Mini Interval

I realize that I haven’t been posting quite as often as I would like to… and this has been mainly due to essay deadlines and exam revision, and basically a whole load of uni work that I cannot wait to be over and done with!! Anyway, I thought that I would post this to give you guys a heads up (and an apology) that I won’t be blogging for the next three weeks until I’m finished with exams… But when I do return, be prepared for a whole load of beauty related reviews and posts – I’m an emotional shopper (I confess!) and these exams are making my wallet weep (haha!).

April Wishlist!

Bit of an estee lauder overload…but can you really blame me given that the Bronze Goddess collection is finally out?!

1. Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Powder Bronzer £30
2. Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent £45
3. Anastasia Beverly Hills Tinted Brow Gel (Espresso) £16.50
4. Cara Delevingne’s Brows (please!)
5. Shu Uemura eyelash culers (limited edition gold) £20
6. Estee Lauder Pure Colour Sheer RollerGloss (succulent) £17 – even though I’m not a lipgloss person….
7. YSL cream eyeliner – Gold Lamé £22 (I blame Pixiwoo for this…)
8-9. We are Handsome swimsuits … ££££££ (you don’t even want to know how much these are…)
10. Estee Lauder Idealist Pore Minimising Skin Refinisher £40

March Favourites!

A bit late on the monthly favourites front (been swamped with essays and what not!)…but I thought I’d get it out there anyway as I made quite few amazing discoveries in the past month!

La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo:

Photo by Wiktoria

Where has this been all my life?! Again, yet another massively hyped product in the beauty blogosphere, but with good reason! Although, this was quite hard to get my hands on (sold out everywhere – which I took as a good sign), I finally ordered it online, and I’m not disappointed. Its promise to reduce imperfections and the size of pores has been, for the most, granted. Though on the pricier side of things (£14), and given you get a mere 40ml, this isn’t going to last you long, but I already know I’m going to repurchase this when it runs out.

La Roche Posay Effaclar A.I:

I purchased this also when I made my online order for the effaclar duo, and to my surprise it has quickly become a firm favourite. The reason why I was surprised is that unlike other spot treatments, this one doesn’t burn like a … am I the only one who thinks, if it burns my skin it must mean it works? Well, I’ve had a change of heart. This, unlike the Origins Spot Treatment, doesn’t burn my skin nor does it dry out the surrounding areas given that its a cream formulation instead of gel. And its cheaper than the origins spot treatment (£9) and in my opinion, more effective too. Bonus!

Ren Clay Cleanser:

Photo by Wiktoria

Having finished the soap & glory knock-off hot cloth cleanser (post here), I decided it was time to spice things up a bit. I’ve heard a lot of great things about the entire Ren skincare range, so I was excited to try the range specially targeted at blemish prone skin. Although, my initial impression was that this wasn’t anything special, and the formulation was weird – it doesn’t foam up, you’re essentially rubbing clay all over your face – this has worked wonders on my skin. My skin doesn’t feel dried out like other cleansers aimed at blemish prone skin usually leaves it; it felt like it was cleaning deep into my pores, my skin is now a lot less oily…I don’t think I have one bad thing to say about this product. Again, slightly on the pricier side of things, at £18, but its free from all the nasties (sulphates etc), and you get a ton of product (150ml). I also purchased this online (because I’m lazy) and received 2 samples. So far I’ve tried to infamous glycolactic face mask, but since the sample was a mere 5ml, it’s not like I can give a full review…but I’m tempted to purchase the full size…(Watch this space!)

Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette:

Photo by Wiktoria

This has been the only thing I’ve been reaching for to define my brows. I swapped from using Faint to Naked 2, as if you’re heavy handed it may seem you allowed a younger sibling to draw on your brows with a marker…never a good look!

He-Shi Gradual Tan:

Not that I’ve been reaching for this that much, and at the moment I’m pasty as ever (I need summer!), in those odd moments when I felt that I could be bothered to bronze myself up, I’ve been using this. Its easy to use, streak free, and doesn’t smell too strongly of biscuits. And its only £11 (last time I checked) from feelunique.com – not bad!

Natural Collection Lash Definition Mascara:

Still a firm favourite. Let’s move on…

Clarins Instant Light Perfector (apricot shimmer):

I’m not a big fan of lipglosses. They stick to your hair, are messy…just a nuisance really, and you have to reapply a thousand times a day…then I discovered these. And everything changed. And the reason why things changed is that this is not a lipgloss in the traditional sense. Its not at all sticky; rather its a gel like formula lip balm with ultra glossy finish. And the smell…oh my. Let’s just say, the smell makes reapplying this all the worthwhile.

NYX Blusher (Taupe)

Photo by Wiktoria

Not an easy brand to find to say the least. I purchased this online from here. I think it is also sold at superdrug (well, at least according to the website). I initially thought that this wouldn’t show up on my skin, as its not as pigmented as I thought it would be (maybe its just this colour? or me?). But, I’ve found that this works really well as a subtle contour if I want my makeup to be laid-back but still put together. It’s a sort of purplely-brown, which doesn’t sound the most flattering, but it works and was cheap, so I’m not complaining. It reminds me of the Chanel blush in notorious, which I think was limited edition. Not sure if its an exact dupe, but if you missed your chance on that, this could be a great alternative/dupe. The quality of the product is quite good, so I might be making a cheeky purchase soon…we’ll see!

What were your monthly favourites?

L’Oreal False Lash Flutter Mascara

Photo by Wiktoria

It seems that mascara’s these days cost the equivalent of an arm and a leg! Ok, so maybe not that much, but still, high street/ drug store mascara’s are on the edge of being the same price as high-end ones. However, despite my outrage at the prices of drug store mascara’s, sometimes even the strongest of us bow down to hype, commercials and the promise of fluttery eyelashes. Introducing, L’Oreal False Lash Flutter Mascara. It promises you length, volume and fluttery lashes, and no clumps. My initial impressions after realising it has a plastic brush was that I was going to be disappointed. But, I wasn’t – for a change. The brush is not something I’ve seen before, and its hard to describe exactly its shape, so here’s a photo instead…

Photo by Wiktoria

Photo by Wiktoria

… this brush type is supposed to help coat all lashes, including the inner and outer corners without a problem – and it does. It separates your lashes, with minimal clumping. I find the more the formula dries, the clumpier it gets, which is sort of annoying, but if you don’t mind working at it, it’s not that bad. It gives slight volume, which is fine by me, I’m after length and flutter above all else. Although I was really impressed with it at first use, I find its growing clumpiness (new word!) to be a bit of a downfall and frankly for the price (£10.95), I want something that actually commits to its promises! In comparison to what has to be my favourite mascara of all time, the Natural Collection Lash Definition Mascara, it’s a good mascara, but I probably won’t repurchase any time soon (although that’s not to say it’s completely off the cards). The Natural Collection Lash Definition Mascara delivers on length, no clumps and its doesn’t dry out as quickly. The formula stays the same from the first use to the last. And for £1.99, you can’t fault it. So, although I do recommend you to try out the L’Oreal False Lash Flutter Mascara if you’re in the market for something new, its not my favourite. Instead, I’m keen to try out the Origins Ginzing Mascara as I’ve heard good reviews, although again the price is hefty (£18), at least the brush is not plastic…(anything to justify the price tag, hey?)

What’s your favourite mascara? Have you tried the L’Oreal False Lash Flutter Mascara?

The Biker Charm

There is no escaping this truth: the leather jacket is truly awesome. It is perhaps my favourite piece of clothing ever. Why? For the simple reason its the quickest and probably the most effective way of feeling bad-ass. It is also super versatile, so it’s no surprise that we see variations of the leather jacket adorning catwalks and fashion magazines the world over. Stepping aside the fact that too much leather may give off a dominatrix vibe, the leather jacket is the perfect way to add a hint of coolness to finish off your attire. Whether it be your classic biker jacket, a bomber jacket, a leather blazer, the possibilities are endless. And so are the colours. Be it the can’t-go-wrong-black or brown, or even white, there is something for everyone. Leather jackets are also the perfect way to add edge to a pretty dress, or vamp up a pair of jeans and shirt. Adding the leather jacket to your wardrobe need not be too hard either. I once found a real leather jacket for £10 in the market place in Brick Lane. So if you are not up for splurging (though it’s a sound investment, in my opinion, given that a good leather jacket can last you donkey’s years if you look after it), all it takes is a bit of thrift-ing patience.

Here are some ways I would style the leather jacket:

Day

Links:
1) Topshop Skater Rib Beanie (Mustard)
2) Topshop Chunky Knit Rib Cardigan by Boutique
3) Just Female Stroke High Waist Coated Skinny Jeans
4) Topshop Ozzy Osbourne Leather Trim Tank by And Finally
5) All Saints Cargo Leather Biker Jacket
6) Urban Outfitters Dr Martens Patent Pink 8 Eyelet Boots

Night

Links:
1) American Apparel Disco Pants (Midnight Blue)
2) Urban Outfitters House Of Hackney Hackney Empire Bustier
3) Topshop Knitted Split Back Cardi
4) Urban Outfitters Vintage Renewal Leather Biker Jacket
4) Topshop Alert Chunky Chelsea Boots

A little piece of rock ‘n’ roll is always a good thing, don’t you think?

Porefectly Clean Skin Hot Cloth Cleansing Kit

Photo by Wiktoria

Photo by Wiktoria

The name of this product is quite the mouthful. The Along Came Betty Porefectly Clean Skin Hot Cloth Cleansing Kit was something I picked up on a whim whilst search for a cleanser (in tesco of all places!). The packaging of this cleanser reminds me a lot of the Soap & Glory line, only at half the price. The idea behind this cleanser is similar to that of the Liz Earle Hot Cloth Cleanser, and it even comes with its own muslin cloth. The actually product itself isn’t too bad. I was pleasantly surprised that this didn’t break me out, slightly helped to keep my skin clear (although that can be due to other products in my skincare routine) and reduced the size of my pores somewhat. Although, I doubt the benefits would be long-lasting without continued use. The smell of the cleanser is ok, if you like artificial cranberries. Frankly, I prefer the Liz Earle Hot Cleanse and Polish as it feels like its doing more for my skin in the long term. Overall, as a quick fix it isn’t too bad, though I don’t think I would call this a skincare essential or be repurchasing any time soon; a 3/5 rating.

How I’d Style: Graphics

I guess this look is a slight homage to the ‘it’ girl of the moment, Cara Delevingne…

… after spotting these pants on the model, I’ve been pining for them! But since they retail for £140, these babies are so far out of my price range, it’s ridiculous. So, for now I guess I can only imagine owning them through this style post. These skinnies are a great way to incorporate graphics and stripes into your outfit. The black score t-shirt (and all the black shirt t-shirts in general) is just awesome! Simple, yet effective, and can be paired with anything. So, despite the hefty price tag (£40), it’s an investment? Chunky boots are a wardrobe must, and these chelsea boots from topshop fit the bill quite nicely. Since we’re still in the midst of winter the deep blue, almost black jacket with a leopard collar tops of the look. To keep things edgy MAC’s rebel was my lip colour of choice, although I’d wear this blotted down, and the deep plum pink colour would compliment the pants nicely.

Links:
1) Black Score ‘Tom Ford is My Homeboy’ T-Shirt
2) MAC Rebel Lipstick
3) House of Holland Stripe Jean Purple & Cream
4) Topshop Alert Chunky Chelsea Boots
5) Urban Outfitters Kimchi Blue Animal Velvet Detail Coat

What’s On My Nails (2)

Photo by Wiktoria

Photo by Wiktoria

Photo by Wiktoria

This post is going to be a 2-in-1, in that I’m reviewing both the new Barry M Gelly Hi-Shine Nail Paint (in Watermelon) and the new L’Oreal Confetti Top Coat. Firstly, the Barry M Nail Paint. I’m in love with this colour! An almost black green, it looks really flattering on the hands. Normally, I steer clear of green (and blue nail polishes for that matter) as they can look a bit cheap and grim. Also, the application of this nail polish is super easy, it simply glides on. Longevity, is another story. I find that it has a tendency to chip relatively fast, and given its gel like formula, rather than just chip a bit, the whole nail peels off. Good, if you’re the type that picks away at their polish and I guess this is an even cheaper alternative to the Topshop peel off nail polish? Other than that, this consistency is great and the colour selection is not bad either. For the price, £3.99, it’s worth picking up. The L’Oreal Confetti Top Coat I find to be a cool, quirky alternative to your usual glitter top coat. It can’t really be faulted since it’s a top coat. I think this retails for around £5 in boots. I love the combination of the two, and even had strangers compliment me on it (the first time that has ever happened!). Definitely two finds you should check out next time you’re on the high street!

February Favourites!

So this month has definitely been a hectic one – hence the lack of posts. But a few firm favourites, as well as a couple of new additions, has seen me through quite well.

Photo by Wiktoria

Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy

This is summer in a bottle for me. Fruity, exotic, sweet … it reminds me of scorching hot sun, sand between the toes, Pina Coladas, fruity cocktails. The open notes are wild berries and mandarin, with the heart notes encompassing honeysuckle, gardenia, jasmine (I’m a big fan of jasmine!). The base notes come through strongly, which are amber, caramel, vanilla, sandalwood and pralines. I think this has to be my favourite perfume of all time (with Marc Jacobs a close second). Given that this bottle is on its last few drops, I sense a repurchase coming its way soon.

L’Oreal Studio Matt & Messy Shine-Free Salt Spray

For those days where my hair seems limp and boring, a few squirts of this tends to liven things up a bit. I think this would be more effective on short to mid-length hair, but even on my rapunzel style locks, it holds quite well, giving it that slight oomph. I suppose it could be a good substitute for the Bumble & Bumble Surf Spray since this is a fraction of the price, retailing at around £3 in boots.

L’Oreal Extraordinary Oil

I recently did a blog post on this, and it’s still a firm favourite. My hair, particularly, is still in good condition despite the fact that I’ve ombred it a while ago and it’s been a year since I last got it cut. My ends don’t feel dry or brittle since I’ve incorporated this into my haircare routine (score!)

Soap & Glory Hand Food

A bit of a random favourite, I’m not much of a hand cream type of person, but since purchasing this along with the hand maid gel (which I’ve lost!) my hands are in a better condition. I tend to use this before I go to bed.

Dr. Jart + Waterfuse BB

This has been my base of choice this last month. It’s lightweight, blends into the skin beautifully (no streaks) and it has SPF 25! Hassle free, I apply this using my hands. I love it so much that I haven’t been reaching for my other base of choice, and in fact in comparison, I find this BB cream has a better texture and sits better on the skin. Only problem is, is that it retails for £18 – not exactly purse friendly.

Photo by Wiktoria

Urban Decay Naked Palette

I’ve been using this everyday for my brows and if I’m bothered, to line the top of my eyelashes with Crave. For my brows I’ve been predominantly using Faint, but you have to be careful to apply it sparingly (learnt the hard way). So, I started using Naked 2 instead. To apply it I’ve been using the eco tools eyeliner brush, quite the handy brush, and affordable. Although, on days that I couldn’t be bothered with playing around with brushes et al, I’ve been using the trusty old Rimmel Professional Eyebrow Pencil in Dark brown.

Natural Collection Lash Definition Mascara (Black)

This little discovery has been a miracle worker for my bank balance. It not only separates eyelashes, it doesn’t clump, and it gives volume! And only for £1.99!! It also doesn’t dry out quickly, so I pretty much cannot fault it!

L’Oreal False Lash Flutter Mascara

Nonetheless, despite how much I like the natural collection mascara, experimenting is just part of beauty blogging . I bought this on a whim, and after seeing the brush I thought it would be a gimmick and wouldn’t work. Well, I was wrong. It certainly delivers on fluttery eyelashes, giving both length and volume. A full review on this mascara will be coming soon.

Chanel Coco Rouge Shine (No. 52 Fetiche)

My go-to-lipstick. It’s basically, my lips but better. Initially when I purchased this, I wasn’t blown away, and given the price tag, that’s not a good thing! But, the more I incorporated this into my daily makeup routine, the more I understood the hype around it. Sure, longevity isn’t one of its strongest points, but it provides a subtle wash of plumy pink, a hint of shine, it’s moisturising and doesn’t stick to dry patches. Win-win. Definitely my favourite lipstick at the moment.

Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Balm

Lastly, but not least, is the nuxe reve de miel lip balm. Despite the hefty price tag (£9), not only does this smell so good (citrus, honey, dark chocolate?). It’s the only thing can prevents my lips from chapping and drying out. The only problem is that glass jar makes it impractical to carry around, and I’ve heard that the stick version isn’t as good. Other than that, give this a go if you’re on the hunt for a lip balm does actually does what it says on the tin (or glass jar in this case!)

February’s Wishlist!

Top row (left to right):
1) Motel Jet Plunge Neck Playsuit In Red
2) Chanel PERFECTION LUMIÈRE foundation
3) Valentino Studded patent-leather flats
4) For summer to hurry up!!

Bottom row (left to right):

5) Nars Blush in Luster
6) Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil
7) Urban Decay Build Your Own Palette OZ Theodora
8) Mango Sheer Panel Dress
9) Mac lip pencil in Magenta
10) Mango Maxi Skirt

Current favourite show/s: The Vampire Diaries & Modern Family

Current favourite song/s: Feel So Close (Calvin Harris), Disparate Youth (Santigold), Lonely World (The Vaccines) & Get Some (Lykke Li)

Current favourite drink/s: Green Tea with Lemon

Origins Drink Up Intensive Mask

Photo by Wiktoria

I love this. Never did I think I would proclaim my love for a hydrating mask, especially since I have normal/combination skin I didn’t think that this would work for me. But after picking up the Origins Drink Up Intensive Mask (travel size 50ml £10) when I was in Selfridges a couple of weeks ago, I’m a convert. This has been raved about all over youtube, and I can see why. Although I have combination skin, I’ve been recently trying out a topical cream to combat blemishes as is the case with most spot treatments, they tend to heavily dry out your skin. Since using this a few times a week, all dry patches have been banished. I actually look forward to this part of my night-time skincare routine. Not only is it so soothing on the skin, it smells ah-mazing! Like some sort of fruit smoothie with peaches and mango. AND it works! It’s not greasy and doesn’t leave any residue on the skin. I wake up the next day with ultra hydrated and plump skin. This has now worked itself into a skincare essential must have, and I highly recommend it. The full size retails for £20, but if you’re new to the brand then I’d head over to Selfridges to pick up a travel size at the Origins counter as it’s the perfect way to try the product without breaking the bank.

What are your skincare essentials?

L’Oreal Extraordinary Oil

Photo by Wiktoria

Photo by Wiktoria

Photo by Wiktoria

Over the past few months I’ve been really getting into using hair oils on a regular basis. So, after I ran out of my argan oil, I thought I’d give L’Oreal’s Extraordinary Oil a go. In comparison to the argan oil, it’s less viscose and more watery. It says on the back to use “two precious oils” throughout your hair. Given that I have quite thick and long hair, 2 drops just doesn’t cut it. I use around 2-3 pumps. Not that can really count as a con I suppose, I guess it just depends on your hair type. I’ve been using this over the past few weeks and I can really see a difference in the appearance in my hair. It looks more glossy and nourished. It can also be used a 20 minute pre-shampoo nourishment treatment and or as finishing touch on dry hair. It retails for £9.99 in boots. And for the multiple purposes, I’d recommend picking this up next time you’re browsing the aisles in boots.

What’s your favourite hair oil?

Soap and Glory Hand Maid Gel

Photo by Wiktoria

Photo by Wiktoria

Photo by Wiktoria

I’m not one really for religiously carrying around antibacterial hand cleansing gels in my hand bags (bad I know), even though I commute on the tube everyday. To amend my ways I thought I’d pick up this little baby, the Soap and Glory Hand Maid Gel, when I was in boots picking up other essentials (and non-essentials of course!) having heard so many great things about it. And I’m hooked. I usually hate antibacterial gels because they tend to have a strong alcoholic smell masked by a horrible artificial cucumber or lemon smell. Very unpleasant. This on the other hand smells exactly how it’s described on the bottle, “fresh, fruity, floral” and the grapefruit really does come through. And no hint of alcoholic artificial cucumber (score!). Another bonus is that it doesn’t dry out your skin, like other antibacterial gels do. Retailing for £2.50, this has quickly become a hand bag essential for me. It has made me want to try other products from the soap and glory range, since I’ve only tested out the makeup – the neutral eyeshadow palette, Lid Stuff, is great if you love mattes, but the thick & fast mascara, not so much. If you haven’t tried this out yet, I highly recommend it, especially if you commute regularly.

What’s On My Nails (1)

Photo by Wiktoria

Photo by Wiktoria

Having recently purchased a cult nail varnish, no other than Maybelline’s Forever Strong Pro in Ceramic Blue, I thought I’d jazz it up a bit with a touch of metallic silver. I’ve seen variations of this look with black and gold, equally cool, but my blue/silver variation reminds of ice, fitting for this time of year. The application of these nail polishes are super easy, and only because I’m a terrible at applying nail polish does it look far from polished (haha, little joke there…no? swiftly moving on!) I own another colour from this line, Rose Poudre, and these polishes definitely wear amazingly! For under a fiver, it’s a must to check out next time you’re perusing the aisles at your local boots. The silver nail polish, L.A. Colors Color Craze in Live, is also a dream to apply, and for only £1 (!!) it’s a budget buy like no other. Not to mention, the range of colours is unbelievable, offering top and base coats, and a nice selection of glitter nail polishes too. You can pick up the L.A. color nail polishes at beauty base. Overall, I recommend checking them out.

Origins Clear Improvement Mask

Photo by Wiktoria

I’m a big fan of masks. Yeah, you may look ridiculous throughout the 10mins or so you spend wearing them, but hey, no pain no gain. I once got a sample of the Origins Clear Improvement Mask after purchasing their Super Spot remover (and for the price, it’s not the most effective), and once the sample was gone, I knew I would have to repurchase. Given that you only need the smallest bit of this to cover your entire face, I went for the travel size which comes in around £10, making it easier for your bank balance to bear as opposed to the bigger size which retails for £20. You can purchase the travel size version at Selfridges and I think, maybe John Lewis. The Origins Clear Improvement mask is clay based charcoal mask, hence the terrifying grey colour. Applied once you open your pores with a hot muslin cloth or flannel, this stuff really does work to clear up and diminish the appearance of pores, as well as helping with congested skin – although they do have an ‘Out of Trouble’ Mask designed specifically to “rescue problem skin”, which I haven’t yet tried. I’ve been using this for the past few weeks, and I’ve seen a great difference in the appearance of the size of my pores and skin in general. I found that since I’ve been using a topical cream to help with the appearance of my skin, it has become incredibly sensitive, and I have as a result experienced slight sensitivity and stinging when I first apply this, but once it’s on that goes away. So, I guess for those of you with slightly more sensitive skin to try a sample of this first before purchasing. Getting it off can be quite the experience. I find it easier to remove when using a muslin cloth or something of the sort, as it can get messy otherwise. Overall, I recommend giving this offering from Origins a try. I’ve used a few products from the Origins range, and on the whole, despite the excessive price tag, it’s worth it.

Have you tried anything from the Origins range?

How I’d Style: Pencil Skirts

I love pencil skirts. Ultra feminine, without being overly girly, the pencil skirt is not only flattering but I think it’s a wardrobe staple. So, here are some ways I would style one of the next season’s biggest trends. Enjoy!

Look 1: Sexy 90′s

For this look, I thought I’d go with a 90′s vibe after seeing this pretty awesome snake skin effect pencil skirt from ASOS. Not something I would usually go for, but I think if styled with basics, it can look great. Since, the pencil skirt is high waisted, I thought this crop top from Topshop would be the perfect accompaniment, and the high neck line keeps it classy. To break up the black a bit, I thought the matching taupe heels and clutch keeps things interesting without going overboard. Makeup wise, a black smokey eye and nude lips. I choose the Korres Lip Butter in Guava because you really can’t go wrong with it, so no worrying about lipstick smudging on a night-out!

Links:
1) Topshop Open Neck Crop Top £8
2) ASOS Premium Leather Skirt in Snake Effect £90
3) Cole Haan Crosby Clutch – Suede Envelope
4) Zara TRF Low Cut Court Shoe £16.99 (SALE)
5) Korres Guava Lip Butter 6g £6

Look 2: Bright and Cool

This is my favourite of the two. This time the pencil skirt is black leather, so it adds a edge to an otherwise colourful look. Again, since the skirt is high waisted, the bright lemon knit is cropped, so not to drown out the skirt. For contrast, I thought the turquoise pointed pumps would bring out the yellow of the jumper more, adding to the brightness of the look. I love the fact that they are pointed, I prefer such shoes over platforms (even though platforms are more comfortable to walk in), these look more chic and expensive. To match the shoes, I found this amazing leather and faux pony turquoise clutch from ASOS, I like the texture it adds and its pretty cool, if you ask me! Since, this is quite a loud outfit, I choose the korres lip balm again because it’s easy to throw on and doesn’t clash with anything.

Links:
1) Topshop Knitted Textured Crop Jumper (Lemon) £30
2) ASOS Pencil Skirt in Leather £90
3) ASOS Leather And Faux Pony Zip Top Clutch Bag £30
4) Vince Camuto ‘Harty’ Pump £65.18
5) Korres Guava Lip Butter 6g £6

Jo Malone White Jasmine and Mint

Photo by Wiktoria

Given that my beloved Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy perfume is pretty much gone, I thought it would be about time to replace it with something new. So, after a little trip to Selfridges to pick up a birthday present for my mum, I also picked up a little something from the Jo Malone counter (bad, I know!). After spending a good 20 minutes or so, sniffing away at practically everything Jo Malone has to offer, I walked away with the White Jasmine and Mint Cologne (30ml, £38; 100ml £76). On the Jo Malone website it is described as a “sun-drenched morning in an English country garden”. I think it goes without saying that describing how a perfume smells is pretty damn difficult. It definitely reminds me of summer, but given that the jasmine is quite strong it has almost an oriental feeling to it. Its slight muskiness makes it perfect all year round. I think because it’s quite different from your usual women’s fragrance, you’ll either love it or hate it. I for one, love it. It smells expensive and strange, almost eccentric. It’s a bit citrusy and has a herb-like element to it. If you like Davidoff’s Cool Water for women, you’ll probably like this one. Perhaps, not everyone’s cup of tea, but I suggest you give this one a smell. Wear time is around 4-5 hours, which isn’t too bad I guess. I’m definitely interested in purchasing more from the Jo Malone range, particularly the infamous pomegranate noir – to the dismay of my bank balance! If you’re new to Jo Malone, like me, I’d suggest going for the 30ml bottle, it’s cheaper (bonus!) and it’s a nice way to try out the range. Overall, I recommend you try this one out!

Have you tried anything from the Jo Malone range?

Budget Buy: Sally Hansen Double Duty

Photo by Wiktoria

I’ve recently gotten back into painting my nails more regularly, and given all the new spring collections that are being released now, there might be a post or two on a few of my favourite nail polishes soon. But for now, I thought I’d mention a base and top coat I’ve been trying out. Introducing, Sally Hansen Double Duty, a base and top coat in one. It promises to not only strengthen your nails, but also a chip resistant manicure. And so far, so good. My nails look ultra glossy, and they’re hardly chipped even though I painted them 6 days ago. As for the strengthening part, I will have to keep you posted since I haven’t used enough to see a real difference, but it seems promising. Perhaps my only problem with it, is that it doesn’t dry fast enough! So, I’m interested to try out the Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Anti Chip Top Coat. All in all, it’s quite good and I’d recommend it if you’re looking for a new top coat to try out. The Sally Hansen Double Duty Base and Top Coat retails for £5.25 at boots.

How I’d Style: Bright Knits

I thought I’d start a new series on the blog called, ‘How I’d Style…’. As the title gives away, it will be on how I’d style a certain statement piece or trend, and so on, and can hopefully act as a source of inspiration if you’re searching for ideas for outfits or whatever. I thought I’d start with bright knits, given the blanket of snow that has engulfed much of the UK! Enjoy!

This bright orange jumper really caught my eye (Topshop also has a really amazing blue coloured knitted jumper for £36; Urban Outfitters is another great place for statement or bright knits). The bright knit is a great way to add colour to your wardrobe and beat the winter blues. Since it’s so vivid and fun, I thought it would be go well with a pair of velvet trousers. Not only does velvet feel luxurious (is it just me?), it’s a great alternative to your usual black skinny jeans. Plus, they’re warm!! Fashionable and practical = bonus! For contrast, the cobalt blue cambridge satchel brings a bit of a contemporary old school vibe to the outfit. The hellraisers add a bit of edge, so it’s not overly preppy, although probably the most impractical pair of flats one can throw on for winter (but, oh well!). The top off the look, a bright lip of course. This Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro in 401 is the perfect match to the jumper, an opaque matte red with orange undertones. Not only is it universally flattering, it gives a nice nod to summer (which cannot get here soon enough, if you ask me!)

Links:
1) Topshop Knitted Rib Scoop V Jumper £38
2) Motel Star Velvet Skinny Pants In Black £48
3) UNIF Hellraiser (Black Silver)
4) Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro 401 £25 link
5) Cambridge Satchel Bag (Cobalt) link