tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12700116506878284812024-02-07T18:40:01.208+00:00Squares - Bookworm and Beauty EnthusiastSquareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.comBlogger72125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-43955576451016759082014-05-26T22:29:00.000+01:002014-05-26T22:30:02.913+01:00#UltrabondChallenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LkIdKpi7sVDLfywMd_t8waoOPgpCCgd-YQlt3SCznMqH1V-nYmMZeAbaic4U6adq5pXzHzgzvYHLY4E2eNla9oPAuVbOL3MwUcGIIdBXS7FNznFYiSHrxxkoEBtFJBWq6qPZdlPq3Yo/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LkIdKpi7sVDLfywMd_t8waoOPgpCCgd-YQlt3SCznMqH1V-nYmMZeAbaic4U6adq5pXzHzgzvYHLY4E2eNla9oPAuVbOL3MwUcGIIdBXS7FNznFYiSHrxxkoEBtFJBWq6qPZdlPq3Yo/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love falsies. Whether to add a bit of drama to a look, or just to give that perfectly polished feel, there's no end to what lashes can do for your eyes and for your confidence. I don't, however, like the tricky process of applying. Once they're on, they look fantastic, but trimming them to size, making sure they match, and getting them to stay put are a bit of an ordeal that I usually just reserve for special occasions. Thankfully, <b><a href="http://www.nouveaubeautygroup.com/lashes/" target="_blank">Nouveau Lashes</a></b> have formulated a great latex free glue which makes the lengthy application process a little more worthwhile. And last Bank Holiday weekend, I joined 50 bbloggers taking part in the <b>#UltrabondChallenge</b>, in which we put the <b>Ultrabond Strip Lash Adhesive</b> through its paces, spending 48 hours looking glam in our false lashes. Documenting the challenge in a couple of selfies, I'll be the first to admit, I was extremely sceptical, but I was far from the only one who made it to the end. So, here's to an amazing new lash glue, and let me tell you how I got on. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwXVhbtsCLB7ZVsJgPCb_AYRoD-6ST12U_9ZhFnpB0EBghh-tmHJiLrhQQ-2xvRPYFYzUV_YrdhH2zAvBIP7kQsz3zg3SNpY4TIOsyQbV6pwNV7cXCSXytADaPsjU-LLUd_Ck7BMJALy0/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwXVhbtsCLB7ZVsJgPCb_AYRoD-6ST12U_9ZhFnpB0EBghh-tmHJiLrhQQ-2xvRPYFYzUV_YrdhH2zAvBIP7kQsz3zg3SNpY4TIOsyQbV6pwNV7cXCSXytADaPsjU-LLUd_Ck7BMJALy0/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Day 1:</div>
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After a busy day at work, I came home and applied the <b>Nouveau Lashes</b>. The glue is a little different than a normal adhesive, as it takes a while until it's ready to go on the lash line, and remains slightly tacky after application. Once I'd gotten used to this, however, I was away. The lashes themselves were great; super lightweight, and the perfect lash for dressing up for evening or just wearing casually throughout the day. It's a good job too, as I would be wearing them day and night for the duration of the weekend! After carefully taking off my makeup at the end of the night (the part I was most apprehensive about), the falsies hadn't budged. Granted, I did use a micellar water and a very gentle touch, and I did have to remove a little cotton pad debris from the lashes. Still, an impressive feat for any lash glue.</div>
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Day 2:</div>
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The following day, I was pleased to wake up and discover that my lashes were still in place. After a very tentative shower, I readied myself for a 12 hour shift at work. And apart from a few comments about getting a little too dressed up for a day of serving drinks, the shift was uneventful, and the lashes behaved themselves for the whole 12 hours. Though the rest of my makeup was struggling by this point, my lashes were still going strong as I locked up for the night. </div>
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Day 3:</div>
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The lashes were starting to come away at the corners by this point, but I managed to disguise this with some artfully placed liner. They comfortably lasted through a meal with friends and a sunny day at Southbank, and, after my final selfie, off they came. I used my normal <b>Liz Earle </b><i>Cleanse and Polish</i> on my lids, and just gently cleansed until the lashes came off. It did feel good to really clean the mascara off after 48 hours of being super careful. I'm so impressed with how long the glue lasted, and the fact that the lashes looked almost as good on Day 3, as they did on Day 1. Understandably, they were looking slightly worse for wear, but overall, an amazing result from a wonderful glue.</div>
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Why would you want to wear lashes for this long, you might ask? The glue is actually formulated for those who suffer hair loss; the long lasting glue means that they will be able to wear lashes for days with none of the hassle of reapplying every morning. For those of us who just love a strong lashy look, however, I think this glue would make the ultimate addition to any festival make up bag. Even if you don't quite survive the weekend frivolities, your lashes will. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpcRJEpl-C2EF2IEo82LPjiyiWBbwBOKnUQNUI-Prwp_Zh6LsEr83K7mLTueQbTRE4QqwWyLKp3oO_KDR1s2ZHuOKAUOm9HNN_YRDb1mLuWriVcGyj_H2ExGasAnhgct9V9vnKHje_08A/s1600/DSC00859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpcRJEpl-C2EF2IEo82LPjiyiWBbwBOKnUQNUI-Prwp_Zh6LsEr83K7mLTueQbTRE4QqwWyLKp3oO_KDR1s2ZHuOKAUOm9HNN_YRDb1mLuWriVcGyj_H2ExGasAnhgct9V9vnKHje_08A/s1600/DSC00859.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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The winners all received the generous prize of 5 pairs of <b>Millie Mackintosh Lashes</b>. With my new go to lash adhesive, I'll definitely be getting a lot of use out of these beauties! A huge thank you to <b>Nouveau Lashes</b> and <a href="http://www.amazingpr.co.uk/" target="_blank"><b>Amazing PR</b> </a>for organising this fun, slightly different blogger challenge. If you want to read more about the glue and how other #bbloggers got on, just search #UltrabondChallenge on Twitter and Instagram. There are plenty of other great reviews to discover. The lash glue costs <a href="http://shop.nouveaubeautygroup.com/brands/nouveau-lashes/ultrabond-striplash-adhesive/" target="_blank"><b>£12.95</b></a>, and after testing it for a weekend, I can promise you that it's well worth the money.</div>
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Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-49981656650190197222014-05-19T21:10:00.001+01:002014-05-19T21:10:32.554+01:00April Favourites<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajdNrPGClABvdZuO5DEpi8DxQgBGZfKYae3gHnEnA2S_nRceVrdNbkzuGF9tU9eeBJRBuaIQSDGjJ6Uqx6rIH4L7MkW9oqFuwxOswIY_2yO-dApxhBtX6TibWBLeWNH9inoqAtlYJhMw/s1600/DSC00798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajdNrPGClABvdZuO5DEpi8DxQgBGZfKYae3gHnEnA2S_nRceVrdNbkzuGF9tU9eeBJRBuaIQSDGjJ6Uqx6rIH4L7MkW9oqFuwxOswIY_2yO-dApxhBtX6TibWBLeWNH9inoqAtlYJhMw/s1600/DSC00798.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
Although it seems like a lifetime ago, April was a pretty exciting month for me. However, exciting as it was, I was fully burning the candle at both ends, and the tube strikes were my breaking point - I was so exhausted that I thought it best to take a few weeks off from the blog, as something had to give. Exhaustion rant aside, let's talk about the best beauty bits of April.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOHPMHUUBqyb-vhl-yO3pSik9wOgdojlebaMulXXdKdoOi7i1TEfmq8JHHA957-U2980YkHwiGSA9ANHiM9IN78noK0KVfgwVJX2Lcv5yXatqGE7_xzSGWrlDwSc8RGieEd_dgHfINDNY/s1600/DSC00822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOHPMHUUBqyb-vhl-yO3pSik9wOgdojlebaMulXXdKdoOi7i1TEfmq8JHHA957-U2980YkHwiGSA9ANHiM9IN78noK0KVfgwVJX2Lcv5yXatqGE7_xzSGWrlDwSc8RGieEd_dgHfINDNY/s1600/DSC00822.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Blink</b>//<i><a href="http://www.feelunique.com/p/Blink-Brow-Bar-Nourishing-Brow-Oil-11ml?utm_source=GoogleBaseUK&utm_medium=gen&option=41581&catargetid=1665049966&aff=mrn&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=&utm_campaign=Product+Listing+Ads+NEW&mkwid=BCXiC9nu_dc&pcrid=28149025749" target="_blank">Nourishing Brow Oil</a></i></div>
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Last month, I was introduced to the world of threading. A revelation, I was super pleased with how clean and sharp my brows looked after my appointment at <b>Blink Brow Bar</b> (At <b>The Bluebird </b>in Chelsea, FYI, I would highly recommend). Whilst there, I spoke to the technician about how unhappy I was with my uneven brows. One is less arched than the other and, although it's probably only noticeable to me and brow professionals, I was keen to get them sorted. She told me to use <b>Blink</b>'s <i>Nourishing Brow Oil</i> every night and come back to have the shape altered to the way I wanted it. I was a little sceptical, assuming she was after commission, but I thought I'd give it a go anyway. I must say, it's really been working. The blend of natural ingredients have really been helping my brows to grow at break neck speed, and on top of that, I find them a lot easier to tame in the mornings. Now there's an added bonus!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLYZehZru1Hd3seQfHjyVx7Dswxoxd0g1Zk6V_piC29iL5_-V-e95LBtcZL2mItAtB-TALB4yM2_Z0yqzF2NzfNc-u3SwdAw8ujIw-_PcuQOGOBYjW3opPz_j3cCFhaQyYWt0lNRiip8o/s1600/DSC00828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLYZehZru1Hd3seQfHjyVx7Dswxoxd0g1Zk6V_piC29iL5_-V-e95LBtcZL2mItAtB-TALB4yM2_Z0yqzF2NzfNc-u3SwdAw8ujIw-_PcuQOGOBYjW3opPz_j3cCFhaQyYWt0lNRiip8o/s1600/DSC00828.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Burt's Bees</b>//<i><a href="http://www.burtsbees.co.uk/natural-products/lips-lip-balm/" target="_blank">Replenishing Lip Balm</a></i></div>
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In terms of lip care, I've never really strayed from <b>Lanolips</b>. It does it's job wonderfully, as well as tasting and smelling pretty divine. It is, however, around the £10 mark and, being a gal on a budget, I just don't really have the money to be throwing at beauty products at the moment. Enter <b>Burt's Bees</b>. These beautiful little balms are just over £3, and are my new weapon of choice for keeping my peckers moisturised, beautified and healthy. With 100% natural ingredients, I keep thinking that it would be a great idea to get one for my desk, one for my bag, one for work etc, but I think bulk buying might defeat the thrifty mission I am currently on. We shall see.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaMyWU6EJ_ksBZZa9owct0MTVWp-rd0EFxyyk2RiCY8lw48lE42NnegtWhnqTVSWil1LQEabKmMsBTbjRl5bIx6XEvo1K8XAbxdrmWxZBKn1HKtNVlVRV4hluF_ZRyQtA_YnThgOb8eQ/s1600/DSC00810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaMyWU6EJ_ksBZZa9owct0MTVWp-rd0EFxyyk2RiCY8lw48lE42NnegtWhnqTVSWil1LQEabKmMsBTbjRl5bIx6XEvo1K8XAbxdrmWxZBKn1HKtNVlVRV4hluF_ZRyQtA_YnThgOb8eQ/s1600/DSC00810.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Marc Jacobs</b>//<i><a href="http://buy.cosmeticsnow.co.uk/iteminfo/marc-jacobs-daisy-sunshine-eau-de-toilette-spray-50ml?ad_type=pla&target_id=18283950120&ad_id=32786633871&gclid=CL2lk6TfuL4CFZShtAod5VgAvg" target="_blank">Daisy Sunshine</a></i></div>
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I bought this in Singapore at the end of last Summer, and adored it. Unfortunately, before I could get much use out of it, it was Autumn and I had to put it aside in favour of something a little less summery. As soon as the sun came out for more than two days in a row, this baby came straight out of retirement and I've been loving using it ever since. It reminds me of a limited edition <b>Impulse Shakers</b> spray called <i>Melon Madness</i> from my early teens that I adored, so has the added benefit of being a bit of a nostalgia kick for me. I will definitely be wearing this for the duration of Summer, although knowing England, it's been and gone, and we'll be dusting off our parkas again before May is out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlxCg0-xb7kqv298ONCHC_9Kzwt9YcwpmTtJ6NZkoTNptsU4nDbqs45jAX2dxVITLZSP5fM7zrTAmkYqKdPZtqVckH9LxiVBvn5WNp3xbMK-74n-roHRO_JPYyMoTUKQwmxfsVtCmB7kU/s1600/DSC00841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlxCg0-xb7kqv298ONCHC_9Kzwt9YcwpmTtJ6NZkoTNptsU4nDbqs45jAX2dxVITLZSP5fM7zrTAmkYqKdPZtqVckH9LxiVBvn5WNp3xbMK-74n-roHRO_JPYyMoTUKQwmxfsVtCmB7kU/s1600/DSC00841.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>The Body Shop</b>//<i><a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/shop-by-range/vitamin-e/vitamin-e-moisture-cream.aspx" target="_blank">Vitamin E Moisture Cream</a></i></div>
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Another beaut of a product that's been getting a lot of use recently is <b>The Body Shop</b>'s <i>Vitamin E Moisture Cream</i>. I won't harp on about it too much, as I gave it a full review <a href="http://squares2790.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/the-body-shop-vitamin-e-moisture-cream.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I will say that it's been exactly what the doctor ordered in terms of restoring and maintaining a healthy, glowing complexion.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHWpVKAyyaZ8W9Dla8vWiKx5udHEFPqLQSB2f0iZ7I_8g3xQyneEsM0Zl6yPJGmJfHBX6UqyJcurtqpEgxbhHkIkOd2D2IDgGDmL5LXFVSVDUDkSOMbO0LY0OUVic_NWG82jVS0YjHs9k/s1600/photo1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHWpVKAyyaZ8W9Dla8vWiKx5udHEFPqLQSB2f0iZ7I_8g3xQyneEsM0Zl6yPJGmJfHBX6UqyJcurtqpEgxbhHkIkOd2D2IDgGDmL5LXFVSVDUDkSOMbO0LY0OUVic_NWG82jVS0YjHs9k/s1600/photo1.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Colour Club</b>//<i><a href="https://birchbox.co.uk/shop/color-club-gala-s-gems-collection" target="_blank">Goldstruck</a></i></div>
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This one of my April favourites was a <b>Birchbox </b>discovery. This gem of a polish is a neutral, understated soft gold, and looks so beautiful and summery on my tips. I don't think it's a colour I would have picked out for myself, but it's definitely going to be a summer staple for me. That's the beauty of <b>Birchbox</b> people, who, coincidentally, this shade is exclusive to, so they've pretty much ensured I remain a loyal customer. Clever trick there, Birchbox! I also really like its mini size. It's not often I say that about a product, but I can never manage to finish a full size polish before it gets gloopy, so this petite bottle is perfect for me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbtDkJw9xUJEOF6VjqqPqqhYF5X3zJMFuStvwvveuK8vt8C_QZUmgfFlV4eAQmqHBAXQgSGFRN4N22jFxveWApxEUAaQMI_fFSE5BkwFdfSuevKrhyd4q28Lyyf_aWfBBzCJVm0jvU4QM/s1600/DSC00807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbtDkJw9xUJEOF6VjqqPqqhYF5X3zJMFuStvwvveuK8vt8C_QZUmgfFlV4eAQmqHBAXQgSGFRN4N22jFxveWApxEUAaQMI_fFSE5BkwFdfSuevKrhyd4q28Lyyf_aWfBBzCJVm0jvU4QM/s1600/DSC00807.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Jurlique</b>//<i><a href="http://www.jurlique.co.uk/bath-and-body/scent/citrus/chc/citrus-hand-cream" target="_blank">Citrus Hand Cream</a></i></div>
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I love Jurlique products, and I've been having a bit of a moment with their hand cream for the past few months. I love using the lavender one before bed, but it's the <i>Citrus Hand Cream</i> that I've gone a little crazy for. I can't get enough of the scent, it's so delicious! On top of that, its rich, creamy texture feels so luxurious and nourishing, that I just can't stop slathering it on my mitts! A little tube of heaven, right there.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.allure.com/" target="_blank">Allure Magazine</a></b>//<i>April 2014</i></div>
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My final favourite from April - my first ever copy of<i> Allure Magazine</i>. I feel like a real beauty blogger now.<br />
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As I'm so behind, I'm not going to ask what your April Favourites were. Instead, what products are you coveting for these sunnier days? Let me know!<br />
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S.</div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-89479309647281560542014-04-27T20:39:00.002+01:002014-04-27T20:39:55.363+01:00Book of the Week: Mr. Penumbra's 24 Hour Bookstore<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGd5bSov4FpCLbyjB-182DAuGbMA6zLUUnVW-r7ShTcq4y52miAKbDB1uPhCNSVK0_WCWucs-kZODpFYup1kkuOUiT6f_J2djoKL6v-GyBDpn8WhU6uWF8CgoX0T4hRIq9fGgQatXllEU/s1600/DSC00795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGd5bSov4FpCLbyjB-182DAuGbMA6zLUUnVW-r7ShTcq4y52miAKbDB1uPhCNSVK0_WCWucs-kZODpFYup1kkuOUiT6f_J2djoKL6v-GyBDpn8WhU6uWF8CgoX0T4hRIq9fGgQatXllEU/s1600/DSC00795.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>"Walking the stacks in a library, dragging your fingers across the spines - it's hard not to feel the presence of sleeping spirits."</i></div>
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I love reading all sorts of books. Classic literature, well known bestsellers, books that my friends rave about - to be perfectly honest, I just want to read ALL the books. Sometimes, however, the best books are the ones you've never even noticed; the ones you didn't even know were there. I picked up <i>Mr Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore</i> by Robin Sloan in <i>Waterstones </i>only to take advantage of a 'buy one get one half price' offer. I hadn't heard anything about the book or it's author before, but it had a quirky cover and, as it was in their book club, I found myself quite intrigued. After getting through it far too quickly, I can tell you that I found it to be a wonderful read. Full of contemporary adventure, and fun little back stories, it really goes to show that the unexpected can be just what the doctor ordered.</div>
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<i>Mr Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore</i> tells the story of, you guessed it, a 24 hour bookstore run by a man named Penumbra (oh, the obscurity). Through the eyes of Clay Jannon, an unemployed web designer in desperate need of a new job, we learn about the mystery of Mr Penumbra, and how there is more to the shelves of his humble shop than meets the eye. A lot more in fact, that cannot be seen even if you're searching. With Clay's knowledge of technology thrown into the mix, Penumbra's loyal customers team up with Google's (yes, Google. I always forget that there are actual people that work there) most promising employees in order to crack a code that's been puzzling readers for centuries. </div>
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The one thing I really loved about the tome was the amalgamation of old and new - the coming together of book worshippers and tech wizards in order to solve an age old mystery. I will always be a book lover, but it's so interesting to read something that has a backbone based on literature, but that so well and truly incorporates the modern world of technology into its story. For me, it was this fresh and exciting perspective that really had me hooked. It may seem a little outdated in a few years, with it's plethora of references to <i>Kindles</i> and <i>Fruit Ninja</i>, but if you're of my generation, you'll love all of these contemporary allusions. I think delving back in in years to come will be a great blast from the past, reminding me of all those technological crazes that we love right now, but that will be long forgotten by then. </div>
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Not a particularly deep read, it's a lot of fun, and had me smirking away to myself more than once. I'd consider this a great holiday pick for those who aren't huge fans of chick lit, or the soppy romantic stuff. Now don't get me wrong, I love a bit of Cecelia Ahern as much as the next girl but, to be honest, Sloan's writing is a lot more my cup of tea. So there you go - a quick, light review of a quick, light read. If you're not sold yet, Google it. There are actual people that work there, don't you know.</div>
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Have you read Sloan's contemporary tome? Are you a book or a <i>Kindle</i> girl? Let me know!</div>
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S.</div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-18512749875562224302014-04-25T09:00:00.000+01:002014-04-25T09:00:05.485+01:00Something Beginning With...D: Diet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelWHwupYifW0AYcHa9_Kz-2uyTJIeNNKXlP7G-4VZuZcveE13cC-XUADmNhFm6X6yKF4sHySS-XviB24mYR8k8Znic_HynUpHeF0LpWQt9tiUAEKhjM09tb7AI_T3XNdw5zS5t0jsOfA/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelWHwupYifW0AYcHa9_Kz-2uyTJIeNNKXlP7G-4VZuZcveE13cC-XUADmNhFm6X6yKF4sHySS-XviB24mYR8k8Znic_HynUpHeF0LpWQt9tiUAEKhjM09tb7AI_T3XNdw5zS5t0jsOfA/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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This week, I thought I'd cover something completely new to the world of Squares (the blog, not me). I wanted my Something Beginning With D to be a little different than a bog standard beauty post because, let's be honest, as much as we love them, they can get a tad repetitive. With that in mind, Diet will be the topic of today's post. Please don't misunderstand me, I hate the concept of dieting - to me they're just fads that go out of style faster than the last season's lippy. Anyone remember Atkins? Yep, me neither. I do, however, wholly believe in maintaining a healthy diet, and eating all the foods you like in moderation. Over the past few years I've really started to realise that no amount of miracle skin cream is going to make you glow if you're constantly chowing down on crisps and coke. Beauty comes from within, and that's a fact that often gets underestimated. Since ditching the brownies for bananas, I can honestly tell you that it has made a noticeable difference to my skin and hair as well as my health. Still, I'm by no means a health nut - long live the binge day - but I thought I'd put together a little something, sharing with you the small changes I've implemented that have made all the difference. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggq_MSG04gcU9lXPxSM6orUJCsqFyt4p5lES3142tKCoHETBmf0ePd-Z64yjBmM28Vx2HTYMCFTyOvNFm6uoSj1w9syc53vj834cgwtoh3-rkgGSUCVJlDbdxhWiYicr8OR56I5AUe3cA/s1600/DSC00727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggq_MSG04gcU9lXPxSM6orUJCsqFyt4p5lES3142tKCoHETBmf0ePd-Z64yjBmM28Vx2HTYMCFTyOvNFm6uoSj1w9syc53vj834cgwtoh3-rkgGSUCVJlDbdxhWiYicr8OR56I5AUe3cA/s1600/DSC00727.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Get Some Nuts</div>
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I love a cheeky snack between meals. My grazing food of choice was once the coveted Custard Cream, or a sneaky bag of ready salted. However, since around Christmas time (not AT Christmas time I must quickly add - be serious), I've been swapping out my fatty snacks for seeds, nuts, raisins and the like. No good if you have a nut allergy of course, but I find them equally delicious, and the natural fats in them are really good for you. Hazelnuts and almonds are my fave, and I'm quite partial to a nice walnut every now and again. Admittedly, I have had a bit of a relapse recently, since starting an internship with a steady stream of Kit-Kats at my disposal, but I've definitely streamlined the snacking over the past few months. I also make an effort to incorporate healthy things into my breakfast. A sprinkling of flaxseed on my morning porridge, or a blueberry or two mixed into some greek yoghurt. There's one of your five a day before you've even started! So there you go - step one of my new healthier diet. And the occasional Snickers never hurt anyone now, did it?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXt-lI2MsQVB8OY0AEUDF6KUSKaOGj_7qhTus38xzDRfftd4sj3GdeIk1H2tYg5JkedaLkEkpNxhzViwxEr_8VEUjVC7dWrPz3Ue2dkgpXEPM1cST6gcPJt54j6CWWyj10-CCTvq6tM8/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXt-lI2MsQVB8OY0AEUDF6KUSKaOGj_7qhTus38xzDRfftd4sj3GdeIk1H2tYg5JkedaLkEkpNxhzViwxEr_8VEUjVC7dWrPz3Ue2dkgpXEPM1cST6gcPJt54j6CWWyj10-CCTvq6tM8/s1600/photo.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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An Apple A Day Keeps The Doctor Away </div>
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I actually think it might, you know. Apples, as well as being full of nutritious fruity goodness, are known in the beauty world for their marvellous detoxing qualities. So, like a kindergarten cliche, I've taken to popping an apple in my daily lunchbox. You really can't ever have enough fruit! Which brings us onto my next point...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJp5LT18idEKbe0Sth2C3UzjIH05zEGpTKG6-Q58xX8l9lNy8LMsI-YMpdAZJ26bj7doadQ3UnovuN038TfwmHcxQPxnOzCG772CB4nPpqEslHFAMjQVbN5D18XVdtWYqoit30an2NPQc/s1600/DSC00721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJp5LT18idEKbe0Sth2C3UzjIH05zEGpTKG6-Q58xX8l9lNy8LMsI-YMpdAZJ26bj7doadQ3UnovuN038TfwmHcxQPxnOzCG772CB4nPpqEslHFAMjQVbN5D18XVdtWYqoit30an2NPQc/s1600/DSC00721.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Juice, Juice Juice!</div>
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Like the rest of the world, I've gone a little juicing mad. I love to make my own tasty concoctions, and the fact that they are so good for you might just be the biggest bonus ever. My favourite juice, which I have when I wake up, is a blend of apple, spinach and celery. Admittedly, it does look a little bit like toxic sludge, (see picture above apples!) but it tastes amazing, as well as being super good for you. One interesting little tip I've picked up is that it's better to have more vegetable based juices, so that you're not overloading on sugar from fruit because, however natural it is, too much sugar isn't the best. There are plenty of juicing books out there to give you lots of info. <i>The Juice Master </i>is perhaps the most obvious one, but my favourite is <i>Super Juice</i> by Michael Van Straten. I love that it has this 'at home' remedy section at the back, where it lists pretty much every illness you could think of, and gives you your cure through one of his delicious juices. Genius! He's apparently the UK's best known practitioner of complementary medicine too, so he must have a vague idea of what he's talking about. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs8jr2Rpp8f_usIZoCdSBpaLqN7yVkwUC_oKBKQAwTaJ5Rl-OmAPia4e7orErrudJNEpqPibNyip-ZSruIiq938tDoTiacE9t9fHYgude2JXedhSOAP_mJJ9Z7Jt8_nLf_p2Xu_zEdocU/s1600/DSC00738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs8jr2Rpp8f_usIZoCdSBpaLqN7yVkwUC_oKBKQAwTaJ5Rl-OmAPia4e7orErrudJNEpqPibNyip-ZSruIiq938tDoTiacE9t9fHYgude2JXedhSOAP_mJJ9Z7Jt8_nLf_p2Xu_zEdocU/s1600/DSC00738.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Water, Water Everywhere (And ALL The Drops To Drink)</div>
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As well as plenty of fresh juice, I've now made it a habit of keeping a glass of water on my desk, which I sip on when I'm bored. I'm massively guilty of forgetting to keep hydrated throughout the day, but I find that keeping a big glass within reach has remedied my parched state, and my skin has definitely thanked me for it. And that constant yo-yoing to the loo and back has to count for at least some of your daily cardio, right?</div>
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So there you are. They might seem trivial, but all of the little things add up, and I really feel great after striving to look after my body a little better. Of course, I'm writing this whilst gorging on the remnants of my Easter treats. The healthy eating resumes tomorrow.</div>
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What are your favourite ways to stay healthy? Any nutritious snacks you care to recommend? Let me know!</div>
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<br />Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-71928637776678461272014-04-23T09:00:00.000+01:002014-04-23T09:00:12.850+01:00Wax On, Wax Off: Waxing vs. Shaving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTXpirvtA_iO3VD16gTdlb0TOLnLV58mrfXhe8A5RYcLU0tYlIfXaKXB3TqOZs79Y-Vpf4IMbmkpiiJ9oMhjRviH6dBsoWrS0w0j_KLgkseDzN2xHRtSE5-_B0r8a7oldV_5ZXleFcd8/s1600/DSC00689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTXpirvtA_iO3VD16gTdlb0TOLnLV58mrfXhe8A5RYcLU0tYlIfXaKXB3TqOZs79Y-Vpf4IMbmkpiiJ9oMhjRviH6dBsoWrS0w0j_KLgkseDzN2xHRtSE5-_B0r8a7oldV_5ZXleFcd8/s1600/DSC00689.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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As far as staying fuzz free goes, I've always been a shaving kinda gal. It's just easier, more convenient and, most importantly pain free. But having recently booked a holiday (Florence here I come!) I've been thinking more and more about the pros and cons of 'at home' waxing. Here, I've decided to put together a little debate; will I waver to waxing, or will I stay a shaver? We shall see.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimf1U-ElMEwxv54GorRBjnYjwDNR4A1kVnRY7CX0IAHiE6BzSvqSzR_aCLZW9eY9oxd0OWex9GZ_20baeeIoSI22jygKTxw7zmejcsxSYmWRx9IjTFHmJwp7Z3MHhahl8eVkGzaZkNlmw/s1600/DSC00698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimf1U-ElMEwxv54GorRBjnYjwDNR4A1kVnRY7CX0IAHiE6BzSvqSzR_aCLZW9eY9oxd0OWex9GZ_20baeeIoSI22jygKTxw7zmejcsxSYmWRx9IjTFHmJwp7Z3MHhahl8eVkGzaZkNlmw/s1600/DSC00698.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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With regards to shaving, I used to be a <b>Venus</b> lover through and through, but after receiving a <b><a href="http://www.wilkinsonsword.co.uk/women/showroom/hydro_silk#product_information" target="_blank">Wilkinson Sword HydroSilk</a></b>* razor in my <b>OxMeet </b>goody bag, I've been having a go with that. I must admit, maybe <b>Venus</b> isn't the only blade for me after all, as this one's pretty great. Similar to my old <b><a href="http://www.boots.com//en/Gillette-Venus-Spa-Breeze-Razor_1042807?cm_mmc=Shopping%20Engines-_-PG-_---_-Gillette%20Venus%20Spa%20Breeze%20Razor/" target="_blank">Venus Spa Breeze</a></b> razor, it has moisture bars, meaning that my skin doesn't get dry and irritated after shaving. Honestly, I hate to shave my legs with any razor that doesn't have these built in moisturisers now, as I feel like they make such a difference! The <b>HydroSilk </b>also has 5 curve-sensing blades (fancy, eh?) for really close shaving, and let me tell you, it definitely earns the 'silk' in it's name. It's even got a travel cover, so it doesn't get all gammy in your wash bag. The perfect travel companion, no? Now, I know that shaving doesn't last long, and your left with stubbly pins mere days after doing the deed, but that's not an aspect that's ever really bothered me. Sure, it would be lovely to have silky smooth legs all year round, but even with waxing, that's never going to happen, so what's a couple of extra minutes in the shower for the sake of a little legwork? It's also important to note the pain free pull of shaving - the soreness of waxing was making me more than a little apprehensive. I gave it a go anyway, for comparison's sake, and here's what I thought. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJzZic3lI4Mkq-moEKmtulBrw9fx-YteEbiyWW2LTVFRll13tf5Fh2d_rt97LqG4DniHl9hWKm5g6PEalLbJFJdVObcgdeDBsu_TgzVwsRYjMxeA9Se3F0RIwfFcfHvte3DjJWoK9fks/s1600/DSC00719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJzZic3lI4Mkq-moEKmtulBrw9fx-YteEbiyWW2LTVFRll13tf5Fh2d_rt97LqG4DniHl9hWKm5g6PEalLbJFJdVObcgdeDBsu_TgzVwsRYjMxeA9Se3F0RIwfFcfHvte3DjJWoK9fks/s1600/DSC00719.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Obviously the big draw of waxing is longer lasting results, hence the reason I'm considering it for my travels. I don't really want to be spending valuable time abroad perfecting my summer legs, so it makes sense that I should give them a cheeky wax before I head off. After a quick trip up the hair removal aisle in <b>Boots,</b> I selected the <b><a href="https://www.veet.co.uk/wax-products-veet-easygrip-ready-to-use-wax-strips-sensitive-skin.php" target="_blank">Veet Wax Strips for Senstive Skin</a></b>. I thought it wise to have a trial run before I went all gung-ho just days before my trip. To be honest, I'm not fully impressed with the results. I do love that the strips are impregnated with Almond Oil and Vitamin E for that little kick of moisture, and I favour the longer lasting results over those of shaving, but for me, that's probably where the benefits end. In terms of the pain factor, the initial sting is fine, but it throbs for a while afterwards, and leaves my skin looking a bit angry for the rest of the day. Not an attractive look, I can tell you! This does go down overnight, so I think I'd be safe doing it in advance, but another aspect I found rather irritating was the sticky residue left on my red legs after I'd yanked the wax strips off - the perfect finish wipes are nowhere near perfect by the way. Paired with the fact that you aren't supposed to wax over the same area twice, so any strays you have to tweeze from the tacky remains, it seems to me that waxing isn't really worth the trouble. It might be my novice technique that's causing all the difficulties, but I think I'll remain a shaving lady for the foreseeable future. </div>
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Conclusion: I think I'll give waxing a go for my stint in the sun, although I plan to book an appointment for a professional wax to save me the hassle. But I'll be sure to pack my trusty razor - just in case. After all, if it ain't broke, don't fix it!</div>
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What about you guys? Waxers or shavers? What's your razor of choice? Let me know!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*PR Sample</span></div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-17652198336297225022014-04-21T15:18:00.000+01:002014-04-21T15:18:20.214+01:00Battle Of The Liquid Liners<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love a well defined lash line as much as the next girl, but sometimes that perfect liner can be a little elusive. After years of searching, I'm still not sure I've found the ideal product, but I'm definitely a lot closer, and a lot more informed. With that in mind, I thought I'd share with you a few of my faves, along with a couple of no-no's that you might want to avoid. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHvO6u3cgt-Ky6NCaHpruILB-AnyC3uItrkfc_tx2Lu9rwzwrCa61UJH7hjEeHgQVFPv99lhOyGLjzwS0R1tvf9gmV-69GBb9gfXp2up1J1zuWmCVXEmcVgQjhH4W3ouwQgAZh9fQ4nSk/s1600/DSC00672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHvO6u3cgt-Ky6NCaHpruILB-AnyC3uItrkfc_tx2Lu9rwzwrCa61UJH7hjEeHgQVFPv99lhOyGLjzwS0R1tvf9gmV-69GBb9gfXp2up1J1zuWmCVXEmcVgQjhH4W3ouwQgAZh9fQ4nSk/s1600/DSC00672.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.beautybay.com/cosmetics/stila/g/stayalldaywaterproofliquideyeliner/?utm_source=google%2Bshopping&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=shopping%2Bfeed&ctyid=gb&selectedsku=stil0402f&mkwid=VhJhMEm8_dc&pcrid=12485385563&gclid=CJi8jqT4y70CFefMtAodHnEAGA" target="_blank"><b>Stila/</b>/<i>Stay All Day Waterproof Liner</i></a></div>
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My token brown liquid liner, I think this is my favourite of the lot. The perfect mix of sturdy and skinny, I love lining my lashes with it. I fear it's only a matter of time before I cave and buy it in black, as I think it's the easiest liner I've ever worked with. It's perfect for pushing into the roots of the lashes, and firm enough that I can sweep it across my lash line for precise, neat framework every time. As well as this, it's a given that the darker colours are true, but I've also heard amazing things about the more vibrant shades in the range, which offer bright colours with a great pigment. None of that wishy washy rubbish!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-rN4aZrCqkbsUrcX-52sS5t-VGlrtHdnV_nV-EYBgcfZDQ_cmyhagw0J_yH54dhjuzxWwjwjqG9tNbJY-uTDcflIiAqpDccUCGdB5cZPzEcA12C8Hf3nyo6pajEN0gu1wbFdQ6IRJMqI/s1600/DSC00675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-rN4aZrCqkbsUrcX-52sS5t-VGlrtHdnV_nV-EYBgcfZDQ_cmyhagw0J_yH54dhjuzxWwjwjqG9tNbJY-uTDcflIiAqpDccUCGdB5cZPzEcA12C8Hf3nyo6pajEN0gu1wbFdQ6IRJMqI/s1600/DSC00675.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://birchbox.co.uk/index.php/catalog/product/view/id/1433/s/eyeko-skinny-liquid-eyeliner-black/?gclid=CL__47Gs-bwCFagBwwodSUgAzg" target="_blank"><b>Eyeko</b>//<i>Skinny Mini Liquid Eyeliner</i></a></div>
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This is slightly less flexible than <b>Stila</b>, but still thin enough for a really sharp, defined line. And holy, moly, what a pigmented formula! I think it's probably the perfect size and strength to execute the most beautiful feline flick, and I'd be able to say that with a little more confidence if I were any good at them! But hey, if <b>Alexa Chung</b>, queen of the wing, loves it enough to put her name on it, it must be a winner.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHT6-OqU8XagHjEtaxd5UfY1HD4bUTO9wunZ_uc6Ji1dZfrF1nUhU38XPqH6nMFoompdJX-Pdi_uzUgATvbzaNmVP5E0xgJ1tFDfEzO9gYM9xyJgQA6_AJ3c9n3yyEmWFySksuDkf59hU/s1600/DSC00679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHT6-OqU8XagHjEtaxd5UfY1HD4bUTO9wunZ_uc6Ji1dZfrF1nUhU38XPqH6nMFoompdJX-Pdi_uzUgATvbzaNmVP5E0xgJ1tFDfEzO9gYM9xyJgQA6_AJ3c9n3yyEmWFySksuDkf59hU/s1600/DSC00679.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.boots.com/en/LOreal-Paris-Super-Liner-Midnight_1379494/" target="_blank"><b>Loreal</b>//<i>Super Liner Black Laquer</i></a></div>
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This is a liner I've fallen a bit out of love with. When I first bought it, I thought I'd discovered a new favourite, but I've found that it gets dry really quickly, and it's difficult to pick up enough product to draw a neat, black line that isn't riddled with patches and imperfections. Maybe I just got a dud, who knows, but it's been delegated to the bottom of my make-up draw nonetheless, and won't be resurfacing anytime soon.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE-DV-N-HTKQFgRqFciwjIqhYR9-QAibH1GEYaQYBMBkAwNe4lpi61lUyMyScgnMpnLCQLtWPXNh7CtK6NzNesXtQNvbr5n2D8yMZN6wtBl8SwgUHavOycbX6e2XtezCsGYx8PnrCPMYQ/s1600/DSC00684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE-DV-N-HTKQFgRqFciwjIqhYR9-QAibH1GEYaQYBMBkAwNe4lpi61lUyMyScgnMpnLCQLtWPXNh7CtK6NzNesXtQNvbr5n2D8yMZN6wtBl8SwgUHavOycbX6e2XtezCsGYx8PnrCPMYQ/s1600/DSC00684.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://beabombshellcosmetics.com/product/eyeliner/onyx/" target="_blank"><b>Be a Bombshell</b>//<i>Onyx Eyeliner</i></a></div>
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A hell of a lot thicker than my other liners, it has the aesthetic of a marker pen. I find it difficult to get a precise line with this, probably the only reason I don't use it on a daily basis, but it's great for really working into the lashes and for doing the more bold looks. <b>Be A Bombshell</b> is also a brand that gear their products towards more sensitive skin, so if that's something you struggle with, you should definitely check them out. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsANpXYEiN3qqVZ4u706OcSNRy5elk7YtjlK8vRvT4ljz8v75ghcMZY6ckyahfYBMFo4Y-_Ub7AlYHXAwSAe4y_0Y07eOaWoBYXUdE_GcFYxy3Csjedfkh4S9Us3hHkVO6Gnd_t7NLDmI/s1600/DSC00686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsANpXYEiN3qqVZ4u706OcSNRy5elk7YtjlK8vRvT4ljz8v75ghcMZY6ckyahfYBMFo4Y-_Ub7AlYHXAwSAe4y_0Y07eOaWoBYXUdE_GcFYxy3Csjedfkh4S9Us3hHkVO6Gnd_t7NLDmI/s1600/DSC00686.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Bourjois-Liner-Pinceau-Eyeliner_1133002/" target="_blank"><b>Bourjois</b>//<i>Liner Pinceau Liquid Eyeliner</i></a></div>
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This one probably gets the least use of all my liquid liners, and I knew I'd made an error as soon as I'd bought it. It has a really thin brush applicator, designed for close precision work, which make me feel completely inept. Although you can get a much thinner line, it offers no control, and I end up smudging it everywhere. With a bit of practice, maybe I'll get there one day, but for now, I think I'll stick to my pen nib packaging. To be honest, it is just my preference that makes this a bit of a rubbish product for me. If you favour a thin liner brush over the angled equivalents, then I'd probably recommend that you give this one a go. It has really great lasting power, and I like the glossy finish it dries to. Unfortunately, I'm just not nimble enough to master the technique needed to use such a high precision brush.</div>
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So there you have it, and after careful deliberation, I think it's pretty safe to say that my winner is<b> Stila</b>! I love this product, and it would definitely be the first I recommended to somebody in the market for a new liquid liner. <b>Eyeko</b> and <b>Be A Bombshell</b> are not to be scoffed at, however - both equally lovely liners that give a great result. Sadly, <b>Bourjois </b>is not for me, but try your luck, it may be just the thing you're looking for. As for<b> Loreal</b>, shame on you! Dry, patchy lining is no good at all!</div>
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What's your favourite liquid liner? Do you like any of the liners I've listed? Let me know!</div>
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S.</div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-12076114878372365262014-04-20T13:45:00.001+01:002014-04-20T13:45:29.837+01:00Book of the Week: Perfume - The Story Of A Murderer<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcqvUg9HTmVtfLa7AH73dnicA7xX-YwIVY0ZrdsfgynBPUqr6Ua3KxQ810Ad3Vly1qQ5LxCLTkuWd04PhTLYU_qgXoc5xvYSfkk1G2x0hO30Xb6TfOLvofNS6sRAs4qIOztn2MWkK3u48/s1600/DSC00659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcqvUg9HTmVtfLa7AH73dnicA7xX-YwIVY0ZrdsfgynBPUqr6Ua3KxQ810Ad3Vly1qQ5LxCLTkuWd04PhTLYU_qgXoc5xvYSfkk1G2x0hO30Xb6TfOLvofNS6sRAs4qIOztn2MWkK3u48/s1600/DSC00659.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>"Odors have a power of persuasion stronger than that of words, appearances, emotions or will. The persuasive power of an door cannot be fended off, it enters into us like breath into our lungs, it fills us up, imbues us totally. There is no remedy for it."</i></div>
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OK, you got me. I judged a book by it's cover. I picked up <i>Perfume</i> by Patrick Suskind on a recent trip to Waterstones simply because it looked so pretty on it's shelf (or maybe it smelled good, who really even knows anymore)! Upon further perusal of the blurb, I was sold - I had to buy it and read all about this weird perversion of perfume. And honestly, I've never read anything like it before. Despite being the story of a murderer, it's such a fun and interesting read. Admittedly a little strange, but completely unique, I was totally absorbed by a fantasy tale of perfumeries, grotesqueness and desire.</div>
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A strange little tome about a strange little man, <i>Perfume</i> documents the meanderings of Jean-Baptiste Grenouille. Born without a scent, society is unnerved by his perturbing presence, if they even notice him at all, and his supernatural smelling talent leads him on a twisted journey to hunt down the most perfect fragrance on the planet, even if that means partaking in a spot of murder along the way.</div>
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The intriguing notion that fuels the book is that scent has a much more profound effect on society than we are aware of. As well as Grenouille being considered an outcast due to his lack of smell, he is alone in the knowledge that the most beautiful of people are not attractive to us because of their good looks, but because of their enticing aroma. We only think that their appearance is what's beautiful because we consider sight to be the most predominant of the senses. I found this to be such an interesting concept that, although it's just a work of fiction, I got to thinking about all of the things that are made that much more attractive to me because of their fragrant beauty. Flowers, for example, or a slice of apple pie: both have their own aesthetic appeal, both are enhanced by their inviting bouquet.</div>
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The book itself is also written in a really unique way, something I found pleasantly peculiar. The dark, twisted tale is communicated in such an upbeat, lighthearted, almost humorous manner, which I found made it even more entertaining. Grenouille treats his murder victims, not as people, but as living vessels for alluring fragrances. And so the language in which they are treated, although rather alarming, is so abstract that you almost forget how harrowing the act is. I've never seen killing dealt with in such an interesting way, making this one of the most fascinatingly abnormal books I have ever read. </div>
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If you're looking for something a little different to read, I would really recommend you pick up this weird and wonderful tale. A little worrying in places, brilliant in others, and witty throughout, I loved everything about this fragrant feast of a fantasy, and I'll definitely be looking into other works by this German gem of a writer!</div>
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Have you read <i>Perfume: The Story Of A Murderer</i>? What is your favourite perfume based read? Let me know! </div>
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S. </div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-17235243468399350702014-04-18T09:00:00.000+01:002014-04-18T09:00:06.678+01:00Something Beginning With...C: Concealers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUfn23VJSN16aYNdcPoiBE54BD5YNPyUKNOuXOz25RJEOH_tnE3-_DduUNbbqWL10KnzBYf3LPDa9ovFOGSne79GLdMk4f5ra-yFJ-5h0TKKELK32ayG0RvVPrcnKnJl4StJcn_HKs-w/s1600/DSC00645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUfn23VJSN16aYNdcPoiBE54BD5YNPyUKNOuXOz25RJEOH_tnE3-_DduUNbbqWL10KnzBYf3LPDa9ovFOGSne79GLdMk4f5ra-yFJ-5h0TKKELK32ayG0RvVPrcnKnJl4StJcn_HKs-w/s1600/DSC00645.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Choosing what subject to broach this week was a bit of a no brainer for me. When I think of the letter C with regards to beauty, there's one thing that jumps straight to the forefront of my mind - concealing. Concealers are such a vital part of my make-up routine, one that I know I couldn't live without, and I've now got it down to a fine art! So here is a little overview of my concealing routine for your perusal. Enjoy!</div>
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My everyday routine consists of a trio of products. Now I know what your thinking - three concealers is a lot for just one face - but rest assured my friends, they are my holy trinity, and they all serve a purpose. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUio1o5nVk8qP5MWJXGwSKCCQh0j36GhAo9phOw8IRrzfdYQmtmh7jUBa8DHp3N44f7KotoNyQ_yZFuTypSrRBnRkyH1fQyVojVMYpK9Zn3qLMohES52DNSet6qUY5YJJyA3hD6A1P2Y/s1600/DSC00640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUio1o5nVk8qP5MWJXGwSKCCQh0j36GhAo9phOw8IRrzfdYQmtmh7jUBa8DHp3N44f7KotoNyQ_yZFuTypSrRBnRkyH1fQyVojVMYpK9Zn3qLMohES52DNSet6qUY5YJJyA3hD6A1P2Y/s1600/DSC00640.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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First up isn't even, strictly speaking, a concealer, but a corrector. A creamy product with a peach tone to counteract any blues in the skin, I buff a little into the inner part of my under eye area, and over my premature crows feet (wahh!), as they tend to look a little bruised from time to time. My weapon of choice is the <a href="http://www.bobbibrown.co.uk/product/2335/15905/Makeup/Face/Correctors-Concealers/Corrector/New-Shades/index.tmpl" target="_blank"><b>Bobbi Brown</b> </a><i>Corrector</i> in the shade, <i>Light Bisque</i>. I'm in dire need of a new one, as I'm literally scraping out the sides at the moment - note the lack of pictures of the gutted remains. When I do cave and buy it, it will be my third little pot of erasing perfection. I always apply with a <b><a href="http://realtechniques.com/" target="_blank">Real Techniques</a> </b><i>Deluxe Crease Brush</i>, as I find it to be the ideal shape for the inner 'nook' of my eye. Nook sounds so much nicer than hollow, doesn't it?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHofTrneUYi56LDMV4glXX98K_-C23kE78uCPmFY9kBaxm6tucrW00gezPhoZME91LAAU2y4HDnw60zxNtnkl0u5VZ15I4p5sYZ2PTkTJU5pNh2KOHNXxJWqx82RjVrHlHJrPO7dWvaic/s1600/DSC00643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHofTrneUYi56LDMV4glXX98K_-C23kE78uCPmFY9kBaxm6tucrW00gezPhoZME91LAAU2y4HDnw60zxNtnkl0u5VZ15I4p5sYZ2PTkTJU5pNh2KOHNXxJWqx82RjVrHlHJrPO7dWvaic/s1600/DSC00643.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmUG31B2CqAa6_ixtqj-C_1r_GuK0tjnqHiN2OZsAQdj2PUcEsTi0Xqc8fDn_3SHGP5Y7S4DytGmbZpEq0YGRTbfZa-L7l_nkKQ9fnwgdMmjRwxBY4jdGj_lCt0J-O8X3HYhWSewZkDR4/s1600/DSC00654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmUG31B2CqAa6_ixtqj-C_1r_GuK0tjnqHiN2OZsAQdj2PUcEsTi0Xqc8fDn_3SHGP5Y7S4DytGmbZpEq0YGRTbfZa-L7l_nkKQ9fnwgdMmjRwxBY4jdGj_lCt0J-O8X3HYhWSewZkDR4/s1600/DSC00654.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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The second product I use is, again, not technically marketed as a concealer, but an illuminating pen. Ever since my first dabble into make-up, the<b> <a href="http://www.yslbeauty.co.uk/make-up/complexion/touche-eclat/touche-eclat" target="_blank">YSL</a></b> <i>Touché Éclat </i>has been a feature in my stash. It's actually become something of a holiday tradition to nip into <b>Duty Free</b> and pick up a duo pack of these babies on my way to wherever I'm jetting off to. I use <i>Shade 1 - Luminous Radiance</i>, and I apply it over my corrector into the hollows of my eyes and pat in with my ring finger. If I've got a lot of time on my hands, or I'm really making an effort, I'll pop a little on my cheekbones, brow bones, down the centre of my nose and on my cupids bow for a lovely structured highlight. The idea of the pen is that it bounces light back, cancelling shadows and illuminating (funny, that) certain parts of the face. A lot of people don't really see the point of this magical little wand, but personally, I couldn't live without it. There are lots of others on the market, and I often find myself tempted to try the <b><a href="http://uk.spacenk.com/touche-veloutee/MUK200003374.html" target="_blank">By Terry </a></b>offering, but I'm not sure that, when the moment came, I would be able to cheat on my <b>YSL</b> beau!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvatkMzHSMArE8zyZZfEh98GKVCTFaEX6ggotx_58S6oOzPJATSGjISXAtF5Zmvdw6dKneEjG8uSDSkDrSqbA9yMSQVWfyP1dfM-ozcS4-NNOsDPDLMxk-4HecePKe9cZZTKJXNRYEum8/s1600/DSC00637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvatkMzHSMArE8zyZZfEh98GKVCTFaEX6ggotx_58S6oOzPJATSGjISXAtF5Zmvdw6dKneEjG8uSDSkDrSqbA9yMSQVWfyP1dfM-ozcS4-NNOsDPDLMxk-4HecePKe9cZZTKJXNRYEum8/s1600/DSC00637.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Last, but by no means least, is my trusty <a href="http://uk.spacenk.com/secret-camouflage/MUK114163155.html" target="_blank"><b>Laura Mercier</b> </a><i>Secret Camouflage.</i> You'll be pleased to hear that this one actually is a concealer. A palette consisting of both a peachy tone and a yellow hued product, this stuff is full on <b>Photoshop</b> in a pan. A lot more hard and waxy that my <b>Bobbi Brown </b><i>Corrector</i>, I could never use this under my eyes, as it would be too drying. The fact that it is dry, though, means that it stays put for hours, and is amazing for brushing over any blemishes or imperfections. I have the shade<i> SC2 </i>- I think <i>SC1</i> might have been a better colour match for my skin overall, but because I use this on discoloured areas, I find that it's a lot easier to blend to a natural finish if it's a smidge darker than my natural tone. I apply with a <b><a href="http://www.bareminerals.co.uk/Maximum-Coverage-Concealer-Brush/UK30884,default,pd.html" target="_blank">bareMinerals</a> </b><i>Max Coverage Concealer Brush</i> around my nose and on my chin, where I have some slight pigmentation, and then I use a <b>Real Techniques</b> <i>Pixel Point Brush</i> to carry out my trusty <b>Lisa Eldridge</b> pinpoint concealing. I absolutely swear by this stuff, and I've not yet found another concealer, high end or drugstore, to rival it. And believe me, I've looked!</div>
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So there you have it - my trio of 'can't live without' concealers. I'd definitely struggle in their absence, to the point where I'd choose them over foundation if I absolutely had to. Can't imagine anybody mean enough to make me choose though, so I'm probably safe!</div>
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What are your favourite concealers? Do you love any of the brands I covet? Let me know!</div>
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Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-40955649706666973722014-04-16T09:00:00.000+01:002014-04-16T09:00:06.641+01:00The Body Shop - Vitamin E Moisture Cream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQH3YTtTn5szLkE0gMQcvu-xoM4_5L8KNuJKffGfWHsSRs3o4jYoTVf2p44HlfKra5fNw0wkyTE5k63N0InEfWHvWKtyFwoOgWgYDqr2EW0d-9GToicv0qokDH1Cv9WDuAWh90bAYTbQ/s1600/DSC00633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQH3YTtTn5szLkE0gMQcvu-xoM4_5L8KNuJKffGfWHsSRs3o4jYoTVf2p44HlfKra5fNw0wkyTE5k63N0InEfWHvWKtyFwoOgWgYDqr2EW0d-9GToicv0qokDH1Cv9WDuAWh90bAYTbQ/s1600/DSC00633.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've never really had a go to moisturiser - one that I just have to repurchase over and over. When I run out of one, I tend to just grab the next product that catches my attention. However, lately my skin has become a lot more oily than usual, and my current stash just isn't cutting it anymore. On my hunt for a less rich, more balancing moisturiser, I discovered <i>Cosmetic Lad</i> by <b>Lush</b>, and I'm pretty sure that I've finally found 'the one' in terms of balancing my skin and keeping the grease at bay. Unfortunately, however, the sample I had ran out more quickly than I would have liked, and, until I can make my way to a <b>Lush </b>store, I have to make do with something else. Lucky for me, one of the amazing products in my <b>#OxMeet</b> stash was <b><a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Body Shop</a></b>'s <i><a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/shop-by-range/vitamin-e/vitamin-e-moisture-cream.aspx" target="_blank">Vitamin E Moisture Cream</a>*</i>. Originally intended to be an interim product, I'm actually super impressed with how good it's making my skin look! Not so great at tackling the oil, I feel like this will be the perfect product for me once my oil slick of a t-zone has returned to normal.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsq12oNzcGgG4iOR26C_B9bKTMVYip5l2cfwg2XsiYqM_hIk2W-L2W3EmhzEo-53N0-NdIRkFJG51WcAGTYONj3Pyn0fHnTcrR2r-d7tYxgssKF8f1K2h4jNr1YzaWLBUtzl6uknOSgw/s1600/DSC00635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsq12oNzcGgG4iOR26C_B9bKTMVYip5l2cfwg2XsiYqM_hIk2W-L2W3EmhzEo-53N0-NdIRkFJG51WcAGTYONj3Pyn0fHnTcrR2r-d7tYxgssKF8f1K2h4jNr1YzaWLBUtzl6uknOSgw/s1600/DSC00635.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>The Body Shop'</b>s bestselling moisturiser, it applies really lightly, almost to a watery consistency, and absorbs into the skin almost instantly. This is a godsend for my early morning starts, as I don't really have the time to sit around, leisurely waiting for my skincare to settle before I start slapping on my daily make-up. I absolutely love the way my skin looks and feels after using it - I almost glow. I think it might be the antioxidants of the Vitamin E that are giving me the supermodel sheen that I've been trying to perfect for years Whatever it is, it's amazing! As I stated before, its a little much whilst my oil levels are creeping up, but when they calm down, I'll be happily dipping into my little pot of vitamin goodness all the live long day. The only thing that it's lacking is SPF, which is so important to me, but hey, I guess you can't have it all, right? I'm so impressed with this moisturiser for creating the perfect base for the dewy complexion I crave. I'm sure it won't be long before I'm ducking into <b>The Body Shop</b> to get my mitts on the rest of the <i>Vitamin E </i>range - <i><a href="http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/shop-by-range/vitamin-e/vitamin-e-illuminating-moisture-cream.aspx" target="_blank">Illuminating Moisture Cream</a></i>, I'm looking at you!</div>
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What's your favourite moisturiser? Are you a fan of <b>The Body Shop</b> <i>Vitamin E </i>range? Let me know! </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*PR sample</span></div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-84395834611597885742014-04-14T09:00:00.000+01:002014-04-14T09:00:01.208+01:00#OxMeet - Oxford Blogger Meet Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOIqueK47nuSCMEZYlxUPpDLPU4Kr-WcwInOAp7xk2HgiE1C9j1a45s5ItlJM5A1gEdQUtgEfO6Xf5rDxWN_9WB2oyCpTA9o0oyCVrK9ydl3ggn92pEpcWpSw_fGn4yrCHcXf_jkgJ8nk/s1600/photo1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOIqueK47nuSCMEZYlxUPpDLPU4Kr-WcwInOAp7xk2HgiE1C9j1a45s5ItlJM5A1gEdQUtgEfO6Xf5rDxWN_9WB2oyCpTA9o0oyCVrK9ydl3ggn92pEpcWpSw_fGn4yrCHcXf_jkgJ8nk/s1600/photo1.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Probably the last one of the beauty bloggers to write about it, today I'm coming at you with my <b>#OxMeet</b> post. My first ever blogger meet up, I journeyed to Oxford on 23rd March to spend the day with a lovely little group of people who shared my passions for beauty and blogging. An amazing experience, organised by Wonder Woman who, by day, goes by the name <a href="http://www.latenightnonsense.com/" target="_blank">Adrienne</a>, I left with a new group of wonderful friends, a goody bag to rival Santa's sack, and blog ideas coming out of my ears! Safe to say, a perfect time was had by all!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoBkLgXkh-sY_6zhVweq7b7_kFsHWJPj6RV_EJaYC7MvAifq3voSryxKZ0BKQCJXfMWiv0lq-9CVXMb06ZOP3LSJhd3kHDFIo7g1bnaQkpkShTSk8_jl7YQ-woACV6cEriKHmIFj4LiUU/s1600/dsc09754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoBkLgXkh-sY_6zhVweq7b7_kFsHWJPj6RV_EJaYC7MvAifq3voSryxKZ0BKQCJXfMWiv0lq-9CVXMb06ZOP3LSJhd3kHDFIo7g1bnaQkpkShTSk8_jl7YQ-woACV6cEriKHmIFj4LiUU/s1600/dsc09754.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="http://in-the-mo.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Mo</a>, <a href="http://theoxfordowl.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Asha</a>, <a href="http://www.theguiltygirl.com/" target="_blank">Tami,</a> <a href="http://www.pinaforesandpies.co.uk/" target="_blank">Hannah</a>, <a href="http://layitbarelifestyle.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a>, <a href="http://www.hattyxo.co.uk/" target="_blank">Hattie</a>, <a href="http://www.rachelmariexoxo.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rachel</a>, <a href="http://thatgracegirl.com/" target="_blank">Grace</a>, <a href="http://beautyblogjessb.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Jess</a>, Me, <a href="http://elsie-bells.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ellie</a>, <a href="http://www.how-lovely.co.uk/" target="_blank">Kelly</a>, <a href="http://www.thatmontgomerygirl.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Jess</a>, <a href="http://www.latenightnonsense.com/" target="_blank">Adrienne</a>, <a href="http://www.danielletc.com/" target="_blank">Danielle</a>, <a href="http://katydesu.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Katy</a>, <a href="http://samanthachermua.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Samantha</a><br />Thanks to lovely Sam for the image!</b></span></td></tr>
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Our first pitstop was <b>Wagamama</b>, where we all came together for the first time over Chicken Katsu Curry and copious amounts of Diet Coke. Despite having never met any of the lovely ladies before, I instantly felt at home, discussing make-up and snap happy tendencies with my newfound friends. I sat and chatted all things intern with beautiful <a href="http://thatmontgomerygirl.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Jess</a> (I hope yours went well by the way!), and I got a bit nostalgic for my student days when she told me all about her uni ball. Sat on my other side was the gorgeous <a href="http://www.theguiltygirl.com/" target="_blank">Tami</a>. I'd been following (read: shamelessly stalking) her blog for a while, so it was lovely to meet The Guilty Girl herself. It was such a great first meeting, and would have made the perfect icebreaker, had there been any ice to break. </div>
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After a bit of an impromptu circle time, in which we all introduced ourselves properly, we mozied on over to <b><a href="http://www.crabtree-evelyn.co.uk/" target="_blank">Crabtree & Evelyn</a>,</b> where we were given an introduction to the company and its products. <a href="http://www.how-lovely.co.uk/" target="_blank">Kelly </a>and I spent a fair amount of time lusting after their new <i>Pear & Magnolia</i> range, whilst the rest of the girls were pampered with hand treatments and manicures. Whilst we were ogling the <b>C&E</b> offerings, Adrienne took us out in groups to pick up our goody bags. It was like a little school trip, and I definitely felt a sense of childish glee when she handed us bags full to the brim with all manner of cosmetic goodness. It was during our little jaunt to pick up our marvellous goody bags that I got to talk to lovely <a href="http://www.thatgracegirl.com/" target="_blank">Grace</a>, a beautiful girl with a beautiful blog, which has just had a redesign FYI, so check that out! We left <b>C&E</b> with a cute little bag containing a few samples and a hand cream of our choice. <b>Crabtree & Evelyn</b> is such a beautiful shop, which I'd never really ventured into before. After seeing what they had to offer, I certainly won't be wondering past without a second glance again!</div>
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We then had a little time to kill before our next outing, so we went to <b>Costa</b> to refuel and have a good chinwag. I started slurping my delicious mocha, and my wish list proceeded to expand along with my waistline. It was here that mine and<a href="http://katydesu.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank"> Katy</a>'s mutual love for <b><a href="http://www.jomalone.co.uk/" target="_blank">Jo Malone</a> </b>caused quite a stir, and I added a glossy little <b><a href="http://www.maybelline.co.uk/" target="_blank">Maybelline</a></b> number to my growing shopping list - thanks Tami.</div>
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Our final destination was <b><a href="http://www.lush.co.uk/" target="_blank">Lush</a></b>, where we were treated to a Rose themed evening, complete with rose lemonade and delectable cupcakes. The <b>Lush</b><i> </i>ladies talked about their new <a href="https://www.lush.co.uk/products/bubble-bars/rose" target="_blank"><i>Rose Bubble Bar</i></a>, as well as showing us their make up collection, which was a welcome surprise for me! Who knew <b>Lush</b> did make up, eh? As we all ambled around the store, getting skin consultations and colour readings, nattering about all our must haves and new discoveries, I felt so content to be part of the beauty blogging community. It's when you meet people like this that you realise what wonderful opportunities can come out of a hobby - something that began with you sitting in front of your computer, scribbling down random thoughts about your passions. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kU-aCszM3GJ7m2ps_vKykdoudR6Z-BKbhkIwzoU9KQQ5u-3POhqBG2mwS4HZNAe0tjI8CUVNc-yvCmEBn9dt72HF3uMibkfklKWy08pgFUdKIcKEQeouO5qGIZKFGFwnpmVs1Aa2v8s/s1600/DSC00622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kU-aCszM3GJ7m2ps_vKykdoudR6Z-BKbhkIwzoU9KQQ5u-3POhqBG2mwS4HZNAe0tjI8CUVNc-yvCmEBn9dt72HF3uMibkfklKWy08pgFUdKIcKEQeouO5qGIZKFGFwnpmVs1Aa2v8s/s1600/DSC00622.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Of course this post wouldn't be complete without an ode to the gift bag - oh, the gift bag. Filled with products from <b><a href="http://uk.caudalie.com/" target="_blank">Caudalie</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.hotelchocolat.com/uk/" target="_blank">Hotel Chocolat</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.thewhitecompany.com/" target="_blank">The White Company</a></b>, <b><a href="http://wilkinsonsword.co.uk/women" target="_blank">Wilkinson Sword</a></b>, and <b><a href="https://eyeofhorus.uk.com/" target="_blank">Eye of Horus </a></b>to name just a few, as well as the month's <b><a href="http://www.glossybox.co.uk/" target="_blank">Glossybox</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.birchbox.co.uk/" target="_blank">Birchbox</a></b> offerings, I know I'll still be playing with all my new goodies for months to come! Sadly, due to the shambles that is the British postal system, we didn't get the wonderful bags from <b><a href="http://www.thebloggerprogramme.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Blogger Programme</a></b> on the day, but I was so pleased when mine came in the post. It's such a perfect memento for the occasion, and mine's already hung up on the back of my door, storing all the lovely products I've saved for future blog posts. Thank you so much to all the generous PRs for providing such an astounding array of treats for us all. Know how hugely appreciated it was.</div>
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And that's all folks! I had the most amazing time, and will be eternally grateful to Adrienne for putting so much time and effort into the whole thing. </div>
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Lots of Love,</div>
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Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-38079991628154357702014-04-13T10:30:00.000+01:002014-04-13T10:30:01.727+01:00Book of the Week: The Secret History<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggb6GUxJExpnMzzHWmeBv2DHABmQDnKTz6KHbF1oQ0Isd3S6qLWkVzIJJ3-j9es6O_SAD-_9QXpeOR5bqai_CZPZhgZkFG_HnpZmLB3nHw8Luo7bwJmMyByck_HA0P_PRatgHMjxVcyH4/s1600/DSC00601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggb6GUxJExpnMzzHWmeBv2DHABmQDnKTz6KHbF1oQ0Isd3S6qLWkVzIJJ3-j9es6O_SAD-_9QXpeOR5bqai_CZPZhgZkFG_HnpZmLB3nHw8Luo7bwJmMyByck_HA0P_PRatgHMjxVcyH4/s1600/DSC00601.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>"I suppose at one time in my life I might have had any number of stories, but now there is no other. this is the only story I will ever be able to tell."</i></div>
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You know me. I love my books. I also love Classics, so when my friend recommended <i>The Secret History</i> by Donna Tartt, a book <i>about </i>Classics students, I knew I was going to love it from the word go. <i>The Secret History</i> is one of those books that I'd never heard of before, but seems to have a huge following that I missed entirely. How does that happen?! Baffling ignorance aside, I was beyond excited to delve into its pages and, despite it being a hefty 600 pages long, I managed to power through it in less than a week. It's that good.</div>
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<i>The Secret History </i>centres on a group of Classics students in a sleepy little Vermont town. Recluses from the rest of the campus, the misfits immerse themselves in their studies, and come to consider themselves an elite group, above the societal norms,and boring existences of their fellow students. Their studies, however, take on a life of their own, driving them to murder one of their kin. A dark tale that toys with the boundaries of morality, it gets you thinking about secrets, and how they can eat you up and drive you to do the most terrible things.</div>
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You might consider knowing about the imminent death of Bunny Corcoran to be a bit of a spoiler, but it was completely to the contrary. The prologue of the tome provides an insight into the event itself, and the majority of the pages that follow are flashbacks to the years leading up to the tragedy. For me, this was the king of all suspense builders. You know it's coming, but, reading it through the eyes of complete newcomer, Richard Papen, you have no idea how or why. I think this is probably the reason that I flew through it in such a short space of time - I was desperate to piece together the puzzle and find out what was going on beneath the surface.</div>
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Another aspect I loved, which I think might be quite a specific one (sorry guys), are all the random lines of Greek slotted into the chapters. They're planning a murder, not the type of thing one discusses in public, so when in company, they speak in Greek, using it as their kind of secret language. I studied Ancient Greek at university, so I consider them little in jokes, and I love the book all the more for it. If you too have a knowledge of Classical Greek, then you'll loves this little lexicon of tidbits. If you don't, they do nothing to take away for them story, so don't you worry!</div>
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As well as this, with such an eclectic bunch of misfit weirdos, there's bound to be a couple of gems in the mix. My favourite of the lot is Frances Abernathy, whose homosexuality both leads to a couple of humorous misunderstandings, and is cause for many a emotionally moving scene. I also happen to think that his style and sense of humour make him the character I would get along best with, had they been real people, and had they not all killed somebody. It's actually at his secluded country house that most of the mystery unfolds.</div>
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Aside from the little niggle of having epic chapters that are the same length as some small books (I need a good place to stop, damn it!), I absolutely loved this intriguing page turner. The Classical references, the sense of camaraderie in the most twisted of circumstances, and the air of dark mystery that shrouds its pages, make this more than worth the sleepless nights spent up reading. This might have been the first Donna Tartt novel I have read, but it certainly won't be the last.</div>
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Have you read <i>The Secret History</i>? Are you a fan of Donna Tartt? Let me know!</div>
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S.</div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-34913987841718129692014-04-12T09:00:00.000+01:002014-04-12T09:00:01.786+01:00Something Beginning With... B: Bumble and bumble.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPv1LIydT6JiSYmPdtDXyXxU2F3gWSqtFLr2fUvYr17lKkRWmvm4yU7lxDlxv366L0Cmw-V1BTckhRmHCG4nLYsvG9dvMOc0M2Nrz0Zai_qdSNw0ysD7Ivq9VdHyq4nrxqt0hJKQ7ZgY/s1600/DSC00385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPv1LIydT6JiSYmPdtDXyXxU2F3gWSqtFLr2fUvYr17lKkRWmvm4yU7lxDlxv366L0Cmw-V1BTckhRmHCG4nLYsvG9dvMOc0M2Nrz0Zai_qdSNw0ysD7Ivq9VdHyq4nrxqt0hJKQ7ZgY/s1600/DSC00385.JPG" height="295" width="400" /></a></div>
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After getting super excited at my newly created <a href="http://squares2790.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/something-beginning-with-ardell-lashes.html" target="_blank">SBW </a>concept, I've definitely dropped the ball a little. But here I am on this lovely Saturday morning with the long overdue 'Something Beginning With: B' post. Now, I'm something of a <b><a href="http://www.bumbleandbumble.co.uk/" target="_blank">Bumble and bumble</a></b> fiend, so it only makes sense that they should be the focus of todays ramblings. The majority of my haircare routine comprises of their coveted offerings, so here is a collection of <b>Bb.</b> product that I would be lost without.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_YeHnsa9oVe0v56TCUhxAlabZszbIb3JhQM0yhahoNDqMGSaU-HVzTPjorYJrp7hPazw53ixx6E2lmA2QDl_QQYw_oZpYmIe2shy7v65VFkeJLj2PuyzuafVP5ph3tAFqtCmhWVFQj0s/s1600/DSC00388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_YeHnsa9oVe0v56TCUhxAlabZszbIb3JhQM0yhahoNDqMGSaU-HVzTPjorYJrp7hPazw53ixx6E2lmA2QDl_QQYw_oZpYmIe2shy7v65VFkeJLj2PuyzuafVP5ph3tAFqtCmhWVFQj0s/s1600/DSC00388.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.bumbleandbumble.co.uk/product/75/24277/Products/Styling/Waxes/semisumo/index.tmpl" target="_blank">semisumo</a></i></div>
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I'd had this knocking around for a while, but didn't really have an inkling of when I'd get use out of it. But having recently taken the plunge and cut my hair short, I think I'd go as far as to say that it's my new holy grail for hair styling. A soft pomade, I just rub the tiniest amount onto my fingers and run them through my freshly styled tresses. Say hello to tamed flyways, managed frizz, and an altogether glossier barnet. This little styling beauty was the only hair product I thought worth mentioning in my <a href="http://squares2790.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/march-favourites.html" target="_blank">March Favourites</a> and, as I plan to keep my hair short for a while now, I'm sure my beloved <i>semisumo </i>will remain pride of place in my haircare collection for a long time yet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFLRsW8X7zHo5EzPxj2iTIoZy82cpKuc-ADdIQ4ryZh-E7stf8FcaaZH4pkoYXb6sL2bGQGb165ngDeFEqkTsTnHDVBoTmRwQ_JRkr5h-05ArMoyMb_3ICEz-7ShHe4_EAkoK1V2Klrjg/s1600/DSC00400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFLRsW8X7zHo5EzPxj2iTIoZy82cpKuc-ADdIQ4ryZh-E7stf8FcaaZH4pkoYXb6sL2bGQGb165ngDeFEqkTsTnHDVBoTmRwQ_JRkr5h-05ArMoyMb_3ICEz-7ShHe4_EAkoK1V2Klrjg/s1600/DSC00400.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.bumbleandbumble.co.uk/product/74/224/Products/Styling/Structure/thickening-hairspray/index.tmpl" target="_blank">thickening hairspray</a></i></div>
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My hair is a little on the fine side, so it often looks a bit flat - droopy, if you will. For that reason, I've long been a fan of the <b>Bb.</b> <i>thickening range</i> for adding that much needed oomph. Sadly, I've run out of the <i>shampoo </i>and<i> conditioner,</i> and have made a promise to myself that I'm only allowed more when I have enough Boots points. You cannot even fathom the immense willpower this is taking. However, I'm still enamoured with the <b>Bb.</b> <i>thickening hairspray.</i> I just spritz it into towel dried roots and blow-dry, and it makes such a massive difference that I'm not too sure how I ever got by without it. It does have a tendency to go a little crispy if ever I get too trigger happy, but as I have to use it so sparingly, the bottle lasts me for ages, which can only be a great thing, really. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDeRWjLgpYIgM6U1WUVFbUSSytZXDEATRmwPq2QHOMmVDJT6_r6fPXwZdv0hTbMgg5rykI901tiXS7XZLc9nICQhp4sMh_5Q5Kg8Hy0PwzxqDDQMmjhPeAsXqmdQAhgwGrs5iKMmviDG0/s1600/DSC00399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDeRWjLgpYIgM6U1WUVFbUSSytZXDEATRmwPq2QHOMmVDJT6_r6fPXwZdv0hTbMgg5rykI901tiXS7XZLc9nICQhp4sMh_5Q5Kg8Hy0PwzxqDDQMmjhPeAsXqmdQAhgwGrs5iKMmviDG0/s1600/DSC00399.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.bumbleandbumble.co.uk/product/11720/27810/Products/Hair-Powders/Pret-a-Powder/Equal-parts-dry-shampoo-style-extender-and-volume-in-a-pinch/index.tmpl" target="_blank">pret-a-powder</a></i></div>
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I'm not a huge fan of hair powders. I find that they only ever dull my vibrant hair colour. However, another <b>Bb.</b> gem is their sough after <i>pret-a-powder</i>. Translucent and extra fine, I love this for adding a little texture to my hair and, again, have been getting much more use out of it since I went for the chop. I don't find that I have the same issue of dullness that I do with brands like <b>Batiste</b>, making it the perfect product for second (ahem, third) day hair styling. Another one of those great volumising products, I originally thought that the bottle would be awkward to use and wouldn't last very long, but it's fared surprisingly well in my clumsy, accident prone hands. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOaOdGoPFB3PqBUYy2HvuJfwx51loog_iWnfXd06yhwSJ2WwJ2rFkm1cNsdI2nn2uOJ1p9MN6KdR6mVJIjmiPt-fDXGXyVjlPwPwuvgLQShk0Uu4dH6bdf10LS6_wSOlHEBbTJBaZ5TE/s1600/DSC00391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOaOdGoPFB3PqBUYy2HvuJfwx51loog_iWnfXd06yhwSJ2WwJ2rFkm1cNsdI2nn2uOJ1p9MN6KdR6mVJIjmiPt-fDXGXyVjlPwPwuvgLQShk0Uu4dH6bdf10LS6_wSOlHEBbTJBaZ5TE/s1600/DSC00391.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.bumbleandbumble.co.uk/product/72/23196/Products/Styling/Speciality/hairdressers-invisible-oil/index.tmpl" target="_blank">hairdresser's invisible oil</a></i></div>
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Having fine hair, oils can often be an absolute disaster for me - like brushing lard through freshly washed locks. However, I've found a friend for life in the <b>Bb.</b> <i>hairdresser's invisible oil.</i> I used this a lot more when I had longer hair, running the tiniest amount through the ends. The result was silky soft, super shiny, frizz free tresses. It is also said to have strengthening qualities, but I lopped my ends off before I could testify - sorry about that! Now, I only really use it when my hair's feeling particularly dry, but I love it all the same! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJny5c3h_RZbBa_JZH8zT3-S-S7jhYmNA4JUOEr8eD1wtreRfJtm50KwYG6Nw_HnGELJx53LD5yZPW_SSn42E1-y858K8D69fLgLy_JQxLQyziE7jUGRZfDY2nuX_aaidFuZLua2F_lg/s1600/DSC00404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJny5c3h_RZbBa_JZH8zT3-S-S7jhYmNA4JUOEr8eD1wtreRfJtm50KwYG6Nw_HnGELJx53LD5yZPW_SSn42E1-y858K8D69fLgLy_JQxLQyziE7jUGRZfDY2nuX_aaidFuZLua2F_lg/s1600/DSC00404.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.bumbleandbumble.co.uk/product/11351/26946/Products/thickeningfamily/Dryspun-Finish/index.tmpl" target="_blank">dryspun finish</a></i></div>
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This thickening gem has developed something of a cult following amongst <b>Bb.</b> fans, and I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm one of the masses that launched themselves onto the <i>dryspun</i> bandwagon. As well as offering volume by the bucket load, I particularly like using this product straight after drying my hair. Although I love the feeling of freshly washed hair, I'm not an avid fan of the fluffiness, always opting for a more 'lived in' style. And <i>dryspun finish </i>is exactly that in a can. Volume and strategic mess in one. It's everything I want in a hairspray.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed this little round-up of my Bb. babies. What are your favourite Bumble and bumble products? What haircare brand could you not live without? Let me know!</div>
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Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-16841123594156617822014-04-09T09:00:00.000+01:002014-04-09T09:00:00.695+01:00A Rose Amongst Thorns: The White Company - Rose Signature Candle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqsELoBGoyJ6Libz84bZLT4RznUsC3484OFmLQYYF57Wk6264Pf-rqwLVs_BRmN1khW3PoOdsT-W-nQTynBATNQMdCOyDkL6jr7JebohI-fkYKHBHX4Lm5wibex_L19WeMFYH-dvcXrI/s1600/DSC00578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqsELoBGoyJ6Libz84bZLT4RznUsC3484OFmLQYYF57Wk6264Pf-rqwLVs_BRmN1khW3PoOdsT-W-nQTynBATNQMdCOyDkL6jr7JebohI-fkYKHBHX4Lm5wibex_L19WeMFYH-dvcXrI/s1600/DSC00578.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Usually I'm really not a candle person. They're either too strong and give me a bit of a headache, it goes in completely the other direction and I can't smell anything at all, or they have the burn time of a hair, and I really don't feel I've got my money's worth. On top of all this, having an open flame in my room isn't great for my anxiety levels, so I usually just call it a day and grab the room spray/perfume equivalent to the candle scents I like. However, a couple of weekends back at blogger meet up, <b>OxMeet</b> (more on this next week), I was treated to the most amazing goody bag, courtesy of lovely <a href="http://www.latenightnonsense.com/" target="_blank">Adrienne</a>, and in amongst the delightful cornucopia was the new <i><a href="http://www.thewhitecompany.com/candles-and-fragrance/candles/rose-signature-candle/" target="_blank">Rose Signature Candle</a></i>* from <b><a href="http://www.thewhitecompany.com/" target="_blank">The White Company</a></b>. Not something I would have thought to buy myself, I'm so glad I've been given the chance to catch a whiff of this gorgeous candle, its sumptuous scent potentially converting me to candlism.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTZpwc0sITYGCOHNmst-F0-26DdGn53833K4bNewvuLS4Wr3dn6Ck0G_pxk97rd7tYArtYncd4U8SBlubYiuhVZeFvkEIbM6Qd_m7myRCM0JaiuJDUUA22I3IagYLwxPmDWRGQmUtymo/s1600/DSC00575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTZpwc0sITYGCOHNmst-F0-26DdGn53833K4bNewvuLS4Wr3dn6Ck0G_pxk97rd7tYArtYncd4U8SBlubYiuhVZeFvkEIbM6Qd_m7myRCM0JaiuJDUUA22I3IagYLwxPmDWRGQmUtymo/s1600/DSC00575.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>The White Company </b>is synonymous with clean, crisp and minimal design, an aesthetic I often covet, and the <i>Rose Signature Candle</i> is no different in this respect. Perched on my bedside table, it's a simple, beautiful addition to my bedroom decor. None of that gaudy packaging thank you very much! As for the scent, I often find rose to be a little overpowering, reminiscent of old ladies and potpourri. But this fragrant blend of rose, jasmine and lily is wonderful. Sweet and floral, yet fresh and contemporary, it's definitely a more modern twist on a classic rosy aroma. One of my favourite aspects is the fact that it fills my room with its delicate aroma even when it's not lit. It's so lovely to come home from work and have this beautiful fragrance wash over me as I open my bedroom door. It also means that I won't have to light it as much, and it will last a lot longer, its approximate burn time of 28 hours a mere fraction of the life I will get out of this beauty. <b>The White Company</b> could make a candle lover out of me yet!</div>
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Are you a fan of <b>The White Company</b>? Have you had the chance to catch the scent of this beautiful <i>Rose Signature Candle</i> yet? Let me know!</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">*PR sample</span></i></div>
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Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-4318721788260667702014-04-07T09:00:00.000+01:002014-04-07T09:00:04.239+01:00March Favourites<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFoSUX4ikj3kCKykDW_UKbxtw0bHHieuNo1CXtzVYrV-jMaZso_jONIjveE36u-ZDx8gbG9y_A4A45J9cAm2909FELJ2TvpruV9z0ZXqizL30mxrcamE_VuIjxHBO1bCeUEdLcDm_LFvw/s1600/DSC00529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFoSUX4ikj3kCKykDW_UKbxtw0bHHieuNo1CXtzVYrV-jMaZso_jONIjveE36u-ZDx8gbG9y_A4A45J9cAm2909FELJ2TvpruV9z0ZXqizL30mxrcamE_VuIjxHBO1bCeUEdLcDm_LFvw/s1600/DSC00529.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
Another month has been and gone in the blink of an eye, and with it, another collection of products that I've been coveting. I find it hard to believe that we're already in the fourth month of the year, but with the clocks going forward, and sunnier evenings back in my life, I'm getting more and more excited for summer. And I think it's safe to say that this months product picks reflect my sunny mood. So, without further ado, here are my March Favourites.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyBTvli5oiw_l0G6QwNmB-wP9tQ3D7sw7j8sv19UJrtWh6X6w7JbkcHJElSit86CGOgGvN7JLFAu0QN8lJt0fI_pi6itBl1IQISYSgFvMIBB5d4Sf327pfduDp6zE-yFo02O93q3N_GPA/s1600/DSC00553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyBTvli5oiw_l0G6QwNmB-wP9tQ3D7sw7j8sv19UJrtWh6X6w7JbkcHJElSit86CGOgGvN7JLFAu0QN8lJt0fI_pi6itBl1IQISYSgFvMIBB5d4Sf327pfduDp6zE-yFo02O93q3N_GPA/s1600/DSC00553.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>NARS </b>Duo Eyeshadow//<a href="http://www.selfridges.com/en/Beauty/Brand-rooms/Brands/NARS/Best-sellers/Duo-eyeshadow_318-2000192-DUOEYESHADOW/?cm_mmc=PLA-_-Google-_-Beauty-_-NARS&ci_src=18615224&ci_sku=64805719&$$ja=cgid:9968263534%7Ctsid:35948%7Ccid:180568654%7Clid:43541976077%7Cnw:g%7Ccrid:35402878294%7Crnd:15832682091611187014%7Cdvc:c%7Cadp:1o3&gclid=CMjZ8PP2y70CFanjwgodSZoAsQ" target="_blank"><i>Isolde</i></a></div>
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This has been in my collection for about a year now, and is one of my favourite eyeshadow duos of all time. I pushed it aside over the winter, favouring more autumnal, less metallic shades, but March saw me fall back in love with it, and I pretty much wore it everyday. A lighter antique gold, and a chocolatey bronze, these two shades pair together for the perfect spring/summer look. I usually use both together, sweeping the lighter of the two all over the lid and blending the bronze through the crease. However, for a sultry night out look, I go all out, using the bronze as a darker, more intense wash of colour which I adore! And these colour make my eyes look so blue! Never do I get as many compliments as I do when I'm wearing this delicious duo. It's a wonder I ever take it off at all!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmP4B_p_91skCvHKsd5WiY6u__klRymF7snhcMcImw0u42HkivVlcyg6N21w8ycVxbRaIrcjgVxmzkE0S3vvb94SN2hZOyoxIkCU7r_iLTNguvPh-CcS04pCBwKEbP7wACvyFlsoM78Zs/s1600/DSC00562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmP4B_p_91skCvHKsd5WiY6u__klRymF7snhcMcImw0u42HkivVlcyg6N21w8ycVxbRaIrcjgVxmzkE0S3vvb94SN2hZOyoxIkCU7r_iLTNguvPh-CcS04pCBwKEbP7wACvyFlsoM78Zs/s1600/DSC00562.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Stila</b> Stay All Day Eyeliner//<a href="http://www.beautybay.com/cosmetics/stila/g/stayalldaywaterproofliquideyeliner/?utm_source=google%2Bshopping&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=shopping%2Bfeed&ctyid=gb&selectedsku=stil0402f&mkwid=VhJhMEm8_dc&pcrid=12485385563&gclid=CJi8jqT4y70CFefMtAodHnEAGA" target="_blank"><i>Dark Brown</i></a></div>
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Another product I've had for a while, it never really fell out of favour with me. I just went through a bit of a phase of using a more intense black to line my peepers. However, old habits die hard, and gone back to using a softer, more subtle brown for a slightly more natural effect. This product is, hands down, my favourite brown eyeliner. Perfectly pigmented, and super easy to use, the ultra fine felt nib gives me precision and control, and is great for those mornings when you need to do your make up in a hurry (every morning in my case - damn snooze button), and just don't have the time to faf about. It's like eyeliner for dummies really, and I love it so. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImDNrQ1ni4-OZorC3GR3HRWk64vB8G_ZMe-uu6aSonGFMzda8m_GHH-UOe2QmvERuLMcA-qR4vvaJOj9uh_PE1i7frNh_VVRrHqas-PHdJpcRIVSeAnIu9OmxBI-56zMc2TokEaSwEmQ/s1600/DSC00549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImDNrQ1ni4-OZorC3GR3HRWk64vB8G_ZMe-uu6aSonGFMzda8m_GHH-UOe2QmvERuLMcA-qR4vvaJOj9uh_PE1i7frNh_VVRrHqas-PHdJpcRIVSeAnIu9OmxBI-56zMc2TokEaSwEmQ/s1600/DSC00549.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Sleek </b>Blush by 3//<a href="http://www.superdrug.com/sleek-makeup/sleek-lace-blush-by-3/invt/397664" target="_blank"><i>Lace</i></a><br />
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I've never been one for powder blush, always picking creamier alternatives. I just think they give a more natural finish, and, contrary to popular opinion, I find them easier to work with. But in <b>Superdrug </b>a few months back, a friend of mine recommended<b> Sleek</b> blushes, and at £9.99 for three generously sized pans, I had nothing to lose. Admittedly, it has taken me a few months to end my exclusive relationship with cream blushes, but needless to say, I have now embarked on a glorious love affair with powders. All three products in this palette are beautifully pigmented and blend to perfection. Although my picture seems to portray a slightly pinky hue, the blushes are all in the orange family, my favourite of all the makeup colour families. I'm particularly enjoying <i>Guipure</i>, the middle shade of the trio which, when I bought it, I thought would be the dud of the collection that I never got any use out of. Boy oh boy, how wrong I was! A warm golden orange, shot through with flecks of rosy shimmer, I think it adds the perfect amount of glow to a flushed and dewy cheek. </div>
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<b>Benefit</b> Gimme Brow//<a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk/product/view/gimme-brow" target="_blank"><i>Light/Medium</i></a></div>
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Before I begin, I feel I should tell you that Brooke Shields is my brow idol. Like her, my brows have never been particularly arched, and, unlike her, they have never been all that thick either. I mean, they're not sparse, but I love the look of fuller brows, and I'm constantly searching for products that will help me on my way to Delevingne-dom. In March, I finally found it - my new holy grail eyebrow product. <b>Benefit</b>'s <i>Gimme Brow</i>. I went for the shade light/medium, as that's what the woman at the Benefit counter recommended. Annoyingly, it's a little too light to wear over <b>MAC</b>s <i>Charcoal Brown</i>, my everyday brow boost, with copious blending needed for a natural look. However, it's the perfect colour for those days when I can't really be bothered, or, more realistically, I'm running late, and I just comb it through solo for some extra eyebrow volume. It's amazing, I now have the brows of Lily Collins, and I'm never looking back.<br />
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<b>Revlon </b>Colourburst Matte Balm//<a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Revlon-ColorBurst-8482-Matte-Balm_1416281/" target="_blank"><i>Audacious</i></a></div>
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Everyone and their gran seems to have this product, in this colour, and for good reason! I love matte lips, but struggle to find the products that don't make my own pout look dry and flaky. The <b>Revlon </b>products, although not particularly moisturising, don't flake at all on me, which is a huge selling point! The tangerine hued <i>Audacious</i> looks almost neon on my pale complexion, and, for me, it's perfect for rocking the orange lip trend.<br />
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<b>Bumble and bumble.</b>//<a href="http://www.bumbleandbumble.co.uk/product/10298/24277/Look-Learn/Long/Kristel01/semisumo/index.tmpl?cm_mmc=GoogleBase-_-ShoppingFeed-_-Long-_-Kristel_01&77tadunit=58c3bf65&77tadvert=50112307768&77tkeyword=&77tentrytype=s&77tentry=shopping_feed_ppc&gclid=CIeo5pWMzL0CFZShtAoduQ4AOQ" target="_blank"><i>semisumo</i></a></div>
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Since cutting my hair shorter, I've really been loving wearing it curly. The curls hold for longer without the extra weight, and it just looks so bouncy, voluminous and healthy. What I'm not loving, however, is the fluff and frizz that appear after drying. To combat this, I've discovered <i>semisumo</i> - a product that I've had knocking around for a while, but not really had a clue how to use. Now, I just rub a little bit of the pomade onto my fingers, and run it through my curls. The result is tamed flyways and a huge boost of shine. I'm so pleased this product finally got to see the light of day in March, because it really is a gem!<br />
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<b>Lush</b>//<a href="https://www.lush.co.uk/products/cosmetic-lad" target="_blank"><i>Cosmetic Lad</i></a></div>
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This nifty little moisturiser is actually designed to calm shaving burn, but I've now adopted it as my daily facial moisturiser. After having a skin consultation at <b>Lush Oxford</b>, the lovely Kym assured me that it's not just for boys, and I went home with a sample of it. Let me just say it. Life. Changed. I've recently had a bit of a lifestyle upheaval, commuting to London daily, and my skin type has really shifted. My previously dry visage has become a little too combination for any of the products I have in my arsenal; my newly irritating oily T-zone is a particular pain. But this product fully balances out the oils in my skin, and even after using a little sample, I've noticed a huge reduction in redness to the point where I barely need foundation any more. As well as all this wonderment, it smells so good I want to grab a spoon. Needless to say, I'll be shooting in to the next <b>Lush </b>store I pass to pick up a full sized pot of this magic cream! </div>
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So there you have it. Another month, another product round up. Have you tried any of the products I've been loving? What are your March favourites? Let me know!</div>
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S.</div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-26224961281777927072014-04-06T11:07:00.000+01:002014-04-06T11:07:14.816+01:00Book of the Week: The Godfather<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<i>"Lawyers can steal more money with a briefcase than a thousand men with guns and masks."</i></div>
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<i>The Godfather </i>by Mario Puzo is one of those books that's been sitting on my shelf for a long time, but I always skimmed past it when selecting my next read. I've always had a bit of a fascination with the mafia. <i>Goodfellas </i>is one of my favourite movies, and the Kray twins are, in my eyes, two of the most interesting figures ever to grace the pages of British history. So, with my slightly weird obsession with all things organised crime (not sure what wrong with me...), theory dictates that I should have loved <i>The Godfather</i>. Turns out that theory perfectly translates into reality as there, in plain sight, sat one of my favourite books, ignored and undiscovered right under my nose. I could kick myself for leaving it unread for so long, but lets not dwell, I've finally read it, and here's what I think.</div>
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<i>The Godfather</i> tells the tale of the Sicilian families, the original mafia, living and working in 1940s New York. Of the five families, the Corleones are the most powerful and when their Don, Vito Corleone is gunned down in the street, the family flirts with murder, blackmail and betrayal, and it's all they can do to prevent war from breaking out in the streets of NYC. Ultimately a tale of protection, loyalty and family values, the Corleones are forced to battle for survival in the clandestine society that they have ruled for so long. </div>
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The thing that struck me most about the book was how real and believable the relationships are. Unlike the film, in which everything seems a little fantastical, and violence is the real draw, the family ties and the sense of unparalleled love that the Corleones have for each other are positively palpable. Perhaps it's a tad more extreme than reality (just a tad, mind), but hey, it's a book - it'd be boring if it wasn't a little amplified. The entire story is very much centred on kindness, loyalty, and the intimacy of family and friends - it just so happens that they have a slightly different, shall we say, less forgiving approach to discipline than we do!</div>
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And their generosity doesn't only extend to relations. Tom Hagen, my favourite character, was taken under the wing of Don Corleone at a young age, after he was rejected by the rest of society, and has since grown to be a part of the family, securing himself the coveted, albeit slightly dangerous role of <i>consigliere</i>, the right hand man to the Don. I think the reason I like him so much is because he isn't a part of the family. He has none of the hot headed unreasonability that often intermingles with family dynamics. In fact, it's his job to make sure that no rash decisions are acted upon, and the best course of action is always taken. A trained lawyer, he is always the voice of reason in the book, meaning that it isn't merely a story of impulse and revenge. Although all of the characters seem very real to me, it's Tom's level headedness and strategic thinking that, for me, makes the war between the families a truly believable one. </div>
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Although not in any way as violent as the movies, I wouldn't call this a book for the faint of heart. But if, like me, you're a little enamoured with the celebrity of the glamourised criminal underworld, I would definitely recommend that you give this puppy a peruse. So go ahead. Buckle down, 'go to the mattresses' as they say, and don't come up again until you've finished this spectacular read. </div>
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Have you read <i>The Godfather</i>? Have a bit of a gangster fetish like me? Let me know!<br />
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S.</div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-64097428535697852632014-03-11T13:12:00.000+00:002014-03-11T13:12:26.416+00:00Pinks and Pastels: My Favourite Spring Nail Varnishes<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I was reluctant to post anything remotely Spring related whilst the weather was so hideous. It felt like I was tempting fate somewhat. But after a glorious weekend of sunshine in the English countryside, I think we can all agree that Spring has finally sprung! So I'm busting out the pastel hues and bright colours, and swapping out my berry polishes for light and breezy alternatives - bring it on, Summer. </div>
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My first choice of colour this season is one that I've had knocking around for a while now, and it's <i>Peach Melba</i> by <b>Barry M</b>. A beautiful pastel tangerine, it's perfectly on trend this season, which is great as I've always loved those orangey tones. I particularly love the fact that this shade makes my hands look quite tanned which, I can assure you, they are not. Always nice to cheat a cheeky tan.</div>
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Next up is another <b>Barry M</b> shade, named <i>Blueberry</i>. A sky blue shade that screams sunny days and picnics in the park, I've been reaching for it a lot more than anticipated. Blues and purples aren't usually my cup of tea, but I've really surprised myself with this baby blue obsession. I guess it's good to keep myself on my toes - and this nail varnish for that matter - perfect with a pair of cute strappy sandals! Barry M always delivers such a fail safe range of colours for an affordable manicure, so there's no doubt that my collection of polishes will continue to flourish now that I've discovered a love for a new colour family. </div>
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Thirdly, a brand new laquer love - <i>Plastic Fantastic</i> by <b>Ciate</b>. This is my first <b>Ciate</b> polish; a gift in last months <b>Glossybox</b>. As<b> </b>I stated before, blues and purples aren't my thing, so I wasn't entirely sure whether I would like this bright berry hue, and I certainly wouldn't have ever picked it up if it wasn't gifted to me. The name is also a bit misleading, as I was bracing myself for some kind of sickly Barbie shade, but I tried it on anyway, YOLO and all that, and actually, I love it. It's darker than I expected, and I feel that it's the perfect transitional colour for seeing me into Spring. It still has the berry tones of Autumn, but it's light and sweet enough to be perfect for the season ahead.</div>
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Last but not least is <b>Models Own</b> <i>Utopia</i>. I borrowed this from a friend for my Grad Ball back in 2012 (gahh I'm old!) as it went perfectly with my dress, and I loved it that much that I bought my own bottle the following day. An understated lilac nude colour, it gives the nails a wonderfully feminine chic look, adding a real sense of sophistication, day or night. I included this in my <a href="http://squares2790.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/be-my-valentine-girly-face-and-nails.html" target="_blank">Valentines post</a>, (notice the cheeky recycled picture) and I do think that this is a neutral enough shade to be used all year round, but I am particularly drawn to it at the moment for reasons unknown. You know, for someone that doesn't like purply shades, I've not done too badly here, have I? </div>
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So there you have it, my new collection of go to shades for the season ahead. Do you have any of these shades? What are your favourite colours for Spring? Let me know!<br />
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S.</div>
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P.s. Apologies for the week long hiatus. I had a rather hectic unplanned week, with no posts written or scheduled - won't be letting that happen again any time soon, I can assure you! </div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-79873253379265269432014-03-04T17:07:00.003+00:002014-03-04T17:07:42.775+00:00February Favourites<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, it's March already! February, thankfully, shot past in the blink of an eye, and I'm so excited for the coming month, as the beginning of Spring is one of my favourite times of year, with all that excitement and promise of new and better things hanging in the air. I do have a few exciting things in the works for the month of March, which I'm sure I will share with you all in due time, and although I'm relieved to have got February out of the way for another year (maybe it wouldn't be so bad if I wasn't perpetually single on V-Day), there are a few products that I really enjoyed using. So I thought I'd recap my most loved products of the past month in a February Favourites post.</div>
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Lanolips//<a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Lanolips-Lemonaid-Lip-Aid-with-Organic-Lemon-Oil_1132910/" target="_blank">Lemonaid</a></div>
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I'm constantly battling dry, flaky lips, and in the transition from cold to slightly warmer but still pretty nippy weather, they needed a little extra care and attention than usual. I love <b>Lanolips</b> products for when good ol' <b>Vaseline</b> isn't quite enough. With the lanolin packing a whopping punch of moisture for my overly-parched peckers, this particular product became a permanent fixture in my handbag this month. A thick gloss with a clear, subtle sheen, that has the taste and irresistible smell of Sicilian lemonade, it has left my lips feeling supple and soft all month long.</div>
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Eye of Horus//<a href="https://eyeofhorus.uk.com/products/eye-of-horus-goddess-mascara.html" target="_blank">Goddess Mascara</a></div>
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A new discovery for me in February was the brand <b>Eye of Horus</b>, and their beautiful <i>Goddess Mascara</i>. An organic lash enhancer with fantastic separating and lengthening power, packed with vitamins and antioxidants, I've found myself a little obsessed with it this month. In fact, it graced my lashes on pretty much a daily basis. I reviewed it more thoroughly <a href="http://squares2790.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/review-eye-of-horus-goddess-mascara.html" target="_blank">here</a>, if you're curious.</div>
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Liz Earle//<a href="http://uk.lizearle.com/cleanse-tone-moisturise/skin-repair-moisturiser-dry-sensitive.html" target="_blank">Skin Repair Moisturiser (Dry/Sensitive)</a></div>
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I love the <b>Liz Earle</b> brand, in fact it featured in my <a href="http://squares2790.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/january-favourites.html" target="_blank">January Favourites</a> too, and this month I've only continued my love affair with her products, this time, with her <i>Skin Repair Moisturiser</i>. It's a much lighter moisturiser than I'm used to, and it's ideal now that the Winter months have almost passed and I no longer need that rich, creamy product to keep my skin plump and lustrous. The thing that I really enjoy about this moisturiser is how little you need and how quickly it melts into the skin. Like most <b>Liz Earle</b> products, it's packed with nourishing ingredients, including avocado oil, echinacea and beta-carotene, which are all essential in keeping skin healthy and beautiful. I only wish it had SPF in it, but I guess you can't have everything, can you?</div>
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L'Oreal Paris//<a href="http://www.boots.com/en/LOreal-Paris-True-Match-Foundation_16049/" target="_blank">True Match Foundation</a></div>
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Again, I reviewed this during the past month <a href="http://squares2790.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/review-loreal-true-match-foundation.html" target="_blank">here</a>, but I just wanted to reiterate how much I love this foundation. It definitely hasn't ousted my <b>bareMinerals</b> dependency, but I've found myself reaching for this brilliant base on those days when I need a little more coverage, or just when I'm feeling more of a matte vibe. I'm always amazed when I find such a great colour match for my skin too, so I'm sure the novelty of finding an adequate drugstore match will carry me well into March. </div>
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La Roche-Posay//<a href="http://www.boots.com/en/La-Roche-Posay-Effaclar-Clarifying-Lotion-200ml_865646/" target="_blank">Effeclar Astringent Lotion</a></div>
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I discovered this product relatively late on in February, as you can probably tell from how little I've used, and usually I'd give a product a more thorough test run before including it as a favourite, but I'm so impressed with how quickly it's made a difference to my skin that I had to chuck it into this post. Toners have never been a product that I've been blown away by - they're just the middle man between cleansing and moisturising - but this toner has done an amazing job at making my pores look smaller, something which I'm really quite self-conscious about. It does smell a bit like paint stripper, and the instructions warn against using it around your eye area, but I find it gentle enough on my skin. I've never tried any other <b>La Roche-Posay</b> products before now, so I'm excited to explore the rest of the range. </div>
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Eyeko//<a href="https://birchbox.co.uk/index.php/catalog/product/view/id/1433/s/eyeko-skinny-liquid-eyeliner-black/?gclid=CL__47Gs-bwCFagBwwodSUgAzg" target="_blank">Skinny Mini Liquid Eyeliner</a></div>
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After including a <b>L'Oreal</b> liner in my January Favourites post as my new go to liner, it appears I spoke too soon. <b>Eyeko</b> has always been a brand that I've been curious to try, and after receiving it in last months <b>Birchbox</b>, I'm not sure I'll ever look back! It has quite a thin tipped nib and has no give to it whatsoever, making it absolutely amazing for practising my feline flick - a technique I'm determined to conquer. As well as this, it has fantastic pigment, and brilliant lasting power. I'll definitely be investing in the full sized version when my mini runs out. Perfection in eyeliner form. </div>
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So there you have it, my favourite February beauty products! What were your favourite products this month? Have you used any of the products that I've been loving? Let me know!</div>
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Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-42190930615027214462014-02-27T14:53:00.000+00:002014-02-27T14:53:06.216+00:00Something Beginning With... A: Ardell Lashes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A little while ago, I was flicking through a magazine (can't remember which one now, but I will add it when I find it again), and I came across a rather intriguing A-Z feature. As a blogger, I'm always on the lookout for inspiration, and this really captured my attention. I thought it would be fun to translate the feature into a blogging series, so that's exactly what I'm going to do. This post marks the start of a collection of 26, in which I will pick a new topic every week to correspond with each letter of the alphabet. Whether that be a brand, a product, a makeup technique, or something else entirely, I thought it would be such an interesting concept to explore, as well as being a new challenge for me. A little disclaimer: as I've already stated, I came across this in a magazine and it was wholly through my own ideas that I've decided to start featuring it on the blog. I haven't seen it elsewhere in the blogging community, although I don't doubt that, through sheer probability of numbers, someone has done it before me. So I just wanted to say that if you have done this also, I apologise - I'm not trying to take credit for somebody else's creativity - I just thought it would make a fun little project.</div>
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So here goes - the first of my brand spanking new series. Although I think I might struggle when I get to letters like Q, it was a pretty easy to decide on a topic for the first letter of the alphabet. There are plenty to chose from; great brands like <b>Alpha H</b>, or soothing ingredients like Aloe Vera, but I've chosen to go for something I haven't yet covered on this little old blog of mine; false lashes - namely my favourite lash brand, <b><a href="http://www.ardelllashes.com/" target="_blank">Ardell</a></b>.</div>
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Their <i>Demi Wispies</i> seem to get the most coverage on YouTube and, although I do have some, I find them a bit too 'wispy' for my liking. Every one loves long, feathery lashes, but on me, these look so long and feathery that it borders on ridiculous. Having slightly hooded eyes and quite long lashes naturally, I tend to favour falsies that give me a bit of extra volume, and for that I find myself reaching for two particular <b>Ardell</b> offerings again and again.</div>
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The first, and my absolute favourite, are the <i>Babies</i> lashes. The perfect faux lashes for giving your real ones a little oomph whilst still looking fairly natural, I find that I can wear these for pretty much any occasion. Day or night, these are natural enough that you almost look as though you're just blessed with that fluttery framework, but at the same time, they provide the a good amount of lift and really fill out the lash line. They give you that little something extra, without looking too fake, a quality I think we all desire in our falsies.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still trying to work out how to make my camera pictures more true to life - they're a lot thicker looking than this really. P.S. I had a haircut! You like?</td></tr>
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Secondly, I always have a pair of <i>Demi Pixies</i> to hand for when my glamorous night out look feels a little lacklustre. These are very much a statement lash when compared to the <i>Babies, </i>and I really feel like they help to take a makeup look from great to showstopping. They do add length, but the reason I reach for them so much is the thick, luscious feel they give to my eyelashes. They look a little odd in the packaging; thicker, choppy looking chunks of lash interspersed with more natural hairs, but when applied, this helps them to look less over the top and I think it's what keeps them from becoming too lengthy for me. They're the perfect lash for giving you that mesmerising gaze.</div>
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I've always found <b>Ardell</b> lashes easiest to apply. It's simply a matter of applying a small amount of adhesive, curling them around with your fingers a little, then resting them on the lashes with a pair of tweezers, manipulating them into the best position for your eye shape. Couldn't be simpler! Another pro is the invisible band, as I often like to wear falsies without eyeliner, particularly during the day, and this is something I absolutely couldn't get away with where other brands are concerned. I also find that having an invisible band means that you can reuse them more for some reason - I get about 4/5 uses out of a pair - fantastic value for money really! Just make sure to clean the band when you take them off, for ease of use the next time around.</div>
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And that completes the first of my 'Something Beginning With...' series. I hope you enjoyed it and I'm really looking forward to the next 25 posts! </div>
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Do you like the idea of a 'Something Beginning With...' feature? What would be your 'something beginning with A' be? Are you a fan of Ardell Lashes? Let me know!</div>
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Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-43279548157283889152014-02-25T16:56:00.002+00:002014-02-25T16:56:55.413+00:00Review: Eye of Horus Goddess Mascara<div style="text-align: justify;">
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The notion of beautifying is one that's been around for almost as long as we have. Stemming from the Ancient Greek word, <i>kosmetikos</i>, makeup is a concept that's transitioned through the ages, but that doesn't mean that those ancient civilisations always got it right. The Greeks, for example, favoured a mono-brow, the more follically-challenged women using charcoal to fill the gap. Now, I know fashions are forever changing, but I can't imagine that ever being a trend I'd want to rock. Boy, that Helen must have been a looker! The Romans did one better, the elite painting their faces with white lead to give themselves that pale, ethereal look. As you can imagine, smothering your face with poison isn't the best idea and, as a result, Roman women rarely made it past the age of 30. The Egyptians, however, seemed to have a little more sense in the beauty department, using plants, waxes and oils to adorn their faces for an altogether more aesthetically pleasing look. Australian brand, <b>Eye of Horus</b> have taken a leaf out of the Egyptian's ancient scroll, replicating the gentle, natural, yet wonderfully effective cosmetics of those winged liner pioneers. One such product is the <i><a href="https://eyeofhorus.uk.com/products/eye-of-horus-goddess-mascara.html" target="_blank">Goddess Mascara</a></i>*, a beautifully separating, fantastically long lasting product that has become my new go to daytime mascara as of late.</div>
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The first selling point for me is the brand's natural approach to beauty. As well as being able to boast cruelty free production (a huge plus in my opinion), their products are paraben free, and contain an impressive list of organic ingredients, perfect for those of us with more sensitive peepers. Prominent in the formulation of the <i>Goddess Mascara</i>, is Moringa Oil, discovered in the tomb of the legendary Tutankhamun. Packed with an abundance of antioxidants and vitamins, it promises to strengthen lashes whilst giving your eye it's all important framework. And hey, if its good enough for kings, it's most certainly good enough for me! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Odd close up, but this is one coat ladies and gents. One coat!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtKu-Y5W5qWxFLC0bb0zICAi49bnl8AdvqYlkCFxxIQN6GEoxpaAWb7vrL2T9cwEEl2lAsEVfHc4polsFlIQ0rhcDxvu9s5Ayr-8jv0XRdoqflOil8WR4FWFwPg5VWHzRV2dRKTu4mn9k/s1600/DSC00226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtKu-Y5W5qWxFLC0bb0zICAi49bnl8AdvqYlkCFxxIQN6GEoxpaAWb7vrL2T9cwEEl2lAsEVfHc4polsFlIQ0rhcDxvu9s5Ayr-8jv0XRdoqflOil8WR4FWFwPg5VWHzRV2dRKTu4mn9k/s1600/DSC00226.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
With some natural products, I find that the organic ingredients sadly compromise their performance, but that's definitely not the case with <b>Eye of Horus</b>. In fact, as far as mascaras go, it's one of the best new products I've come across in a long time. The mascara gives the lashes a great lift whilst lengthening and separating, and I find one coat is enough for me to brave the outside world. It is very easy to layer for a more full on effect, but I do think I prefer this product for a natural daytime eye, reserving my <b>MaxFactor </b>favourite for the evening. The aspect I found most impressive was the product's outstanding durability. Claiming to be water resistant, I was told that all you needed to remove the product was a little warm water. The fact that you don't need make up remover to shift it, I'll admit, made me a little apprehensive about smudging. And as someone with quite long lashes and a slightly hooded eye, I'm often plagued with that oh so irritating mascara transfer. But once it's on, this stuff doesn't budge at all - it's amazing! Goodbye, panda eye! In addition to the product itself, the flexible silicon wand is perfect for separating the lashes and wiggling your way right down to the roots. The fact that it has a little more give makes for an almost foolproof application, greatly reducing the number of times you get a little too close for comfort, jabbing yourself in the eye and having to rectify the mascara mayhem you've inadvertently caused. You know we've all been there.</div>
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Although I swore I'd never be swayed from my love of all mascaras <b>MaxFactor</b>, I must say that this has found a welcome home for itself in my everyday makeup routine. It's a fantastic daytime mascara, which makes me wonder why we ever tampered with the beautiful, natural formulas passed down to us by our Egyptian ancestors in the first place. If it ain't broke, don't fix it, right?<br />
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Have you tried this mascara or any of the Eye of Horus products? What's your mascara of choice? Let me know!<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*PR sample</span></div>
<br />Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-63224300882549439592014-02-23T16:18:00.001+00:002014-02-23T16:18:26.126+00:00Book of the Week: Captain Corelli's Mandolin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ79IiGEGkPCNU51iMf3is4sxntrJ3bT8VB3AomlFL3c9dROFww98oiAy_b2Iuro4yTeueqFtYuUn7noUxh-U-JLsHQhqFcnKxc65Df-9Lc59mCQMRuNbMzHa0i4FNXTB6FCT_Iq_LEt0/s1600/DSC00287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ79IiGEGkPCNU51iMf3is4sxntrJ3bT8VB3AomlFL3c9dROFww98oiAy_b2Iuro4yTeueqFtYuUn7noUxh-U-JLsHQhqFcnKxc65Df-9Lc59mCQMRuNbMzHa0i4FNXTB6FCT_Iq_LEt0/s1600/DSC00287.JPG" height="250" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>"Did you know that childhood is the only time in our lives when insanity is not only permitted to us, but expected?"</i></div>
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<i>Captain Corelli's Mandolin</i> is a story that's been sitting on my bookshelf for quite some time now. I've been meaning to read it for well over a year, but it has remained there, unread and neglected, for rather too long. For some reason, I had the urge to pick it up last week and have spent most days doing not much else but losing myself in its pages. It tells the story of a little Greek village called Cephallonia, occupied by Italian armed forces during WWII. Captain Antonio Corelli is one of the soldiers posted to the island, where, at first, he is naturally ostracised by the locals. However, he soon charms his way into their lives and their hearts with a little help from his mandolin. I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but what I found was a tale of battle and romance, equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking, which really makes you lament the futility of war.</div>
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There's something of a musical flourish to Bernieres' writing that had me hooked - not one to read without dedicating your full attention, it's easy to get lost in the fanciful language, and the wonderful descriptions of both countryside and countryman. I love all the funny insights; the amusing little windows into domestic households. Like old man Stamatis, for example, who has been deaf in one ear since childhood, only to be miraculously cured when Dr. Iannis extracts a pea that's been lodged in the orifice for decades. It's little things like this that I found really enjoyable, and also absolutely necessary in balancing out all of the bleak events that befall the charming Greek village. </div>
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Another point of enjoyment for me was the abundance of historical references. Set in Greece, with a healthy dose of Italian influence, it was inevitable that Classical times would make rather a few appearances. Being a graduate of Ancient History myself, I adored all of the ancient anecdotes, and the allusions to the Greece and Rome of a bygone era. For me, they all felt like little in-jokes, and reminders of my university education. For those who are perhaps not as well versed in the Classics, the book is full to the brim of fun facts and interesting mythical stories, and is definitely worth a read if this is something you find intriguing. </div>
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An aspect which I don't think anybody would find particularly enjoyable, but one I found so very poignant, was the insight into the nature of war. It rips apart families, changes people, and makes a misery of lives that once had such happy prospects. The destruction of the picturesque Greek countryside, steeped in history and culture, really is upsetting, and all because of a few megalomaniacs who have seen fit to seize power. One particular scene that really struck me was Captain Corelli's discovery of a little Greek girl's body amidst the rubble of her former home. He thinks of a girl he knows of a similar age, and is overwhelmed by the realisation that this is somebody's daughter. The statistics that we always hear are people - a father, a sister, a lover - all just innocent victims of war. I also really felt for the soldiers on both sides. I'm a rather empathetic person, and it really saddened me to think of all of those men, Italians in particular, who knew they were dying for the wrong cause, but were forced to kill and be killed anyway. </div>
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A character I really enjoyed and admired was Carlo Piero Guercio, one of the Italian soldiers, and closest companion to Corelli. This gentle giant believes that he is a degenerate because he is gay, but he's actually the bravest, most loving, wonderful character in the book. I find it a little sad that being ashamed of your sexuality was just a part of life at the time, especially as, in Carlo's case, it almost wholly contributes to his biggest assets. He compares his disposition and it's relation to the army to the Sacred Band of Thebes, an ancient army of 150 male couples who were near undefeatable on the battlefield. Protecting the man they loved blessed them with unparalleled bravery, and the desire to prove themselves a worthy partner equipped them with the ability to embrace a glorious death, if this is what circumstance called for. When paired with his love for the Greeks, his friendship with Corelli, and his inner turmoil in fighting for a cause that he didn't believe in, he is, for me, the most interesting, loveable and sympathetic character in the book - and in a war story, it's not like he's lacking for competition on the sympathy front! </div>
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After putting off reading Louis de Bernieres' novel for so long, I think I may have found a new favourite. An emotional, charming and, at times, tragic novel, it's absolutely one to add to the reading list if wartime love is your thing. It's a real gem.</div>
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Have you read the book? Seen the film? What did you think? Let me know!</div>
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S. </div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-68730638248990398692014-02-20T12:00:00.000+00:002014-02-20T12:00:01.066+00:00Bare Legged Beauty: My Go To Products For Perfect Pins<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJKJERB5jTatxcguP1UoZhiR4HhTpk305BjP3ZTGJUS5IZ-MQOemXIZw2oSsvgLIgUf1Sua6nxkkF5xh3Rc5GMBCyMQgnTV0sh99_Ni8vE2g9WpPhYSl2KhEnEHYH6_I0IXK-uW33D1I/s1600/DSC00182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJKJERB5jTatxcguP1UoZhiR4HhTpk305BjP3ZTGJUS5IZ-MQOemXIZw2oSsvgLIgUf1Sua6nxkkF5xh3Rc5GMBCyMQgnTV0sh99_Ni8vE2g9WpPhYSl2KhEnEHYH6_I0IXK-uW33D1I/s1600/DSC00182.JPG" height="489" width="640" /></a></div>
Admit it, we all spend most of the Winter months in a Yeti like state of being - woollen tights and comfy jeans mean that we don't really have to worry about the state of our overgrown legs. But with Spring (hopefully) just around the corner, shaggy chic is no longer acceptable. And if we want to dig our long forgotten Summer glad rags out of the depths of the wardrobe, and start parading our perfect pins around in the Spring sunshine, then it's time to start thinking about preening them to silky smooth perfection again. Here are the few of the products I turn to when I dare to bare.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRmHQ1Uz2ruQiSBc8BZRHVLEI2_Mxkg74oloGY5iv0G7_ZdCVGZYmxjCQiIAnn-Mb7BX8fBKceXGz4cB-q4dQd052umDtthjKEMaRHZ2wik8P9XQc87LszvHXwOOuhNmcspVZYgeNpN34/s1600/DSC00266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRmHQ1Uz2ruQiSBc8BZRHVLEI2_Mxkg74oloGY5iv0G7_ZdCVGZYmxjCQiIAnn-Mb7BX8fBKceXGz4cB-q4dQd052umDtthjKEMaRHZ2wik8P9XQc87LszvHXwOOuhNmcspVZYgeNpN34/s1600/DSC00266.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Exfoliating</b><br />
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In order to ensure a silky smooth finish, it's important to exfoliate. Scaly is not a good look, my friends. My favourite product for doing so is <b>Soap & Glory's</b> <i><a href="http://www.soapandglory.com/bath-body/bath/exfoliators/flake-away" target="_blank">Flake Away</a>: </i>a super effective body polish that smells divine, and couldn't be easier to use. Just massage it into your legs and then hop in the shower to wash it off. My skin has a habit of being quite sensitive, so I don't like products that are too abrasive, but at the same time, there's no point in spending money on a gentle exfoliator that doesn't do a thing. This, I find to be the perfect balance between the two. The grains are quite fine, not like rubbing gravel into your legs, but still substantial enough to make a huge difference to their appearance. And with shea butter and almond oils included in it's list of snack-worthy ingredients (sugar and peach powder? Yes please!), it's not at all drying, something I have previously found to be a big issue with exfoliators. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNFSbPLgsuDbit4wsUzWzp__4a50DUvZLsnvhVRuYV3zAgAnXcV7Udx1rEwOC7c3WqYucqNcP70X70esohKFgwSayNX5yL003e13dUoAbO7ZEowIapS1RAhScyXT_ZUIqWyqQdOMkZkXU/s1600/DSC00260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNFSbPLgsuDbit4wsUzWzp__4a50DUvZLsnvhVRuYV3zAgAnXcV7Udx1rEwOC7c3WqYucqNcP70X70esohKFgwSayNX5yL003e13dUoAbO7ZEowIapS1RAhScyXT_ZUIqWyqQdOMkZkXU/s1600/DSC00260.JPG" height="497" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Moisturising</b><br />
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Equally as important as exfoliating before shaving, is moisturising afterwards. For this, I like to use <b>Soap & Glory's</b> <i><a href="http://www.soapandglory.com/bath-body/body/moisturisers/the-righteous-butter-jumbo-lotion" target="_blank">The Righteous Butter Body Lotion</a></i>. Can you tell I'm having a bit of a moment with <b>Soap & Glory</b> products? I think it's got something to do with the mouthwatering scents. One of my favourite things about this product in particular, apart from it's fabulous fragrance, is the pump dispenser. I, like many others, am guilty of being a lazy moisturiser. I just want baby soft skin with none of the work - is that really too much to ask? Apparently so, but I find that having a product in pump form on the shelf of my bathroom makes moisturising a lot less of a chore, as it takes no time at all. Just jump out the shower and slather it on, baby! Another huge pro for me is the fact that it sinks in immediately, and doesn't leave a sticky residue. I hate having to wander around, partially nude and freezing cold, because I have to wait until my moisturiser doesn't double as an adhesive before I can dress myself. So a product that eliminates this ritual gets a massive thumbs up in my book. Bravo, <b>Soap & Glory</b>. Bravo.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKRwgieUSGQbnAQ0udAR0Xf2GVANiBxyiBdhw8aEBZwmhAlzc48o-Uxt9v-f_SRY201IwHgAD8bPq2_eGfb08hr-IEpVNCTwH14geQJP4FCAAofKeLJO_5Cv4JDwX8InbMagB8pbiJavs/s1600/DSC00264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKRwgieUSGQbnAQ0udAR0Xf2GVANiBxyiBdhw8aEBZwmhAlzc48o-Uxt9v-f_SRY201IwHgAD8bPq2_eGfb08hr-IEpVNCTwH14geQJP4FCAAofKeLJO_5Cv4JDwX8InbMagB8pbiJavs/s1600/DSC00264.JPG" height="465" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Tackling that pesky cellulite!</b><br />
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A huge part of looking good is eating well and exercising regularly, and I do try to stick to a healthy diet and stay relatively active. Unfortunately, however, I've never met a pastry I didn't like. For that reason, whenever I want my legs looking picture perfect, I like to have a quick fix product on hand to give my cellulite an extra kick in the nads, if you will. My weapon of choice for combatting the dreaded orange peel is <b>Bliss'</b> <i><a href="http://www.blissworld.co.uk/bliss-fatgirlslim/" target="_blank">fatgirlslim</a></i>. A skin firming cream with QuSome-encapsulated caffeine (no clue, sorry!), you just work it into your troublesome areas for about 30 seconds, and watch this magical cream take effect. It's quite an odd sensation as you can really feel it working when it's on - the only thing I can compare it to is the mentholly feeling you get when you apply that 4head relief stick, but on your legs. I enjoy the fresh feeling, and this stuff really packs a punch! Of course, it's no substitute for a good old-fashioned healthy lifestyle, but it's nice to have that fast working product to give you a little more confidence in your bum-skimming party dress. </div>
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And there you have it; my go to products for when I want to flash some flesh and need the perfect legs to do so. Which products do you reach for when you seek photo ready pins? Have you tried any <b>Soap & Glory</b> or<b> Bliss</b> products? Let me know!</div>
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Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-76537560123007110552014-02-18T12:00:00.000+00:002014-02-18T12:00:05.738+00:00Review: Loreal True Match Foundation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKn9BKJ_F4HUYgtvkTOYVBvzrDKq9L1n2iTLsp2exLxRCXwCwx23F336UxvoRyk1w61DyEjdbOCbmVfm6agu9Mwqcv87EKbf3Tp59IehqZmFYwW7P-e6vZuKVLy8dxYzZnvxAz_drSdTU/s1600/DSC00249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKn9BKJ_F4HUYgtvkTOYVBvzrDKq9L1n2iTLsp2exLxRCXwCwx23F336UxvoRyk1w61DyEjdbOCbmVfm6agu9Mwqcv87EKbf3Tp59IehqZmFYwW7P-e6vZuKVLy8dxYzZnvxAz_drSdTU/s1600/DSC00249.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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A dedicated fan of the <b>bareMinerals </b><i>Original Foundation</i>, it's been a while since I picked up a new skin base. As I'd heard so many great reviews of the <b>L'Oreal </b><i>True Match Foundation</i>, and I was a huge fan of the mineral powder equivalent in my heyday, (it was actually my first ever foundation - such fond memories) I thought I'd give it a try. </div>
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The biggest and most frustrating problem for me when looking for a new foundation, is getting a shade light enough for my skin. Lucky for me, I do know from experience that <b>L'Oreal</b> are actually quite good at catering for paler skin tones, and this foundation is no exception. In fact, they've gone a bit '<b>MAC</b>' in the way that they offer a warm, neutral and cool version of each shade, which I think is fantastic. I usually struggle with the fact that my skin is more on the neutral to warm side, and the majority of lighter foundations are quite pink. Surprisingly, however, the shade that matched me best was <i>Rose Ivory</i>, which is certainly more pink than I'm used to. But hey, if it works, it works!</div>
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Through trial and error, I've found that the best way to apply is with fingers. Offering a satin finish bordering on the matte side, I would say that it has a medium coverage and, although I can't speak for oilier skin types, it looks immaculate all day. It does sit in my pores a little upon application, which is a bit irritating, but I think that's more an issue with my primer, and a good thorough blending session does the trick.</div>
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One grievance I do have is the pump. I usually like pumps; they're hugely preferential to other drugstore foundations where you just pour the product from the bottle to your hand and hope for the best. However, this particular pump dispenses way too much foundation for me, less than half a pump being sufficient. As a result, I waste quite a lot of product, and I'm developing a bit of a complex - my face can't be that tiny, can it?! Who are these large faced people using a whole pump?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLH8B7UPumKcbz5SlNZm-0A82PxN8EDuxRIu8WzHivPDmBJmpa3adFoeGhHpfJ0o9q3c1ObkFKYVyzSNyoYTqVY5_mz0OCAHJ87QQy9ppze9nkTaQ3THVeDEcYGuTsjxpHWrAyPiw8mow/s1600/DSC00181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLH8B7UPumKcbz5SlNZm-0A82PxN8EDuxRIu8WzHivPDmBJmpa3adFoeGhHpfJ0o9q3c1ObkFKYVyzSNyoYTqVY5_mz0OCAHJ87QQy9ppze9nkTaQ3THVeDEcYGuTsjxpHWrAyPiw8mow/s1600/DSC00181.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whopping half-pump</td></tr>
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As a sidenote, bloggers like <a href="http://liana-beauty.com/2014/01/budget-buy-giorgio-armani-luminous-silk-dupe/" target="_blank">Amelia Liana</a> claim that it's a great dupe for the <b>Giorgio Armani </b><i>Luminous Silk</i> foundation. I can't testify to that as, sadly, the <b>Armani</b> foundation shades were a little 'off' on me (wahh!) so I was never able to try it. What I can tell you is that the <b>L'Oreal</b> foundation is a beautiful foundation in it's own right. I haven't abandoned my <b>bareMinerals</b> baby, but this is definitely my new go to alternative for those higher coverage days. And an SPF of 17? Well, that's just the icing on the cake really. </div>
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I'm wearing the foundation in my previous <a href="http://squares2790.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/be-my-valentine-girly-face-and-nails.html" target="_blank">Valentine's post</a>, if you're interested in seeing what it looks like on me, although with all the gloomy weather, I've been struggling to get good enough lighting to capture it in all it's satin glory. But there you are, the new foundation that's succeeded where others have failed, and made itself a permanent fixture in my makeup bag. And for <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/LOreal-Paris-True-Match-Foundation_16049/" target="_blank">£9.99</a> at Boots, you can't go far wrong.</div>
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Are you a fan of<b> L'Oreal</b> foundations? How do you like the <i>True Match</i> foundation? What's your favourite base? Let me know! </div>
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S.</div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-8585301193670530172014-02-16T15:00:00.000+00:002014-02-16T15:00:01.973+00:00Book of the Week: Chocolat<div style="text-align: center;">
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<i>"And now? What do I believe right now?</i></div>
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<i>'I believe that being happy is the only important thing,' I told him at last.</i></div>
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<i>Happiness. Simple as a glass of chocolate or torturous as the heart. Bitter. Sweet. Alive."</i></div>
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I read <i>Chocolat</i> by Joanne Harris almost a year ago now, and I still get a little nostalgic for its delicious descriptions and beautiful, warm simplicity. It tells the story of Vianne Rocher and her daughter, Anouk; nomads who settle in the quaint French village of Lansquenet, and open the most mouthwatering chocolate boutique you will ever read about. Arriving at the beginning of Lent, she is greeted with whispers of disapproval from many of the village's church going citizens, including their priest, whose point of view intersperses Vianne's throughout the chapters of the tome. However, she soon makes lifelong friends, and her spirituality, along with her delightful confectionary, make quite an impression on the sleepy little town. So who will triumph? Church or chocolate? Well, I think we all know the answer to that! ;) </div>
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To start, it is a book of beautiful and succinct observations. I adore the wonderful descriptions of people, places and practices, going so far as to say that I would recommend the book purely for the poetic way in which Harris writes. Vianne spends a lot of time watching her new neighbours, picking up on all the quirks and nuances that make them interesting, and the tantalising way in which she paints a picture of the window displays, the alchemy of couverturing, and the delectable shop counters is enough to make you grab the nearest chocolate bar, just to curb the craving her words ignite.<br />
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Before very long, we learn that Vianne has a magical ancestry. This doesn't become a focal point in the story for me, it's just kind of an underlying, ever present fact, but this whimsical magicality adds a wonderful warmth to the book, transforming it from your standard story and leaving a faint trace of fairytale. I find it particularly endearing that Vianne uses her gifts, not to pry or meddle in the lives of her new acquaintances, but simply to tell what their favourite chocolates are. There's something I find really sweet about the gesture (pun intended).<br />
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Another thing that struck me was the timelessness of the story. Little clues anchor it somewhat; the mention of a New York event here, the passing Nazi joke there, but really it could be set down in any decade of a timeline and still the story would remain exactly as it is. I'm not sure why, but for me, this adds to the sense of fairytale. Although Vianne is very well travelled, the village she is in now seems to stand alone, apart from the world beyond. Like a Disney movie, the anonymity of it all, for me, only adds to the magic.<br />
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Although I find all of the characters to be perfectly imperfect in their own unique ways, there is one that stands out in particular for me; Armande Voizin. At 80 years old, she's stubborn, opinionated and mischievous, and she really knows how to live. I love her independence and her fierce loyalty to those who treat her as equal, not just as a crazy old woman, and, odd as it sounds, I envy her view of death. Dying is not something I like to think about too often, but Armande's is actually quite a touching tale about the prospect of passing on. A diabetic with a love of chocolate, she would, quite admirably, rather enjoy the naughty little treats that life has to offer until her dying day, even if it means that day will arrive a little sooner. She puts it so well herself, arguing, "After a five-course banquet you'd want coffee and liqueurs, wouldn't you? You wouldn't suddenly decide to round it all off with a bowl of pap, would you? Just so you could have an extra course?" Again, I don't like to dwell on the notion, but I really think she has the right idea of it, and admire her brave determination to enjoy life until the (not so) bitter end. And enjoy it, she does! She sees in her 81st year with a luxurious banquet, no expense spared, in which they gorge themselves on luscious meals and fine wine. It is, quite simply, a literary feast for the senses, and one of my favourite passages in the novel.<br />
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Despite her outsider status, and her tendency to be filled with a little 'gypsy wanderlust', Vianne really finds her place among the people of Lansquenet, and I think that's what I so love about the tale. Unlike it's wonderful movie equivalent, the book is not a love story. It's a story of family and home. Of belonging and of friendship. And, of course, it is a story of the most wonderful thing of all - <i>Chocolat</i>.<br />
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Have you read this book? Seen the movie? Does it make you wish you owned a chocolate shop as much as it does me? Let me know!<br />
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S.</div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-63302844975322832442014-02-13T18:00:00.000+00:002014-02-13T18:00:00.749+00:00Be My Valentine: Girly Face and Nails for Valentine's Day<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love getting dolled up. Any excuse, however small, and I'll dress to the nines, spending hours playing around with my favourite makeup, rediscovering old gems, and concocting new colourful combinations. And with Valentine's Day just a day away, what better excuse to dress up! Excited to create a style to complement the occasion, I had a rummage through my trusty make up storage, and came up with this pretty pink look, which I think is suitable for both day and night, along with four cute nail colours to make your digits look sweet as sugar. So, whether you're in a relationship, or a happily single pringle, have a wonderful Valentine's Day, and I hope you enjoy my attempt at a seasonal look. Here's what I did:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibpkCv9kRUmopg0398nMBJdD9ER2AHHdJPQMcM_6vh1uvBvm4MZe1JuGbkpfnz9aovWn7u2dpLev0yOOb7TkpbQStuFmnboy1vb-v2m6nX9_ggL5oXhLxM6N1Aws839IILXPmEYzKN7HM/s1600/DSC00088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibpkCv9kRUmopg0398nMBJdD9ER2AHHdJPQMcM_6vh1uvBvm4MZe1JuGbkpfnz9aovWn7u2dpLev0yOOb7TkpbQStuFmnboy1vb-v2m6nX9_ggL5oXhLxM6N1Aws839IILXPmEYzKN7HM/s1600/DSC00088.JPG" height="376" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhphHgSFYUkj7P9EcMCUGpcgVSc1lvvCodCZQHwFu_pXQ3LBQtmzE546xuAzEJ1soDuJDG81Gnsk6NJ8YPqtbpL6TMd5_F1el7StXXYHfwfhgC0PCsDTAvIi89iKhuCoLEMU-9mYX8H-5g/s1600/DSC00094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhphHgSFYUkj7P9EcMCUGpcgVSc1lvvCodCZQHwFu_pXQ3LBQtmzE546xuAzEJ1soDuJDG81Gnsk6NJ8YPqtbpL6TMd5_F1el7StXXYHfwfhgC0PCsDTAvIi89iKhuCoLEMU-9mYX8H-5g/s1600/DSC00094.JPG" height="247" width="400" /></a></div>
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To begin, I primed my eyelids with<b> NARS Pro Prime</b>, and washed <b>Soap & Glory's </b><i>Minky, </i>a beautiful light shimmer<i>, </i>across the inner two thirds of my lid. I then placed another <b>Soap & Glory</b> shadow, <i>Dandy Plum</i>, a pretty aubergine shade, on the outer third of my eye, blending it through the crease and layering up the colour until I got the intensity I wanted. I also swept a little of this shade into my lower lashes. I didn't really want a strong liner with the look, so I went for a soft and subtle off-black shadow, also by <b>Soap & Glory</b>, called <i>Black Gold</i> and smudged it into my lash line.</div>
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I next moved onto my base. After wiping away the plum shadow that had dropped down under my eyes, I primed my skin with <b>Benefit's Porefessional Primer</b>. I blended <b>Loreal's True Match Foundation</b> in the shade <i>Rose Ivory</i> into my skin, using the warmth of my fingers to give myself a natural, well blended look. I corrected under my eyes with the <b>Bobbi Brown Corrector</b> in <i>Light Bisque</i>, and layered <b>YSL Touche Eclat</b> in <i>01</i> on top. I also put the <b>YSL </b>product in all the areas I wanted to highlight - the top of my cheekbones, my cupids bow, down my nose and above and below my brow bone. I went in with a third concealer, <b>Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage</b> in <i>SC2</i> to cover any spots, and then set it all in place with a light dusting of <b>Rimmel Stay Matte</b> <i>Translucent Powder.</i> </div>
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For definition on my cheeks, I used my sweet pink <b>Maybelline Dream Touch Blush</b> in <i>07 Plum</i>, which offers a beautiful glow as well as a lovely soft pop of colour. I contoured under my cheeks with the tiniest amount of <b>Hoola Bronzer </b>by <b>Benefit</b>, and highlighted the tops of my cheekbones with the <b>Dior Nude Shimmer Instant Illuminating Powder</b>, popping a little in the inner corners of my eyes for good measure.</div>
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Finally, I ran some of <b>MAC</b>'s <i>Charcoal Brown</i> shadow through my brows. A slick of <b>Revlon's Colourburst Lip Butter</b> in <i>Sorbet</i>, and lashings of <b>MaxFactor False Lash Effect Fusion</b> on the lashes, et voila. You're ready for whatever Valentine's Day is going to throw at you with this sweet, fresh, pink look.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJx9KtX4hX_tBWYd1swUZEHUnD0vlZhhsyPBGg4673np6hbVpCYHmDismeZhnxmdyjRPkyi8LK-dsa1oPGZSkPeaNpdWX_Tp2wudzq6RXxVJ5EchiPpD-7Qeg5j2E7TIGBB8rUIHZDLpU/s1600/DSC00171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJx9KtX4hX_tBWYd1swUZEHUnD0vlZhhsyPBGg4673np6hbVpCYHmDismeZhnxmdyjRPkyi8LK-dsa1oPGZSkPeaNpdWX_Tp2wudzq6RXxVJ5EchiPpD-7Qeg5j2E7TIGBB8rUIHZDLpU/s1600/DSC00171.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzotTDZiA2nyMTODG4EFG3QjMR8Z1a3ceydePT5Pz9Te5ROV4wrSG5XEC0qLgLHdBKsTTWghSnr3agnR6917F1No6Coc-gil-b_OGU6tK5Agnxre9W2fqg099MyveBGxn8_qoIQttwlR0/s1600/DSC00173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzotTDZiA2nyMTODG4EFG3QjMR8Z1a3ceydePT5Pz9Te5ROV4wrSG5XEC0qLgLHdBKsTTWghSnr3agnR6917F1No6Coc-gil-b_OGU6tK5Agnxre9W2fqg099MyveBGxn8_qoIQttwlR0/s1600/DSC00173.JPG" height="282" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As you can probably tell from the mess, I used the bottom 3 shades from this Soap & Glory palette.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Now that you've got your makeup looking beautiful, here are a few nail varnishes which I think are the perfect Valentine's colours.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7qU4u4OtaRPXMc1WZQP854bBhp507VJoUc7MdABbRUa9_NEjv4dJs2HrvDx0N7txMqRM3n13Xtxs2QndUT4sjnNVe2tAWE1YhAkWExf7Vww0yZtlhNaTqSxeSEUGNMnmLGw0MQyzOJU/s1600/DSC00153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7qU4u4OtaRPXMc1WZQP854bBhp507VJoUc7MdABbRUa9_NEjv4dJs2HrvDx0N7txMqRM3n13Xtxs2QndUT4sjnNVe2tAWE1YhAkWExf7Vww0yZtlhNaTqSxeSEUGNMnmLGw0MQyzOJU/s1600/DSC00153.JPG" height="270" width="400" /></a></div>
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More day date appropriate are the <b>Models Own</b> polish in the shade <i>Utopia</i>, and <b>Clinique's A Different Nail Enamel</b> in <i>Pinkini</i>. A beautiful nude with a lilac hue, and a Barbie pink that is perhaps the most girly shade in my collection, both would be perfect for a more casual Valentine's, whilst still looking the part. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5L__Jd7HiYfjghCs2t0dTTGyAt9bGhv8kOBjEy6ZGdrrLY71lJUJbO71kgOrmo5lwAJW56qFqRVfujtGxCQ5LW1IaBe9WJ8L19HmByxfZqPo4AeW3zdZpiNSGXmxXtZupLCqieY8K3no/s1600/DSC00142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5L__Jd7HiYfjghCs2t0dTTGyAt9bGhv8kOBjEy6ZGdrrLY71lJUJbO71kgOrmo5lwAJW56qFqRVfujtGxCQ5LW1IaBe9WJ8L19HmByxfZqPo4AeW3zdZpiNSGXmxXtZupLCqieY8K3no/s1600/DSC00142.JPG" height="300" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
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If a vampy night time look is more what you're after, <b>Maybelline's Forever Strong Super Stay Gel Nail Colour</b> in the shade <i>Berry Stain</i>, or the <b>No7</b> <i>Damson Dream </i>are ideal for adding a more daring, sultry vibe to your ensemble. Perfect for adding a bit of edge to a sweet and innocent look.</div>
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What are your plans this Valentine's Day? Have you got any special look planned for the occasion? Let me know!</div>
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S.</div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1270011650687828481.post-81749631179924644072014-02-11T17:19:00.000+00:002014-02-11T17:19:15.518+00:00January Favourites<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Ok, so I'm aware that my January favourites are a little on the late side, but I've been so excited to share these products that I thought I'd rather write this post a little late than not at all. January was quite a busy month for me, and has been as up and down as the banks of the Thames. For starters, I passed my driving test! First attempt, I might add! :) It's something I'm immensely proud of, and I'm so glad that it's now ticked off my to do list. However, due to the diabolical weather conditions, I've not been able to do much driving with my shiny new licence, and on top of that we've been treated to power cuts and floods all over the place. As a result, most of the back end of the month was spend literally holding down the fort through fear that it might blow away, and, the icing on the miserable cake, I had a stinker of a cold. Things are finally starting to resemble normality here, however, despite the fact that one more inch of rain will mean I may have to swim to work. And although I cannot wait to see the back of this abysmal weather, here are a few of the beauty products that I'm happy to have stick around.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGpuFDPte5uTxWHRCmmVKkbbXq13-1Z4I4CoIixrxg6vweBP4qtFmLgnTOo-IUNjMg2DVWGefvZGmQ7bIw65Gn1nz-qP6NN6VhR_7EauCeh8tkZXZcIkx42tqDw05NrdS09qNMTkQZfwQ/s1600/DSC00030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGpuFDPte5uTxWHRCmmVKkbbXq13-1Z4I4CoIixrxg6vweBP4qtFmLgnTOo-IUNjMg2DVWGefvZGmQ7bIw65Gn1nz-qP6NN6VhR_7EauCeh8tkZXZcIkx42tqDw05NrdS09qNMTkQZfwQ/s1600/DSC00030.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Liz Earle//<a href="http://uk.lizearle.com/make-up-accessories/blend-and-contour-brush.html">Blend & Contour Brush</a></div>
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I discovered Liz Earle's Colour collection at the end of last year, and as a result, this little blending dream crept into my brush collection. It's quite a long, tapered brush with a definite point to it, which I find absolutely amazing for blending eyeshadow on my slightly hooded eyes. You literally place the tip in your socket and move it backwards and forwards - no skill required - and you're left with perfectly blended shadows. It's revolutionised the way I apply my make up, so much so that I actually struggle to use my old blending brushes now without making a terrible mess of things. I'm not a huge fan of the clear handles, I feel it's more childish than stylish, but I can definitely deal with the less than pleasing aesthetic when the results are so good!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTdkyF6yivKt6Rr6KRcH06Ly359YBP0EnhZQGAyPFcS8heekRrlLas117trRTlQdyjWrvuwyV7YwR7ytgMN5N5j1gNdZF8EQxwNsbACT9HvvtnKuPPbmuUxkAvrmXelMupwml38CBQNc/s1600/DSC00026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTdkyF6yivKt6Rr6KRcH06Ly359YBP0EnhZQGAyPFcS8heekRrlLas117trRTlQdyjWrvuwyV7YwR7ytgMN5N5j1gNdZF8EQxwNsbACT9HvvtnKuPPbmuUxkAvrmXelMupwml38CBQNc/s1600/DSC00026.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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MAC//<a href="http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/shaded/154/363/Products/Eyes/Shadow/Eye-Shadow/index.tmpl">Mulch Eyeshadow</a><br />
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Ever a lover of MAC eyeshadows, I've been pining after this particular colour for a while. I finally caved and added it to my collection last month, and I was right to want it so badly. A dark shimmery reddish brown, it looks fantastic on blue eyes. I've been loving coupling it with MACs Patina, (the pair blend together seamlessly) blending it through my crease for a beautifully smoky daytime look. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrYmImiXniWhWUCsWDRPNHprwg7Zg70SIbiBRLiSIyD5tGiStiyIyGFFLMYLgm-mgLVjkVVs1YLHjSxhrhoLzuxjCsbTQOGpryv0_C6s4ci50vEMcQNaBGiAr86QPAIW4wX8VO53Ma24/s1600/DSC00032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrYmImiXniWhWUCsWDRPNHprwg7Zg70SIbiBRLiSIyD5tGiStiyIyGFFLMYLgm-mgLVjkVVs1YLHjSxhrhoLzuxjCsbTQOGpryv0_C6s4ci50vEMcQNaBGiAr86QPAIW4wX8VO53Ma24/s1600/DSC00032.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Jo Malone//<a href="http://www.jomalone.co.uk/products/3607/Fragrances/The-Collections/Fruity/Pomegranate-Noir/index.tmpl">Pomegranate Noir</a></div>
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This beautiful fragrance was a Christmas present, and let me tell you, I cannot get enough of it. Fruity and quite spicy at the same time, it has that perfect rich wintery undertone, whilst still packing that delicious juicy punch.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Cw_5ltfkeNFRIjrYHYYXO6K2HEFGCSv8Pywi_vZ6YTDG11JKGi9kGVkIkgDA0O1ZGoAc0fg1W8o1cvv8kAERpuKXW90tSVmfjzQK4teZsql4dUMh-C0gyaLRLrD-pJabGap7DAIsK_4/s1600/DSC00052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Cw_5ltfkeNFRIjrYHYYXO6K2HEFGCSv8Pywi_vZ6YTDG11JKGi9kGVkIkgDA0O1ZGoAc0fg1W8o1cvv8kAERpuKXW90tSVmfjzQK4teZsql4dUMh-C0gyaLRLrD-pJabGap7DAIsK_4/s1600/DSC00052.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
Soap & Glory//<a href="http://www.soapandglory.com/makeup/lips/lip-gloss/sexy-mother-pucker-gloss-stick">Sexy Mother Pucker Gloss Stick in Nudist</a></div>
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I've never been one for nude lips, and I think I'm only just realising that this is because I hadn't yet found the right nude colour for me. That is, until now! I've recently dipped my toes into the realms of Soap & Glory makeup, and found rather a few gems, but this gloss stick is by far my favourite. Quite a pinky nude with a beautiful shine, this glossy pencil is the perfect 'your lips but better' shade for me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKOxcBSHMl4RaOVT622phyMmnmU5fp6R44kMHCOfmGba-eOBaemRV62VPQL-ZLPCXy3nsSfAmyXsRUt94j85VowDCWhGQ4YrjCHQI1VzdzxfJpvsDpyHbkUxmCJ_IVjypjMH4WygWiZQ/s1600/DSC00050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKOxcBSHMl4RaOVT622phyMmnmU5fp6R44kMHCOfmGba-eOBaemRV62VPQL-ZLPCXy3nsSfAmyXsRUt94j85VowDCWhGQ4YrjCHQI1VzdzxfJpvsDpyHbkUxmCJ_IVjypjMH4WygWiZQ/s1600/DSC00050.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Maybelline//<a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Maybelline-Dream-Soft-Blush_1189611/">Dream Touch Blush in 07 Plum</a></div>
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Now, I don't usually go for pink on my cheeks, but I've been having a bit of a moment with this blush over the past month. I love the texture of the Maybelline mousses, and I'm a massive fan of this blush's peach counterpart, which I reviewed last summer. These blushes have quite a bit of sheen to them, making them the perfect pick me up in these dreary Winter months. Didn't want my complexion to mirror the dullness of my mood now, did I?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizBVEtyDL20YBCGwycoPQaBH3POCSbNyN64chlxBjH2iBSdLQClwmDM5l6DPzR5dspW2mZCiLOx3Y_PqIiLXT78vBxy7unoeqUBmS36tc665Nj05VBu5gY1T_LT4wzT7PITqacnoq4PGw/s1600/DSC00040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizBVEtyDL20YBCGwycoPQaBH3POCSbNyN64chlxBjH2iBSdLQClwmDM5l6DPzR5dspW2mZCiLOx3Y_PqIiLXT78vBxy7unoeqUBmS36tc665Nj05VBu5gY1T_LT4wzT7PITqacnoq4PGw/s1600/DSC00040.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Fresh//<a href="http://www.fresh.com/lip-treatment/sugar-coral-tinted-lip-treatment-sunscreen-spf-15/H00002484.html">Sugar Coral Tinted Lip Treatment SPF 15</a></div>
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I often suffer from awfully dry lips, and am constantly searching for the best products for keeping them soft and supple. This beautiful balm has done an amazing job of keeping my parched peckers in ship shape this winter. Not only that, it's the most wonderful coral shade which is a lot more than just 'tinted', like a lot of the sheer lip treatments on offer. Although not as long lasting, it's as pigmented as lipstick, and I love wearing it as one when I want that pop of colour, but my lips are feeling oh so dry. This product comes in quite a range of colours, so I'm absolutely going to be expanding my collection. Plus, it has an SPF of 15 built in: always a bonus in my mind. </div>
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L'Oreal Paris//<a href="http://www.superdrug.com/loreal/loreal-superliner-black-lacquer/invt/382079">Black Laquer Super Liner</a></div>
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Eyeliner is definitely not my forte. I can never get a straight line, I always end up messing something up and don't even get me started on feline flicks. As a result, I've always got my badly lined eyes peeled for a product that's really easy to use, as well as being really pigmented and having some stick. This month I found it, in the form of L'Oreal's Black Laquer Super Liner. It's got a very narrow sponge applicator which, as well as being fine, is quite sturdy, making it so easy to use. It dries to a kind of vinyl finish, which I love, and it's made my make up routine just that little bit easier this January. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvcx_EnIjE9-Y8KFjVTwus59Klkjod0DhhXCdhsDV4YByHhS4ipxlhb3kB5UBm_6WWhyphenhyphenv_ACGMw8lei28_yUYITdE4y68wxe9QSiQVQety71hws_GU_kXxXsNqbAT-phXk0LWHJyQMvYo/s1600/DSC00048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvcx_EnIjE9-Y8KFjVTwus59Klkjod0DhhXCdhsDV4YByHhS4ipxlhb3kB5UBm_6WWhyphenhyphenv_ACGMw8lei28_yUYITdE4y68wxe9QSiQVQety71hws_GU_kXxXsNqbAT-phXk0LWHJyQMvYo/s1600/DSC00048.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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NARS//<a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/nars-pro-prime-smudge-proof-eyeshadow-base/p134152">Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base</a></div>
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I used to use Urban Decay Primer Potion religiously, but when mine ran out, I fancied a bit of a change, and I'm really loving the alternative I chose. I found that the Urban Decay primer left my lids looking a bit dry and patchy as I got through more and more of the product, but I haven't had that issue with NARS (yet - it is still early days). Additionally, my eyeshadows blend a lot better on top of this product, and I love the doe foot applicator, as I find it very difficult to waste product this way. So far it's a winner in my books.<br />
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What were your favourite products this January? Were you loving any of the same things that I was? Let me know!<br />
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S.</div>
Squareshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11355386587316553424noreply@blogger.com6