Okay so it's clear how much I am loving H&M at the moment and as you know I picked up a fabulous pair of shoe boots the other day .... well after browsing online it seems they look eerily familar to these wonderful Givenchy heels.
Not only that, while browsing the shoe department I came across another pair of shoes that I instantly recognised as a possible dupe for a pair of Miu's Miu's worn by the likes of our Cheryl Cole.
I must go back for this second pair! And of course, I will be telling everyone they are Miu's Miu's ... lets see who notices the difference! ;)
x
Friday 30 April 2010
Wednesday 28 April 2010
Clinique Anti-Blemish Foundation
Clinique's latest foundation offering is the new Anti- Blemish Solutions liquid make up.
Let me fill you in - the only Clinique products I have used before is skincare which isn't for me I'm afraid and their foundation - namely superbalanced and supermoisture foundations. I have to say I love their foundations. They leave a fresh, natural appeal to the skin whilst giving the required coverage.
For this reason, I had been looking forward to trying out the new Anti-Blemish range. I will be honest with you, I don't have many blemishes but I have seen this foundation applied and it looks beautiful so I was very pleased when I was given the opportunity to try it.
Clinique claim that this oil free foundation will conceal and treat blemishes while preventing future ones. It will also minimize the appearance of pores and neutralizes skin redness. You can find out more about this new foundation here.
This video gives some useful hints and tips for application ...
Throughout this month I will be trialling the foundation on 3 different skin types:
My own - fairly blemish free (other than freckles) normal to dry
My niece - blemished skin, oily T-zone
My sister - mature skin, oily T-zone and enlarged pores
I will be giving not only my opinion but the opinion of the models I will be using, guaranteeing an honest, tried and tested assessment of the product.
This is an advertorial on behalf of Clinique however all opinions are my own.
Let me fill you in - the only Clinique products I have used before is skincare which isn't for me I'm afraid and their foundation - namely superbalanced and supermoisture foundations. I have to say I love their foundations. They leave a fresh, natural appeal to the skin whilst giving the required coverage.
For this reason, I had been looking forward to trying out the new Anti-Blemish range. I will be honest with you, I don't have many blemishes but I have seen this foundation applied and it looks beautiful so I was very pleased when I was given the opportunity to try it.
Clinique claim that this oil free foundation will conceal and treat blemishes while preventing future ones. It will also minimize the appearance of pores and neutralizes skin redness. You can find out more about this new foundation here.
This video gives some useful hints and tips for application ...
Throughout this month I will be trialling the foundation on 3 different skin types:
My own - fairly blemish free (other than freckles) normal to dry
My niece - blemished skin, oily T-zone
My sister - mature skin, oily T-zone and enlarged pores
I will be giving not only my opinion but the opinion of the models I will be using, guaranteeing an honest, tried and tested assessment of the product.
This is an advertorial on behalf of Clinique however all opinions are my own.
Tuesday 27 April 2010
Sonia Kashuk Beauty Blending Sponge
For a long time people have raved about beauty blenders but in all honesty I never took any interest, to me it was just a glorified make up sponge. When I noticed the Sonia Kashuk version for only £5 in Space NK i thought what the heck? I'll try anything once.
The sponge came with no instructions for use other than what the sales assistant advised. She promised it would give me a flawless finish to my foundation with no streaking and that it should be used damp to stipple your foundation on.
So I set about trying this out ... first up I wet the sponge and rinsed out any excess. I expected the sponge to double in size doing this but it didn't, it remained as was. The sponge itself is quite easy to grip due to it's ergonomic shape and even has a pointed, slimmer tip to get into areas around the eyes and nose. Thumbs up!
When it came to stippling the foundation on, I deposited some foundation on to the back of my hand as normal, dabbed the sponge onto this and set about dabbing/stippling onto my face, every now and then using rocking motions to ensure fully blended. Once my foundation was applied, admittedly my skin looked good and there were no streaks that needed further buffing, however I had just used double the amount of foundation I normally do.
When it came to cleaning the sponge, it didn't seem to matter what I used on it, it never returned to it's natural clean state.
In Summary...
THE PRO's:
The ergonomic shape of the sponge is great for gripping it and getting into the nooks and crannies in your face i.e, the nose and eye areas.
By stippling the foundation over your face, it does create a soft and flawless finish with no streaking.
THE CON's:
I used double the amount of foundation I normally use with the sponge.
It was time consuming - I am much quicker at wacking on the foundation with a brush or my hands and then quickly buffing over any streaks.
It seems near impossible to clean the sponge.
The Result:
Would I repurchase? It wouldn't be top of my list but if I came across it in a bargain bin then yes. I do use the sponge when I have more time to get ready for nights out but for everyday use it takes up too much time.
Whats your verdict? Do I look beauty blended? Or do you think the sponge is just all hype?
The sponge came with no instructions for use other than what the sales assistant advised. She promised it would give me a flawless finish to my foundation with no streaking and that it should be used damp to stipple your foundation on.
So I set about trying this out ... first up I wet the sponge and rinsed out any excess. I expected the sponge to double in size doing this but it didn't, it remained as was. The sponge itself is quite easy to grip due to it's ergonomic shape and even has a pointed, slimmer tip to get into areas around the eyes and nose. Thumbs up!
When it came to stippling the foundation on, I deposited some foundation on to the back of my hand as normal, dabbed the sponge onto this and set about dabbing/stippling onto my face, every now and then using rocking motions to ensure fully blended. Once my foundation was applied, admittedly my skin looked good and there were no streaks that needed further buffing, however I had just used double the amount of foundation I normally do.
When it came to cleaning the sponge, it didn't seem to matter what I used on it, it never returned to it's natural clean state.
In Summary...
THE PRO's:
The ergonomic shape of the sponge is great for gripping it and getting into the nooks and crannies in your face i.e, the nose and eye areas.
By stippling the foundation over your face, it does create a soft and flawless finish with no streaking.
THE CON's:
I used double the amount of foundation I normally use with the sponge.
It was time consuming - I am much quicker at wacking on the foundation with a brush or my hands and then quickly buffing over any streaks.
It seems near impossible to clean the sponge.
The Result:
Would I repurchase? It wouldn't be top of my list but if I came across it in a bargain bin then yes. I do use the sponge when I have more time to get ready for nights out but for everyday use it takes up too much time.
Whats your verdict? Do I look beauty blended? Or do you think the sponge is just all hype?
Sunday 25 April 2010
Glassworks Studios
I am always excited to find new online shopping sites and this one is a real find. Most High Street stores have their own sites these days and we all know of the designer web stores but where do you go to find unique, chic, contemporary designers?
Let me introduce you to Glassworks Studios. Glasswork is a new online fashion and lifestyle boutique which launched last month thanks to Lauren Lewis and former fashion buyer for Harvey Nichols, Damien Paul.
You can tell from the sleek, chic site these guys really know their stuff and who they are catering to - Professional women 'with a focus on style'. It hopes to appeal to the time conscious among us or working gals like myself who work so far out of the city it can be difficult to keep an eye on up and coming contemporary designers.
(Draped Silk Statue Dress by Karen Walker £550)
As well as providing a unique blend of collections from Kiwi Karen Walker to Canada's Erin Kleinberg to stationery by Midori Japan (I have to have a travellers notebook!), they have plans to double this portfolio by Autumn/Winter 2010. As far as pricing is concerned, you can expect somewhere in between high end high street and designer (think roughly in the price league of All Saints & Whistles) but you do pay for what you get and that is unique, contemporary luxe.
The site really is gorgeous and oh so painfully stylish. The editorial section is in particular quite inspiring and right up my street. An interview with a style conscious German architect, Julia Feix and a guide to the coolest London hangouts had my attention for most of the evening!
The site is a feast for the eyes and utter escapism with the opportunity of an indulgence or two... go check it out at http://www.glassworks-studios.com.
Let me introduce you to Glassworks Studios. Glasswork is a new online fashion and lifestyle boutique which launched last month thanks to Lauren Lewis and former fashion buyer for Harvey Nichols, Damien Paul.
You can tell from the sleek, chic site these guys really know their stuff and who they are catering to - Professional women 'with a focus on style'. It hopes to appeal to the time conscious among us or working gals like myself who work so far out of the city it can be difficult to keep an eye on up and coming contemporary designers.
(Draped Silk Statue Dress by Karen Walker £550)The site really is gorgeous and oh so painfully stylish. The editorial section is in particular quite inspiring and right up my street. An interview with a style conscious German architect, Julia Feix and a guide to the coolest London hangouts had my attention for most of the evening!
The site is a feast for the eyes and utter escapism with the opportunity of an indulgence or two... go check it out at http://www.glassworks-studios.com.
Cheek of the week - Kiko Cosmetics
I was in Barcelona in December and came across a brand called Kiko. It had it's own stand alone store with a fantastic variety of both cosmetics and skincare at very affordable prices.
I bought quite a few products on my visit, some with varying levels of quality. As a brand it is probably comparable price wise to the likes of Barry M and Sleek but with regards to quality of packaging, there is a Nars-esque feel to it with the rubberised black compact ... which we all know gets filthy after a few uses. My favourite and by far the best product is this lovely powder blush in shade 105 - Dark Coral.
I would have described this as more of a dusky pink so was surprised to see online it was actually coral. It is highly pigmented and extremely longwearing lasting the full day without touch up. It gives a lovely healthy flush to the cheeks.
Kiko prides itself in its Italian roots and is so far available online only to Italian customers but they do have stores in Italy, Germany and Spain. I am hoping one day they will arrive on UK shores as it is so affordable. From memory the blush was around 5 euros.
The store itself reminded me of Mac, although the MUA's on the floor were a lot more attentive and helpful. Nothing was too much bother and they happily allow you to swatch the products to your hearts content without too much pestering for a sale.
Kiko not only had a good selection of cosmetics but the skincare line for both men and women is great, my husband loves one of their moisturisers and is hoping he can find a store on his travels to stock up!
So, that was my cheek of the week ... I will also share my other Kiko products that I rate in the future.
Anyone else tried Kiko, what are your thoughts?
x
I bought quite a few products on my visit, some with varying levels of quality. As a brand it is probably comparable price wise to the likes of Barry M and Sleek but with regards to quality of packaging, there is a Nars-esque feel to it with the rubberised black compact ... which we all know gets filthy after a few uses. My favourite and by far the best product is this lovely powder blush in shade 105 - Dark Coral.
I would have described this as more of a dusky pink so was surprised to see online it was actually coral. It is highly pigmented and extremely longwearing lasting the full day without touch up. It gives a lovely healthy flush to the cheeks.
Kiko prides itself in its Italian roots and is so far available online only to Italian customers but they do have stores in Italy, Germany and Spain. I am hoping one day they will arrive on UK shores as it is so affordable. From memory the blush was around 5 euros.
The store itself reminded me of Mac, although the MUA's on the floor were a lot more attentive and helpful. Nothing was too much bother and they happily allow you to swatch the products to your hearts content without too much pestering for a sale.
Kiko not only had a good selection of cosmetics but the skincare line for both men and women is great, my husband loves one of their moisturisers and is hoping he can find a store on his travels to stock up!
So, that was my cheek of the week ... I will also share my other Kiko products that I rate in the future.
Anyone else tried Kiko, what are your thoughts?
x
Saturday 24 April 2010
H&M is on fire!!
... the words I tweeted when I walked out of H&M this afternoon laden with bags of fabulous new clothes!
My absolute favourite purchase of the day was one of slight desperation. A pair of shoes that were out of stock in a size 4 - my size. I was determined not to leave the shop without them so ended up buying them in a 5.5!! Hopefully with some invisible insoles they will fit a bit more snug.
My absolute favourite purchase of the day was one of slight desperation. A pair of shoes that were out of stock in a size 4 - my size. I was determined not to leave the shop without them so ended up buying them in a 5.5!! Hopefully with some invisible insoles they will fit a bit more snug.
Friday 23 April 2010
NOTD - OPI Lincoln Park after Dark
I can never stick with a pastel nail for too long, I always yearn for my dark goth berry nails. So a couple of days ago I swapped Eyeko nude for OPI's Lincoln Park After Dark.
I have to say OPI polishes are probably my favourite - in a single coat you get great coverage and a flawless finish. Downside, 2 days in and I have chipping. For the polished results though, I think I can overlook this.
x
I have to say OPI polishes are probably my favourite - in a single coat you get great coverage and a flawless finish. Downside, 2 days in and I have chipping. For the polished results though, I think I can overlook this.
x
Sunday 18 April 2010
Eyeko Nude Nail Polish
I was sent a collection of pastel nail polishes from Eyeko a few weeks ago and I am just getting round to trying them out.
I opted to try the Nude nail polish first. They say that Nude shoes help to lengthen the appearance of legs so I was hoping this would do the same for my podgy little fingers.
Well, I am not so sure it lenthened the appearance of my hands and at first it did make them look like death but with a little bit of fake tan they started to look quite pretty.
I would say this shade appears more peachy than I expected but I guess nudes are always going to be peach or pink toned in some way or other. This is the polish after 3 coats but another coat would have perfected the look.
Without at least 3 coats, you can see obvious streaks and the drying time is slightly longer than my normal polishes.
It's definitely not a shade for pale skintones but with the hint of a summer glow this is much lovelier than I would have imagined. This will definitely be in my summer nail wardrobe ;)
Anyone else like nude nails?
x
I opted to try the Nude nail polish first. They say that Nude shoes help to lengthen the appearance of legs so I was hoping this would do the same for my podgy little fingers.
Well, I am not so sure it lenthened the appearance of my hands and at first it did make them look like death but with a little bit of fake tan they started to look quite pretty.I would say this shade appears more peachy than I expected but I guess nudes are always going to be peach or pink toned in some way or other. This is the polish after 3 coats but another coat would have perfected the look.
Without at least 3 coats, you can see obvious streaks and the drying time is slightly longer than my normal polishes.
It's definitely not a shade for pale skintones but with the hint of a summer glow this is much lovelier than I would have imagined. This will definitely be in my summer nail wardrobe ;)
Anyone else like nude nails?
x
Celebrity Slim Update & OOTD
So, I have been in the Celebrity Slim zone for a week and a half now and I am happy to report it is going very well.
I have lost 5lbs and so far I haven't been tempted to stray and haven't had any cravings strong enough to cave in to the lure of sweets and burgers! Although, I did allow myself a cheat night last night and had a cherry bakewell tart and some doritos and wine - classy! ;)
Now I have had a few people tell me they don't believe Celeb Slim is a healthy diet but let me fill you in on my diet pre Celeb Slim and after.
A normal days intake PRE celeb slim:
Breakfast: A bag of Walkers prawn cocktail crisps and bar of chocolate. Diet coke.
Lunch: Greggs sandwich/chips/baked potato. Bag of crisps or chocolate bar snack. Diet coke.
Dinner: This varied it could be anything from takeaway to home made chicken fajitas. Chocolate treat. Diet coke.
Horrendous, huh?
A normal days intake on celeb slim:
Breakfast: A celeb slim shake or meal replacement bar.
Mid Morn Snack: Celery with philadelphia light
Lunch: A celeb slim shake or meal replacement bar.
Mid Afternoon Snack: An apple
Dinner: Trout with salad & poached egg/Tuna salad/Steak & Veg/Ham salad
After dinner snack: A piece of fruit/celery & dip
You can see the difference can't you?
I don't want to live on the celeb slim plan forever but until I am at a happy weight I will continue to take them and through the plan I will continue to educate myself about how I eat, when I eat and portion sizes. Slowly but surely I will also re-introduce carbs. Eventually I will be able to replace the shakes with a healthy breakfast and lunch option.
I want to chronicle my weight loss through photos but I am not brave enough to do the underwear challenge so it is fully clothed photos - you can all breathe a sigh of relief! Hopefully when (not if) I meet my target weight I will show you the photos that encouraged me to start losing weight but for now they will stay under wraps. So here is today's Outfit of the day (OOTD) ....
I hate badly taken OOTD photos, so just to bug myself here's another 2!!
Jeans - Primarni (good for slobbing in, not so good for looking glam in)
Tartan Shirt (half tucked in half out)- Topshop
Shoes - Seychelles at House of Fraser
Belt - Mango
Will keep you posted on Celeb Slim and hopefully my next OOTD will show some weight loss results! :)
x
I have lost 5lbs and so far I haven't been tempted to stray and haven't had any cravings strong enough to cave in to the lure of sweets and burgers! Although, I did allow myself a cheat night last night and had a cherry bakewell tart and some doritos and wine - classy! ;)
Now I have had a few people tell me they don't believe Celeb Slim is a healthy diet but let me fill you in on my diet pre Celeb Slim and after.
A normal days intake PRE celeb slim:
Breakfast: A bag of Walkers prawn cocktail crisps and bar of chocolate. Diet coke.
Lunch: Greggs sandwich/chips/baked potato. Bag of crisps or chocolate bar snack. Diet coke.
Dinner: This varied it could be anything from takeaway to home made chicken fajitas. Chocolate treat. Diet coke.
Horrendous, huh?
A normal days intake on celeb slim:
Breakfast: A celeb slim shake or meal replacement bar.
Mid Morn Snack: Celery with philadelphia light
Lunch: A celeb slim shake or meal replacement bar.
Mid Afternoon Snack: An apple
Dinner: Trout with salad & poached egg/Tuna salad/Steak & Veg/Ham salad
After dinner snack: A piece of fruit/celery & dip
You can see the difference can't you?
I don't want to live on the celeb slim plan forever but until I am at a happy weight I will continue to take them and through the plan I will continue to educate myself about how I eat, when I eat and portion sizes. Slowly but surely I will also re-introduce carbs. Eventually I will be able to replace the shakes with a healthy breakfast and lunch option.
I want to chronicle my weight loss through photos but I am not brave enough to do the underwear challenge so it is fully clothed photos - you can all breathe a sigh of relief! Hopefully when (not if) I meet my target weight I will show you the photos that encouraged me to start losing weight but for now they will stay under wraps. So here is today's Outfit of the day (OOTD) ....
I hate badly taken OOTD photos, so just to bug myself here's another 2!!
Jeans - Primarni (good for slobbing in, not so good for looking glam in)
Tartan Shirt (half tucked in half out)- Topshop
Shoes - Seychelles at House of Fraser
Belt - Mango
Will keep you posted on Celeb Slim and hopefully my next OOTD will show some weight loss results! :)
x
Thursday 15 April 2010
How to Survive theOutnet sale!
Tomorrow is the big £1 theOutnet sale extravaganza!
In preparation, all those who have RSVP'd will have received an email with their 5 tips for shopping smart in the sale.
Well, with that in mind check out Saskia's tips for surviving theOutnet sale:
1. Plan Ahead
Pick your favourite item, then pick a back up, now pick a back up of the back up, now pick yet another back up, and another ... follow this process until you are confident you have a goal if your first, second, third choice sells out too fast!
2. Throw the first punch!
There is no time for hair pulling or physically fighting your way to your desired purchase so as soon as you've seen it, don't deliberate over it - it's only £1 for crying out loud so get it in the shopping bag, get to the checkout and BUY BUY BUY!!
3. Check your emails!
Stay glued to your PC/laptop - no toilet breaks, no refreshments, no leaving work early, no making the bed, no nipping to the shops - don't miss out! Refresh your emails every 5 minutes, no, seconds! you don't know when this baby might strike! As soon as that email lands in your inbox, make sure theOutnet is bookmarked and easy to access.
4. Get training!
Practise with your trigger finger, you don't want to lose out because of an unfit mouse clicker!
5. Buy a bottle of wine and a tub of ice cream
Wine for the Win and ice cream if you lose. It's inevitable that some of us will miss out for one reason or another so I recommend a tub of Ben & Jerry's Phish Food in this situation oh and to hell with it, down it with the bottle of wine - nothing like drowning your sorrows!
Hopefully in 24 hours, we will all be smiling and sharing news on our goodies!
Good Luck!
x
In preparation, all those who have RSVP'd will have received an email with their 5 tips for shopping smart in the sale.
Well, with that in mind check out Saskia's tips for surviving theOutnet sale:
1. Plan Ahead
Pick your favourite item, then pick a back up, now pick a back up of the back up, now pick yet another back up, and another ... follow this process until you are confident you have a goal if your first, second, third choice sells out too fast!
2. Throw the first punch!
There is no time for hair pulling or physically fighting your way to your desired purchase so as soon as you've seen it, don't deliberate over it - it's only £1 for crying out loud so get it in the shopping bag, get to the checkout and BUY BUY BUY!!
3. Check your emails!
Stay glued to your PC/laptop - no toilet breaks, no refreshments, no leaving work early, no making the bed, no nipping to the shops - don't miss out! Refresh your emails every 5 minutes, no, seconds! you don't know when this baby might strike! As soon as that email lands in your inbox, make sure theOutnet is bookmarked and easy to access.
4. Get training!
Practise with your trigger finger, you don't want to lose out because of an unfit mouse clicker!
5. Buy a bottle of wine and a tub of ice cream
Wine for the Win and ice cream if you lose. It's inevitable that some of us will miss out for one reason or another so I recommend a tub of Ben & Jerry's Phish Food in this situation oh and to hell with it, down it with the bottle of wine - nothing like drowning your sorrows!
Hopefully in 24 hours, we will all be smiling and sharing news on our goodies!
Good Luck!
x
Wednesday 14 April 2010
NOTD - Nails Inc Tate
Despite not really being a fan of Nails Inc polishes, they do produce one of the loveliest red nail polishes I own.
I pinched this polish from my sister who in turn got it free in a magazine (didn't feel so bad when I heard that!) Tate is a gorgeous red that I can only describe as in between pillar box red and blood red veering ever so slightly to the berries.
Tate feels like a more sophisticated, grown up red compared with say Revlon Red which another of the brights I love. There is just something more demure and expensive looking about Tate.
As with all Nails Inc polishes I own, it doesn't take long before the chipping starts but this one held out to day 2 so thats better than my usual experience.
Though, for a colour this lovely I don't mind.
x
I pinched this polish from my sister who in turn got it free in a magazine (didn't feel so bad when I heard that!) Tate is a gorgeous red that I can only describe as in between pillar box red and blood red veering ever so slightly to the berries.
Tate feels like a more sophisticated, grown up red compared with say Revlon Red which another of the brights I love. There is just something more demure and expensive looking about Tate.
As with all Nails Inc polishes I own, it doesn't take long before the chipping starts but this one held out to day 2 so thats better than my usual experience.
Though, for a colour this lovely I don't mind.
x
Saturday 10 April 2010
theOutnet.com - last chance to RSVP!
Just a reminder that today - Sunday 11th April - is the last day to RSVP for the £1 birthday sale at theOutnet.com
The birthday sale will take place on Friday April 16th with thousands of designer items reduced to £1. All you need to do is make sure you have registered with theOutnet.com by RSVPing HERE. Further details will then be emailed to you.
Due to demand only one item per person can be purchased so don't dilly dally as it is only as long as stock lasts!
Remember also, that everyone who RSVP's is entered into a prize draw to win a preview of all sale items and purchase 5 items from the sale (for a fiver!) with the assistance of an theOutnet.com stylist!
Since I have been mostly obsessing over all the gorgeous dresses on theOutnet.com I will leave you with my Dress of the Day.
My love for her designs has already been mentioned in a previous post - It's a gorgeous Stella McCartney Navy ruffle silk dress. This is what I love Stella for, it's beautiful, feminine and so wearable. There is currently 50% off this dress at the moment but I am hoping that it may be in the £1 sale .... and my size is still left! Fingers crossed!
Good Luck to everyone who will be shopping on April 16th on theOutnet.com. I really can't wait to compare purchases :D
Happy Shopping! x
The birthday sale will take place on Friday April 16th with thousands of designer items reduced to £1. All you need to do is make sure you have registered with theOutnet.com by RSVPing HERE. Further details will then be emailed to you.
Due to demand only one item per person can be purchased so don't dilly dally as it is only as long as stock lasts!
Remember also, that everyone who RSVP's is entered into a prize draw to win a preview of all sale items and purchase 5 items from the sale (for a fiver!) with the assistance of an theOutnet.com stylist!
Since I have been mostly obsessing over all the gorgeous dresses on theOutnet.com I will leave you with my Dress of the Day.
My love for her designs has already been mentioned in a previous post - It's a gorgeous Stella McCartney Navy ruffle silk dress. This is what I love Stella for, it's beautiful, feminine and so wearable. There is currently 50% off this dress at the moment but I am hoping that it may be in the £1 sale .... and my size is still left! Fingers crossed!Good Luck to everyone who will be shopping on April 16th on theOutnet.com. I really can't wait to compare purchases :D
Happy Shopping! x
Big Eyes - Eyeko Mascara
I had heard about this mascara a while ago but had never thought to try it out myself. As it goes I try and steer clear of drugstore mascaras but I am slowly changing my mind about them.
Eyeko actually sent this to me to try out as I am still fairly new to the brand.
Eyeko claim this mascara will give you long & luscious lashes in 1 easy squeeze. Hence the silver tube packaging - much like a toothpaste tube. It's formula combining natural oils and silicones with added Panthenol (Vitamin B) and is designed to prevent dryness, premature breakage and to promote lash growth. The brush has widely dispersed bristles for evenly coated perfectly separated long lashes.
The tube you will agree is very cute and I love the manga girl with her gorgeous big eyes and lashes. 
The wand is quite narrow and the bristles are widely dispersed. I find the wand a little stiff and because of it's shape seems a little difficult to manoeuvre round my lashes. I have to agree with eyeko though, this mascara does create long, luscious looking lashes. I was pleasantly surprised with the pigmentation and how dark my lashes were after one coat. It certainly made my lashes appear longer and thicker which I was pleased about.
As for preventing dryness, by the end of the day my lashes feel a little heavy and caked but this could be a result of my own over application. The other downside to this mascara is the wand for me ... I can't seem to avoid getting the product all over my eyelids so I get a messy finish.
Overall, I really like this mascara and would recommend it - I will certainly getting my use out of it but will need to keep the cotton buds at the ready to clean up the overspill. On the eyeko website it retails at £8. You can also find Eyeko at Superdrug in the UK.
Anyone else like this mascara?
x
Eyeko actually sent this to me to try out as I am still fairly new to the brand.
Eyeko claim this mascara will give you long & luscious lashes in 1 easy squeeze. Hence the silver tube packaging - much like a toothpaste tube. It's formula combining natural oils and silicones with added Panthenol (Vitamin B) and is designed to prevent dryness, premature breakage and to promote lash growth. The brush has widely dispersed bristles for evenly coated perfectly separated long lashes.
The tube you will agree is very cute and I love the manga girl with her gorgeous big eyes and lashes. 
The wand is quite narrow and the bristles are widely dispersed. I find the wand a little stiff and because of it's shape seems a little difficult to manoeuvre round my lashes. I have to agree with eyeko though, this mascara does create long, luscious looking lashes. I was pleasantly surprised with the pigmentation and how dark my lashes were after one coat. It certainly made my lashes appear longer and thicker which I was pleased about.
As for preventing dryness, by the end of the day my lashes feel a little heavy and caked but this could be a result of my own over application. The other downside to this mascara is the wand for me ... I can't seem to avoid getting the product all over my eyelids so I get a messy finish.
Overall, I really like this mascara and would recommend it - I will certainly getting my use out of it but will need to keep the cotton buds at the ready to clean up the overspill. On the eyeko website it retails at £8. You can also find Eyeko at Superdrug in the UK.
Anyone else like this mascara?
x
Thursday 8 April 2010
If I could only wear one designer ever again ...
It would probably be Stella McCartney.
When I was a teenager I had pictures of her collections lining the doors of my wardrobe. I obsessed over the fine details of her feminine dresses and swore I would one day own one.
Stella's designs aren't always the most extravagant - one of the reasons I love Alexander McQueen so much but there is this feminine beauty in her designs that doesn't try to hard to be cool, it just is.
I love how on one hand you can wear something fit for Studio 54 and the next, cosy and comfy in a cable knit. Her clothes evoke beauty, glamour and comfort at the same time. Not an easy combination to attain at the best of times.
At the moment I only own one Stella McCartney item and that is a bag which I just love love love! However, that teenage dream is still going strong so I have been checking out Stella's dresses on theOutnet.com in the hope of bagging it for £1 at their birthday sale on April 16th.
To join the £1 sale party remember to RSVP by registering your details at theOutnet.com by April 11th - that's Sunday! Don't miss out - it really is too good an opportunity to miss. By registering your details you are also entering a draw to have a sneak preview of the £ sale items and choose 5 items (for a fiver!!) with the help of a theOutnet.com stylist :)
Who is your favourite Designer?
x
When I was a teenager I had pictures of her collections lining the doors of my wardrobe. I obsessed over the fine details of her feminine dresses and swore I would one day own one.
Stella's designs aren't always the most extravagant - one of the reasons I love Alexander McQueen so much but there is this feminine beauty in her designs that doesn't try to hard to be cool, it just is.
I love how on one hand you can wear something fit for Studio 54 and the next, cosy and comfy in a cable knit. Her clothes evoke beauty, glamour and comfort at the same time. Not an easy combination to attain at the best of times.
At the moment I only own one Stella McCartney item and that is a bag which I just love love love! However, that teenage dream is still going strong so I have been checking out Stella's dresses on theOutnet.com in the hope of bagging it for £1 at their birthday sale on April 16th.
To join the £1 sale party remember to RSVP by registering your details at theOutnet.com by April 11th - that's Sunday! Don't miss out - it really is too good an opportunity to miss. By registering your details you are also entering a draw to have a sneak preview of the £ sale items and choose 5 items (for a fiver!!) with the help of a theOutnet.com stylist :)
Who is your favourite Designer?
x
Jessica Simpson - Au Naturale?
Jessica Simpson on the cover of Marie Claire this month is apparently sans make up or airbrushing.
I love how brave she has been to do this, I mean I don't even put the bins out without mascara and a touch of concealer under my eyes!
Do I think it's for realz?
Well, her skintone does look pretty even especially in comparison to the image below. Without doubt she is a naturally very pretty girl but is that a hint of blush I see? Hmmm and a smidgen of concealer? Or is it just very clever lighting?
Whatever the case, good on her, she looks gorgeous and real and even looks like she could be one of our mates. It's sending a positive message out that perfection on the pages of a magazine isn't always as it seems.
What do you think?
I love how brave she has been to do this, I mean I don't even put the bins out without mascara and a touch of concealer under my eyes!
Do I think it's for realz?
Well, her skintone does look pretty even especially in comparison to the image below. Without doubt she is a naturally very pretty girl but is that a hint of blush I see? Hmmm and a smidgen of concealer? Or is it just very clever lighting?
Whatever the case, good on her, she looks gorgeous and real and even looks like she could be one of our mates. It's sending a positive message out that perfection on the pages of a magazine isn't always as it seems.
What do you think?
Tuesday 6 April 2010
Date Night ...
Once again I am sitting here browsing theOutnet.com picking out my best buys for the £1 sale on April 16th.
I have time on my hands for the next 2 weeks while my Husband jet sets around the USofA! It got me to thinking though, we have seen very little of each other over the past few months as both of our work schedules have been hectic to say the least, selling our flat and house hunting on top of that makes for very high stress levels. I can't even remember the last time we went on a date.
I remember the time when dates where spontaneous and not only that I could gorgeous-ify (did i just make that word up?) in the shortest time possible! So what would I wear if my Mister called to let me know he would be home and picking me up in an hour?
Well, if I only have an hour to get ready I need to wear something that is quick to throw on and requires as little accessories as possible - this gives me maximum time to fix my face which of course would consist of flirty fake lashes and a pretty blush like Nars Penny Lane.
This Stella McCartney dress is gorgeous and can be worn over leggings, jeggings, jeans or just plain old tights. The embroidery detail of the dress makes it easier to skip accessories. Always remember never to overgild the Lily!
The Alaia lace up wedges are just lovely and can be worn with so many things but I think they look really edgy but feminine with this dress. Teamed with a nice casual leather shoulder bag like this Marc Jacobs one. Love it all! (Hub, if you are reading - I want ALL of the above and a date night as soon as you're home - 'k? Thanks x)
If you want to be part of the £1 sale party with theOutnet.com don't forget to RSVP by registering your details HERE by April 11th. Just a reminder of the details - the £1 birthday sale will be held on April 16th. Thousands of items are reduced to £1/$1 or 1 Euro (I can't find the Euro symbol ;s) however, due to demand there will only be one item per person so make sure you have all your item options at the ready.
By registering with the site you are automatically entered into a draw to win the chance to get a sneak preview of the £1 sale and purchase up to 5 items (for only a fiver!) with the assistance of an Outnet.com stylist.
GOOD LUCK GIRLS!
x
I have time on my hands for the next 2 weeks while my Husband jet sets around the USofA! It got me to thinking though, we have seen very little of each other over the past few months as both of our work schedules have been hectic to say the least, selling our flat and house hunting on top of that makes for very high stress levels. I can't even remember the last time we went on a date.
I remember the time when dates where spontaneous and not only that I could gorgeous-ify (did i just make that word up?) in the shortest time possible! So what would I wear if my Mister called to let me know he would be home and picking me up in an hour?
Well, if I only have an hour to get ready I need to wear something that is quick to throw on and requires as little accessories as possible - this gives me maximum time to fix my face which of course would consist of flirty fake lashes and a pretty blush like Nars Penny Lane.
This Stella McCartney dress is gorgeous and can be worn over leggings, jeggings, jeans or just plain old tights. The embroidery detail of the dress makes it easier to skip accessories. Always remember never to overgild the Lily!
The Alaia lace up wedges are just lovely and can be worn with so many things but I think they look really edgy but feminine with this dress. Teamed with a nice casual leather shoulder bag like this Marc Jacobs one. Love it all! (Hub, if you are reading - I want ALL of the above and a date night as soon as you're home - 'k? Thanks x)
If you want to be part of the £1 sale party with theOutnet.com don't forget to RSVP by registering your details HERE by April 11th. Just a reminder of the details - the £1 birthday sale will be held on April 16th. Thousands of items are reduced to £1/$1 or 1 Euro (I can't find the Euro symbol ;s) however, due to demand there will only be one item per person so make sure you have all your item options at the ready.
By registering with the site you are automatically entered into a draw to win the chance to get a sneak preview of the £1 sale and purchase up to 5 items (for only a fiver!) with the assistance of an Outnet.com stylist.
GOOD LUCK GIRLS!
x
Celebrity Slim
I do not usually advocate fad diets but I have reached a point of desperation and want to shift some pounds (read: Stone) in time for Summer and baring my flesh in public.
I heard about Dressjunkie's success on Celebrity Slim through twitter and thought I would give it a try. What have I got to lose apart from the £50 it skinned me to buy all the supplies!! Yes, it is expensive.
Basically Celebrity Slim replaces your usually 3 meal a day routine with 5-6 small meals using meal replacement shakes, soups or bars - much like Slimfast. Dinner is unaffected as long as it is balanced (i.e, NOT Dominoes, tsk tsk!) and preferably high in protein.
Already I am despairing over how the shakes and soup will taste - will I be able to stomach them? Well for £50 I am gonna give it a good go.
I am usually hesitant of announcing diet challenges on my blog but hopefully in a few weeks time I will be posting photos of me cavorting on a beach in my bikini!! JOKE! I would never do that to you guys! EVER!
Next step is to download the 'Shred' workout which comes recommended by Gemsmaquillage and Kelanjo19 but you know what they say, one step at a time!
x
I heard about Dressjunkie's success on Celebrity Slim through twitter and thought I would give it a try. What have I got to lose apart from the £50 it skinned me to buy all the supplies!! Yes, it is expensive.
Basically Celebrity Slim replaces your usually 3 meal a day routine with 5-6 small meals using meal replacement shakes, soups or bars - much like Slimfast. Dinner is unaffected as long as it is balanced (i.e, NOT Dominoes, tsk tsk!) and preferably high in protein.
Already I am despairing over how the shakes and soup will taste - will I be able to stomach them? Well for £50 I am gonna give it a good go.
I am usually hesitant of announcing diet challenges on my blog but hopefully in a few weeks time I will be posting photos of me cavorting on a beach in my bikini!! JOKE! I would never do that to you guys! EVER!
Next step is to download the 'Shred' workout which comes recommended by Gemsmaquillage and Kelanjo19 but you know what they say, one step at a time!
x
17 Endless Shine Lipgloss - Coral Queen
I love it when new products surprise me, especially when it's a very affordable drugstore product.
I was in Newcastle last weekend and somehow managed to take with me, 3 dried out lipglosses! Pfft, how does that even happen? Anyway, while on a shopping spree in Newcastle I nipped into Boots with the purpose of buying a gloss I could wear out on the town that evening.
Boots 17 is not a brand I ever buy - if I am right, I believe the brand is aimed at a much younger audience therefore the quality is probably not what I am after. However, the colour of this gloss drew me to it. The shade is Coral Queen and it is part of the 17 Endless Shine lipgloss range.
It is a lovely pinky coral with gold shimmer running through it which is very subtle on the lips but just enough to give a golden glow. The formulation isn't as sticky as I would have expected and the shine isn't endless as it says on the tube but it does go a long way despite this. My only real issue is it seems to be slighly drying on the lips but this isn't a problem as long as you're not wearing it everyday.
Here it is on bare lips:
A glossy sheer hint of colour. And over the top of Mac Angel:
Obviously with coral being the 'in' shade again this year, it is a perfect gloss for Spring/Summer looks.
Oh, and I forgot to mention the best bit - it's only £3.49!
What bargains have you spotted lately?
x
I was in Newcastle last weekend and somehow managed to take with me, 3 dried out lipglosses! Pfft, how does that even happen? Anyway, while on a shopping spree in Newcastle I nipped into Boots with the purpose of buying a gloss I could wear out on the town that evening.
Boots 17 is not a brand I ever buy - if I am right, I believe the brand is aimed at a much younger audience therefore the quality is probably not what I am after. However, the colour of this gloss drew me to it. The shade is Coral Queen and it is part of the 17 Endless Shine lipgloss range.
It is a lovely pinky coral with gold shimmer running through it which is very subtle on the lips but just enough to give a golden glow. The formulation isn't as sticky as I would have expected and the shine isn't endless as it says on the tube but it does go a long way despite this. My only real issue is it seems to be slighly drying on the lips but this isn't a problem as long as you're not wearing it everyday.
Here it is on bare lips:
A glossy sheer hint of colour. And over the top of Mac Angel:
Obviously with coral being the 'in' shade again this year, it is a perfect gloss for Spring/Summer looks.
Oh, and I forgot to mention the best bit - it's only £3.49!
What bargains have you spotted lately?
x
Sunday 4 April 2010
Holidays are coming ....
April is upon us which means one thing for me - my birthday! It's been a tough couple of months with stress at work, stress at home and moving flat being a much bigger job than I had ever imagined. I am very much in need of a holiday and there is no better time than my birthday to sneak off for an early spring/summer break.
Ibiza is the location in mind, just before the parties season starts, a relaxed, chilled out vibe on the white isle with plenty of time to explore without the pressure to party! With each holiday, I try and reduce my luggage more and more, I am determined to become a savvy traveller without the need for 12 pairs of shoes, 8 pairs of sunglasses and a bikini (sometimes 2) for every day of the holiday! My biggest problem is packing too many outfit combos ... I need to learn to pack versatile clothes that can transfer easily from day to night.
My holiday isn't far off, only a few weeks away so I need to get organised and be as sensible with my packing as I can. Here are a few things I am thinking of packing for my holiday. These will provide me with the essentials I need for day and night time dressing.
* This American Retro dress is amazingly only £84 from £210 on theOutnet.com. It is a perfect day to night dress. It's perfect to throw on over your bikini after a day at the beach but equally cool enough to wear at night bar hopping.
* The sandals are Juicy Couture and are the perfect style of gladiator sandal for this dress. On holiday I find it hard to wear heels so these can be worn day and night, see I'm already saving space (and large luggage fees).
* I really wish I could stick to one pair of sunglasses on holiday but I just can't. My favourite sunnies are aviators like these Carrera's, they are my preference for daytime but late afternoon or a vino fuelled late lunch calls for something more sophisticated like these Nina Ricci oversized sunnies.
* My hair needs protecting during the day so a trilby will do the trick... keeping my hair neatly tucked away from the drying rays of the Sun.
* This Antik Batik bag is just gorgeous and is perfect for all the essentials - suncream, ipod, phone, money.
These are going to be added to my neverending list for theOutnet.com birthday £1 sale on April 16th however with the prices as good as they are - especially the dress - I may just put in an early order!
If you want to be part of theOutnet birthday celebrations just click HERE to RSVP by registering to the site. Then on April 16th you will have your pick of Designer goodies for £1 - Remember it is one day only and also one item per person due to the demand so be a savvy shopper!
What are your Beach holiday essentials?
x
Ibiza is the location in mind, just before the parties season starts, a relaxed, chilled out vibe on the white isle with plenty of time to explore without the pressure to party! With each holiday, I try and reduce my luggage more and more, I am determined to become a savvy traveller without the need for 12 pairs of shoes, 8 pairs of sunglasses and a bikini (sometimes 2) for every day of the holiday! My biggest problem is packing too many outfit combos ... I need to learn to pack versatile clothes that can transfer easily from day to night.
My holiday isn't far off, only a few weeks away so I need to get organised and be as sensible with my packing as I can. Here are a few things I am thinking of packing for my holiday. These will provide me with the essentials I need for day and night time dressing.
* This American Retro dress is amazingly only £84 from £210 on theOutnet.com. It is a perfect day to night dress. It's perfect to throw on over your bikini after a day at the beach but equally cool enough to wear at night bar hopping.
* The sandals are Juicy Couture and are the perfect style of gladiator sandal for this dress. On holiday I find it hard to wear heels so these can be worn day and night, see I'm already saving space (and large luggage fees).
* I really wish I could stick to one pair of sunglasses on holiday but I just can't. My favourite sunnies are aviators like these Carrera's, they are my preference for daytime but late afternoon or a vino fuelled late lunch calls for something more sophisticated like these Nina Ricci oversized sunnies.
* My hair needs protecting during the day so a trilby will do the trick... keeping my hair neatly tucked away from the drying rays of the Sun.
* This Antik Batik bag is just gorgeous and is perfect for all the essentials - suncream, ipod, phone, money.
These are going to be added to my neverending list for theOutnet.com birthday £1 sale on April 16th however with the prices as good as they are - especially the dress - I may just put in an early order!
If you want to be part of theOutnet birthday celebrations just click HERE to RSVP by registering to the site. Then on April 16th you will have your pick of Designer goodies for £1 - Remember it is one day only and also one item per person due to the demand so be a savvy shopper!
What are your Beach holiday essentials?
x
Tag - 7 fun facts
A while back the talented whiplashes at Inside the Makeup Case tagged me in a 7 fun facts tag. It has taken me a while to get round to it but here they are:
1. I am the youngest of 4 siblings
2. I am covered in freckles, not a part of my body is without them :(
3. I have met P Diddy, Puff Daddy, PD ... whatever the heck he is called these days
4. I used to be a lifeguard
5. Once upon a time I wanted to be a fashion journalist
6. My favourite place is Berlin
7. I love decorating, discos and dancing
And since I hate not having an image to accompany my posts here is one that ties in with Easter and an 8th fun fact:
8. My name is not really Saskia (in case you don't already know) ... my real name begins with 'K'
Hope you are all stuffing your face with chocolate this weekend!
Tell me 7 fun facts about you ... open to everyone :)
x
1. I am the youngest of 4 siblings
2. I am covered in freckles, not a part of my body is without them :(
3. I have met P Diddy, Puff Daddy, PD ... whatever the heck he is called these days
4. I used to be a lifeguard
5. Once upon a time I wanted to be a fashion journalist
6. My favourite place is Berlin
7. I love decorating, discos and dancing
And since I hate not having an image to accompany my posts here is one that ties in with Easter and an 8th fun fact:
8. My name is not really Saskia (in case you don't already know) ... my real name begins with 'K'
Hope you are all stuffing your face with chocolate this weekend!
Tell me 7 fun facts about you ... open to everyone :)
x
Thursday 1 April 2010
All about the accessories ...
It really is! There is no better way to brighten up an outfit than to accessorize well. More often than not I will buy some basic plain tops and liven them up with a killer necklace, earrings or scarf.
Accessorising really can change the look of any outfit and if you do it well, it could save you plenty of $$ on fleeting trends. A couple of posts ago, I was going mad for theOutnet.com £1 birthday party sale and since there is only 1 item per guest, I really need to do my research and work out which items to aim for on the day! Remember, it is first come first served - so fingers on your mouse, ladies!
So of course, tonight I have been browsing on theOutnet.com like a mad woman scouring for my must have items and this is just some of the items I have my eye on!
* Sara Berman slouch bag -Summer is full of day trips and long walks so carrying a bag on my arm is just a hassle - a lovely slouch bag that slings round my body is the perfect solution - this one in Nude will suit most colour combos and the stud detailing gives it some va va voom!
* An oversized Scarf - for the chilly Summer breeze. I always invest in an oversized scarf, you can wear it so many ways and I just find them, well, so stylish. I love this Missoni one - everyone needs some Missoni in their life at some point - why not now when you could get it for £1!
* Statement jewellery like this necklace and cuff. The necklace is a beautiful flower pendant by Kara Ross and the cuff, ugh! The cuff is to die for ... it is Christian Lacroix no less and I think I am in love!
* Of course no outfit of mine would be complete without my face in place so Nars Penny Lane will be my big Summer blush and of course on trend pastel nails. Never did I think I would take to pastels but I have!
To get your invite to the £1 birthday party just make sure you RSVP by registering with theOutnet.com between now and April 11th. Click here to RSVP.
What are your must have accessories?
Accessorising really can change the look of any outfit and if you do it well, it could save you plenty of $$ on fleeting trends. A couple of posts ago, I was going mad for theOutnet.com £1 birthday party sale and since there is only 1 item per guest, I really need to do my research and work out which items to aim for on the day! Remember, it is first come first served - so fingers on your mouse, ladies!
So of course, tonight I have been browsing on theOutnet.com like a mad woman scouring for my must have items and this is just some of the items I have my eye on!
* Sara Berman slouch bag -Summer is full of day trips and long walks so carrying a bag on my arm is just a hassle - a lovely slouch bag that slings round my body is the perfect solution - this one in Nude will suit most colour combos and the stud detailing gives it some va va voom!
* An oversized Scarf - for the chilly Summer breeze. I always invest in an oversized scarf, you can wear it so many ways and I just find them, well, so stylish. I love this Missoni one - everyone needs some Missoni in their life at some point - why not now when you could get it for £1!
* Statement jewellery like this necklace and cuff. The necklace is a beautiful flower pendant by Kara Ross and the cuff, ugh! The cuff is to die for ... it is Christian Lacroix no less and I think I am in love!
* Of course no outfit of mine would be complete without my face in place so Nars Penny Lane will be my big Summer blush and of course on trend pastel nails. Never did I think I would take to pastels but I have!
To get your invite to the £1 birthday party just make sure you RSVP by registering with theOutnet.com between now and April 11th. Click here to RSVP.
What are your must have accessories?
Hairspiration
My hair is at that horrible in between stage where it is neither short nor long. It's starting to flick out at the ends and look completely shapeless no matter how I try to style it - this is the pains of growing hair long.
For Summer, I would love long, sleek locks so that I can mess it up and braid it a la Conrad. Braids have been in for a while now but I am only just jumping on that bandwagon. When it comes to braids, Lauren does it best:
A more complicated version maybe?
I love Pixi's halo effect braid and beach waves
Our girl Lauren again with tousled hair and her trademark braid again
For Summer, I would love long, sleek locks so that I can mess it up and braid it a la Conrad. Braids have been in for a while now but I am only just jumping on that bandwagon. When it comes to braids, Lauren does it best:
A more complicated version maybe?
I love Pixi's halo effect braid and beach waves
Our girl Lauren again with tousled hair and her trademark braid again
Considering vitamins to help my hair grow quicker ... any suggestions? Or will I just have to patiently sit it out?
x
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