June 2013 | ICT

01. Making things oficial with a fancy balloon | 02. Pancakes in bed for the Birthday Breakfast | 03. Sampling Essie's Summer Collection and loving these Midi Rings c/o Dixi | 04. Jamie's for lunch and quite possibly the best food I've ever tasted! | 05. Forget Birthday Cake, it's all about the cupcake mountain! | 06. My Dad showing off his mad photoshop skills with a personalised Coke bottle that finally has my name! | 07. Taking in the scenery on Regent Street | 08. My first absolutely delicious Ben's cookie | 09. MAC lipstick heaven | 10. Not one, not two but three Selfridges bags.. | 11. ..and their contents. | 12. A stop off at the Diner in Islington for dinner | 13. Haullomi burger and sweet potato fries, you were beautiful. | 14. Watching the sun set over the London Eye | 15. A late night Snog; Oreos, brownie, raspberries, heaven. | 16. St Paul's lit up at night from across the Thames | 17. Starting up bright and early on the second day.. | 18. ..which unfortunately ended up with a very long headache induced nap and a midnight McDonald's. | 19. We couldn't leave without visiting Bill's for breakfast. | 20. Blueberry pancakes with all the trimmings! | 21. Typical rainy london. | 22. ♥ | 23. Last shopping stop off at Liberty | 24. An entire shelf of Bioderma which made me very excited. | 25. The view from the Eye just before we left and a sad goodbye to the best City!

June 30, 2013

This Week #46

01. Making things oficial with a fancy balloon | 02. Pancakes in bed for the Birthday Breakfast | 03. Sampling Essie's Summer Collection and loving these Midi Rings c/o Dixi | 04. Jamie's for lunch and quite possibly the best food I've ever tasted! | 05. Forget Birthday Cake, it's all about the cupcake mountain! | 06. My Dad showing off his mad photoshop skills with a personalised Coke bottle that finally has my name! | 07. Taking in the scenery on Regent Street | 08. My first absolutely delicious Ben's cookie | 09. MAC lipstick heaven | 10. Not one, not two but three Selfridges bags.. | 11. ..and their contents. | 12. A stop off at the Diner in Islington for dinner | 13. Haullomi burger and sweet potato fries, you were beautiful. | 14. Watching the sun set over the London Eye | 15. A late night Snog; Oreos, brownie, raspberries, heaven. | 16. St Paul's lit up at night from across the Thames | 17. Starting up bright and early on the second day.. | 18. ..which unfortunately ended up with a very long headache induced nap and a midnight McDonald's. | 19. We couldn't leave without visiting Bill's for breakfast. | 20. Blueberry pancakes with all the trimmings! | 21. Typical rainy london. | 22. ♥ | 23. Last shopping stop off at Liberty | 24. An entire shelf of Bioderma which made me very excited. | 25. The view from the Eye just before we left and a sad goodbye to the best City!

This month I've taken a look back at the beauty posts featured on I Covet Thee in June.
Here's a roundup of 10 of the best for you to catch up on if you missed any!

(Click on an image to be taken to the original post)

01. A look at my warm weather make up picks and routine in the final edition of the Spring Edit.

02. A big gush about the moisturiser from Origins that's currently blowing all others out of the water.

03. Reminiscing about an old foundation favourite that I've luckily come across for possibly the last time.

04. Some of my must-have shower products for buffing, smoothing and making that body Summer ready!

05. A long overdue rave about the most hyped cleanser around at the moment from Emma Hardie.

06. I discover a love for all things pink and look at some of my favourite and easy to wear products in this bright shade.

07. Products have been finished left right and centre this month and I've put together a video of all my empties and make the decision whether or not I'd purchase them again.

08. Pre-cleaning has become a major part of my skincare routine and here I show you the three products for the job that I couldn't do without.

09. A short make up look featuring the six products I use when I need to be made up and out of the door in less than five minutes while still looking presentable.

10. A follow up to last month's Travel Make Up Bag, I give you an insight into all the skincare products I take with me for a weekend away.

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June 30, 2013

The Monthly Roundup: June

This month I've taken a look back at the beauty posts featured on I Covet Thee in June.
Here's a roundup of 10 of the best for you to catch up on if you missed any!

(Click on an image to be taken to the original post)

01. A look at my warm weather make up picks and routine in the final edition of the Spring Edit.

02. A big gush about the moisturiser from Origins that's currently blowing all others out of the water.

03. Reminiscing about an old foundation favourite that I've luckily come across for possibly the last time.

04. Some of my must-have shower products for buffing, smoothing and making that body Summer ready!

05. A long overdue rave about the most hyped cleanser around at the moment from Emma Hardie.

06. I discover a love for all things pink and look at some of my favourite and easy to wear products in this bright shade.

07. Products have been finished left right and centre this month and I've put together a video of all my empties and make the decision whether or not I'd purchase them again.

08. Pre-cleaning has become a major part of my skincare routine and here I show you the three products for the job that I couldn't do without.

09. A short make up look featuring the six products I use when I need to be made up and out of the door in less than five minutes while still looking presentable.

10. A follow up to last month's Travel Make Up Bag, I give you an insight into all the skincare products I take with me for a weekend away.

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This week I'm packing up my stash for a few days away in London and after showing you my Travel Make Up Bag from a previous trip away, I thought it was only fair to talk about skincare this time. I'm sure it's well documented that I like me some skincare products, but I've edited my collection down to just the essential and have unbelievably been able to get it into single figures while still ensuring I have everything I need to keep my skin on tip top condition for the next few days.

Bioderma Sensibo H20 Travel Size | Emma Hardie Cleansing Balm | This Works Fresh Skin Toner | Hydraluron Moisture Boost | Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 | Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask | Origins GinZing Eye Cream | NUXE Reve de Miel Lip Balm Stick

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June 24, 2013

Skincare Travel Routine: The Essentials

This week I'm packing up my stash for a few days away in London and after showing you my Travel Make Up Bag from a previous trip away, I thought it was only fair to talk about skincare this time. I'm sure it's well documented that I like me some skincare products, but I've edited my collection down to just the essential and have unbelievably been able to get it into single figures while still ensuring I have everything I need to keep my skin on tip top condition for the next few days.

Bioderma Sensibo H20 Travel Size | Emma Hardie Cleansing Balm | This Works Fresh Skin Toner | Hydraluron Moisture Boost | Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 | Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask | Origins GinZing Eye Cream | NUXE Reve de Miel Lip Balm Stick

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- Post in Association With New Look -

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

I'm pretty sure we can officially call it Summer now and even if the temperature outside isn't quite reflecting it yet there's nothing better to get yourself in a sunny mood than switching up your wardrobe and embracing some warm weather pieces.

June 23, 2013

New Look Summer Wishlist

- Post in Association With New Look -

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

I'm pretty sure we can officially call it Summer now and even if the temperature outside isn't quite reflecting it yet there's nothing better to get yourself in a sunny mood than switching up your wardrobe and embracing some warm weather pieces.

Marvelous Moxie Lipstick in Live it Up*, Lipgloss in Party Starter* and Lipliner in Thrilled*

Meet Marvellous Moxie, the new lip range from bareMinerals. A collection of 42 rich shades of Lipsticks, Glosses and Liners packed full of 'shameless sass, all-out spirit and plenty of attitude'.

I'm sure it's well documented by now that I'm a red lipstick girl, through and through and the shade Live it Up*, a vivid cherry red couldn't be more up my street. The formula is incredibly creamy and pigmented and one quick slick across the lips is all you need with this colour. It has a slight glossy finish which plumps no end and keeps hydration locked in with no skimping on the staying power.

The Lipgloss in Party Starter* is a perfect pinky coral thats surprisingly pigmented for a sheer gloss. The doe-foot applicator is long and pointed ensuring precision application. Infused with a list of butters including Shea and Avocado, this is another one that steps up the moisture with a smooth non-sticky formula, gliding on to leave a brilliant shine.

Last up, the Lipliner in Thrilled*. Extra points to this for the rubber grip leaving no room for inconvenient slip-ups. For me, liner works best when applied all over the lips to give an solid base for colour and the creamy texture allows for incredibly easily application. Hyaluronic spheres fill and define to effortlessly plump up and lock in colour for long lasting wear.

Wear alone or mixed together in any way you see fit, the whole range is available in stores now priced at £16 each. Go ahead and give your lips some Moxie!

Also Wearing:
Laura Mericer Silk Creme Foundation | Nars Laguna Bronzer
Nars Orgasm Blush | No7 Stay Precise Felt Tip Liner* | No7 Stay Perfect Mascara*

* Gifted PR Samples

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June 22, 2013

bareMinerals Marvelous Moxie

Marvelous Moxie Lipstick in Live it Up*, Lipgloss in Party Starter* and Lipliner in Thrilled*

Meet Marvellous Moxie, the new lip range from bareMinerals. A collection of 42 rich shades of Lipsticks, Glosses and Liners packed full of 'shameless sass, all-out spirit and plenty of attitude'.

I'm sure it's well documented by now that I'm a red lipstick girl, through and through and the shade Live it Up*, a vivid cherry red couldn't be more up my street. The formula is incredibly creamy and pigmented and one quick slick across the lips is all you need with this colour. It has a slight glossy finish which plumps no end and keeps hydration locked in with no skimping on the staying power.

The Lipgloss in Party Starter* is a perfect pinky coral thats surprisingly pigmented for a sheer gloss. The doe-foot applicator is long and pointed ensuring precision application. Infused with a list of butters including Shea and Avocado, this is another one that steps up the moisture with a smooth non-sticky formula, gliding on to leave a brilliant shine.

Last up, the Lipliner in Thrilled*. Extra points to this for the rubber grip leaving no room for inconvenient slip-ups. For me, liner works best when applied all over the lips to give an solid base for colour and the creamy texture allows for incredibly easily application. Hyaluronic spheres fill and define to effortlessly plump up and lock in colour for long lasting wear.

Wear alone or mixed together in any way you see fit, the whole range is available in stores now priced at £16 each. Go ahead and give your lips some Moxie!

Also Wearing:
Laura Mericer Silk Creme Foundation | Nars Laguna Bronzer
Nars Orgasm Blush | No7 Stay Precise Felt Tip Liner* | No7 Stay Perfect Mascara*

* Gifted PR Samples

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More often than not, whether it's due to oversleeping or not being able to stop scrolling though the Bloglovin' app, I find my self out of time and in need of a seriously quick make up fix. While I do love to experiment with my vast cosmetic collection, I'm more than happy to grab a handful of tried and tested products and be out the door most days when only a semi-presentable face is necessary. I've got it down to a six item affair, completely brush free, five minutes max. See everything I use and how it's applied below!

Seventeen On the Spot Foundation | Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer Kit | Smashbox Brow Tech To Go | Maybelline Baby Lips in Coral Crush | MAC Coffee Eye Pencil | No7 Stay Perfect Mascara*

* Gifted Sample

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June 19, 2013

Grab and Go Make Up

More often than not, whether it's due to oversleeping or not being able to stop scrolling though the Bloglovin' app, I find my self out of time and in need of a seriously quick make up fix. While I do love to experiment with my vast cosmetic collection, I'm more than happy to grab a handful of tried and tested products and be out the door most days when only a semi-presentable face is necessary. I've got it down to a six item affair, completely brush free, five minutes max. See everything I use and how it's applied below!

Seventeen On the Spot Foundation | Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer Kit | Smashbox Brow Tech To Go | Maybelline Baby Lips in Coral Crush | MAC Coffee Eye Pencil | No7 Stay Perfect Mascara*

* Gifted Sample

YouTube | Twitter | Bloglovin' | Facebook | Instagram

As odd as it may seem, cleansing has to be the favourite step in my skincare routine and I like to make sure I do as thorough a job as possible. Favourites of the moment include Emma Hardie, REN and of course a pump of good old Liz Earle, however its the steps I take 'pre-cleanse' that help me get the most out of them.

When time is a little short a cotton pad soaked micellar water, this months favourite being the La Roche-Posay Physiological Micellar Solution*, quickly sweeps away the majority of make up and dirt lying on the surface while also adding a cooling boost to tired skin. For something a little deeper however I go for a cleansing oil and after recently discovering Origins Clean Energy comes with a pump (which is annoyingly sold separately), thus making things ten times easier it's become one of my bathroom shelf staples. I massage a palm full all over dry skin and watch as makeup literally melts away. A quick splash of water and the product emulsifies, leaving my skin plumped, moisturised and ready for a second, deeper cleanse.

Last up I like to prep my skin with a mist of the La-Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water, a tip I picked up from Isabelle Bellis's 'How to Clean Your Face' series for Into the Gloss which I highly recommend viewing, pen and paper in hand if you haven't done so already. This step softens and prepares the skin and also acts as a tap water neutraliser post-cleanse.

A quick, but necessary routine that I find not only ensures thoroughly clean skin, but saves the amount of actual cleanser needed to do the job. Do you have a pre-cleanse ritual?

* Gifted PR Samples

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June 18, 2013

The Pre-Cleanse

As odd as it may seem, cleansing has to be the favourite step in my skincare routine and I like to make sure I do as thorough a job as possible. Favourites of the moment include Emma Hardie, REN and of course a pump of good old Liz Earle, however its the steps I take 'pre-cleanse' that help me get the most out of them.

When time is a little short a cotton pad soaked micellar water, this months favourite being the La Roche-Posay Physiological Micellar Solution*, quickly sweeps away the majority of make up and dirt lying on the surface while also adding a cooling boost to tired skin. For something a little deeper however I go for a cleansing oil and after recently discovering Origins Clean Energy comes with a pump (which is annoyingly sold separately), thus making things ten times easier it's become one of my bathroom shelf staples. I massage a palm full all over dry skin and watch as makeup literally melts away. A quick splash of water and the product emulsifies, leaving my skin plumped, moisturised and ready for a second, deeper cleanse.

Last up I like to prep my skin with a mist of the La-Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water, a tip I picked up from Isabelle Bellis's 'How to Clean Your Face' series for Into the Gloss which I highly recommend viewing, pen and paper in hand if you haven't done so already. This step softens and prepares the skin and also acts as a tap water neutraliser post-cleanse.

A quick, but necessary routine that I find not only ensures thoroughly clean skin, but saves the amount of actual cleanser needed to do the job. Do you have a pre-cleanse ritual?

* Gifted PR Samples

YouTube | Twitter | Bloglovin' | Facebook | Instagram

I've actually surprised myself at how quickly this amount of used up product has accumulated since the last Empties instalment, but after coming to terms with the fact that I own far too many cosmetics it was time to perceiver through those near empty bottles and scrape out that final dregs before I got my hands on anything new. As well as those who's time had come, I've also gone through a few well loved products that I can tell are going to be sorely missed, if not scribbled down on the repurchase list right away!

Hydraluron Moisture Boost | EVE LOM Cleansing Balm* | Balance Me Wonder Eye Cream | La Roche-Posay Effaclar M | Estée Lauder Daywear Moisturiser | Redken All Soft Shampoo | Redken All Soft Conditioner | L'Oréal Elnett Volume Heat Styling Spray | Batiste Original Dry Shampoo | Philosophy Pumpkin Pie Bath & Shower Gel | Jemma Kidd Light As Air Foundation

* Gifted PR Samples

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June 14, 2013

Products I've Used Up: The Third Instalment

I've actually surprised myself at how quickly this amount of used up product has accumulated since the last Empties instalment, but after coming to terms with the fact that I own far too many cosmetics it was time to perceiver through those near empty bottles and scrape out that final dregs before I got my hands on anything new. As well as those who's time had come, I've also gone through a few well loved products that I can tell are going to be sorely missed, if not scribbled down on the repurchase list right away!

Hydraluron Moisture Boost | EVE LOM Cleansing Balm* | Balance Me Wonder Eye Cream | La Roche-Posay Effaclar M | Estée Lauder Daywear Moisturiser | Redken All Soft Shampoo | Redken All Soft Conditioner | L'Oréal Elnett Volume Heat Styling Spray | Batiste Original Dry Shampoo | Philosophy Pumpkin Pie Bath & Shower Gel | Jemma Kidd Light As Air Foundation

* Gifted PR Samples

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Pink is something I usually avoid when it comes to make up. I'm a big fan of coral hued variations of the shade, maybe even a pale pastel, but when it comes to full blown pink I tend to shy away. Recently though I've been reaching for this stand out colour over and over again.

It all started with a purchase of Sleek's Candy Collection Sweet Cheeks Blush By Three, an ingenious little palette that contains a cream blush and two powder shades all in the same colour family, this one being a delectable candy pink. As with all Sleek blushes the pigmentation is brilliant requiring only a light sweep across the apples of the cheeks to create bold colour. For times when I've wanted something a little more subtle I've been reaching for the Dainty Doll blush in My Girl. Designed for pales skins, this one can be layered and blended without fear of the dreaded 'over-blush' and gives a natural soft flush.

I've even been teaming pink cheeks with pink lips and both MAC's Girl About Town and Revlon's Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Lovesick have been serving me well. The former I like to pair with a simple base and just mascara on the eyes so the lips have all the attention and the latter has become a handbag staple, coming with me wherever I go for a quick top up of a moisture enriched fuchsia hue.

I've also been drawn to pink for nails, Rimmel's Rose Libertine being one of my current favourites, but it's Barry M's Bright Pink that takes the ticket for the perfect dolly shade which not only oozes Summery fun but when teamed with some gold midi rings looks quite sophisticated in my eyes.

Will you be breaking out the Pink this Summer?

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June 13, 2013

All About Pink

Pink is something I usually avoid when it comes to make up. I'm a big fan of coral hued variations of the shade, maybe even a pale pastel, but when it comes to full blown pink I tend to shy away. Recently though I've been reaching for this stand out colour over and over again.

It all started with a purchase of Sleek's Candy Collection Sweet Cheeks Blush By Three, an ingenious little palette that contains a cream blush and two powder shades all in the same colour family, this one being a delectable candy pink. As with all Sleek blushes the pigmentation is brilliant requiring only a light sweep across the apples of the cheeks to create bold colour. For times when I've wanted something a little more subtle I've been reaching for the Dainty Doll blush in My Girl. Designed for pales skins, this one can be layered and blended without fear of the dreaded 'over-blush' and gives a natural soft flush.

I've even been teaming pink cheeks with pink lips and both MAC's Girl About Town and Revlon's Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Lovesick have been serving me well. The former I like to pair with a simple base and just mascara on the eyes so the lips have all the attention and the latter has become a handbag staple, coming with me wherever I go for a quick top up of a moisture enriched fuchsia hue.

I've also been drawn to pink for nails, Rimmel's Rose Libertine being one of my current favourites, but it's Barry M's Bright Pink that takes the ticket for the perfect dolly shade which not only oozes Summery fun but when teamed with some gold midi rings looks quite sophisticated in my eyes.

Will you be breaking out the Pink this Summer?

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Alright, you've got me! I've finally caved and decided to talk about the most hyped beauty product since the Naked palette came to town, the Emma Hardie Amazing Face Natural Lift and Sculpt Moringa Cleansing Balm (and breathe). I've always loved a good rich balm to massage into my skin and melt away everything that shouldn't be there. My first love came in the form of the Botanics Organic Cleansing Balm, then they changed the formula and it just wasn't that great anymore. After that I thought the EVE LOM Cleansing Balm was the one for me until on a recent Caroline Hirons inspired crusade to rid Mineral Oil from my skincare routine, I found out that it did in fact contain it and the search continued.

I received my first little tub of this beauty via a Feel Unique Beauty Box a long time ago, thought it was pretty darn good, then completely forgot about it. Meanwhile the entire beauty world couldn't get enough of the stuff and it wasn't until I was alerted to an amazing offer from QVC (basically offering buy one get half free) that I jumped at the chance to fall back in love with the cleanser everyone's gone dotty over.

It contains Moringa seed extract, Wild Sea Fennel and Vitamin E to balance, purify and help minimise open pores, Orange, Neroli and Mandarin extracts to rejuvenate and revitalise and Jasmine, Cedarwood and Rose to recondition dull, dry, dehydrated skin. The great thing about this cleansing balm is that it balances the right amount of richness with a product that doesn't feel overly heavy when applied. The smell is also something that wows me and I find this very relaxing to use in the evening as I scrub the day away. Not only does it remove every trace of makeup from my skin, it also plumps it up and leaves me with what I can only describe as a fresh 'glow'.

A few qualms would certainly be the temperamental packaging, lid leakage (which as you can see has already happened to my larger pot) being the most annoying aspect of this and of course at a steep £34.00, the price! I'm definitely a believer in investing when it comes to skincare though, and for what it does I certainly wouldn't hesitate in paying out for it again and again.

Have you tried the Emma Hardie Cleansing Balm? What are your thoughts?

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June 11, 2013

The Emma Hardie Family

Alright, you've got me! I've finally caved and decided to talk about the most hyped beauty product since the Naked palette came to town, the Emma Hardie Amazing Face Natural Lift and Sculpt Moringa Cleansing Balm (and breathe). I've always loved a good rich balm to massage into my skin and melt away everything that shouldn't be there. My first love came in the form of the Botanics Organic Cleansing Balm, then they changed the formula and it just wasn't that great anymore. After that I thought the EVE LOM Cleansing Balm was the one for me until on a recent Caroline Hirons inspired crusade to rid Mineral Oil from my skincare routine, I found out that it did in fact contain it and the search continued.

I received my first little tub of this beauty via a Feel Unique Beauty Box a long time ago, thought it was pretty darn good, then completely forgot about it. Meanwhile the entire beauty world couldn't get enough of the stuff and it wasn't until I was alerted to an amazing offer from QVC (basically offering buy one get half free) that I jumped at the chance to fall back in love with the cleanser everyone's gone dotty over.

It contains Moringa seed extract, Wild Sea Fennel and Vitamin E to balance, purify and help minimise open pores, Orange, Neroli and Mandarin extracts to rejuvenate and revitalise and Jasmine, Cedarwood and Rose to recondition dull, dry, dehydrated skin. The great thing about this cleansing balm is that it balances the right amount of richness with a product that doesn't feel overly heavy when applied. The smell is also something that wows me and I find this very relaxing to use in the evening as I scrub the day away. Not only does it remove every trace of makeup from my skin, it also plumps it up and leaves me with what I can only describe as a fresh 'glow'.

A few qualms would certainly be the temperamental packaging, lid leakage (which as you can see has already happened to my larger pot) being the most annoying aspect of this and of course at a steep £34.00, the price! I'm definitely a believer in investing when it comes to skincare though, and for what it does I certainly wouldn't hesitate in paying out for it again and again.

Have you tried the Emma Hardie Cleansing Balm? What are your thoughts?

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Theres nothing like a good bargain on a Monday morning to set you up for the week and although I'm not an avid magazine collector like some, I do have a good browse at the start of the month to hunt out any sample steals. This month's instant 'Yep, I'll have that' moment came from Marie Claire which for £3.80 not only includes the chunky mag itself but a Ciaté Caviar Mini Set.

Having tried a few of these thanks to the Ciaté Advent Calendar this past Christmas I know the formulas are great and the colour combinations work well together. This set contains one of my all time favourite nude shades, Cookies & Cream and the Shooting Star Caviar Pearls. I prefer to use these as an accent nail and the two colours work together for that perfect chic mannequin look with a hint of gold sparkle.

A few other great magazine freebies on offer this month include a Rodial Brazilian Tan Clear with Elle, a choice of four different Models Co. lip and eye products with Glamour, a Nails Inc. Polish with In Style and those are just the ones I can remember from my quick browse this morning!

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June 10, 2013

Bargain Buy: The Magazine Freebie

Theres nothing like a good bargain on a Monday morning to set you up for the week and although I'm not an avid magazine collector like some, I do have a good browse at the start of the month to hunt out any sample steals. This month's instant 'Yep, I'll have that' moment came from Marie Claire which for £3.80 not only includes the chunky mag itself but a Ciaté Caviar Mini Set.

Having tried a few of these thanks to the Ciaté Advent Calendar this past Christmas I know the formulas are great and the colour combinations work well together. This set contains one of my all time favourite nude shades, Cookies & Cream and the Shooting Star Caviar Pearls. I prefer to use these as an accent nail and the two colours work together for that perfect chic mannequin look with a hint of gold sparkle.

A few other great magazine freebies on offer this month include a Rodial Brazilian Tan Clear with Elle, a choice of four different Models Co. lip and eye products with Glamour, a Nails Inc. Polish with In Style and those are just the ones I can remember from my quick browse this morning!

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After a good few months of solely spending money on beauty products, skincare and cosmetics and yet complaining I had nothing to wear, I decided it was about time to forget the topsy turvy weather we're experiencing in England at the moment and set myself the task of finding some serious Summer pieces. See what I bought below!

June 10, 2013

Summer Highstreet Clothing Haul

After a good few months of solely spending money on beauty products, skincare and cosmetics and yet complaining I had nothing to wear, I decided it was about time to forget the topsy turvy weather we're experiencing in England at the moment and set myself the task of finding some serious Summer pieces. See what I bought below!

As much as I love a good bath the process of pouring, adding various lotions and potions, getting in and then actually enjoying it is just far too time consuming for my daily routine and therefore gets reserved for special occasions. Showers are a lot more convenient but I'm not one to skimp on the preening aspect of a soak and have found some quick fixes that leave me feeling just as pampered.

Soap & Glory Pulp Friction: Exfoliating can be a messy business but Soap and Glory's Pulp Friction makes light work of it. It's foaming scrub which clings to the skin and gives a thorough exfoliation without having to worry about half the product ending up on the floor. The stand alone tube is also a big plus, no awkward scooping required here!

Venus & Olay Razor: Venus have teamed up with Olay to created a razor thats all about moisture. I'll usually pick up whatever's on offer but the two large moisture bars packed with a rich skin conditioner not only eliminate the need for a separate shave product but leave legs beyond super smooth. A product that not only works, but saves you money? Check.

Nivea In-Shower Bosy Moisturiser: To me moisturising after a shower is necessary but an absolute chore. The like minded buffs at Nivea seem to have cottoned on to this as they've just released the In-shower Body Moisturiser. A similar idea to Shower Oils but with a with a thicker cream texture, I use this all over after cleansing the skin, wait a minute or so then wash it off. Although at first it may feel like it's not done much, once you've towelled off the hydration it injects becomes apparent and body lotion can be skipped all together!

Charles Worthington Volume Treatment: While the body maintenance is going on I usually multi-task with a hair masque. On the spotlight at the moment is the Charles Worthington Instant Amplifying Volume Treatment, a rinse-off weightless jelly that I use in place of conditioner every time I feel like my hair could do with an extra boost. The gel texture infuses each individual hair fibre with Collagen, plumping it up substantially without leaving any residue.

What are your in-shower must haves?

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June 07, 2013

The In-Shower Quick Fixes

As much as I love a good bath the process of pouring, adding various lotions and potions, getting in and then actually enjoying it is just far too time consuming for my daily routine and therefore gets reserved for special occasions. Showers are a lot more convenient but I'm not one to skimp on the preening aspect of a soak and have found some quick fixes that leave me feeling just as pampered.

Soap & Glory Pulp Friction: Exfoliating can be a messy business but Soap and Glory's Pulp Friction makes light work of it. It's foaming scrub which clings to the skin and gives a thorough exfoliation without having to worry about half the product ending up on the floor. The stand alone tube is also a big plus, no awkward scooping required here!

Venus & Olay Razor: Venus have teamed up with Olay to created a razor thats all about moisture. I'll usually pick up whatever's on offer but the two large moisture bars packed with a rich skin conditioner not only eliminate the need for a separate shave product but leave legs beyond super smooth. A product that not only works, but saves you money? Check.

Nivea In-Shower Bosy Moisturiser: To me moisturising after a shower is necessary but an absolute chore. The like minded buffs at Nivea seem to have cottoned on to this as they've just released the In-shower Body Moisturiser. A similar idea to Shower Oils but with a with a thicker cream texture, I use this all over after cleansing the skin, wait a minute or so then wash it off. Although at first it may feel like it's not done much, once you've towelled off the hydration it injects becomes apparent and body lotion can be skipped all together!

Charles Worthington Volume Treatment: While the body maintenance is going on I usually multi-task with a hair masque. On the spotlight at the moment is the Charles Worthington Instant Amplifying Volume Treatment, a rinse-off weightless jelly that I use in place of conditioner every time I feel like my hair could do with an extra boost. The gel texture infuses each individual hair fibre with Collagen, plumping it up substantially without leaving any residue.

What are your in-shower must haves?

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It was a sad, sad day when Jemma Kidd announced it was going into administration and would no longer be selling their coveted Light as Air foundation. Quite possibly the perfect adaptable medium coverage base, with the ability to be buffed out for a soft natural look but built up to give a flawless yet incredibly weightless finish. I didn't think of buying a backup until it was too late and my shade, 01 Ultra Light, was nowhere to be found. Every so often I'd search around possibly all of the internet to no avail, until last week when to my disbelief a brand new unopened bottle in my colour popped up on eBay.

I still have two very nearly empty tubes that my hoarding ways I can't bear to part with, making this probably the only foundation I've repurchased three times. I've been saving the very last dregs of those for special occasions, but have now been a little less hesitant and have worn it almost daily. I've definitely fallen head over heels again and I don't quite know what I'll do when the third and most probably final bottle runs out. All we can do is hope that one day, Light as Air and the rest of the brilliant Jemma Kidd range is back on the shelves and not just in our memories!

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June 05, 2013

Rediscovering An Old Friend: Jemma Kidd

It was a sad, sad day when Jemma Kidd announced it was going into administration and would no longer be selling their coveted Light as Air foundation. Quite possibly the perfect adaptable medium coverage base, with the ability to be buffed out for a soft natural look but built up to give a flawless yet incredibly weightless finish. I didn't think of buying a backup until it was too late and my shade, 01 Ultra Light, was nowhere to be found. Every so often I'd search around possibly all of the internet to no avail, until last week when to my disbelief a brand new unopened bottle in my colour popped up on eBay.

I still have two very nearly empty tubes that my hoarding ways I can't bear to part with, making this probably the only foundation I've repurchased three times. I've been saving the very last dregs of those for special occasions, but have now been a little less hesitant and have worn it almost daily. I've definitely fallen head over heels again and I don't quite know what I'll do when the third and most probably final bottle runs out. All we can do is hope that one day, Light as Air and the rest of the brilliant Jemma Kidd range is back on the shelves and not just in our memories!

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Although I may be known as a down-right beauty obsessive I do have some constraint when it comes to purchasing all of my heart's desires. Every once in a while however, a product comes along that I just can't stop myself buying and when I discovered Origins were bring out a GinZing Moisturiser it's pretty needless to say that it was in the cart and purchased in under a minute.

I've always been a big fan of the original GinZing Eye Cream, light enough to wear under make up but packed with moisture in an excellent de-puffing and brightening formula. That all sounds wonderful on paper but theres something else about this range that I can just count on to work when I need it to and I've always wondered why they haven't expanded it into a wider product base. Step in GinZing Energy-Boosting Moisturiser.

The consistency is very light, almost bordering on gel-like thanks to it's oil free formula. I've had a tiny problem in the past with Origins moisturisers not working in easily enough but this one glides on like a dream and only the smallest amount is needed to cover the entire face. Packed with skin boosting ingredients including Ginseng and Caffeine, the scent is a deliciously fruity and invigorating combination, perfect for a perk up in the morning where I can actually see the brightening effect it has on my dull, just-woken-up skin.

I find it works as a great base for make up on my slightly combination skin, keeping oil at bay but still upping the moisture in dryer areas. I don't personally find it hydrating enough to wear overnight though where I need to pack on something a lot richer and oil based to keep my skin satisfied but I'm more than happy to reserve this for mornings when my skin needs a good boost.

Have you tried the GinZing moisturiser yet? What's your favourite Origins product?

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June 03, 2013

The GinZing Duo from Origins

Although I may be known as a down-right beauty obsessive I do have some constraint when it comes to purchasing all of my heart's desires. Every once in a while however, a product comes along that I just can't stop myself buying and when I discovered Origins were bring out a GinZing Moisturiser it's pretty needless to say that it was in the cart and purchased in under a minute.

I've always been a big fan of the original GinZing Eye Cream, light enough to wear under make up but packed with moisture in an excellent de-puffing and brightening formula. That all sounds wonderful on paper but theres something else about this range that I can just count on to work when I need it to and I've always wondered why they haven't expanded it into a wider product base. Step in GinZing Energy-Boosting Moisturiser.

The consistency is very light, almost bordering on gel-like thanks to it's oil free formula. I've had a tiny problem in the past with Origins moisturisers not working in easily enough but this one glides on like a dream and only the smallest amount is needed to cover the entire face. Packed with skin boosting ingredients including Ginseng and Caffeine, the scent is a deliciously fruity and invigorating combination, perfect for a perk up in the morning where I can actually see the brightening effect it has on my dull, just-woken-up skin.

I find it works as a great base for make up on my slightly combination skin, keeping oil at bay but still upping the moisture in dryer areas. I don't personally find it hydrating enough to wear overnight though where I need to pack on something a lot richer and oil based to keep my skin satisfied but I'm more than happy to reserve this for mornings when my skin needs a good boost.

Have you tried the GinZing moisturiser yet? What's your favourite Origins product?

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Last weekend Darren and I were lucky enough to be put up in Avisford Park, Arundel by Hilton Hotels as part of their Rediscover Hilton campaign. You probably saw me relentlessly tweeting and instagraming things over the two days and we had a wonderful time. The place itself is a beautiful white building, set in vast rolling fields and next to a large golf course. Amongst the city of Chichester (which we nipped into on the way home, beauty splurge details here) and the sparkling Brighton seaside which are both just short trips from the hotel, Goodwood Race Course is also one of the main attractions when visiting.

We arrived in the mid-afternoon and were treated to a few snacks in our room before heading down to dinner at the English Cedar restaurant. The food was gorgeous, definitely worth the hour wait for each course and we finished it all off in the lounge area with a comfy sofa and a giant Knickerbocker Glory between us. After making the difficult trip up two flights of stairs with an overindulged stomach I set up camp in the bathroom, poured myself a steaming bath and with the help of a Lush Butterball, sat back and felt the most relaxed I have in a long time.

After the late night in the restaurant we decided to treat ourselves and have breakfast sent to the room. I don't think there's anything quite as wonderful as having an enormous tray of every breakfast food you could think of delivered directly to your bed while you snuggle up in a white fluffy robe and matching slippers.

After finally packing up and saying our goodbyes at noon (a late checkout time is always a good thing in my book) we hopped in the car and drove the five minutes down the road to Arundel. As it's only short journey from home, I spent a lot of time there as a child and love going back to visit. It's a small town full of beautiful old architecture, antique shops, cute cafes and of course the majestic Arundel Castle sitting on top the hill overlooking it all. We popped into one of my favourites shops, Sparks Yard for a browse at their American food section (where I may have bought a Butterfinger..) and a little snack which included the best Oreo milkshake I've ever tasted. We even managed to fit in a round of pitch and putt, which all those who have visited Arundel should be familiar with!

It was a wonderful weekend and the beautiful Bank Holiday sun made it all the better. You never realise how much a night away can benefit you until it's actually happened. I'm definitely going to make an effort to take more trips like this and I really encourage you to as well. To help you out with this Hilton are offering one lucky reader the chance to win a £100 voucher to use at any of their UK Hotels, all you have to do is enter below and I will announce the winner in one week's time!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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June 02, 2013

Rediscover Hilton: Avisford Park, Arundel (Plus a Giveaway!)

Last weekend Darren and I were lucky enough to be put up in Avisford Park, Arundel by Hilton Hotels as part of their Rediscover Hilton campaign. You probably saw me relentlessly tweeting and instagraming things over the two days and we had a wonderful time. The place itself is a beautiful white building, set in vast rolling fields and next to a large golf course. Amongst the city of Chichester (which we nipped into on the way home, beauty splurge details here) and the sparkling Brighton seaside which are both just short trips from the hotel, Goodwood Race Course is also one of the main attractions when visiting.

We arrived in the mid-afternoon and were treated to a few snacks in our room before heading down to dinner at the English Cedar restaurant. The food was gorgeous, definitely worth the hour wait for each course and we finished it all off in the lounge area with a comfy sofa and a giant Knickerbocker Glory between us. After making the difficult trip up two flights of stairs with an overindulged stomach I set up camp in the bathroom, poured myself a steaming bath and with the help of a Lush Butterball, sat back and felt the most relaxed I have in a long time.

After the late night in the restaurant we decided to treat ourselves and have breakfast sent to the room. I don't think there's anything quite as wonderful as having an enormous tray of every breakfast food you could think of delivered directly to your bed while you snuggle up in a white fluffy robe and matching slippers.

After finally packing up and saying our goodbyes at noon (a late checkout time is always a good thing in my book) we hopped in the car and drove the five minutes down the road to Arundel. As it's only short journey from home, I spent a lot of time there as a child and love going back to visit. It's a small town full of beautiful old architecture, antique shops, cute cafes and of course the majestic Arundel Castle sitting on top the hill overlooking it all. We popped into one of my favourites shops, Sparks Yard for a browse at their American food section (where I may have bought a Butterfinger..) and a little snack which included the best Oreo milkshake I've ever tasted. We even managed to fit in a round of pitch and putt, which all those who have visited Arundel should be familiar with!

It was a wonderful weekend and the beautiful Bank Holiday sun made it all the better. You never realise how much a night away can benefit you until it's actually happened. I'm definitely going to make an effort to take more trips like this and I really encourage you to as well. To help you out with this Hilton are offering one lucky reader the chance to win a £100 voucher to use at any of their UK Hotels, all you have to do is enter below and I will announce the winner in one week's time!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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