Oops I Did It Again...

Nope it's not a post about Britney, it is however a post about The Body Shop.

So I discovered I could splurge a lil more on some scrummy goodies and received an email today from said company informing me of new lines added to their sale and also of further discounts, so I had a nosey, which turned into a big shopping basket, which resulted in a happy me. I sprained my ankle quite painfully on Monday so I thought I would perk myself up :)

I've always been a fan of smellies (shower gels, creams, lip balms etc...) but until recently would stick to a smell I liked in whichever range was on offer. But Body Shop items at these prices just can't be missed. I think I have enough now to last me a good while!

This time round I ordered Raspberry Shower Gel, Almond Bath and Shower Gel and Jolly Orange Bath and Shower gel, all 250ml, and all half price at £3.



I also ordered a jumbo sized Almond Body Butter (Who wouldn't want to smell like marzipan?!) for £6, which is half off the normal price.



Finally I picked up a Born Lippy Lip Balm in Raspberry, I used to love these when I was younger and love the slightly sticky consistency so I hope it is still as yummy as I remember! The lip balm was only £2 which wasn't on sale but is cheaper than I remembered it to be.



I also found this little cutie while browsing for images, forgive me I haven't quite worked out the art of taking digital photos of products and making them look pretty..



I recently purchased some boots own lip balms with some points I had collected and was so disappointed in them. They were around £1.50 each and had such promising scents, but the smell is nowhere near as strong as I would like, the balm is not a thick consistency, which is a must for me and they don't last long on the lips. Major fail. And one of them had been tampered with, as in some lovely shopper stuck their finger in it.

Don't know what to do with them now, so if anyone likes non-sticky, not overly scented and a fine consistency lip balm let me know and I will send them to you, waste not want not! They have barely been used and a wipe with some alcohol would fix them up no problem.



Now, to get back to gutting out my room in an attempt to make it liveable again, I have far too many clothes! On a totally different note I have joined WeightWatchers Online (the iPhone app is complete genius) and I lost 2lbs last week even though I cheated a wee bit (ok, ok a big bit) at the weekend. So I am going to be super good this week and see what happens, wish me luck!

Happy Shopping Guys!
xo

Postal Surprises

My products from The Body Shop which I ordered during their half price sale, with an extra 20% off and free delivery (!) arrived today. At first I didn't know what this massive box was and when I opened it I got a lovely wee surprise. I splurged a little in the sales this year, but I think they were sensible splurges!

I don't usually use Body Shop products, partly because there isn't a store near me, only a concession stand and they add 10-20% on to the prices and partly because I find them a little expensive. I will pay for foundation and eyeshadows but I find a lot of cheaper body care ranges work just as well as the more expensive ones. So when this sale was announced I thought I would stock up on some items.

I love The Body Shop's Body Butters, they smell so yummy and are very thick and luxurious, and I love Shea Butter for its smell and moisturising properties so I picked up a Shea Butter Gift Set reduced from £30 to £15, which at checkout came in at £12 with the extra discount :D

The set is very pretty, I almost feel bad for keeping it and using it myself, almost!
It contains 250ml Shower Cream, 200ml Body Butter, 200ml Body Scrub, a bar of Shea Butter Soap and a shower scrunchie.

I also picked up two small gift sets which were £5 each (£4 with extra discount) I may use these as gifts as I don't really need them, but they are in my favourite scents, coconut and satsuma.

Both sets come in lovely mesh washbags and contain a 75ml Body Polish, 60ml Shower Gel, 50ml Body Butter and a mini shower scrunchie, they would be perfect to take on holiday actually.

Really happy with these purchases so I may keep an eye out for future sales!

Happy Shopping!
xo

Blogger Giveaway!

For your chance to win some Stila and Mac goodies in a very simple giveaway click here

:)

xo

Discount Codes

I've lined up a small selection of discount codes should anyone wish to spend some Crimbo Cash! Enjoy!

loveheartsandcrosses.co.uk - quirky jewellery site, enter JAN15 at checkout for 15% off

www.revuk.com - lovely dresses, 50% off sale and MORE20 gets you 20& off full items

www.newlook.com - free delivery and 20% online and instore for students
Got an ah-mazing pair of wedge suede cut-out heels for £20, will try to post an image soon!

www.thejewellerychannel.tv - slight cheat as there is no discount code, but real jewellery, sterling silver, sometimes platinum overlayed and real gem stones with prices starting at around £10?! Yes Please!

Happy Shopping!

xo

New Goodies

So I called into Superdrug today thinking the 3 for 2 across all makeup lines was still on. It wasn't. I still made a few purchases but not as many as I had intended, which is probably a good thing!

First up is Carmex Cherry...in a squeezy tube! This must be new because I definitely would have purchased before. I love, love, love Carmex Cherry. It is moisturising, smells delicious and has a slight tingly feeling when applied. I always buy it in the small tin, which is cute but troublesome. I'm not a fan of finger applied products, it is slightly gross, you often end up with fluff in the pot and what do you do with the leftover goo on your fingertip?? Carmex pots aren't as big as say Vaseline pots either so if you have long nails you always end up with some stuck under them. So this little beauty is amazing at £1.99.

Original Packaging


New little life saver

I love using this product as a base for lip-stick, or rather I use this first then apply lip-liner all over the lip for strong, stay put colour.

I also purchased Batiste Dry Shampoo for brunettes. I have been dubious of trying this product before as my hair is so dark I was sure it would show but I recently tried Tresseme's colourless dry shampoo and loved it, though it is a little more pricey so I thought I would give this one a go, fingers crossed.

I wash my hair every other day but on the in between days I find my hair is flatter than when I first wash it. Using dry shampoo seems to give it a little more life and lift at the root.

I was tempted to try a new mascara as both of my Holy Grail products seem to be discontinued :( I was a big fan of L'Oreal Volume Shocking and then discovered Voluminous. Volume Shocking is impossible to find and Voluminous is becoming just as tough to get my hands on, which is so sad as I truely love it! I was going to try the new Million Lashes as I have heard good things and it would seem either L'Oreal's brush designs or formulas work wonders for me, but it is quite pricey for a drugstore product so I'm holding off for a while.

Finally I purchased some necessary hairdye and body spray. I usually reach for Impulse or Charlie but thought I would give the very afforadable Superdrug own brand a try, and I am so glad I did. Flirty is a sweet vanilla-y scent which I adore and compliments my perfumes nicely.

A lot of the Gosh range is half price at the moment for those who are fans, I managed to resist splurging, but only just. Having spent quite a lot lately and planning to book a holiday I dragged myself away from the stand.

An item I picked up for only £1.99 which isn't beauty related was a gorgeous coconut scented candle in a faux coconut shell, beautiful and practical because when I have burned it I'm going to use it to hold jewellery/more candles in my room, so pretty!

So, any mascara suggestions? I could use a hint or two!

Happy Shopping

xo

Body Shop Half Price!

For those of you who enjoy smelling yummy like I do you will love this offer.

The Body Shop website currently has all of their leftover Christmas Gift Sets on offer at half price!

I have ordered three of the sets which normally would have cost me £50 for a much more affordable £25.



Above set is only £3!

I love the body butters, especially mandarin, coconut and shea and at the minute body butters with 100% extra free are £12.50, but you can get them cheaper using the discount code below!

Because if half price isn't enough for you then enter EXTRA at the checkout for a further 20% off and free delivery. £20 for a new supply of smellies?? Yes please! Christmas money well spent if you ask me!

Happy Shopping!
xo

Once Bitten, Twice Shy??

Ok, so I know the last time I posted about Eyeko (which was also my first experience of the company) I was less than impressed and debated using them again. Actually I knew I wouldn't.

However, I did express genuine love for their black eyeliner pen and I know I would like to repurchase this item. In fact I am dying to repurchase! I love it even more now I have had a chance to play around with it, if only the rest of their products lived up to the hype!

I know this time to use an ambassador code rather than accept their "Spend over a certain amount and get something free" promo, as the last time I assumed you would receive both and sadly didn't. I suppose a random product could be dangerous as they could send you something truly awful for your colouring, but it's a risk I am going to take!

If the company charged for shipping I would not repurchase the eyeliner but find an alternative on the highstreet, so I suppose they have one saving grace.

Has anyone used their new Liptastick? Because I am very tempted but don't want to fork out for another great big disappointment...Help me out people!

xo

You Need This Now!

Vaseline have released a new Lip Therapy product! (The cute travel size vaseline in a tin - didn't know they were called Lip Therapy either...)

The original Vaseline is/was great, my mum always swore by it and would use it on everything from lips to nails, hands and sunburn! When the small tins came out they were really handy and a great idea. Then came one with aloe vera, conditioning and calming. But I found both of these products quite greasy and would only wear them indoors or before bed...




Next up was SPF in a yellow tin, great for holidays, but still greasy.

Finally, they answered our prayers with a tinted Lip Therapy in a pink tin, which is quite sheer, with a subtle smell and looks great on everyone.

And now *drum roll please* we have Lip Therapy with Cocoa Butter in a liquer coloured tin. This smells gorgeous and while it isn't coloured it is super moisturisng and quite glossy for a balm, I will definitely be wearing this over most of my lip products especially now that it is getting so cold. The cocoa butter in this product also seems to have made the consistency a little thicker and smoother, so rather than greasy it almost feels creamy? It is lush!

Boots are currently offerng 3 for 2 on these treatments which cost £1.89 each. Bargain, so I took two of the new ones and a backup of the tinted one thank you very much!

I think the next step for Vaseline will have to be some sort of application tube?? Easier application, more hygenic and you don't get left with a bit of gloop on your finger...

Happy Shopping!
xo

Polish Pondering...

I have recently become a nail polish fan, I was always taken with a french manicure and well shaped nails but was never keen on painted nails, at least not on me.

The last time I owned polishes I was probably around six or seven, had a good few of them, and painted with them occasionally, mostly walls and soft-furnishings...

I think polished nails look better with a tan, particularly colours which otherwise would make you look a little, well, dead. Blues, greys and purples for example. I love Barry M's bright colours but again not on me, so when I decided to buy some polishes I did it tentatively and safely, neutrals with a hint of shimmer and in warm autumnal colours, and so far the cheapies are winning.

I own Barry M, Revlon, Collection 2000, 17, No.7, Stargazer and Rimmel...

Barry M have a fanastic colour selection, are reasonably priced and are of good quality.

Revlon have some great colours, are a good size, have good colour pay off and seem to last pretty well.

Collection 2000 I will pass on in future same with No.7.

Stargazer are very afforable, have some great colours, dry very quickly and 2 coats make it opaque, they also last for a good amount of time.

Rimmel are a bit blah, blah colours, blah pricing and blah quality.

But my winner so far? 17 Fast Finish. Good price, some great colours, quite good drying time and last really well. The best part for me is the brush, I'm guessing its the length of it, it is quite short and stubby but I find it the easiest to use, it is easy to control and I rarely "go over the lines" and need touchups.

After reading BeautyMarked19's blogpost on their new shades I had to try them, I already owned Toasted Almond, a shimmery neutral colour that goes with everything and always gets me compliments.



So thanks to her for the recommendation, 3 for 2 at Boots at the minute too, so I was a happy camper! Also I might have "borrowed" her image as mine looked keek in comparison, I got the brown shimmer, ruby shimmer and a rich green shimmer (not pictured).

Happy Shopping!
xo

Sleek Today, Gone Tomorrow...

In a previous post I mentioned that I would happily purchase Sleek products from their website as I trust their quality and the colours on the site are quite true to life. Let me rephrase that, I would happily REPURCHASE products from their website. I much prefer buying goods in person.

What's the difference I hear you cry??

Well I like to feel consistency before buying a product, I like to see the colour on my skin - not just in an image and I like to get an overall idea of product quality and performance, I can't do that by shopping online.

Why is this an issue I hear you protest! Sleek is stocked in Superdrug!

Alas no more. I have been informed it is being "discontinued" just like Eyeko was previously. Considering the surge in popularity both of these brands have received mainly due to the blogging community, I simply don't understand why they would take a seemingly backward step when it comes to product distribution in the market. Many products go from small start-up companies who distribute via their own website, to wanting and aiming to be stocked in stores. These brands appear to be doing the opposite and I simply don't understand why...

I saw a Pout Polish online I was tempted by but when I saw it instore I realised how pigmented it was and how unsuitable it would be for me. Had I purchased online I would have been frustrated and disappointed when it arrived, even though it wouldn't be the company's fault it did not suit me, and I would have had a negative experience with the company, reducing the chances of me wanting to buy from them again - see my Eyeko experience...

So all in all I think this is a sad day for the beauty world, and for these brands. I say we start a petition for them to be stocked in stores, now who is with me?!

xo

October Ins and Outs

IN

Winter boots of all shapes and sizes, especially with leggings or "jeggings"

These are my latest additions to my shoe collection and I love, love, love them!

Scarves

I think I have an addiction to neck scarves/ties/wooly/patterned...especially since I got a cold, scarves save me daily...

Winter Tv

Between new season of Gossip Girl, Dirty Little Liars starting, X Factor and Piers Morgan interviews I get spoiled for choice, I'm sure there are loads I've missed out but with Christmas season comes nostalgic tv, hopefully this year is better than last years disappointing shows! What are your winter tv faves?

Christmas Shopping, lights, decorations

I'm a little early yet, but I am the anti-scrooge. I love everything to do with Christmas and winter. Seeing your breath in the crisp air, hot chocolate, xmas tunes, decorations, shopping trips. I love it! I love spending time picking really great gifts for people that are really original, hiding them and seeing their face when they open it, priceless! My bf also thinks I'm part magpie, if I walk past a shop window that sparkles with fairy lights I always slow down to admire them. Always.


Out

Being Sick

With winter comes colds and flus... :( not nice. Not only do I cough up a lung every 5 minutes, but I get drowsy, have headaches and my nose is now so red I'm sure Santa could use me to replace Rudolph this year and I would surely light the way...

Christmas Goodies

All the treats, sweets and yummy things that are going to make me cry in January when my top button won't. quite. make. it...

Eating Healthy

I live constantly with the "I'm going to be good today" voice. Which is often drowned out as time/money/mood won't allow it... I never seem to know if what I'm eating is healthy either, or if it will help in losing/maintaining weight, so out of frustration I usually give up. With so many diets out there I think we have confused ourselves... eat no protein, eat no carbs, eat no dairy, only eat curry, only eat raw fruit and veg, eat no fruit or veg....Ummm that leaves me with crackers and water...

xx

When You Find A Beauty...

When Sleek finally arrived at my local Superdrug, I got ridiculously excited, I had heard such great reviews and can honestly say that the products I have tried so far are fantastic!

First up the much talked about palettes, I have three of these (Original, Storm and Sunset) and had to talk myself out of buying the others simply because I would never use them as I don't really wear acid bright colours.



The palettes are £5.99 on the site, I don't know if the price of these has increased but I'm pretty sure when I purchased in store it was cheaper. I would definitely pay £5.99 for these as the quality, pigmentation and colours are brilliant. I think they are better applied with a sponge applicator and then blended out with a brush as applying with a brush gives a more subtle wash of colour.

Will definitely repurchase and look out for new autumnal palettes *hint hint*...

Next is the Ink Pot. I wanted to try a high end gel liner but before I spent the cash I thought I would try a cheaper version. I think in the UK there are very few highstreet brands that offer a gel liner, and as I have never used another brand I don't know if I can give a good opinion but I think this is fab. The colour is very true, the formula nice and creamy and it stays on really well. Mine did dry up slightly after a few months (I did leave the lid off overnight once) but I just added a little water and it was fine. The very mini brush that comes with it is a tad pointless but usable.



These are priced £3.99 on the site and come in a range of colours.

On to blush. Very, very pigmented, a little goes a long way. Lovely consistency and lasts a long time. I use mine religiously, probably for around 9 months now and only hit pan a few weeks ago. I will repurchase! I am quite pale but use tanner and bronzer, so I am rarely my natural colour :S I have Coral and want to try others!



Finally I have tried a Pout Polish in Perfect Plum. I love the colour of this gloss, it is very rich and creamy. I don't think it is as moisturising as the site makes out, actually found it a little drying. Again with this a little goes a long way or you will look slightly ridiculous due to the pigmentation. I don't reach for this product very much at all, I find mine has an odd smell/taste, not unpleasant, just odd.



These are £3.99 on the site and come in a range of colours. While it isn't my favourite Sleek product, I would try it in another colour.

I was going to purchase some new sleek products in store this week, but seeing the site has made me want to have a nosey now. I feel I can purchase online with this brand as I know the quality of their products is very good, the images online are pretty true to real life colours and after my disappointing Eyeko haul I could do with a pick me up.

There are so many products I want to try from this brand. I don't think I will try the foundation, as I am very loyal when it comes to that product! But I do want to try *deep breath* some of their powders, concealer (I have never found a really great one), contour powders (I have never really attempted it), eye dusts, mascara, kajal eyeliner (looks scary!), lip sticks and nail polishes...

So far I am very impressed with this brand, it is unfortunate that my local stockist isn't very well stocked, or tidy, which makes shopping for it in person a little "meh", although you can get student discount in store...

Any suggestions on great products from this brand, or promotions they run?

xx

Losing my Eyeko Virginity...Then Regretting It.

Eyeko was still stocked in Superdrug back when I worked there and I was mildly curious about trying their range, but never did.

Since then the blogging community has apparently fallen in love with this range, which has meant a considerable increase in their prices *tut tut*. After reading on many blogs about some of their "best" products I decided to give it a go...

The website was well laid out and their branding is really quirky, quirky but not very expensive looking. Shipping within the UK is free, which is always a bonus and luckily I had an embassador code to use, which also means a free product. So far, so good. Apologies for picture quality, they are taken on a super warm fleecy blanket because I'm not well :(

The first item I picked up was the Eyeko 3-in-1 cream. Gemsmaquillage did a video on this a while back and I was very tempted by it, even though the price has increased from £5 to £8...

When it arrived it did not seem completely full, has anyone else experienced this?




I noticed the pot is not the size it appears from the outside either, the base is raised so less product is in the pot than you may first think.

The product works well as an eyeshadow base, especially for shimmery colours. When I used it as a highlighter over my foundation and bronzer I found it very difficult to blend and the result wasn't overly great. When I applied it on foundation and then applied bronzer on top it blended much better but wasn't as noticable. I definitely won't be trying this product as an eyecream! Disappointed by this, I was expecting more, especially for £8 and I don't think I will be repurchasing unless I can figure out what to do with it.

The next item I purchased was the new Eyeko Magic Mascara. I think the packaging on this product is gorgeous! It takes a lot for me to try new mascaras as I find most of them are over-priced and under-deliver on results. When I heard my holy grail Loreal Voluminous was being discontinued in the UK I bought 4 of them off eBay!

I couldn't get a really great picture of the product but Zoella has one on her blog. She had raved about this product so I thought I would try it. It arrived with a dent in the bottom, which I would have overlooked had I thought it was a really good mascara... It seperates lashes really well, and gives them a good curl, but it is not very thickening or volumising, which results in my lashes looking slightly spidery. Fine for a daytime look but for night I would layer another mascara over it.



Another I won't be repurchasing I think...

I have recently been getting more into nail polishes and thought I would try Eyeko's as they get good reviews. I liked the look of Vampira and Cosmic. The website was offering Vampira for free when you spent a certain amount, so I was quite happy to purchase Cosmic. The polishes look a little on the small side, and although some bloggers like the packaging, I think it looks a little cheap.

However, I can't fault the product itself, the glitter is lovely in both of them and one coat is pretty opaque. I haven't worn these for long enough to know how well they wear, but I really like the colours. I am unsure if I will repurchase as I think some brands on the highstreet offer great polishes in a wide range of colours at a similar price.




The final product I purchased was the Graffiti Eyeliner Pen in Black. I love this product!! I have tried Eyeliner Pens before but the angle you have to hold them at to apply always meant the fluid did not come out right. This is the best liquid eyeliner pen I have ever used. It allows you to create a really fine, straight line, which is buildable and it does not come off easily. Would definitely repurchase and consider other colours, which I think they should expand upon too!



Finally my free embassador code product, well, I didn't get one. Apparently it is stated on the site that each customer can only recieve one promotion at a time, which is fair, I was just unaware of it and was expecting a free gift.

Overall, if it were not for the eyeliner pen this would be a very depressing post. If the items were a little cheaper it may not have been so disappointing but when you consider the quality of brands such as Sleek, 17 and Barry M at the prices they charge, I do not think I will purchase from Eyeko until my eyeliner pen runs out...

I'm Baaack!

This post is a request for information, so step right up and help a girl out!

I am a faithful foundation user and do not stray from brand to brand (I know, I am every company's dream!) I use Revlon Colourstay when I am lacking pennies and Estee Lauder Double Wear when I am feeling flush. I love both of these foundations as they are oil free, stay matte throughout the day and give great coverage.

Now, I use my hands to apply my foundation, and I always have. I do not like the idea of sponge application as I don't think it would be easy to apply around my hairline. I have tried a cheapie foundation brush once and did not like it at all, maybe I just didn't practice enough??

But I have watched a few videos on Youtube where people have applied my holygrail foundations using a "stippler" brush. The only one I could find on the highstreet was a QVC one at £7.99, and it did not look overly thick.

So my question is, should I invest in a good quality brush? Or stick with the hassle free and cost free method of fingertip application?? Comment and let me know!

Republic Discount

Republic are offering 15% discount online because they have just opened their 100th branch!! Enter MORE15 at checkout!!

I just treated myself to some new goodies today (post coming soon) so I really shouldn't be spending much as there are only 2 pay days until Crimbo! (Yay!! I love festivities I am the anti-humbug!) I keep justifying it because I have been on the emergency tax code for a while so I should be getting a nice little hand shake soon enough to help me out, but I have so many people to buy for and I always go overboard on the bf...

I have purchased from the site before, and got a few great bargains in their sale. The menswear is really good too, which is always a perk when it comes to present buying. Delivery is usually pretty quick, goods are well packaged and they usually have 2 for £30 offers :)

Top picks that I am wishing for (prices before discount)...



Sequin detail shrug £19.99



Rose Hankyhem Top £19.99



Miso 2 Tone Cross Skirt £23.99 I am in LOVE!!



Two Tone Knit £19.99 (2 for £30 - available in 3 colours)

There is a stunning sequin blazer for £39.99 in one of the mags at the minute from this site, which I would adore. I don't know what it is about Christmas but this time of year makes me love sequins and glitter. Not in a cheese-tastic way but in a mystical magical way...

Happy Shopping!!

Let me know if you buy anything!

xx

Goodies!!

Decided to treat myself today as I have been a little down. Went into town and after much deliberation decided to try out gel nails. I have seen lollipop26 talk about hers on her blog and YT vids and I have always been curious so I gave them a go! What pushed me into it was the 20% student discount...not bad eh??

I went for round tips as I feel square ones are too noticable and I wouldn't be comfortable with them. I am really pleased with them and I can see how people would never want to take them off as they are so pretty, won't break or snag and you can paint them if you want. However, I know that having them on for long periods can weaken and damage your nail underneath so I think I will take these off (if I can bear it!) after a while and stick with manicures. But I will definitely be getting them for special occaisions like my birthdy and Christmas.

Superdrug and Boots are getting their 3 for 2 Christmas goodies in, which always excites me as I end up buying stuff for me too at great prices. (My "two for you, one for me" philosophy never lets me down!) I showed some restraint today though as I am not 100% better yet so I will leave xmas shopping until the bf is with me to carry it all :)

I got my Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation and there was a Bonus Offer on where if you bought any 2 products you got a great mini makeup set free. So obviously I couldn't say no! I usually wait for this offer before purchsing my foundation as they happen two or three times a year. I wanted to get on board with the whole 80's Fame thing and try one of the coloured mascaras as I heard great reviews from Pixiwoo...But they were all sold out :( I couldn't decide on what else to get but I didn't want the offer to pass me by so I got a back up of my foundation...

But the most exciting news for me today was that my Superdrug finally got Sleek cosmetics! I was so happy it was ridiculous! So I snatched up a black ink pot to play around with, if I like it I might invest in a high end gel liner. And I got two palettes which I was thrilled with. I plan to do a review once I've had time to play with them. The colours look gorge and for under £5 I think they are fab, the pigmentation is really good and some colours are comparable to Urban Decay.

:)

Next Big Thing...

Lollipop26 tried Nude Cleansing Oil (around £22) and loved it, then hated it. I would have combination skin but the thought of using an oil to cleanse my face leaves me shuddering as the next day I am sure my makeup would just run off my face after application and I would scare people with a reflective surface for a face.



However, I have been informed that this is not the case and that Oil Cleansers are going to become very popular (and hopefully cheaper!) So here are all the reasons why we should convert and tips on choosing the best one.

* Oil cleansers clean deeper than most other types. They trap impurities and remove them from your skin. They won't leave an oily film on your face if you add water when removing it. It will emulsify the oil into a cleansing milk and rinse off easily. If you want to ensure you have removed all excess use a toner afterwards.

* They are good for oily skin as they trick your skin into thinking it has produced enough oil, therefore producing less in future. Ones that contain sage or lavender can help reduce breakouts. Choose a "dry oil" cleanser, these sink in quickly and leave a matte finish.

* They are super moisturising as they lock in moisture (like a body oil) and can reduce ageing. Ensure your oil is non-comedogenic, this means it won't block pores and cause nasty blackheads.

So those are the top tips for choosing an oil cleanser...but I have to say I am not yet convinced...And I think I will be waiting until a cheaper alternative becomes available before testing it out. (Unless baby oil counts??)

What do you think??
Post a comment!

xx

Benefit Discount!

To celebrate the launch of their new beauty powder, One Hot Minute, Benefit are giving customers 15% off all purchases online (not just this product) with code:

BENE1HOT




Valid from 08/10/09 - 07/11/09

I have tried a few popular Benefit products before and while I liked some I can't justify the price as I have found really similar dupes for far less. (See my MeMeMe post) For me Benefit is a range I wouldn'y buy from frequently, it is more of a one off treat, but then given the choice I would buy from a different high end brand...

There are still a few products some Gurus rave about that I want to try out though, Coralista Blush, Erase Paste and Boi-ng being three I can think of off the top of my head! At least now I can get some discount! I think the packaging is really cute and quirky and the staff are usually really friendly, fun and helpful but I have to say I don't currently have a Holy Grail product from this line.

Do any of you have Benefit recommendations??
Post me a comment!!

Happy Shopping!!

xx

September In And Out

In

* Mid Season Sales - Finding a few gems on store websites at great prices!

* TV Shows - Season 3 of Gossip Girl starting soon! Finally finishing watching all episodes of Friends from the boxset! How much I am in love with True Blood!

* DKNY original fragrance and DKNY Be Delicious Red 100ml for only £19.99!!

* Having time off from work to recover from surgery and getting gorgeous new bedroom furniture to re-arrange everything! I may have a slight form of OCD lol Thortons Choccies from the bf!

* Gosh Black Kohl Eyeliner - lovin' it!

* L'oreal Volume Shocking Mascara - my eyelashes are hard to curl at the best of times but this mascara does wonders, even for me...

* Finding the £34.99 dress I wanted from River Island on Ebay for £13.99 and winning it! :)

Out

* Having to have surgery in the first place :(

* My stupid credit card not working properly at the minute so missed out on some great sale items online because payment didn't go through on time

* Having so much Uni work to catch up on

* Wanting the new Urban Decay Book of Shadows soo bad but not being able to get it because I have to order it online (nowhere near me stocks Urban Decay) but can't because of stupid credit card...

What are your Ins and Outs??

Post a comment!!

xx

Vital Info

This is a Tag from Lauren (www.jadoreparisboutique.blogspot.com)


Me attempting to pose while the bf pulls faces lol


Me: Rachel
Nicknames: Rach, Rachie - original eh? lol
Birthday: 24th Feb
Zodiac Sign: Picses
Male or Female: Female
Occupation: Student/Sales Assistant
Residence: NI
Screen Name: Makeup Geek

Appearance
Hair Colour: Dark Brown
Hair Length: Below Shoulders, Growing It Back And Never Cutting It Again!
Eye colour: Green
Best Feature: Probably eyes, maybe legs on a good day...
Height: 5ft 7
Braces?: Nope
Glasses?: Only When I Absolutely Have To Otherwise It's Contacts!
Piercing: Just Thee Ears
Tattoos: Really Want One But Am Too Afraid I'll Regret It
Righty or Lefty: Righty

Your 'Firsts'
First best friend: Dunno, Was Quite Young
First Award: Swimming Award In P4
First Sport You Joined: Hahahaha...
First Real Vacation: Alcudia, Spain
First Concert: Beyonce
First Love: David :)

Favourites
Movie: Dirty Dancing, The Matrix, Mean Girls...
TV Show: Friends, Gossip Girl, True Blood, One Tree Hill, Sex And The City
Colours: Purple
Song: Soooo Many lol Will Do A Seperate Post Me Thinks
Candy: Hmm Milky Bars?? Lol Dunno
Restaurant: Spice Indian Restaurant or Dominos
Store: Topshop, New Look, Primark, Vero Moda, River Island
School: Nope I'm At Uni
Book: We Need To Talk About Kevin, P.S I Love You...Loads More
Magazine: Glamour, More, Cosmo, Company
Shoes: My (fake!) Uggs, Converse, Knee Boots, Ankle Boots...

Currently Feeling: Like I Really Wanna Go On A Big Shopping Spree!!
Single or Taken: Taken
Eating: Softmints
Typing: This Quiz!
Online: Obviously
Listening To: Watch You Go Jordin Sparks
Thinking About: My New Bedroom!
Wanting: New Shoes/Makeup - Urban Decay Book Of Shadows!
Watching: Nothing Atm
Wearing: Jeggings, Uggs And A Hoody

Future
Want Children?: Someday
Want to be Married: Lol Someday? :P
Careers in Mind: Public Relations/Event Management
Where do you want to live?: Here - I'm A Homebird

Have you ever..
Kissed a Stranger: Probably On A Night Out
Had Alcohol: Yesh! *Hic*
Smoked: Yep, Bad To Start!
Ran Away From Home: Not Really, Though I Did Attempt To Join The Circus
Broken a bone: Nopes
Got an X-ray: Yea
Broken Someones Heart: Dunno, Maybe. But I Think I Fixed It Again
Broke Up With Someone: Yep, Sucks :(
Cried When Someone Died: Yep
Cried At School: Don't Think So, Maybe Tears Of Joy When I Left! Lol

Do You Believe In..
Miracles: Hell Yes My Mum Being Here Is One, Actually Two! Lol
Love At First sight: Lust At First Sight, Love Takes Time
Ghosts: Kinda
Aliens: Not Really, I Do Think It's Unrealistic Not To Think In All The Planets In The Universe There's Not Something Else Out There, Just Maybe Not Wee Green Men..
Soul Mates: Yep
Kissing on The First Date: Yes But That's All! Lol
Yourself: Soemone Has To!


I Tag Anyone Who Reads This!

xx

Me Me Me

No, this isn't a self obsessed post, I promise!

MeMeMe is a makeup company, stocked in many Superdrug stores, which has some really good products at affordable prices. They often have special offers and a good few of their products are dupes for high end brands, even the packaging is really similar. I'm going to suggest the items I think are worth getting and the ones I would stay away from...

Hot!

1. Shimmy Shimmers - dupe for Bobbi Brown Shimmer Bricks


RRP £3.99

Available in 3 shades, these are gorgeous! The tan can be used as a bronzer but I prefer matte bronzers so I don't use it for this purpose, I love it as a blusher/highlight. The individual lines can also be used as eyeshadow as they don't smudge into each other when you run your powder brush over them. If you want a lighter glow, concentrate your brush towards where the white is and if you want a deeper colour concentrate towards the bottom end of the palette.


RRP £27.99

2. Beat the Blues Liquid Highlight - dupe for Benefit High Beam


RRP Around £4.00

This is great as a highlighter, though I do find it a little difficult to blend as it dries very quickly. I much prefer using this product as an eyeshadow base. Works really well and as I usually wear shimmer eyeshadows I think this makes a difference to the final look.


RRP £16.50

3. Pussycat/Poppy Tint - dupe for Benefit Bene-tint/Posie Tint


RRP £3.38


RRP £22.50

Pussycat is more of a stain, the colour is buildable and long lasting. I haven't tried this product on my cheeks, just my lips as it is quite watery and I'm a little afraid to try it on my face in case I ruin my makeup! lol Poppy Tint is harder to find, it may be discontinued?? Either way they are worthwhile purchases.



Honourable Mentions:

I haven't tried any of the mascaras myself but I have heard good reports. The single eyeshadows are quite well pigmented and quite easy to blend. If you like bright, original colours it is worth a look but if you prefer a natural eye steer clear. There are some great colour choices in the lipsticks and they are quite moisturising. Favourite lipgloss from the range is the Light Me Up glosses which have a light in the applicator and a mirror on the side of the tube for easy application. Also a great conversation starter!

Not!

I would steer clear of the Ultra Glosses, they have an unusual smell and come in rather strange colours which are highly pigmented. If it looks bright orange in the tube it will be bright orange on your lips! The eyeliners aren't the worst I've ever tried but I have found some really good ones at great prices so I just wouldn't bother. I haven't tried the nail polishes so I can't really comment but when I worked in Superdrug we used to end up getting rid of a lot of them because the colours seperated. And finally the foundations. They weren't great sellers, MeMeMe were working on them when I left Superdrug a year ago. Just don't go there.

This post has made me realise I need to re-purchase a few things...yay! lol

Happy Shopping!

xx

The Climb

Soundtrack To My Life

This is a quirky tag...

Basically you put your Ipod/Itunes/music library on shuffle and press next to get the answer to each of the statements below. Whatever comes up you can't change it! The songs may not be ones you even like anymore or forgot you had.

1. If Someone Says "Is This OK?" You Say?
Glamorous - Fergie

2. How Would You Describe Yourself?
Keep On Singing My Song – Christina Aguilera

3. What Do You Like In A Guy?
A Change Would Do You Good – Sheryl Crowe

4. How Do You Feel Today?
If The Rain Must Fall – James Morrison

5. What Is Your Life's Purpose?
Born To Make You Happy – Britney Spears (So Ashamed I Still Have This!!)

6. What Is Your Motto?
I Want You Now – The Feeling

7. What Do Your Friends Think Of You?
Crazy – KC and JoJo

8. What Do Your Parents Think Of You?
Runaway – Cascada

9. What Do You Think About Very Often?
If You’re Not The One – Daniel Bedingfield

10. What Do You Think Of The Person You Like?
The Glory – Kanye West

11. What Is Your Life Story?
Killing Me Softly – The Fugees

12. What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up?
Bonafide – X-2-C

13.What Do You Think When You See The Person You Like?
Use Somebody - Kings Of Leon

14. What Will You Dance To At Your Wedding?
Sexy Love - Neyo

15. What Will They Play At Your Funeral?
Rusty Halo – The Script

16. What Is Your Hobby/Interest?
Been There, Done That - Smoke 2 Seven

17. What Is Your Biggest Fear?
Bad Day – Daniel Powter

18. What Is Your Biggest Secret?
All The Wrong Reasons - Nickelback

19. What Do You Think Of Your Friends?
Everything Changes – Take That

20. What Will You Post This As?
The Climb – Miley Cyrus


xx

Bloglovin

www.bloglovin.com/blogg/1146979/makeup-geek?claim=cdefmwm2a4g">Follow

Above is my link (which I don't think works so copy and paste will be needed!) to follow my blog using bloglovin.

Gemsmaquillage has a new blog and she has convinced me to sign up to www.bloglovin.com It is far easier to follow blogs and new posts with this than it is with the dashboard of blogspot.

P.s Gemma's 24?! Who new??!

xxx

Shoes Glorious Shoes!!

Ok I'll come clean....

I have a shoe addiction, the prettier, harder to walk in, most likely to make me (almost) fall over after a little too many, the better! I do have a few regulars that I wear constantly though, shoes that I will no doubt shed a tear over when their time comes to move on to shoesy heaven. These include my imitation Ugg boots (I just refuse to buy the real ones, why part with that much cash for a pair of shoes which will be weather beaten in 2 months and lose their shape after a while? You can just repurchase them every season for £5 in Primark!!) My New Look buckled black knee boots that go with absolutely everything and are ridiculously easy to walk in and my New Look black heeled gladiators (which my bf lovingly refers to as my "Batman shoes" - I have no idea...)

You can probably see a pattern there. I love New Look shoes! They are usually bang up-to-date with the latest trends, are well made for a high street shop as they are long lasting with jus' a lil T.L.C and best of all are literally "as cheap as chips." What more can a girl ask for?

10% off that's what! I am an avid reader of More Magazine and have discovered that they often use shoes from www.linzishoes.com in their photoshoots. I had a wee looksie at the website and all I can say is "Wow, I want!" There are so many shoes that are totally delectable on that site I could easily spend a fortune! They are in around the same price as New Look (thumbs up) and have some similar styles but some things I spotted were definitely more unique and ecclectic. Their range is very extensive and includes a seperate bridal section!

CODE MR52 GETS YOU 10% OFF AT CHECKOUT

Below are a few pics and prices (before discount) of some shoes I saw within the first 5 minutes of being on the site...I think I may have a naughty spree... lol Pics are linked to relevant pages...

Marleah Sheepskin Boots - £12

Evvy Heeled Boot - £30

Dolley High Heels - £30

Jenna High Heels - £28




Karel High Heels - £30

Happy Shopping!! ;)

xx

Discount Codes!

I was at the doctor today for my daily checkup and I stumbled across a mini-catalogue for a clothing line I had never heard of before: Fashion Union.

I'm sure we all know that sitting around in an over-heated and old-fashioned waiting room requires a little light reading so I thought I would flick through this little treasure found in among "How to Deal With Your Emotions Concerning Arthritis" and "Relationships, Intimacy, Arthritis and You".... And I have to say I was pleasantly surprised! The prices are reasonable, the clothes up-to-date and on-trend and even better, they are offering 25% off all purchases with free shipping to the UK for your first order! Well, when I got home I reasoned it wouldn't hurt to look at the website...and maybe place an order...They also ship internationally. Code is valid until 31st October 2009.

Code FA9LK1

I can't comment on the quality, speed of service or fit of the clothes just yet as I haven't received my order but I wanted to post this incase I happen to get any followers this month :) to give them the opportunity of a great deal. Listed below is what I ordered before discount and all are linked to the relevant pages...

Fizz Check Mini Skirt (Navy) - £20.00

Tights and shoeboots? Definitely a blazer...

Calhoun Cardi (Bright Purple) - £18.00

Basic, for over anything.

Ellis Knit (Teal Marl) - £15.00

Winter StapleAlana Check Plimsoles (Purple Check) - £12.00

Amazingly cute, checks are really in this season.

Golddigga Modern Tee - £20.
Love this with skinnies, biker boots and a faux leather jacket.

There are lots of styles catered for on the site and they have a menswear section.

Also this Week: New Look - Big fan of this store, we recently got a new store where I live and it is a big improvement...I may be slightly biased...lol I think the clothes are really good qualty, on-trend and really competitively priced. New Look had a check shirt on offer last month reduced from £25 to £15 and Dorothy Perkins advertised the exact same shirt in More Magazine for £30!! Reasons to check out New Look this month:

1. Mid Season Sale - website has some good offerings

2. 20% student discount in store

3. 20% off online with code MWMGZ1 on 3rd and 4th of October

4. Winter and Christmas stock coming in!

5. Up to 15% off if you open a store card - an even better excuse for some retail therapy...

Happy shopping!!

xx