK_UVutdsGe8RR80EadtBEToXUWwwUN3rx5AawZyo8ABNs9sqhYk2S1pgs/s640/Nail+Polish+storage.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span id="goog_2084591398">So that's how </span>I currently store my make up. The Fira boxes were only supposed to be a temporary solution, but they've ended up working quite well. I'd eventually like to get some sort of dressing table with drawers, but for now the boxes store everything nicely. I think I could do with grabbing a few drawer tidies/dividers for them, though. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">How do you store your make up?</span></div>
Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-60626477878912428222013-04-15T08:22:00.001-07:002013-04-15T08:22:50.235-07:00Dior Sculpt Lifting Smoothing Concealer: 001 Ivory<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Those of you who read regularly may have spotted me having a little moan about my puffiness and dark circle issues that popped up last year. I've already talked about a few products I've discovered which have helped reduce puffiness and I've also mentioned Dior's Sculpt Concealer in a couple of posts, but I thought it deserved a little post/review of it's own, as I really am quite impressed with this stuff. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dior Sculpt Lifting Smoothing Concealer</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Dior's Sculpt Lifting Smoothing Concealer is described as a unique line-diminishing, lifting concealer, which smooths features and leaves the eye area visibly refreshed and rejuvenated. According to Dior, with daily use, telltale signs of fatigue diminish and the complexion becomes more radiant and even. I've been using Sculpt for around 6 months now, and while I'm not sure about the more radiant, line reducing and even skin claims, I will say that Dior's Lifting Concealer has become a firm favourite in the dark circle camouflaging department, as it does a great job at covering darkness and reducing the appearance of puffiness. </span><br />
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<img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj772n9DL2AbmoUOXj9HoQmZQSQ4uNtm2-pEHmf1RPpK-kMaS7XxP-EAmOJMZl_Jwyd9ASqwl4bGtxPruDlPnqGa35MOFIRvhb-5DK4V29q5IPCMWAd0Y2inBRUyAobSO5BWy5q6w53Kug/s640/Dior+Sculpt+Concealer.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The shade range is rather limited with only 3 different colours to choose from (Ivory, Beige & Honey). I went with the lightest option 001- Ivory, which is actually a pretty good match for my NC15ish skin tone. The product is packaged in a handy, travel-friendly tube and comes with a doe-foot applicator which dispenses product well. </span><br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJpsemeHCeDe_pVUxLmpB1Az0iWoQvEAupoR0Lys8x0TbL4CZzOluma-tTugiDaKs5IEwjYoILkyFc87CYOUktfStAjxxqzRD9UZHULRPcZkMW399bEV-gY8bUxK_cJZH2uwK80x5Veg/s1600/Dior+Sculpt+Concealer+Shades.png" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Texture-wise, Dior Sculpt feels slightly thicker than other under eye concealers I've tried and it feels quite creamy, but not thick. I find a few tiny spots of product is all that's needed to cover my moderate dark circles, the formula is buildable though and I can add a second layer for extra coverage without ending up with a cakey finish. I apply a small amount with the doe-foot wand and gently dab product into skin or use a small concealer brush to blend. I actually prefer to use fingers, but either application method creates a nice finish, and the product does a brilliant job at covering up my dark circles and reducing the look of any puffiness that I happen to have going on. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwTdZxVcwPQ6zRQlIm3j9PGc-q4pOvAJcyShdbvJAv7IYgzLPgcaoIk_CcwmVo2MjSQ1ghz0ZepUFhRPMrFDMsm94hZNUlYiIrrDEpVviCERwek-aqDNJxJTt9FR9Ev61HP6AuWcleQg/s1600/Dior+Sculpt+Ivory.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwTdZxVcwPQ6zRQlIm3j9PGc-q4pOvAJcyShdbvJAv7IYgzLPgcaoIk_CcwmVo2MjSQ1ghz0ZepUFhRPMrFDMsm94hZNUlYiIrrDEpVviCERwek-aqDNJxJTt9FR9Ev61HP6AuWcleQg/s640/Dior+Sculpt+Ivory.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dior Sculpt Lifting Smoothing Concealer: 001-Ivory</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">While I do like Dior's Sculpt for the natural looking, decent coverage it offers, it's not the main reason I've been loving this stuff so much over the past 6 months. The thing that I like the most about Sculpt is the fact that unlike other under eye concealers I've tried, it doesn't settle into and emphasize fine lines. Creasing has been quite a big problem for me with almost all of the other dark circle cover ups I've tested, but Dior's Sculpt seems to hold up and stays put really well throughout the day. It keeps darkness nicely concealed and it feels comfortable and quite hydrating and light weight, too. I have also tried it out on redness and blemishes and it does an okay job at concealing both (it works better at camouflaging redness), but I prefer something slightly thicker like MUFE Full Cover or Vichy's Corrective Foundation to cover spots or acne scars. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcYCIrH3hCXq5MpG3sAo0q70HxSxKyzx8UXRciHfTktKDzNB6cE0Xj1HlkZYdhkucb3V6QNhmkgMauXTcBwy4MvUvzHhRkdbc8SYMK9GWOuun_vkIDHN9WQEIhssQ8uGlupZG6a9wguzQ/s1600/Dior+Sculpt+Concealer+Ivory.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcYCIrH3hCXq5MpG3sAo0q70HxSxKyzx8UXRciHfTktKDzNB6cE0Xj1HlkZYdhkucb3V6QNhmkgMauXTcBwy4MvUvzHhRkdbc8SYMK9GWOuun_vkIDHN9WQEIhssQ8uGlupZG6a9wguzQ/s1600/Dior+Sculpt+Concealer+Ivory.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dior Sculpt: 001 Ivory, MUFE Full Cover 4 & Vichy Corrective Foundation: Opal</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Above, Ivory swatched next to Make Up For Ever's Full Cover no 4 and Vichy Dermablend Corrective Foundation in number 15 Opal to give an idea of the colour. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Overall, I think Dior's Sculpt Concealer is great stuff and is something I will definitely be repurchasing in the future. My only slight gripe with the product is the limited shade range, which might be a problem for some and the price, which is a bit steep at £17.85 for a 6ml tube (Escentual). To be fair though, I have had my tube for a while now and it's still going strong, because only a teeny tiny amount of product is needed to conceal dark circles. </span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-15043994336676784802013-04-11T06:50:00.000-07:002013-04-11T06:50:59.833-07:00NOTD Ciate Sand Dune Paint Pot<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I decided to give one of the shades I picked up with this month's issue of Marie Claire a go yesterday. Until quite recently, I completely bypassed nail colours with any sort of shimmer or glitter, but after adding a few sparkly colours to my collection, I have to say, I'm actually quite liking shimmery shades at the moment. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-fc4GqdHPQswLbKqoYXdGOkTKAbrnM2UuWsFskMQXkK9K4qJmvX9DhefwjVYwxzbZu2zBINdAP0gksQLczyLeFmZvvmkQzsu2pt436UftzBMMWmbog1hzdpo9Z7ALgubxa8edPvPGQ4/s640/Ciate+Sand+Dune+Nail+Colour.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ciate Paint Pot: Sand Dune</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqYrtGrDgMoL0CgTcbufkjzSmCyowltI7KHxwbKxobLxGjbueA1hv9XH26zq-jjLUBr4HT75ZRnc_YvVoJA7tpVyHAVJTb3Vtqfl280KoapvWom3vnFxrDpnffQUC26hcCtNi0i7VXEM/s640/Ciate+Sand+Dune+(Paint+Pot).png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ciate Sand Dune</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sand Dune is described as a glistening gold on the Ciate site, which it most certainly is. It's a pretty, shiny pound coin kinda gold shot through with tiny shimmers. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLkM5IeS__OKHJO8jXa_zjP4NsAwyvCMi_Gbf0OUm0m7NaMqGFFkMI62ZYNOoqxW6GUVNhnT5d4I2YJ-lwDtcLpGsbdEyJeUXeWZZsE7v_qOZHDqEBC-f1PBMrr44INdfbTkZKcQbOIdQ/s1600/Ciate+Paint+Pot+Sand+Dune+(3+coats).png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ciate Sand Dune (3 Coats)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It took three coats of colour to get a completely opaque finish, but the formula is excellent and I had zero application issues. I've actually found this to be the case with all of the Ciate shades I've tried - they all seem to apply brilliantly and wear well, too. I added a coat of my regular topcoat over the shade (Seche), but the finish still felt really smooth and looked quite glossy without.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Overall, a nice shade and one I imagine will look pretty during the summer with a bit of a tan. </span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-22804843936158660432013-04-09T03:12:00.000-07:002013-05-02T04:07:12.128-07:00Clarins Giveaway!<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I spotted that Raspberry Rouge was two years old last week, so to celebrate and as a little thank you to everyone who reads and follows I thought I'd have a little giveaway. I've chosen something that I've really been enjoying myself recently, <b>a Clarins Satin Finish Age-Defying Lipstick in the shade of <u>your</u> choice</b>. </span><br />
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<img border="0" height="493" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhfTOKamYgXJDLCvz8pwpyjRKQbpjzK7j4gGuUtPv4HbiAi3OAo3TEQ81_wE565Kftiepo0C5hCqJjNXJlNWYeiYvFPHo1Gqw-JtnAmux4Lu6ojLArvJzK5nep-m6CAlZGqq7lo1tFB8s/s640/Clarins+Age-Defying+lipsticks.png" width="640" /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There are 15 pretty shades to choose from, which are pictured below, you can take a closer look at the colours <b><a href="http://www.clarins.co.uk/Rouge%20Eclat/C050302011,en_GB,pd.html?dwvar_C050302011_color=01%20nude%20rose&start=1" target="_blank">here</a></b>, though. </span></div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDY7hXRS8jbxGtSMVvRsdRwC1LoqCbeZzJMPI_0h3V3CKFzDN5HhvN3WFvS_M-OliwtjULGB5wT3OqWMfsSPp6gorJQ4UxezGIsZna4p1FsgJwfqKPcdMft4GsjgUQYHPjXft5lCCQjz0/s1600/Clarins+Age+Defy+Lipstick+Shades.png" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If you'd like to
enter, please make sure you're following via Google Friend Connect or
Bloglovin (buttons on the right), and please leave a comment below
telling me which shade you'd pick if you win along with an e-mail
address, so I'm able to contact you should you be the winner. You can
gain an extra entry by tweeting about the giveaway (please let me know
if you do).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The giveaway is international, so everyone's welcome to enter, and the winner will be chosen on the <b>30th of April</b> using random.org. A big thank you to everyone who reads and good luck! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The giveaway is now closed and the lucky winner is <b>glitterbaby40</b>. Congratulations! An e-mail will be making it's way to you shortly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A big thank you to everyone who entered and again, thank you to everyone who reads and takes the time to comment. There will be more giveaways coming soon, so keep your eyes peeled for more goodies.</span></div>
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Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com170tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-48658644318886290462013-04-07T08:47:00.000-07:002013-04-07T08:47:59.814-07:00Free Ciate Nail Colours with This Month's Marie Claire <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuHtfKkRy_dF8mL6e6_C3wicFKmPwI0g-6oTC05xmjCC0TvL26iRrQGXdZasgHP9GFtFeMhC85kf-IPll83pPQXMegM_PXcZbc6QxwY8XdX8jM6-KY7zkmE6WcnCAelff1xdt9w7iRXj4/s640/Ciate+Sand+Dune+&+pocket+money.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A quick post on another magazine freebie. Marie Claire are currently giving away a full size bottle of Ciate nail polish with the May issue of the magazine. There are two different colours to collect (worth £9.00 each), Sand Dune and Pocket Money.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGV0NwnVKDLno_kQpvriia8c61-eEosjxZU8i9b5eR3WX0koZJzpn6VTpcpF1zM31P7l9-2iU9Sg273yfvw5pBnZh91kvAA-nlrZVcUGZ9uvAPV8JRZHOx6t-UYb8m8nSBX4Ak4x-UQNg/s640/Ciate+Sand+Dune+&+pocket+money+nail+colours.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ciate Sand Dune 085 & Pocket Money 107</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCokTnADAQubKwqSiK0QyxRxI0WFw9z9YtG-wGdk4fnfc_y7xtNQNyn5rFx13B3yXJbxey2tf9KW1Acbyz19BZmSIQIXUGaV7bsAMX1STSQpJUkQIRIjzDNEtSwghoWvi57epGwV2W3zg/s640/Ciate+Sand+Dune+%2526+pocket+money+Marie+Clare.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ciate Sand Dune & Pocket Money</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sand Dune is a pretty, shimmery gold and Pocket Money is a creamy fudge shade. I haven't done a full mani with either of the colours yet, but I have done some nail swatches and they both apply really well. To be honest, though, all the colours I've tried from the brand have been great in terms of application and finish, and all of the shades I've tried seem to wear well, too. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijeS8OK8az9GlmjpT9bF-n_eLzVzeMwUrgkN3vAkPhs-nlXfAnn3AadiQJjrKhtW3kRbMKL5MmnDY9hhlaUO4WgZoe5mBQ4-MbzKwUw4DYrHT4BPfy7Cas5vj4HAeJ2T_lx1WnkOjrN8s/s640/Ciate+Sand+Dune+%2526+pocket+money+swatches.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top: 3 Coats of Sand Dune & Bottom: 2 coats of Pocket Money</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The May issue of Marie Claire is out now and costs £3.80. There's also a free 25ml tube of Jergens Ultra Healing Body Moisturiser included with the magazine, and a discount code for 20% off at Ciate. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Hope everyone's having a nice weekend!</span></div>
Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-31291236394752167672013-04-06T04:28:00.000-07:002013-04-06T04:28:38.542-07:00Burberry Lip Glow: No19 Mallow Pink <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8o3TsAL_LEuCjraurvvRc_p3-8sz8bn4XY-EOdT1sYU5gOwnwzaanpsQ0ypPXZBMRF6vF6SD9minaIqo_ewLJkhyphenhyphen2qiVHkAkth-L3haWzFOVuJGlFDXSzl3OCbnh4r-yIHC6rHPwc4Ho/s640/Burberry+Mallow+Pink+Lip+Glow.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lip gloss is something I've not really paid much attention to for a little while. I've never been a huge gloss fan, as I'm not overly keen on the tacky/sticky texture and feel most of them leave on lips, but I do have a few favourites from various different brands. Over the past few months I've been favouring sheer lipsticks (Coco Shines & Chante's Lip Chics have both been favourites) that add a hint of colour and hydration to my dry, winter lips, but when I stumbled upon pretty swatches of Burberry's Spring Lip Glows, I completely fell in love with Mallow Pink and decided to order a tube. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRFZf8qvodQl5OZCwaIGRHj2HVU1zSeriAtJwTFkJepYpJ1UEhb75s2B4b7R0B2mz2grSVtFGRu2zTglZTvZgcogXrp7mx2wc8UuPEV1CGbmK9J5gLZ5RxFu6Hs3SikU3nWZtUkQOgUJ8/s640/Burberry+Mallow+Pink.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burberry Lip glow No19 Mallow Pink</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtI1NVbma8nS3R3Inx6LNzwPvbO_6B_mXb8lN6bZsTEojfI39UTCKIuq52MzTl4gYuI_oZzyvASh2nVux4fh4qkogIUshpFX_7rAkDeF8rJwvL0v6XF9KGTmLTV12jaaf0_rfZAE-ay1Q/s640/Burberry+Lip+Glow+Mallow+Pink.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burberry No19 Mallow Pink</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A few Burberry goodies have been sitting on the wishlist for a while, but Mallow is the first thing I've ordered from the brand's cosmetic range and I have to say, I absolutely love the packaging. The sleek, weighty tube and checked lid are a real thing of beauty, as is the shade, which I'd describe as a vibrant, almost florescent red pink. Mallow's actually a bit more pigmented than I was expecting, but it can be applied sheerly/with a light hand for a more natural, less dramatic hint of colour. The shade does contain some very fine gold shimmers but they're barely noticeable on lips and create more of a glow than a frosty or shimmery finish. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuwmMAyh5eNEDDYVk8eSgSksdMGUcuespRUlFylGOvmuSzDpAjDar5ORV0PGxRlxl8zSg0vL2qLBviqrODyw3DR7tDdVy1bm9LgBxsQPNCuW8vxodg3GRw_8ztcz0ukICuzROhH7jLzU/s640/Burberry+No19+Mallow+Pink.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burberry Mallow Pink</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Texture wise, I find Mallow to be quite thick and almost gel-like, but it's definitely not overly sticky or gloopy. The doe foot wand does a pretty good job at picking up an adequate amount of product and applying colour evenly and the gloss feels quite creamy, smooth and really comfortable. Actually, I'd say Burberry's Lip Glows are among the most comfortable glosses I've tried and lasting power isn't bad either. Mallow seems to hold up for a good 2-3 hours on my lips and leaves behind a pretty, subtle stain as it fades. According to Burberry, the Lip Glow formula contains oils and ceramides that are supposed to hydrate and plump lips and I must say, I do find the formula leaves my lips feeling quite soft and lightly moisturised. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9KnwKQxniQAaooJuCMZVtDh0TgWuE61j4SWDxnNJRkpwx_CV3YcNjdDNIUGq16OBMuvHgAQcbMv1vW0-I6jTzVve4VoyzpJUHkFpOvGd6N97pHbKhx0uY9qAuM5hJU7sncAasl27wePc/s1600/Burberry+Mallow+Pink+Swatch.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9KnwKQxniQAaooJuCMZVtDh0TgWuE61j4SWDxnNJRkpwx_CV3YcNjdDNIUGq16OBMuvHgAQcbMv1vW0-I6jTzVve4VoyzpJUHkFpOvGd6N97pHbKhx0uY9qAuM5hJU7sncAasl27wePc/s1600/Burberry+Mallow+Pink+Swatch.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burberry No19 Mallow Pink</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Above: Mallow swatched on my NC15 ish arm. A couple of layers applied on the left and the colour sheered out on the right. And below, a photo of what Mallow looks like on my fairly pigmented lips. You can just about make out the fine, gold shimmer. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhd15QkPPBnxBt7MS-dn-Ecpj10WMJEIcQ_UqG91PXoWgfvHZMNCimS8NlP61a0kM8VncG2kvc5eOLzfpfrBePs4xpUshYEoqzmZZqFPczlVZKfXnTbpqF6GwfFREtQ6On117IxWJwqMc/s1600/Burberry+mallow+Applied.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhd15QkPPBnxBt7MS-dn-Ecpj10WMJEIcQ_UqG91PXoWgfvHZMNCimS8NlP61a0kM8VncG2kvc5eOLzfpfrBePs4xpUshYEoqzmZZqFPczlVZKfXnTbpqF6GwfFREtQ6On117IxWJwqMc/s1600/Burberry+mallow+Applied.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mallow Pink Applied</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Overall, I'm really impressed with the Lip Glow formula. The gel-like texture, comfortable feel and pretty, incredibly shiny finish are lovely. I'm also completely in love with Mallow, which seems like a perfect Summer shade, and one I imagine I'll be reaching for a lot as the weather warms up. If you're into bright lip colours and like your glosses more pigmented, I think Mallow is definitely worth checking out. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Available from John Lewis (£18.50 for a 6ml tube) </span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-56505780453310877682013-04-05T03:18:00.002-07:002013-04-05T03:18:39.378-07:00Free Aromatherapy Associates Products With May's Issue Of Red<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy8QBwcfRKitSlbjhlH7I1Y92zEn4sXlgDmfTY991jMrltCuT97SXxmndHM0k0wO1P0nWu4QWWhjo2Jcmt0XzOZBF5o_cF-lGaJN49uZCepPll2KFNimgRyha51gMCj2HPQr-JPTo-VuQ/s640/Aromatherapy+Associates.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Red are currently giving away Aromatherapy Associates products with this month's issue of the magazine. There are three different products to collect (worth over £50) from the Hydrating Rose range; A 30ml Hydrating Renewing Rose Cleanser, a 30ml Hydrating Triple Rose Renewing Moisturiser, and a 50ml tube of the brand's Hydrating Rose Face Mask.</span><br />
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<img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvLppAY8axpn2o1fIP5txCcMSpaIi7yRMyG9Jq2e0Q0nlRr1p0a1_3dtPl5_5giCllgQSCV6F7S4m76OkIeRP5SWqFhCyp4NmFSgID8Fl9vrC1fn_ogTbsysBz4FfQogDv6yaHNYZiYu4/s640/Aromatherapy+Associates+Red.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I picked up a copy yesterday with a tube of the Rose Face Mask, which is described as a deeply hydrating mask to restore moisture to dry skin. I haven't tried it yet, but I must say, it smells absolutely amazing, and I'm really looking forward to giving it a go. Unfortunately, the two other products weren't available at my local shop, but I may have a hunt around for the cleanser tomorrow, as it sounds lovely! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The May issue of Red is available now and costs £4.00.</span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-91385268732820553332013-04-03T07:26:00.000-07:002013-04-03T07:26:10.342-07:00Currently Lusting After: Green Eye Make Up & Nail Colours<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Ever since emerald was announced as the Pantone colour of the year, I've found myself browsing through possible green goodies and jewel tone shades to add to my collection. I'll be honest, green's not really a colour I'm normally attracted to, especially when it comes to make up, but after coming across various different posts on pretty colours and products, the colour's really grown on me and I've been on the hunt for vibrant, green and emerald make up shades. Below are a few of the products that have caught my eye.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>1</b> - Clinique Chubby Stick Eye shadow in Mighty Moss </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>2</b> - Estee Lauder Extreme Emerald </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>3</b> - MAC Steamy Eye Shadow </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>4</b> - Bobbi Brown Ivy Shimmer Ink </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>5</b> - Stila Liquid Liner in Moss </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>6</b> - Butter London Thames </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>7</b> - Illamasqua Viridian </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Much as I love the look of all the shades above, I do tend to be a bit scared of colour, so I think a nail polish or liner might be the way to go. I tend to be a bit more adventurous with nail polish shades and a hint of green liner seems a lot less scary than a shadow, so I may treat myself to Bobbi Brown's Ivy Shimmer Ink or Illamasqua's Viridian this month and work my way up to the more vibrant shadows that I've been eyeing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Will you be wearing green eye or nail colours this year? Do you have any favourite emerald shadows or nail colours? </span></div>
Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-79657654717715621572013-04-02T05:44:00.000-07:002013-04-02T05:44:07.174-07:00Butter London Sweetie Shop Swatches: Cuppa, Jasper & Fruit Machine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKafn0-QD-k-6ij24369or2nxEWEK0U-wfDHQEVdTXBUUOWe8OQO4HNyQbp7V-_VbWmvQT-5AoL4M4rihZo4giJ_5q4x5kOJTPJmBZuEwlBEeW8kNtK8PDLHwVBacRmSrV6vM8U3qNxE/s1600/Butter+Sweetie+Shop+Collection+ww.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKafn0-QD-k-6ij24369or2nxEWEK0U-wfDHQEVdTXBUUOWe8OQO4HNyQbp7V-_VbWmvQT-5AoL4M4rihZo4giJ_5q4x5kOJTPJmBZuEwlBEeW8kNtK8PDLHwVBacRmSrV6vM8U3qNxE/s640/Butter+Sweetie+Shop+Collection+ww.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Another post on some more of the shades I picked up recently from Butter London's Spring 2013 Sweetie Shop collection. I've already posted about some of the colours (Molly Coddled, Kerfuffle and Fiver) <b><a href="http://raspberry-rouge.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/butter-london-sweetie-shop-swatches.html" target="_blank">here</a></b>, and managed to photograph the other three pretty pastels from the collection over the weekend. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgsWaIp58jwZ_ykoJ4SAQMnZsQEBy81qtO0uIlzberkScyowfKVY9LLl00pPyxJGmN8GCAsPKzX1w9qTwCWrUMaLEQLB3aYa6NETrIAYaso51oslQAQ7NeqgoGx-b-AIvM9UrAfkIKoiw/s1600/Butter+London+Cuppa%252C+Jasper+%2526+Fruit+Machine+ww.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgsWaIp58jwZ_ykoJ4SAQMnZsQEBy81qtO0uIlzberkScyowfKVY9LLl00pPyxJGmN8GCAsPKzX1w9qTwCWrUMaLEQLB3aYa6NETrIAYaso51oslQAQ7NeqgoGx-b-AIvM9UrAfkIKoiw/s640/Butter+London+Cuppa%252C+Jasper+%2526+Fruit+Machine+ww.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London: Cuppa, Jasper & Fruit Machine</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In my last post, I mentioned that some of the colours from Butters Spring collection have been a bit difficult to apply and that I've had a few problems getting used to the stubbier and slightly wider than I'm used to brush. I did have a few problems with a couple of these shades too, but as I've already said, these are still some of the best pastels I've tried in terms of application and finish, and I'm really quite pleased with how well Butter's formula wears. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPlmj3HhrgAzCYzqTmZ6daBwIO__BN9Kx1qnE0iYCJxe4synfFUZpKjIVgzU-0dR9_KE8fFDWZ6HCkJFUoh-Lnkm5obwG9FS-4l0mlyJ2wKvjdZl-yMLBt7R9gE5dAeI5g5vZLxkf7A4/s1600/Butter+Cuppa.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzPlmj3HhrgAzCYzqTmZ6daBwIO__BN9Kx1qnE0iYCJxe4synfFUZpKjIVgzU-0dR9_KE8fFDWZ6HCkJFUoh-Lnkm5obwG9FS-4l0mlyJ2wKvjdZl-yMLBt7R9gE5dAeI5g5vZLxkf7A4/s1600/Butter+Cuppa.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Cuppa</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Cuppa - </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A clean, light beige nude creme. I found Cuppa the easiest to apply out of the six shades from the collection. I had some slight streaks going on with the first coat, but managed to get an even, streak finish with a second coat of colour. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNBjh7BalskJMZxIR8fNO5vgOIhMg49ZGUolYD3cmHoTq0b9gfZGQeW5ke_wsoBZVgsgiNdJ2X3nvKFO18gfY8mgSVyRXS9hRNF6XYMusxvqa3AqXwfDNeE6hyc5l8Y-K5nJ8f-w-ZQk/s1600/Butter+London+Jasper.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNBjh7BalskJMZxIR8fNO5vgOIhMg49ZGUolYD3cmHoTq0b9gfZGQeW5ke_wsoBZVgsgiNdJ2X3nvKFO18gfY8mgSVyRXS9hRNF6XYMusxvqa3AqXwfDNeE6hyc5l8Y-K5nJ8f-w-ZQk/s1600/Butter+London+Jasper.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Jasper</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Jasper - </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> A bright, buttercup yellow. Jasper is actually the first yellow polish I've tried. I've heard that yellows can be a bit difficult to apply evenly and I did have a few issues with this one. The first and second coats left me with some streaks, so I added a third coat of colour and topped it off with a coat of Seche to even everything out. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNmFh_8p-JwHIAnCUe8y8oVNwom4ctQQZvGsG8xVdKnXfZ_e5YaKlaQoTaV5ZSiArF6dBzE-RqkNx9Fdq7t8B1H-AfKyqh7xkLmZft8SROBsQl7weIxuY8tw9c_vP1EeDx3oN15ym-PwM/s1600/Butter+London+Fruit+Machine.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNmFh_8p-JwHIAnCUe8y8oVNwom4ctQQZvGsG8xVdKnXfZ_e5YaKlaQoTaV5ZSiArF6dBzE-RqkNx9Fdq7t8B1H-AfKyqh7xkLmZft8SROBsQl7weIxuY8tw9c_vP1EeDx3oN15ym-PwM/s1600/Butter+London+Fruit+Machine.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Fruit Machine</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Fruit Machine - </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A bright and punchy baby pink creme. Like a few of the other shades from the collection, I found Fruit Machine to be on the thick side. I applied 2 coats of colour, but found I still had a few streaks, so added a third. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg64UIrb2mFWOP3k1g3lNvF6lr2sa4aCdJmoNX7TAOkK-9lSvRGXL9dt25UkkLE12G2am4GPUxVePuwl6LMU9-zHbJmb6nZXoMwJJHMLRL7aXlJVLYpmM6dbAIB4LeXC3xLRESsBg8vgq8/s1600/Butter+London+Sweetie+Shop+Swatches+ww.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg64UIrb2mFWOP3k1g3lNvF6lr2sa4aCdJmoNX7TAOkK-9lSvRGXL9dt25UkkLE12G2am4GPUxVePuwl6LMU9-zHbJmb6nZXoMwJJHMLRL7aXlJVLYpmM6dbAIB4LeXC3xLRESsBg8vgq8/s640/Butter+London+Sweetie+Shop+Swatches+ww.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Sweetie Shop Collection. Photo taken outdoors in shade</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Overall, I really am pleased with all of the shades from the collection, despite the few application issues I've had with some of the colours. They're all very pretty, cheerful shades and I'd definitely recommend checking them out if pastels are your thing. I've been sporting Jasper and Cuppa on my nails over the past couple of weeks and I imagine I'll be reaching for the other chirpy colours a lot over the coming months. </span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-78902427610051952882013-03-31T03:33:00.001-07:002013-04-01T06:52:28.513-07:00L'Oreal Mousse Absolue: The First Reusable Hair Colour<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've dyed my hair at home for years, and over the past couple of years, I've become quite a big fan of foam colourants, so I was quite excited to see L'Oreal have launched the first reusable permanent foam hair colour. I've been using John Frieda's Precision Foam Colour for a while now and while I'm happy with the results I get, it pains me when I sport out a tenner for a dye for root touch ups and half of the bottle goes in the bin. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Unlike regular dyes and foams that you mix up yourself, Mousse Absolue comes packaged in a nifty, gold bottle which contains two chambers (one for the colour and one for the developer). The two formulas are mixed </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> as you dispense </span>using the built in precision diffuser and the foam/mousse is applied like a regular dye. The separate chambers obviously mean the dye can be kept unmixed and therefore reused for multiple applications. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">According to L'oreal, there's enough product in one pack to do an all over application and 1 root touch up on mid-length hair, 2 all over applications on short hair, and 1 complete application on long hair. So I suppose you might be able to squeeze a few applications out of one pack if you're literally using the mousse for roots, which sounds pretty good to me! </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4lermzce-n9_4dIBb9v4gSzaSABUPX2LA4TItY1ubR1ZHddNpYIRimPqfflUy0dg1nCGk5A-gWa_k8M6LeHlysW3kGJqy5L5cc30iUWqbT8S-iBozyvJlUkFWUEwO2SwVzDSL8YfHXuo/s1600/Loreal+Absolue+Mousse+Shades.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4lermzce-n9_4dIBb9v4gSzaSABUPX2LA4TItY1ubR1ZHddNpYIRimPqfflUy0dg1nCGk5A-gWa_k8M6LeHlysW3kGJqy5L5cc30iUWqbT8S-iBozyvJlUkFWUEwO2SwVzDSL8YfHXuo/s1600/Loreal+Absolue+Mousse+Shades.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">12 of the 14 available shades</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The mousse is available in 14 different shades grouped into blondes, browns and reds, and is available now from Boots and Superdrug at a special introductory price of £8.99. I have a bottle of John Frieda to use on my roots this time, but I think I might give Mousse Absolue a go next time my roots are in need of a touch up.</span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-91374365449517524832013-03-29T06:51:00.000-07:002013-03-29T06:51:13.738-07:00Butter London Sweetie Shop Swatches: Molly Coddled, Kerfuffle & Fiver <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I picked up the shades from Butter London's Spring 2013 Sweetie Shop collection a couple of weeks ago, but have been waiting to swatch them for a couple of different reasons. The first is that the weather's been cold, dreary and miserable lately and not very Spring-like, and the second is, I'm still getting to grips with Butter's formulation, which is slightly thicker than I'm used to.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4JpLMrcYJu61mz8a6qY0lX3PxS3Uj4w9SYPExdLsbLpHw9Uc6w-c76h3wpJf6j-WUfll2NUOC9B69SXAm7sQe9FKVIHuBs_sWakhfn3ASUu-hZb49iwVTea-3ONaOBu8yZyeouktbAs/s640/Butter+London+Molly+Coddled%252C+Kerfuffle+%2526+Fiver+ww.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Molly Coddled, Kerfuffle & Fiver</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've been favouring Leighton Denny nail colours lately, which are much thinner than the Butter shades I picked up and easier to work with. The Butter brush has also taken a bit of getting used to, as it's stubbier and slightly wider than the Leighton Denny brush, and I find it a little bit more difficult to control. Anyway, some swatches of three of the shades from the collection...</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHU72ziX0Eoc-ZUFd4LDJbK60TRp57Z7PZHAxFT4onkw8Dx0u5sQyKIam59SUlgLA1cEmv-bdzFRymK0ABpSnRb-3k3JkBLj53j25PlXOF_KbaM6vVT_JwB9W6Sx56frWeYLK2zB0qtP0/s1600/Butter+London+Molly+Coddled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHU72ziX0Eoc-ZUFd4LDJbK60TRp57Z7PZHAxFT4onkw8Dx0u5sQyKIam59SUlgLA1cEmv-bdzFRymK0ABpSnRb-3k3JkBLj53j25PlXOF_KbaM6vVT_JwB9W6Sx56frWeYLK2zB0qtP0/s1600/Butter+London+Molly+Coddled.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Molly Coddled</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Molly Coddled - A creamy lavender. This is one of the shades from the collection that I found to be slightly thick. I got the best, most even application when I applied two, thin coats of coats of colour. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZwmFbSFaCKq3oS6Z_CERAK_3BF40LotpQfJhY7Acz37hctljU2LszsVd40zQh1iZ8128wJcaOHrEFtLvm8wDD3WD4gYrmu2oE8_8srtFept0VBer9tPtnKgKopPQyOPH8L4bbr-Y6jM/s1600/Butter+London+kerfuffle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZwmFbSFaCKq3oS6Z_CERAK_3BF40LotpQfJhY7Acz37hctljU2LszsVd40zQh1iZ8128wJcaOHrEFtLvm8wDD3WD4gYrmu2oE8_8srtFept0VBer9tPtnKgKopPQyOPH8L4bbr-Y6jM/s1600/Butter+London+kerfuffle.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Kerfuffle</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Kerfuffle - A soft creamy peachy/pale coral. Again, I found the formula to be on the thick side and did find Kerfuffle slightly difficult to apply, but I did get an even, opaque finish with two coats of carefully applied colour. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ECyU_g7IgtVw6_ZRoRFtfSfp9sHm-SB2RECLW1CAAPmchWtoSStYG68Ia8ASET3r5OfRUbmLWIxP6WH_ffwBGw7hQtw6ZLzY6vpVI15iVlQPEZB1n_WzH6iCkhK3Jj9ld4Jrb4YRns0/s1600/Butter+London+Fiver.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Fiver</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Fiver - An icy mint green. I managed to get an opaque coverage with two coats, but the finish wasn't as smooth as I'd have liked, so i added a third after taking the photo above. I do absolutely love the colour, though!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">While I've had a few application issues with some of the shades, I'm still completely in love with all of the colours from the Sweetie Shop collection. I'd been lusting after a minty green polish for quite a while, so Fiver is definitely my favourite of the bunch. They're all very pretty, though. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I think the formula/brush problems I've been having are maybe more down to me than the formulation, as I'm used to other brand's formulas that I find slightly easier to apply. Overall, I've not had any major problems with any of the shades, and I have to say, they're probably the best pastels I've tried in terms of application and finish. The shades I've done full manicures with seem to wear/last well too. I got a good 4 days of wear with Fiver and Cuppa with Orly's Bonder used as a base and Seche as a top coat, which isn't bad at all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I did attempt to swatch the other three shades at the same time (Cuppa, Jasper & Fruit machine) so I could put them all in the same post, but the sun decided to disappear half way through swatching, so I'll post some photos of those in the next couple of days. </span></div>
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Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-32154372401139308912013-03-26T09:09:00.000-07:002013-03-26T09:09:53.236-07:00Fekkai Essential Shea Ultra Rich Hair Mask<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzqhtyI6Wo_PGr7bo1sCK0q8R3iwOonJ55BKj4TA6CyVmh6feXrkjGE2aE-_SsThZRAHX_XwKDWsWuEbUEHmLjoKUZ9vNCQVQyWvW-49qaJrOe4pJQ1ismQ3veK9UuiGRyyqyTJExKG74/s1600/Fekkai+Shea+Mask.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzqhtyI6Wo_PGr7bo1sCK0q8R3iwOonJ55BKj4TA6CyVmh6feXrkjGE2aE-_SsThZRAHX_XwKDWsWuEbUEHmLjoKUZ9vNCQVQyWvW-49qaJrOe4pJQ1ismQ3veK9UuiGRyyqyTJExKG74/s640/Fekkai+Shea+Mask.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fekkai Essential Shea Ultra Rich Hair Mask</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Frederic Fekkai’s Essential Shea Butter Mask is a product I discovered last year. My shoulder length, fine hair was suffering the effects of daily use of straightening irons, and the ends were in horrible condition. I spent a small fortune on hydrating masks and treatments to try and soften and hydrate my frazzled ends, and found a few masks which really seemed to help improve the condition of my hair. Fekkai’s Essential Shea mask was one of them and it’s something I’ve used ever since as a weekly treatment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It’s described as an intense conditioning treatment, which replenishes, course, dry or unruly hair, leaving it soft and manageable. It contains sweet almond oil and Shea butter and it’s supposed to be used as a weekly treatment, on clean, damp hair. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The mask is really quite thick in consistency and can be a little bit hard to spread. I find it’s much easier to apply if you warm it a little in your hands before applying. A blob around the size of a fifty pence piece is enough to sufficiently cover the ends and mid lengths of my hair. I don’t take it up any further than this as my roots tend to get a little bit oily, so stick to just the bits which need extra hydration. The instructions suggest leaving it on for 5-7 minutes, but I normally slather it on, clip up my hair and leave it on for a good half an hour before rinsing out.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAd4sAdvZYP8mdkxjoLzMocbWnMgYqa-2XvdvGTyVK4xKx_HbrUYnXeXfM3ZrCzbDeNr1Q-t5TcmKuXKFCELiCuLGlNse2P4-gszInQs9ihv-XqLjZhWYr74Qot4YnOapLTIo9DJPhyo/s1600/Fekkai+Shea+Butter+Ultra+Rich+Hair+Mask.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAd4sAdvZYP8mdkxjoLzMocbWnMgYqa-2XvdvGTyVK4xKx_HbrUYnXeXfM3ZrCzbDeNr1Q-t5TcmKuXKFCELiCuLGlNse2P4-gszInQs9ihv-XqLjZhWYr74Qot4YnOapLTIo9DJPhyo/s640/Fekkai+Shea+Butter+Ultra+Rich+Hair+Mask.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fekkai Essential Shea Ultra Rich Hair Mask</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> What I’m left with after rinsing is really soft, silky smooth, hydrated hair, which smells delicious. The mask adds moisture and tames frizz without weighing down my fine hair or leaving it feeling heavy and the lovely scent lingers for quite a while after using too. In fact, I can still smell it in my hair the day after washing.
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fekkai Shea Hair Mask & a couple of other hair products I'm currently enjoying, Tigi's Moisture Serum & Fekkai's Glossing Conditioner</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Fekkai’s Shea Butter Mask does exactly what it promises and the delectable scent makes it a pleasure to use. I have repurchased on a number of occasions now and will continue to do so. It’s a fantastic weekly treat, and I love the results I get after using. My only slight complaint is with the packaging. The masks thick, butter like consistency makes it a little bit hard to squeeze out of the tube when product’s running low. It’s only a slight complaint though, as the tube is soft enough to cut, allowing you to get to every last bit of product. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Available from <b><a href="http://www.lookfantastic.com/fekkai-advanced-shea-butter-ultra-rich-mask-198g/10360779.html?gtrans=a&affil=thggps&utm_campaign=gp_haircare&utm_medium=gp&utm_source=googleprod" target="_blank">Lookfantastic</a> </b>(£25.00 for a 198g tube)</span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-19387965757110497472013-03-23T12:36:00.000-07:002013-03-23T12:36:13.116-07:00All Set For Spring With Butter London's Sweetie Shop Collection<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyj7N0M5t4cQu-lr7dCjQ2d86rP_XaMOhwX3JgYlijrPtLSua3prOPnBf_4cHryUycKC_ZyUakb4VG1oIj5Oc_KIGSc47IRkRdQ4ALzVeRCsttAOde7EY_ZSlAIMBf1oOwHICch_WOFPk/s1600/Butter+London+Sweetie+Shop+Collection.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyj7N0M5t4cQu-lr7dCjQ2d86rP_XaMOhwX3JgYlijrPtLSua3prOPnBf_4cHryUycKC_ZyUakb4VG1oIj5Oc_KIGSc47IRkRdQ4ALzVeRCsttAOde7EY_ZSlAIMBf1oOwHICch_WOFPk/s640/Butter+London+Sweetie+Shop+Collection.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Sweetie Shop Collection</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For Spring, Butter London have released a collection of 6 soft, creamy pastel nail shades inspired by the 50s. I have to say, I've never really been a big fan of pastel shades (application issues), but Butter's collection really took my fancy, and seeing as I had no similar shades in my stash, I nabbed the set of pretty colours. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbdUi_uAGWFUee257GAY649cAR846Lm4JTuvOuqHCzKP9nsUGgvoki8ndOtDnH20DB-SoCaWwZKnONWMMgFYRiwdEwNbwQXCd05zlmwbEnILQ_i2bz2IPziRfw7qujZ4WcaqcOTQ0NlcU/s1600/Butter+London+Sweetie+Shop+ww.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbdUi_uAGWFUee257GAY649cAR846Lm4JTuvOuqHCzKP9nsUGgvoki8ndOtDnH20DB-SoCaWwZKnONWMMgFYRiwdEwNbwQXCd05zlmwbEnILQ_i2bz2IPziRfw7qujZ4WcaqcOTQ0NlcU/s640/Butter+London+Sweetie+Shop+ww.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Sweetie Shop Collection</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The Butter London description: </span><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>Flaunt your femininity with our new, bespoke collection of pastel nail lacquers. Inspired by the 50s, these soft shades will conjure up images of cotton candy, milkshakes and macarons. So go ahead, show off your sweet side! </i></span></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2m98u4ys2EGgqyjW1Q6FrWJ8Bim_rEL2pULqwH7kDcFMqpzFTA1Xlf-sAH1tw4vHtgf0iSMt4B-dgKP1OPieDN_k-E6mKCGCEPFhhAWm_k0yvQrAuDkVWBilro0-J4-jV8-rZQyHARm4/s1600/Butter+London+Molly+Coddled,+Kerfuffle+&+Fiver+ww.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2m98u4ys2EGgqyjW1Q6FrWJ8Bim_rEL2pULqwH7kDcFMqpzFTA1Xlf-sAH1tw4vHtgf0iSMt4B-dgKP1OPieDN_k-E6mKCGCEPFhhAWm_k0yvQrAuDkVWBilro0-J4-jV8-rZQyHARm4/s640/Butter+London+Molly+Coddled,+Kerfuffle+&+Fiver+ww.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Molly Coddled, Kerfuffle & Fiver</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Molly Coddled</b> - A pretty, creamy lavender. I find the formula slightly thick, but did get a nice opaque finish with 2 coats.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Kerfuffle</b> - A soft creamy peachy/pale coral. I had a few application issues with this one and find I get the best results with 3, thin coats of colour. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Fiver</b> - An icy mint green shade. Possibly my favourite of the bunch colour and application wise. I got a smooth, opaque finish with 2 coats.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwD9CHiHvyndz9kIHIRET9fl46GZ400WCssit_37QulJjchmiK-c4L9xdRj6_kNISyDAv26_ytSSteOy-GyuXKsQnq5TmcVw5N_qyxikz_JSsSfOKgy3J6XP-7mGI92bvVeClaikg8vQs/s1600/Butter+London+Cuppa,+Jasper+&+Fruit+Machine+ww.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwD9CHiHvyndz9kIHIRET9fl46GZ400WCssit_37QulJjchmiK-c4L9xdRj6_kNISyDAv26_ytSSteOy-GyuXKsQnq5TmcVw5N_qyxikz_JSsSfOKgy3J6XP-7mGI92bvVeClaikg8vQs/s640/Butter+London+Cuppa,+Jasper+&+Fruit+Machine+ww.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Cuppa, Jasper & Fruit Machine</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Cuppa</b> - A clean, light beige nude creme. I managed to get a streak free, even application with 2 coats.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Jasper</b> - A bright, buttercup yellow. I also find I get the best results with this shade when I apply three, thin coats.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Fruit Machine</b> - Bright and punchy baby pink creme. No application issues with this one. I get a smooth, shiny, streak free finish with 2 coats of colour. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6pvF1NPHIIpULTkdTysUvcsLxKHUkthI1gIzlwsXSV-4ZNYjUik3NEaCzEXE7Sk3LqauHNq-4AA970yevSaKz1X2bG48DxmZojFgmtDC9jMV35a_e2H2Cb4i9uI4Q8YQJf99D4iB0SFs/s1600/Butter+London+Sweetie+shop+swatches+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6pvF1NPHIIpULTkdTysUvcsLxKHUkthI1gIzlwsXSV-4ZNYjUik3NEaCzEXE7Sk3LqauHNq-4AA970yevSaKz1X2bG48DxmZojFgmtDC9jMV35a_e2H2Cb4i9uI4Q8YQJf99D4iB0SFs/s640/Butter+London+Sweetie+shop+swatches+2.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter London Cuppa, Kerfuffle, Fruit Machine, Molly Coddled, Fiver & Jasper</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">All 2 coats of colour in the nail wheel swatches apart from Kerfuffle and Jasper, which are 3. I managed to completely nubbinize my nails recently (a reshaping session that went horribly wrong), so decided to leave the nail swatches for today, I'll post some photos of what the shades look like applied in the next few days, though. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The shades from the Sweetie Shop collection are the first colours I've actually tried from Butter. I'd heard lots of great things about the brand, but wasn't sure what to expect with the formula. I must admit, I do find application to be a tricky and the formula a tiny bit thick with a couple of the shades, but overall, I am quite impressed. All of the colours dry to an incredibly glossy finish, and the two shades I've done a full manicure with (Fiver and Cuppa) both wore really well. I personally love all of the colours from the collection, and the names actually, and I imagine I'll be reaching for the shades a lot over the coming months. </span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-52821324767307653302013-03-21T04:21:00.000-07:002013-03-21T04:21:29.284-07:00Base Products I'm Currently Loving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0lCFnzaMr2INYPgdU8t6My_N7sNrXcmb84fys3K-bHkOhkOGU83e25YfIU_1lpUB77cmZF3Ze5QQIBTb0QFYFfSJmmkKS1RWH7j1uUYFwdHAWF2L_etRddIPpcwg1zOFFO-tuE9_ENA/s640/Base+Products.png" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After writing a post on Vichy's Dermablend Corrective Foundation a couple of days ago, I thought I'd have a go at a post on the rest of the base products I'm using at the moment. I have oily/combination, acne prone skin and I've worn full coverage foundations for years to cover up blemishes and scarring. Thankfully, blemishes are less of a problem for me at the moment, but I still have quite a bit of redness and a few scars that require camouflaging. To be honest, I could probably get away with a lighter coverage foundation at the moment and have been testing out a few different tinted moisturisers and foundations that offer slightly less coverage, but I'm finding it hard to give up full coverage bases. I suppose after wearing heavier foundations for so long, I feel a bit naked without it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Anyway, on to what I'm using at the moment....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Primer</b> - I've always had a bit of a love hate relationship with primers, and until fairly recently, I skipped the whole priming step completely. I purchased quite a few different types last year from various different brands and while I liked some of them, none of them really wowed me. I received a deluxe sample size of Laura Mercier's original primer in a kit a few months ago, though, and I have to say, I'm really liking the stuff. I think what I've disliked about most of the other products I've tried, is the texture and feel of the product. Laura Mercier's actually feels lovely though - very light-weight and easily absorbed, and it doesn't leave that velvety/silicone-y feel on skin. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I must say, I haven't noticed any huge improvements in how long my make-up lasts since I started using the product, but I really like the lovely, smooth canvas this creates for foundation and concealer. Base products seem to glide on much easier with the primer underneath, and it seems to hydrate any slightly drier areas nicely and stops foundation clinging to them. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFM68R_0E94CLKF3D0ABMmeoEp8hjpx5CgxdBd9oKlBKKiIydrrEYJ_YNnqZN3_02zBnNq873adxSXSs2IaX3npM-LyPagaXpTBGdPnoQd5jOZ-Oki3w9OYpkhhRCleeny7JHYeZpLWWs/s1600/Full+Coverage+Foundations.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFM68R_0E94CLKF3D0ABMmeoEp8hjpx5CgxdBd9oKlBKKiIydrrEYJ_YNnqZN3_02zBnNq873adxSXSs2IaX3npM-LyPagaXpTBGdPnoQd5jOZ-Oki3w9OYpkhhRCleeny7JHYeZpLWWs/s640/Full+Coverage+Foundations.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Foundation</b> - As I said, I'm still favouring fuller coverage foundations at the moment and two of my current favoruites are Clarin's Everlasting and Vichy's Corrective. I originally bought the Vichy to use as a concealer but have been using it occasionally as a base, too. It covers well, looks and feels surprisingly natural, and seems to hold up well throughout the day. On days when I feel like I need slightly less coverage, I use it to camouflage and cover up any blemishes that I have going on, and on bad skin days I use a teeny tiny amount of it with the Everlasting to completely conceal any nasties that have popped up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've been using the Everlasting for years now and have repurchased lots of times. It doesn't provide quite as much cover as the Vichy, but it still covers blemishes and redness brilliantly. It also applies and blends well, and unlike other full coverage foundations I've tried, it doesn't feel heavy or look cakey. While it doesn't quite hold up as long as Clarins promise, it does also wear really well on my combination skin when set with a loose powder. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLqxxqClTPBXGYE0adSyz7wDiaBKegysA5nuK_N4TWT-VfLA_yFc00I1q-lucPOKil1Kle-gmZC1HhM0hjyyvBYgg0bV9SnzBNrm1Vf5g-Ghl_eAoVexGjIMduaAII0WKkandgloj46Eo/s1600/Dior+Sculpt+Concealer.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLqxxqClTPBXGYE0adSyz7wDiaBKegysA5nuK_N4TWT-VfLA_yFc00I1q-lucPOKil1Kle-gmZC1HhM0hjyyvBYgg0bV9SnzBNrm1Vf5g-Ghl_eAoVexGjIMduaAII0WKkandgloj46Eo/s640/Dior+Sculpt+Concealer.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Undereye Concealer</b> - I was quite a big fan of Dior's Skinflash Radiance Booster pen for quite a long time, but decided to switch to their Sculpt concealer last year when I needed something with a little more coverage. The lightest shade seems to match my NC15ish skintone well at the moment and it does a fantastic job at concealing dark circles and reducing the appearance of any puffiness I have going on. I find the concealer applies and blends really well, holds up well throughout the day, and it doesn't settle into fine lines either, which is an added bonus.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQaTZ5hVnbZfERMHngC7a7DgdZmkMhB9EBkfghHLmw8CCqQfDzBdsKdLGZ1YIkXTmCosXQU5AL4VWOqQ4W8z524RvBjNoLyW1E1zpUjP4_pfJ7WHV7jyTJC3R_2pluOAz_RN7USEXOFg/s1600/La+Mer+Loose+Powder.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQaTZ5hVnbZfERMHngC7a7DgdZmkMhB9EBkfghHLmw8CCqQfDzBdsKdLGZ1YIkXTmCosXQU5AL4VWOqQ4W8z524RvBjNoLyW1E1zpUjP4_pfJ7WHV7jyTJC3R_2pluOAz_RN7USEXOFg/s640/La+Mer+Loose+Powder.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Powder </b>- Without a setting powder, my face tends to turn into a horrible shiny mess within a few hours of applying make up. I used NARS Loose powder to set for years, but last year when my skin changed and certain areas became slightly drier, I found the NARS wasn't really doing me any favours. It started to emphasize dry patches and began to generally look a bit heavy and cakey, so I decided to switch and gave La Mer a go, and I'm so glad I did. It's without a doubt the most natural looking powder I've tried and it feels amazingly soft, smooth and light weight. Unlike other loose and pressed powders I've used before, La Mer doesn't look flat or powdery at all, instead it leaves a beautiful glowy finish. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I must admit, it doesn't do quite as well as the NARS at keeping the oilies at bay, but I do still find it does a pretty decent job at controlling shine, and the finish and feel more than make up for what it lacks in the oil controlling department. It's pretty expensive stuff at £55.00 a tub, but after 6 months of quite heavy use my tub is still going strong. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So, those are the base products I'm currently using and liking a lot. As I said, I think I'm going to try and give a lighter coverage foundation a go as the weather warms up, but the rest are definitely keepers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Are you a full coverage foundation fan? Do you change your base products throughout the year or stick with the same ones?</span></div>
Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-68565912460887068822013-03-19T05:05:00.000-07:002013-03-19T05:05:02.901-07:00Vichy Dermablend Corrective Foundation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHqZ9gg0O-d1wDqYDwuFjHrZh8s_X7ru8_LXkeI4jBglKO6MW59oR1xrXgTAy6LanEiSxSlZ3zIbTZIFvEgZn5oNsuzuJG0JM29OMuRjiP6hGKEaQxZP5OdDSEaSwnBx9JtVKq8Rz8-Y/s1600/Vichy+dermablend+corrective+foundation+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHqZ9gg0O-d1wDqYDwuFjHrZh8s_X7ru8_LXkeI4jBglKO6MW59oR1xrXgTAy6LanEiSxSlZ3zIbTZIFvEgZn5oNsuzuJG0JM29OMuRjiP6hGKEaQxZP5OdDSEaSwnBx9JtVKq8Rz8-Y/s640/Vichy+dermablend+corrective+foundation+2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Make Up For Ever's Full Cover has been my concealer of choice for the
past couple of years, because it does a fantastic job at covering
blemishes and the shade number 4 is a near perfect match for my NC15 ish
skin tone. However, when my current tube started running low, I decided
to try something different, as MUFE is not only difficult to get hold
of here in the UK, but expensive, too. I'd heard lots of great things
about Vichy's Dermablend Corrective Foundation, and after watching this
excellent video from Lisa Eldridge (<b><a href="http://www.lisaeldridge.com/video/12764/acneblemish-covering-make-up/" target="_blank">Acne/blemish Covering Make Up</a></b>), I decided to give the foundation a
go.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Vichy's description:</b>
<i>A smooth blendable texture that glides on evenly leaving the skin with a natural, lightweight flawless finish. Recommended for minor to moderate skin imperfections such as redness, acne scars and pigmentation disorders. Moisturizing all day long. With the soothing properties of Vichy Thermal Water. 12 hours of long-lasting flawless wear (16 hours with Setting Powder). It's also non comedogenic, paraban free, and SPF 35.</i></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_nxa950p7FqjY_KeRD9kdruhYa4aTpsYqUcZ2d7cvnKkl-5omY5GIMS_Fjmw57-vu-g5QJvBrJAkB2CZPZSlpOKsQGx59bRXrM3wqlTLpl8f7Oefx7hAcZZ4frj2Usey_19_Tjgml03w/s1600/Picture+376973447.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_nxa950p7FqjY_KeRD9kdruhYa4aTpsYqUcZ2d7cvnKkl-5omY5GIMS_Fjmw57-vu-g5QJvBrJAkB2CZPZSlpOKsQGx59bRXrM3wqlTLpl8f7Oefx7hAcZZ4frj2Usey_19_Tjgml03w/s640/Picture+376973447.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vichy Dermablend Corrective Foundation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In the Lisa Eldridge Video, Vichy's Corrective Foundation is used like a concealer as opposed to being used all over like a foundation, and that's mainly what I've been using it for, too. I have actually tried it as a foundation as well, though, and find it works brilliantly used in both ways. I assumed the product would actually be quite thick and heavy and create a mask like effect used all over, but the liquid feels surprisingly light weight and blends incredibly well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Consistency wise, the product is quite runny and I've found that used as a concealer or an all over base, only a tiny amount is needed. Used as a base, I only need to use half or slightly less than I do with my regular foundations (Clarins Everlasting & Armani Lasting Silk). The pigmented liquid applies and blends nicely and covers redness, blemishes and even dark circles ridiculously well. I've used similar products in the past that have provided a similar level of coverage, but I don't think any have felt or looked as natural as the Vichy. Whether I use to it to camouflage problem areas, or as a full foundation, set with a bit of La Mer's Loose powder, I get a near on flawless finish that doesn't look heavy or caked on.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMdnRcP6nx_z1P2oC2PXfpmUr9Rs3INBBN9URGMtXa0YGYi0TEHtozWMY3aXsD9E0UGJKgAA68TZbdVuva_JzdbLOHJ-dYAeN7rpAoaIMOX2X5TGMh1PaxobGIIKnRQdIkatmjDCZy4Po/s1600/Vichy+Corrective+Foundation+Opal.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMdnRcP6nx_z1P2oC2PXfpmUr9Rs3INBBN9URGMtXa0YGYi0TEHtozWMY3aXsD9E0UGJKgAA68TZbdVuva_JzdbLOHJ-dYAeN7rpAoaIMOX2X5TGMh1PaxobGIIKnRQdIkatmjDCZy4Po/s640/Vichy+Corrective+Foundation+Opal.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vichy Dermablend Corrective Foundation: Opal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Vichy claim that their Corrective Foundation will hold up for a good 12 hours used alone, or 16 if set with powder. I have to say, the foundation doesn't last quite as long as that on my combination skin, but it does last for biggest part of the day when set with loose powder. I do need to touch up/blot oilier areas throughout the day (this is the case with all foundations for me), but I've found that the base does generally wear pretty well, doesn't settle into pores or fine lines and I've had no issues with oxidation. I've noticed no problems with breakouts or blocked pores since I started using either and find the foundation fairly easy to remove at the end of the day.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrQN9U0fZGmQlySrNINlZo8krNOCMTU_Y85mg-MaHGIItokH9fZA1c9V8OPaE-oXT8DM-tbWR_iZvdHHnomA7OXCPF0EVJ_Ua1xnV6pLS0yDStT2GcmR4xVAlO3K2yIGQCY7y73jAu7Bk/s1600/Vichy+Corrective+Foundation.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrQN9U0fZGmQlySrNINlZo8krNOCMTU_Y85mg-MaHGIItokH9fZA1c9V8OPaE-oXT8DM-tbWR_iZvdHHnomA7OXCPF0EVJ_Ua1xnV6pLS0yDStT2GcmR4xVAlO3K2yIGQCY7y73jAu7Bk/s640/Vichy+Corrective+Foundation.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Unfortunately, the shade range is quite limited with only 5 different shades available, luckily though, I've managed to find a pretty good colour match with the lightest shade, 15 Opal. I imagine the shade may be slightly too light come summer and some mixing might be required, but for now, the colour matches my NC15 ish skin tone really well. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF25fcTPh96A9S7-hwTH1N4I5kYdV0oFL3HuQXibJfZX6wqHcp3yjEP8c44qBub2MyskpANb9MsAbn17MJ47gP5WZQnkCzQ1rNeExK4moeZcbb1YTdfc3YjMS2aVEUrpyiJ1vM4bxfa6I/s1600/Clarins+Everlasting,+Lasting+silk,+Vichy+Corrective+&+MUFE.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF25fcTPh96A9S7-hwTH1N4I5kYdV0oFL3HuQXibJfZX6wqHcp3yjEP8c44qBub2MyskpANb9MsAbn17MJ47gP5WZQnkCzQ1rNeExK4moeZcbb1YTdfc3YjMS2aVEUrpyiJ1vM4bxfa6I/s640/Clarins+Everlasting,+Lasting+silk,+Vichy+Corrective+&+MUFE.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clarins Everlasting: Nude, Armani lasting Silk: 4, Vichy: Opal & MUFE Full Cover: 4</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
I've swatched Opal next to Make Up For Ever's Full cover Number 4,
Clarins Everlasting Nude and Armani's Lasting Silk 4 to give an idea of
colour.</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKH6xwhyphenhyphen7zJnNmzfzthFvGU7QTUqKAiYOveIMnkCM8xa0NRehlifoAHHXnYX9H312Nbz1pwdK46Wqpki2lYPSANVbTr26y4aSeghyphenhyphenoYCRIyBwKFhOW6BBCGjMwAlFI0oiYcxkR8sk1sno/s1600/Vichy+Corrective+Foundation+Opal+Swatch.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKH6xwhyphenhyphen7zJnNmzfzthFvGU7QTUqKAiYOveIMnkCM8xa0NRehlifoAHHXnYX9H312Nbz1pwdK46Wqpki2lYPSANVbTr26y4aSeghyphenhyphenoYCRIyBwKFhOW6BBCGjMwAlFI0oiYcxkR8sk1sno/s1600/Vichy+Corrective+Foundation+Opal+Swatch.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clarins Everlasting: Nude, Armani lasting Silk: 4, Vichy: Opal & MUFE Full Cover: 4</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">All in all, I'm incredibly pleased with Vichy's Corrective Foundation. The coverage it gives is fantastic, and I really am quite surprised at how natural it looks and feels. As I said, I purchased mainly to replace my tube of MUFE Full Cover and I must say, I do prefer the Vichy, which provides similar coverage, but is much easier to blend and in my opinion, more natural looking. It doesn't hold up quite as well as the Full Cover on my combo skin, but still does pretty well and is much cheaper than the MUFE, which is a bonus. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My only slight gripe with the base is the tube. Because the consistency is fairly runny, I find the squeezy tube sometimes dispenses a little bit too much product, so there has been a bit of wastage. It's not a major complaint, though and overall, I really am impressed with the foundation and would definitely recommend checking it out if you're on the hunt for a full coverage base, or concealer that covers brilliantly and holds up well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I purchased my tube from Escentual where you can currently pick up a 30ml tube at the reduced price of £10.33 (normal price £15.50).
</span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-2134184857974208172013-03-17T10:57:00.000-07:002013-03-17T10:57:39.651-07:00Leighton Denny S/S 2013 The Riviera Collection<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For Spring/Summer 2013, Leighton Denny has released The Riviera Collection, which includes 6 limited edition creamy pastel pinks, oranges and pretty oceanic blues inspired by iconic Riviera destinations. I'm actually quite taken with the entire collection, but the pretty pastels and tangerine, Meet Me In Monaco look particularly pretty.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here's the Leighton Denny description; <i><br /></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>This season say bonjour to a summer of effortless glamour and sophistication with the Leighton Denny 'Limited Edition' Spring/Summer 2013 Riviera Collection. This elegant and timeless collection of six high performance colours will give you every excuse to unleash your inner Brigitte Bardot. </i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBYQm1ndV0-X9LODc9vZfcfjF4wcIlxjdzHfxb57YlkoRmOkj4IgAyTvb0hAFbDuf1P_uwcZh29wmvCSYlt_Q5P0IPPGtXGAYdLQOIzoY_gt_jN93hWd6PsitxVFisiDNN4sMmdILo5E/s1600/Leighton+Denny+Riviera+Collection+Spring+Summer+2013.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBYQm1ndV0-X9LODc9vZfcfjF4wcIlxjdzHfxb57YlkoRmOkj4IgAyTvb0hAFbDuf1P_uwcZh29wmvCSYlt_Q5P0IPPGtXGAYdLQOIzoY_gt_jN93hWd6PsitxVFisiDNN4sMmdILo5E/s640/Leighton+Denny+Riviera+Collection+Spring+Summer+2013.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Pink Promenade</b> - A deliciously creamy hot pink - flirty, fabulous and all grown up. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Yes we Cannes</b> - A soft and dreamy pale shimmering green for a delicate touch of summer colour. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Mine's A Rose</b> - A flirty, fruity pink shade that warms the nails for that perfect summery touch. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Get Your Cote</b> - A stunning azure blue that's sailed straight this season's catwalk. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>I'm so Soiree</b> - A stunning rich blue/green - perfect for making a dramatic entrance. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Meet me In Monaco</b> - A warm orange cream - instant summer style for nails. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The collection's available now from the official Leighton Denny site and from Helen Marks (£11.00 for a 12ml bottle) And there are some great swatches of 5 of the 6 shades <b><a href="http://nailcandy101.com/talon-trials-leighton-denny-riviera-spring-summer-2013-review/" target="_blank">here</a></b>.</span><br />
Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-6378718961827074562013-03-16T04:39:00.000-07:002013-03-27T15:59:22.552-07:00Current Non Make Up Related Obsessions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYazgsQ63qM-TU7gF8evhmVXogA5cYZEAVA5kwbZvzRCiQA1xM3wv1adfd-NYIQUsSQNzyX1uuhCfmpmKLkAiLS2O3Ta7t3D6pwIfklKDLt7gxQDdNFMysv3vhS6eOdiPr-Jwuwq9crmA/s1600/Jo+Malone+candles.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYazgsQ63qM-TU7gF8evhmVXogA5cYZEAVA5kwbZvzRCiQA1xM3wv1adfd-NYIQUsSQNzyX1uuhCfmpmKLkAiLS2O3Ta7t3D6pwIfklKDLt7gxQDdNFMysv3vhS6eOdiPr-Jwuwq9crmA/s640/Jo+Malone+candles.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Jo Malone Candles</b> - I purchased a Jo Malone candle as a gift for a friend recently and it smelt so amazing in the jar that I had trouble parting with it. I ordered myself a Pomegranate Noir Travel Candle after sniffing the pressie, and am completely in love with the rich, fruity scent. The beautiful, comforting fragrance that fills the house is amazing and the scent seems to linger for quite a while after burning. They're a bit of an indulgent treat at £22.00 a pop </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">(travel candles)</span>, but they really are lovely candles and I have my eye on quite a few of other available scents. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Wedge boots and shoes</b> - I've been completely obsessed with wedge boots and shoes all winter. I love the extra height they give while still being comfortable. I managed to nab a pair of Sam Edelman lace up wedge shoe boots in a sale last year and they've been worn to death over the past few months. I've been eyeing a pair of Ash Bowie wedge trainers recently, and am very tempted to pick up a pair of the Kurt Geiger Webster Luella boots above, which are currently reduced in the KG sale.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free People Rosary £28.00, Filagree Stone Ring £88.00, Stuuded Ring £78.00 & Etched Bracelet £28.00</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Free People Jewellery</b> - I'm normally not a big fan of jewellery, but I've been a bit obsessed with <b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/(http://www.freepeople.co.uk/boho-jewellery/)" target="_blank">Free People's</a></b> feminine, boho accessories lately. I picked up a couple of necklaces and a bracelet in a recent sale and am now lusting after quite a few of the pretty, more reasonably priced pieces on the site. I'm actually quite obsessed with the headbands and hair accessories, too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Hope everyone's enjoying their weekend.</span></div>
Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-8080721987786492492013-03-13T10:26:00.003-07:002013-03-14T02:13:59.941-07:00Clarins Satin Finish Age Defying Lipstick: 01 Nude Rose <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For Spring 2013, Clarins released a new formula in their lipstick range, Rouge Eclat – Satin Finish Age Defying Lipsticks, which combine highly nourishing, age-defying benefits with luminous , satin finish colour. The formula is enriched with plant based waxes of mimosa, jojoba and sunflower, and also contains cocoa butter and a Nutri-Youth Complex, which according to Clarins, helps to create fuller, younger-looking lips with every use. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There are 15 shades available in the range, which contains some really nice, soft nudes and pinks (sweet Rose & Petal Pink), as well as some brighter, more vibrant colours (Juicy Clementine & Pink Fuchsia). I've been on the hunt for a new nude lipstick recently, so I opted for one of the more natural colours n the line up, 01 Nude Rose, which is a soft, natural, fairly light, nude pink. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Now, I'm not sure about the Nutri-Youth Complex and antiaging claims, but I will say that the formula, texture and feel of Clarins Age-Defying lipsticks are really lovely. The lipsticks have a blackberry and liquorice scent, which is a bit different and actually quite delicious It's quite strong upon application, but fades fairly quickly after the colour's been applied. The lip colours have a soft, buttery texture, which glides on nicely and creates a full opaque finish with a couple of swipes. The formula feels incredibly comfortable and light-weight (almost balm like but with less slip), and feels quite hydrating, too. I was really quite surprised at how comfy these do actually feel on the lips considering the colour pay off/how pigmented they are. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Clarins Nude Rose, Armani 04, Dior 384 & Guerlain 550</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Above, Nude Rose swatched next to some other pink-y/rose nude shades; Armani Shine Lipstick 04, Dior 384 Rose Scenario, and Guerlain Beige Nude 550. And below, a photo of the shade applied.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As with most hydrating formulas, I don't find lasting power to be great , but I do get a good 4 hours wear before I need to reapply, and a delicate stain is left behind as colour fades. I imagine the subtle stain would be much more noticeable with the darker, more vibrant shades from the range. When the colour does wear off, I've found my currently dry lips still feel quite soft and comfortable, so the cocoa butter, plant based wax formulation does seem to do a pretty good job at keeping lips nicely hydrated. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Overall, I'm really impressed with these lipsticks. The comfortable, lightweight formula feels lovely, and Nude Rose is a fantastic natural shade that seems to work well on my fairly pigmented lips. I've been a big fan of the brand's foundation for years, but have never paid much attention to the rest of the make-up on offer. After trying their Age-defying lipsticks, I'm very tempted to give some of the lip products a go (the Joli Rouge Brillant Perfect Shine's look like a nice optiion for summer), and have my eye on a few other shades from the Age-Defy range, too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">All of the shades are available from <a href="http://www.escentual.com/clarins/rougeeclat001/" target="_blank"><b>escentual </b></a>and cost £14.80.</span>Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3339356520206543603.post-60223045376636773342013-03-11T03:01:00.000-07:002013-03-11T03:01:00.131-07:00Clarins Instant Smooth Self Tanning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Since break outs have become less of an issue for me and with warmer weather hopefully on it's way, I've been determined to lay off the heavier/fuller coverage foundations and have been on the hunt for products to brighten up skin and add some colour. I've been working my way through a few different lighter coverage foundation and tinted moisturiser samples, but have also been on the hunt for a self tanner. I spotted Clarins Instant Smooth Self Tanner on a recent trip to my local counter and after reading quite a few very positive reviews on the stuff, I decided to order a pot from Escentual. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivS8W_oUkF6NkGOMpOm0p6PQUPpRvaqaxAfzC30AWQbnQIGtwbJm4u8TDS5AfInx_XbpWMeFIicMWUWkwo_dkZYnf2WXXBNHyw1wL9UtVcJL5qtJKc4K-gIx0FGsNkfPxZFH_9FMq476s/s1600/Clarins+Instant+Smooth+Self+Tanning+ww.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivS8W_oUkF6NkGOMpOm0p6PQUPpRvaqaxAfzC30AWQbnQIGtwbJm4u8TDS5AfInx_XbpWMeFIicMWUWkwo_dkZYnf2WXXBNHyw1wL9UtVcJL5qtJKc4K-gIx0FGsNkfPxZFH_9FMq476s/s640/Clarins+Instant+Smooth+Self+Tanning+ww.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clarins Instant Smooth Self Tanning</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here's Clarin's description of their Instant Smooth Self Tanner: <i>A caramel tinted complexion perfector and self tanner in one. A new clever cosmetic shortcut that instantly tints the skin for a look that`s weekend-fresh and progressively develops into a gorgeous, semi-permanent sun-kissed glow. The whipped mousse texture is fresh and light, and A caramel tinted complexion perfector and self tanner in one. Just as you`d expect from a self tanner inspired by Instant Smooth, it`s also silky soft and glides effortlessly over the skin for a super-smooth, even and long-lasting finish. Think instant, re-touched, sun-kissed skin - in a jar! The self tan element takes just 1-2 hours to develop and for a progressively deeper colour apply daily to face and décolleté and then re-apply every 2-3 days. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I think what appealed to me the most with Instant Smooth Self Tanning is the fact that it's inspired by the brand's primer, Perfecting Touch, and promises to prime, perfect and tan all at the same time. Consistency wise, it is very similar to the brand's pink paste primer – it's quite velvety, very easy to blend and has a matte finish. I'm not much of a fan of the Perfecting Touch as a foundation primer, but I do like how the product evens out skin when it's used alone. The caramel tinted gel has a similar effect, and feels very light and silky smooth. It has a faint almondy scent with a slight hint of self tanner smell, but I've found it disappears fairly quickly after application. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clarins Instant Smooth Self Tanning</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A small blob of the caramel mousse/gel is all that's needed to cover my pre moisturised face in a layer of product. The velvety smooth, hydrating formula applies and blends easily, and leaves skin with a delicate hint of colour and a matte (but not flat) finish. It creates a lovely smooth-textured base for make-up and leaves skin with a hint of believable colour, which develops and deepens throughout the day. The end result is still quite subtle after one application, and the result still a lovely natural, sunkissed, delicate bronze finish on my NC15ish skin tone. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXSrAWo9a_1lieUkOSnWTAn3A8ZwDsslfPBoIhpU5SCcDWXKb7_0_YxayvVVzzDE7rxQws9xsj56YYRGzy3ODVNt10P0f3rNCZQhJui7hoJQbvBvtU9gtNTh2NyF1guGM9lweZfqZNVQ/s1600/CLARINS+Instant+Smooth+&+Perfecting+Touch.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXSrAWo9a_1lieUkOSnWTAn3A8ZwDsslfPBoIhpU5SCcDWXKb7_0_YxayvVVzzDE7rxQws9xsj56YYRGzy3ODVNt10P0f3rNCZQhJui7hoJQbvBvtU9gtNTh2NyF1guGM9lweZfqZNVQ/s1600/CLARINS+Instant+Smooth+&+Perfecting+Touch.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clarins Instant Smooth Self Tanning & Perfecting Touch Primer</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Overall, it's a really lovely self tanner, that's incredibly easy to apply. The tinted, velvety formula makes it easy to see exactly where you're applying and get an even, streak free finish, and the natural looking, orange free tan that develops after application is fantastic. If you're looking for a self tanner that creates a natural and believable colour, I think Clarin's Instant Smooth is definitely worth checking out. And if you're a fan of the brand's Perfecting Touch primer, chances are, you'll like this stuff, too, as the texture, feel and finish are very similar. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Available from <b><a href="http://www.escentual.com/clarins/clarinssuncare2011_001/?utm_source=froogle&utm_medium=shopping&gclid=CODgx-yw9LUCFcHHtAoddyEAuQ" target="_blank">Escentual </a></b>(£14.50 for a 30ml Jar).</span><br />
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Nathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05536274945702972889noreply@blogger.com1