April Favourites

Liz Earle- Cleanse & Polish: Rose & Cedrat (Limited edition)

After about a month of trying out another cleanser I reunited myself with my most trusty Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish. I’ve rambled about how much I love this product in previous posts, so I won’t go on too much, but this limited edition fragrance is wonderful! Don’t get me wrong I love the original eucalyptus scent but when Liz Earle release limited edition fragrances they are definately worth picking up.

Gerard Cosmetics Lipstick: 1995

Oh boy! This lipstick has been on my wish list for ages and as April was my birthday month I finally treated myself to it and have been wearing it nonstop ever since. It’s such an easy colour to wear, you know the typical brown nude. I’m impressed with the formula of these lipsticks its creamy yet is completely matte once on the lips and provides a long lasting coverage.

‘Reasons to Stay Alive’ by Matt Haig

I am a big fan of Matt Haig’s books (Check out ‘The Humans’ for a lighter read!) This book is first non-fiction novel and reveals his mental health struggle with depression and anxiety. He takes us through coming to terms with his depression and provides insights and hope along the way. This book isn’t all doom and gloom, Haig doesn’t take himself too seriously and makes light hearted and witty comments throughout. An interesting and worthwhile read that I really enjoyed.

Cowshed: Cow Pat moisturising hand cream

I found this hidden gem in TK Maxx and have been thoroughly enjoying it ever since. First of all, I am in LOVE with the fragrance of this, it’s so fresh and uplifting with essential oils grapefruit, coriander and lavender. It does a great job of keeping my hands soft and moisturised as it’s packed full of shea and cocoa butter. Also, it’s handy pocket size means I can throw it into my bag for the day and use it on the go.

What have been your April favourites?

Carly x 

Top Picks: Makeup Revolution

                           

Hi Lovelies!

Today's post will be about one of my favourite budget makeup brands; Makeup Revolution. This line is exclusive to Superdrug and can also be bought directly from their website. Here are some of my top picks;

New-trals vs Neutrals Eyeshadow Palette

One thing this brand does well is eye shadows. This palette has a beautiful selection of 16 shades- both matte and shimmers, warm and cool tones. You can create an everyday natural eye look or go for something more dramatic using the corals, pinks and burgundy shades. The pigmentation of the shadows are great and blend like a dream, they also have a great staying power. This is the closest dupe to the popular (and ALWAYS sold out) Morphe 350 palette i've found and it's only £6.99!! Buy Me Here

Salvation Velvet Lip Lacquers

I love these liquid lipsticks! For £3 each, I am tempted to get all the colours available! It has a long lasting formula with highly pigmented colour, that dries completely matte. As a dry lip sufferer, I find these comfortable and non drying to wear, unlike some high end liquid lipsticks i've tried. My favourite shades are Rebel (a gorgeous plum/purple colour) and Keep trying for you (a vibrant true red) Buy Me Here

Blushing Hearts Triple Baked Blusher

Okay, first up, how adorable is the packaging of these blushers? Awk. These 3 in 1 blushers come in a variety of different shades and double up as a lovely subtle highlight. The formula is silky, pigmented, easily blended and lasts well on the skin.A neat little product that adds a natural flush and subtle glow to the skin. What's not to love? 

£4.99 each Buy Me Here

Highlighter 'Golden Lights'

This is the best budget highlighter that I have found on the market. For only £3, you couldn't go wrong with picking one of these up and trying them out for yourself. With 3 shades available, 'Golden Lights' is the most versatile for all skin tones.  It has a build-able formula that allows you to create a subtle glow suitable for the daytime or you can pack it on for a more dramatic evening look. Unlike some low cost highlighters, this does not contain any dreaded glitter, just pure unadulterated glow! Buy Me Here

Liquid Eyeliner in Ultra Black

If like me, you like your eyeliner to stay put all day- this is one for you. For only £1.50, this is great budget liquid eyeliner, super black with a glossy finish. The brush itself is easy to use and allows a precise application and the formula dries quickly so no messy smudges are accidentally made. If you like to create a winged eye liner look, rest assured the flick will not budge all day, I know, amazing right? Buy Me Here

Have you tried anything from Makeup Revolution?

Carly x

December Favourites

Hi Lovelies!

I hope you all had a lovely Christmas! It's that time of the month to show you what I have been enjoying...

First up is the Tarte Amazionian Clay Eye & Cheek Palette

I have been using this palette pretty much every day since I got it, it contains 6 matte shades of eye shadow, including a liner, lid, crease and highlight shade. The shades are great for creating a natural look but can also be used to create a more dramatic evening look. In the center of the palette is a golden peachy pink blush, which leaves a subtle hint of colour and creates a healthy glow to your complexion. Tarte is hard to find in the UK (which is such a shame!) but QVC has some great offers on this brand and what i've tried so far from this range, I definitely think it's worth checking out.

Pixi Glow Tonic

This has been on my wishlist for months and I finally bit the bullet and bought myself a bottle. I use this once daily, usually in the morning after cleansing and have found a definite improvement in my skins texture, I am no longer troubled by pesky dry patches and my skin is left with a healthy glow which makes for a great base before applying my makeup for the day!

Caudalie Instant Detox Mask

I purchased this at the start of December and have been using it once or twice a week and think it's a great little mask to add to your stash. It is a clay mask that deeply cleanses, helps to minimize pores and eliminates impurities and toxins to renew the skins texture. The main ingredients are pink clay, grape marc and coffee- it smells divine! 

Yankee Candle 'Fireside Treats'

Oh boy, I think this maybe my new favourite candle scent! I have been burning this in my bedroom and it smells delicious! It is very light in fragrance (not overpowering like other sweet scents) but adds a comforting marshmallow aroma. I will be repurchasing this once it's been used up, which will probably be quite soon at this rate!

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

I really didn't want to like this cleanser, as it is really very pricey, but after a couple of weeks of using this in the evening, I have to admit I love it! It is a deep cleansing balm, which helps soften and nourish the skin. This is a real treat to use and melts away makeup like a dream, I also find it quite therapeutic to use as it's fragrance helps you to relax and unwind before bedtime.

What have you been loving recently?

Carly x

Christmas Stocking Fillers For Her

I can't believe it's that time of the year again! Here's a few stocking filler gift ideas that will hopefully give you some

inspiration when you hit the shops next!

1. Urban Decay 'Naked' Eyeshadow Palette 

£38

This is a staple in my makeup collection and would make a great gift for a makeup lover. It's a beautiful eyeshadow palette containing 12 gold hued shades, allowing you to create anything from a delicate day time look to a dramatic evening look.

2. Lush Bath Bombs

From £1.95 to £4.25

You can't really go wrong with gifting someone a Lush bath bomb! There are so many too choose from and would make a nice gift for someone who enjoys a good pamper! Lush have recently released their Christmas products, my top picks from the collection are the Cinders Bath bomb and the Yog Nog bath bomb. Both smell good enough to eat! 

3. Mini Yankee Candles

£8.99

These mini yankee candles make for great little gifts, they have lots of festive scents out at the minute. My favourites are Maple Gingerbread, Christmas Cookie and Snowflake Cookie.

4. The Library of Fragrance Perfumes

£15/ Boots deal 2 for £25

If you are looking to gift someone perfume this year, I highly recommend checking out The Library of Fragrances collection for some unique scents. Some

of my favourites are Waffles, Cinnamon Buns and Cotton Candy and yes, they do smell as good as they sound!

5. Sali Hughes 'Pretty Honest' Beauty Book

£14.95

This is a great addition to any beauty lovers bookcase, Sali Hughes talks frankly about the do's and don'ts of makeup and skincare. A great read with some eye opening tips!

6. Hurraw Lipbalms

£5

These little lipbalms are organic, vegan and made with raw ingredients that work

wonders to keep your lips smooth and hydrated in the colder months. They have some interesting flavours and also do a tinted range! 

7. Philosophy Mini Shower Gels

£8 each

These are always a festive favourite of mine, who doesn't love a luxury 3 in 1 bath product! These come in adorable Christmas tree decorations and come of a range of different scents. Snow angel is one of my favourites!

8. The Balm 'Mary Lou Manizer Luminizer'

£17.50

One of the most talked about highlighters of this year is bound to go down a treat! This highlighter packs a punch when it comes to adding a healthy glow to the skin. Not too mention, how cute is the packaging?! 

Carly x

A Month in Photos #4

1. Discovering new Ben & Jerrys icecream flavours, yum!

2. I have been really enjoying a new book i've finally gotten around to reading, 'The Kind Worth Killing' by Peter Swanson. If you love crime thrillers, I'd definate recommend picking this up.

3. Getting into the Halloween spirit and carving pumpkins with my boyfriend.

4.  Surprise flowers!

5. Finding pumpkin flavoured coffee at last. If you are looking for unique flavours of coffee, I recommend checking out TK Maxx. 

6. Seeing Father John Misty live was probably the highlight of the month, he is

wonderful live *swoon*

What have been your highlights of the month?

Carly x

My Autumn Lipstick Collection

I always choose more plum/burgundy shades over my usual nude or muted pink shades in the Autumn months. Here are some lipsticks that I have been wearing a lot recently.

Mac 'Plumful' (Lustre)

This is a really nice everyday wear lipstick, it gives a sheer wash of colour on the lips which makes it perfect for wearing during the day if you want a more natural look. It's a lovely medium 'pinkened' plum, the moisturizing formula makes it a comfortable lipstick to wear (especially if you suffer from dry lips like myself!) However as it's such a sheer lipstick it doesn't last very long on the lips but that doesn't bother me as I don't mind re applying every once in a while. 

Laura Geller in 'Rosato'

This is a lipstick with a bit of an added kick- it contains an anti-aging formula and is fortified with resveratrol and hyaluronic filling spheres (huh?) That is a bit over my head if i'm honest, but it does apply like a dream; it's a creamy, wine-scented lipsticks that glides over the lips smoothly. Once applied it transfers as a plum rose shade, it is one of the darker lipsticks that I own and I love wearing it for evenings out. 

No7 Moisture Drench in 'Plumful Beautiful'

I am having a bit of a love affair of sorts with No7 lipsticks at the minute, especially the moisture drench range. The formula is hydrating and long lasting- what's not too love? This has been my most recent addition and I love it! It's perfect for wearing during the day as it is something of a 'darkened nude.' It is, I hate to say it a 'your lips but better' kinda lipstick.

No7 Moisture Drench in 'Soft Earth'

This shade is quite similar to the Laura Geller 'Rosato' lipstick, however it is a little more coral. It is a warm toned lipstick that is perfect for paler skin. It's highly pigmented like 'plumful beautiful' and applies a full coverage in one application.

What are your favourite lipstick to wear in the Autumn?
Carly x

September Favourites

1. No7 Stay Perfect Foundation

This was a new purchase in September and have been wearing it on a daily basis, it provides long lasting coverage and is great for dehydrates skin!

2. Eau des Missions Cologne

This was a great find this month! I found this in TK Maxx and couldn't believe the price, £7 for 250ml!! It is a beautiful vanilla cologne which I have been wearing non stop, perfect for chilly Autumn days.

3. My ever growing Tsum Tsum collection

Yes, I am 5 years old, but look how cute they are!!

4. Caramel Nut Delight Coffee

This tastes...amazing!

5. Home Sweet Home by Yankee Candle

This is my 'go to' Autumn candle, it's the perfect cinnamon and spice scent and does a great job of making the whole house smell great!

6. The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde and Other Tales of Terror by Robert Louis Stevenson

I always like to read a few good horror stories during the months leading up to Halloween. This is a classic gothic novel, it's wondefully atmospheric and does a great job and leaving you feeling uneasy and creeped out. I highly recommend!

What are your September favourites?

Carly x

August Favourites

Bye August, hello September! 

Here are a few things I have been loving in August...

Paddywax 'Tobacco & Patchouli' candle

Ugh, this smells great! I've held of burning this little travel candle as I think it will be the perfect scent for cold autumnal nights- I can't wait!

Lush's 'Vanillary' perfume

If you've ever smelt Lushs Vanilla Dee-Lite body lotion, this is the perfume version. I do love a good vanilla scent when it comes to perfumes and this really packs a punch when it comes to giving you a dose of vanilla goodness!

No7 Moisture Drench Lipstick in Soft Earth

This has been my go to lipstick this month, it's the perfect everyday colour. It is great for an effortless pop of colour, nothing to dramatic for wearing during the day.

Heeled boots from Boohoo.com

These boots where an absolute steal at £12! I have been wearing them a lot this month as the summer here hasn't been...well...summery at all! They go great with every outfit and are super comfortable to walk in. This will definately be a staple for the coming months!

What have you been loving this month?

Carly x

July Favourites

Hi folks! I hope you all had a great month!

Here are a few things I have been loving this month.

I picked these up on a impromptu trip to Boots and got roped into their 3 for 2 deal. I wanted to give their hot cloth cleanser a go to see if it matches up to the much loved Liz Earle hot cloth cleanser (i've yet to try it) I also got the melting gel cleanser which I have used a few times and have really enjoy using it so far, it leaves my skin really soft after. Then for my free No7 product I picked up the early defense eye cream, just because I've ran out of my regular eye cream and wanted to give something else a go! I will report back on what I think in a future post!

TK Maxxs candle game is strong at the minute! I picked this up just because of the packaging, but i've been burning it non stop since! It's highly scented and smells earthy with a hint of ginger- perfect.

 

Paperchases silly postcards. Love them.

I've been reading The Girl on a Train this month and can't put it down. I'm only half way through and find the story compelling, a real page turner if you like thrillers. I won't say too much as it may give away the story, but it is worth picking up if you are looking for a new read. 

What have been your favourites this month?

Carly x

Updated Skin-Care Routine

Hi Folks! I hope you are all having a lovely Sunday! 

Today's post will be update on my current skin-care routine, I did a previous post about what I was using in February and only one product has stayed the same which is the cleanser which I use (Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish) so I thought it was about time I did an update! I am avid skin-care lover and love to try out new products, however I think I may have discovered my dream team of products that I have been using religiously the past few months.

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

This has become a staple in my morning routine, it is just so quick and easy to use if you are in a rush to get up and out too work. I also like to use it before cleansing in the evening, if i'm wearing more makeup that day to ensure i'm getting rid of absolutely all the products i've slapped on! It doesn't irritate my skin or leave it feeling dry and tight,  it's true to its word of being gentle enough to use on sensitive skin. I have used the Simple micellar water before and am happy enough to swap between that and the Garnier one- I find they both do an equally good job of what they are supposed to do!

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish: Hot Cloth Cleanser

I have already spoke about this in my past skincare routine, but it has become an absolute staple for me. I religiously use this every evening, even if i've had a makeup free day. It's so relaxing and feels incredibly pampering on the skin. After having a bad bout of hormonal acne a year or two ago, this cleanser was recommended to me and helped clear it up (along side an acne cream treatment prescribed by the doctor) I have continued in using this cleanser as i've been cautious in using anything else. However, I think i'm ready to explore alternate cream cleanser. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

Body Shops Vitamin E Hydrating Toner

I picked this up a few months ago when The Body Shop where having  a crazy online sale and had ran out of my Liz Earle Toner. I really enjoy using this toner and is great for dehydrated/dry skin, the consistency is different from any other toners I have used in the past, it has a slightly thicker texture which gives your skin the feeling of a moisture boost when applied. It is lightly scented and has added vitamin E which is great to help even out your skin tone and help reduce the appearance of scarring. I use this in the evening after cleansing. 

Liz Earle Skin Repair Moisturiser  (dry/sensitive skin)

I got this moisteriser a while ago and completely forgot I had it until my much loved Celestial Moisturiser from Lush ran out. They both have the exact same thick luxurious texture which I look for in moisturisers, however I think I may prefer the Liz Earle Skin Repair now I have been using it for a few weeks, it seems to hydrate my skin a lot better and sinks in a lot quicker than Lush's Celestial. It is rich in natural actives like borage oil (a rich source of essential fatty acid GLA) and natural antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamin E to replace lost moisture and help protect against dryness. I highly recommend this if you are after a hydrating moisturiser!

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo [+]

After reading some reviews online about this miracle product for troubled skin, I thought I would give it a go and I haven't been disappointed. I am now on my second tube of this stuff and it has become a holy grail product in my evening skin-care routine. I apply this after my toner and leave to sink in (for about 30 minutes) before I apply moisturiser and facial oil. This is an anti-blemish cream, specifically formulated to target the key signs of blemish-prone skin. It helps unclog pores and refines skins texture and is suitable for sensitive skin. There has definitely been a reduction in the amount of breakouts I get and my skin tone is looking more even after using this every night for a couple of months. It is a hydrating enough formula toskip moisturiser altogether after applying this. 

Clarins Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil

I have done a previous post about his face treatment oil so I'll just briefly tell you why I'm currently loving this. I use 3/4 drops of this in my evening routine after my moisturiser, it does a wonderful job of giving my skin an extra boost of hydration before bed and have noticed my skin looking more healthy and refreshed in the morning. Also, the smell of this oil makes it a step I look forward to in the evening, think patchouli and all things spa! It also has added hazelnut oil which helps prevent fine lines from appearing which I suppose in my late 20's is something I should start factoring into my skin-care routine. 

Boots Botanics Radiant Youth Microdermabrasion Polish

I picked this up on a bit of a whim in Boots a few months ago and have been using it once a week ever since. I only use this once a week as i'd find it a bit too harsh to use anymore than that as it's a pretty intense method of exfoliating your face. This is a micro polishing treatment which encourages cell renewal for younger looking, more radiant complexion. After I use this I find my skin does feel a whole lot smoother and soft and leaves a subtle glow. The first time I used this it felt very abrasive on my skin but after a few more uses it does feel a lot more comfortable. I found this has helped reduce the appearance of any scarring left from previous blemishes. Also, it is on offer at the minute for £5 in Boots, may have to stock up! :)

What are your favourite skin-care products?

Carly x

Korean Beauty Top Picks

I have been a big fan of Korean beauty products for a while now and thought i'd share some of my top picks! 

Peripera Cushion Blusher

This is an easy to use blush with a cushion applicator. It leaves a dewy, natural glow and is easily buildable if you prefer a fuller coverage of colour. As it's a creamy consistency it easily blendable and doesn't cake at all! 

If you are a bit cautious about applicators like these, rest assured that the cushion applicator is easily removed for cleaning and pops right back on, simple! 

This adorable blush comes in 5 different shades; Sweet Pink, Happy Coral, Cheerful Orange, Shy Pink and Lively Lavender.

Laneige Water Sleeping Pack EX

This is a truly inexpensive dupe for the Origins Skin Drink! You apply this before you go to bed and it helps hydrate, reduce signs of fatigue and creates a barrier to lock in moister for the day ahead. It is a light gel like texture, non sticky and leaves no residue and if that's not enough it is packed with essential oils (orange flower, rose, ylang-ylang, sandlewood) This combination helps the mind to relax and aids sleep.

Ingredients to note: 

Beta glucan- skin regeneration effect

Hunza Apricot Extract- Skin purification

Chestnut Extract- Improves skin texture

Ceramide SLN- Moister loss prevention

Innisfree Second Skin Mask 'anti-trouble'

If you like sheet masks, this is a great one to try! It helps clear 'troubled' skin, so anything from blemishes to dehydrated skin, this mask will help sort it out. One of the key ingredients is 'propolis' which type of bee glue (sounds a bit grim) but this resinous mixture is what honeybees collect from botanical sources, making a great natural source of antioxidants that helps skin to remain healthy and clear. The sheet itself is made from fermented soy bean which helps cool down the skin (by 5° c!) which is perfect for the hotter weather we are having at the minute!  Once left on between 10-15 minutes, remove the mask and pat in any remaining formula to allow it to absorb into the skin.

Peripera Pens Tint Milk

These are handy travel sized lip tint, that come in 3 lovely shades; milky peach, milky pink and milky lavender. These have a doe foot applicator that makes the tint glide easily on the lips, no patches in sight! It is also really hydrating on the lips and leaves a natural flush, so perfect for a day time lip colour. They smell like peach aswell, which is a nice extra! 

You can find all of these products on ebay! Hooray!

Have you ever tried any Korean beauty products?

Carly x

June Favourites

It's that time again! Seriously, where is this year going? Here are a few bits & bobs that I have been loving recently. 

Rituals 'Happy Hands Hydrating Hand Lotion' in mandarin and mint.

This is a lovely hand cream that I picked up on a bit of a whim while browsing in Rituals. It has an uplifting citrus and mint scent and is really hydrating and doesn't leave a sticky residue like so many other hand creams.

Revlon 'Colourburst Balm Stain' in Honey

This has been my go to everyday lip colour the past month, it has buildable colour and leaves a natural pink/mauve look on the lips. As it's a balm, it's really hydrating and doesn't dry out the lips at all. Also, it has a lovely peppermint scent which leaves the lips with that menthol tingle after applying.

MUA Makeup

I had a little splurge in Superdrugs MUA section a few days ago and picked up these gems (all for under £7!) I am enjoying using all of them so far but my favourite by far is the Matt Black Eyeliner. I think it maybe the best eyeliner i've used too date; easy application, matt black and the staying power of this eyeliner is amazing! 

Whistles slogan tee

My first ever Whistles purchase and i'm in love! 

Clarins 'Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil'

I recently picked up a trial size of this facial oil and was so impressed I had to get the full sized bottle. This is a great smelling oil that helps dehydrated skin, I tend too use this in the evening after my moisteriser. It's a real treat to use and look forward to this step in my evening routine.

Book i've been reading this month.

I've been meaning to read this for a few months now and have finally gotten around to it. I'm really enjoying it so far (i'm only 4 chapters deep) The story follows the story of seven generations of the Buendìa family and of Macondo, the town they have built. An insight of Colombian life, secrets and mysteries. 

What are your favourites this month?

Carly x

One for the candle addicts

Okay, first up, I have a confession...

I am a candle junkie.

If there is one thing that I am guaranteed to spend my money on this is it. I usually have at least two candles burning whilst i'm in the house, one in the bedroom and one in the living room. I tend to opt for more 'spa like' scents for the bedroom as it creates a nice ambient atmosphere when it comes to bed time. In the living space I love sweet smells, pretty much anything that smells like cake or pancakes...yum...

Todays post I will be recommending some tried and tested and loved candles.

The candle for sweet tooths

First up is the classic Yankee Candle 'Vanilla Cupcake'  this creates a warm, rich and creamy scent, heavy on the vanilla with a sprinkle of lemon. If you don't like sweet smells this candle probably isn't for you. It leaves your house smelling like you have just baked a fresh batch of vanilla cupcakes. If you pick up the large jar of this it will last you around 110-150 hours, completely worth the money if you ask me. The only problem with this candle is it will make you want to eat cake, and lots of it!

The candle for seaside lovers

If you've ever smelt Jo Malones 'Sea Salt and Wood Sage ' cologne, this candle smells exactly the same as that. Fresh

seaside top notes mixed with a woody earthy sage base. It's an uplifting scent and is great to light when you want to wind down after a long day. It is a tad on the pricey side but worth investing in.

The candle if you love the outdoors

The Paddywax Apothecary 'Amber and Smoke.'  I picked this up a while ago in Urban Outfitters and have a full review of it in a previous blog. The packaging of this candle alone is beautiful, it looks great and can add some character to an otherwise dull room. The scent is a deep, woodsey, slightly piney aroma and does a really great job of scenting your whole house. 

The candle for mint lovers

The illume 'Avocado and mint' is a soy based candle from Anthropology. It comes in a beautifully designed tin and oh boy! This smells great, refreshing and packed with cool mint. It has a strong scent that lingers hours after it has been blown out. It is very similar to The White

Company Wild Mint candle but for half the price.

What are your favourite candles?

Carly x

A Week in Photos #2

1. Picked up the Happy Buddha shower foam and Fortune shower scrub from

Rituals at a 50% off sale. These smell so

good- refreshing with a citrus zing!

2. Finally got my hands on two of my favourite films on dvd- 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty' and 'The Grand Budapest Hotel.' 

3. Checked out the degree show at University of Ulster last week, there was a lot of great work on show. This students work consisted of a large studio floor covered in fake flowers, it looked amazing.

4. My very talented bestest buddy painted me this great water colour portrait of Bill Murray from the Wes Anderson film 'Moonrise Kingdom.' I have it framed in my sitting room, love it!

5. H&M have some beautiful minimalistic jewellery in stores at the minute. I haven't taken off this rose gold layered necklace, it goes with everything and anything!

6. How cute are these mason jar candles? I picked up the scent Lemon Pound Cake and Pancakes & Maple Syrup. My house smells like a bakery now :) 

7. My first ever Whistles purchase. I will get a lot of wear out this top, it's soooo soft!

8. New Book. These little penguin classics are only 80p in Waterstones!

9. The weather has been great here so a lot of coffee has been consumed outside in the sun.

A Week in Photos

1. Getting a freshly brewed cappuccino brought to you in bed by a handsome bearded gentleman, I am spoiled.

2. How adorable is this pillow?! Picked this up for £6 in Tesco, bargain! 

3. Fresh yellow roses to brighten up our living room.

4. A recent addition to my ever growing book collection; Nourish 'mind body & soul.' This is a great little book covering healthy recipes, relaxation techniques and workout ideas.

5. I have been wearing this Breakfast in Bed top a lot recently, found it while rummaging through my local TK Maxx, it is the softest most comiest top I own, perfect for lazy days.

6. Coffee! Always.

7. I have been having a nostalgic music throwback recently, does anybody remember CSS? 

8. I love love love my Wall-E mugs I got last month for my birthday. How cute are they?

9. I love to pamper myself on a Sunday evening, to treat myself this week I picked up Lush's Twilight bath bomb. A seriously lovely smelling bomb worth checking out. 

Hope you have all had a lovely week :)

Carly x

Simple Everyday Makeup

Foundation: 

Bobbi Brown Moisture Rich Foundation with SPF

This a lovely light weight foundation with added moisture, perfect for dry skin sufferers like myself. It provides quite a sheer coverage but is easily buildable. I tend to apply this with my Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge, as it blends this foundation in seemlessly.

If i'm having a good skin day I just use this, but if I have some pesky blemishes I tend to reach for the trustworthy Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer.

Blusher:

Rimmel Stay Blushed Cream Blusher in pop of pink

This is such a quick and easy way to apply blush, forget using a brush to blend in, all you need to do is place a few drops

on your cheek bones and blend in with your fingertips. It adds a subtle and natural glow to the cheeks which works great with the foundation to create a dewy/fresh look.

Lush Feeling Younger Skin Tint

This is possibly my favourite highlighter that i've tried so far, which is quite a big statement as I have quite the collection of highlighters. It comes in a handy travel friendly glass pot, containing a sizeable amount of a gorgeous light reflecting cream highlight. A little goes a long way with this, so use it sparingly! 

Maybelline Colour Tattoo in permanent taupe

I'm sure you have heard a lot of hype around these cream eyeshadows and believe me when I say they really do live up to it! They blend so easily and last a long time on the lids without creasing. Permanent taupe is a coco brown

shade that is natural enough to wear in the day time. I also have this in on and on bronze, which is beautiful shimmery bronze which is perfect to switch to for evening makeup. 

Eyeko Skinny Black Liquid Eyeliner

I have been doing the cat flick eyeliner look for years now and has now become a part of my everyday makeup. I have tried my fair share of liquid eyeliner pens and this is one of my favourite, it's jet black with a slim nib that allows you to get real close to your eyelash line and makes it much easier to perfect the sometimes frustrating flick. Also, it lasts a long time without flaking- hooray! 

Etude House Drawing Eyebrow in Dark

Brown

This was a random ebay purchase and it has pleasantly surprised me, it's a retractable soft eyebrow pencil angled perfectly to help create natural eyebrow hairs to sparse areas and generally gives them a fuller more shaped look. It comes with a spooly on the other end which comes in handy quite a lot! Also, brace yourself, It was under £3- definately worth every penny!

Maybelline The Rocket Volume Mascara

I have a bit of a love hate relationship with this mascara, but recently I have been loving it. It's great for seperating lashes and giving them a good boost of volume. I do want to get my hands on Benefits Roller Lash, but i'm not sure if i'm willing to pay that much for a mascara, eep! 

Usually I will just apply some lipbalm and i'm good to go but if i'm feeling a bit fancy, i'll apply some of the Revlon Colour Burst balm stain in the shade honey, it is a perfect nudey pink colour and has a yummy peppermint smell. 

Carly x

May Favourites

Here are a few things that I have been loving this month

Avocado & Mint soya candle (Anthropology)

           Slogan Jumper (New Look)

            Mac lipstick in plumful

Lucy B Royal Egyptian Amber & Honeysuckle eau de parfum

Liz Earle limited edition cleanse & polish in grapefruit & patchouli 

What have you been loving this month?

Aesop Skincare Wishlist

Aesop has been on my radar for a while now, they are Melbourne based skincare and body brand that specialise in plant based and laboratory based ingredients.They have a wide range of products on offer, here are a few I will be picking up in the near future. 

Parsley Seed Cleansing Masque 60ml £27

I do love a good face mask to incorporate into my usual Sunday evening pamper routine. This is a clay based masque designed to deep clean sensitive or dry skin, it helps unclog pores and smooth out and refresh skin. It is so gentle that you can use it twice weekly, unlike other deep cleaning face masks. Also, I am a sucker for the packaging, how lovely does is it look? Swoon! 

Oil-Free Hydrating Face Serum 100ml £43

Next up is the oil-free hydrating face serum, this is targeted towards oily, combination or troubled skin and claims to be a great alternate to using a cream based moisteriser. It's packed full of antioxidants (vitamin B & C) and calming aloe vera. Apply straight after cleansing to boost skins hydration and help mattify your face before applying makeup. Can't wait too give this a go!

Parsley Seed Antioxidant Eye Cream 10ml £59

Lastly is an antioxidant eye cream, I have been on the hunt now for a good hydrating yet firming eye cream and may give this one a go. It's a potent cream packed full of vitamin C and E and offers extreme hydration to your delicate under eye area. It claims to sink in quickly and can be even applied to the whole face. 

Have you tried any Aesop products?

Carly x