Wild About Beauty

Last week I went along to the Debenhams autumn/winter press launch in Glasgow.

Debenhams always put on a lovely spread for their guests and they are great at showcasing the talent from their store with the likes of Henry Holland, Pearce Fionda, Betty Jackson and Matthew Williamson to name a few.

I especially love their homeware displays that always leave me making mental wish lists for my home!

This September, Debenhams add another famous name, this time to their beauty hall, with Louise Redknapp jumping on board with her brand new and ever so gorgeous make up brand.

I have to be honest, the celebrity name didn't entice me to these products at all, in fact, a celebrity backing would normally make me a little cynical of the brand.  However, Louise was on hand herself to demonstrate how some of her new products work and I have to say, I really can't wait until this brand hits the stores at the end of the month so I can try for myself.

Wild About Beauty is a collaboration between Louise Redknapp and make up artist Kim Jacob.  As well as the reasonable mid price range, the ethos behind the products are that they are quick and easy to use for women on the go. Whether that be a busy mom or a pushed for time career girl.  Louise mentioned she has never been much of a glitter fan so the colours and textures you will find in her brand lean to a natural, flawless finish rather than overly made up, however, they are versatile enough to be able to create a dramatic look if you so wish.  Wild About Beauty is all about creating that inner glow that radiates health, happiness and natural beauty.

Louise herself was absolutely lovely and seemed really passionate about her products, especially with 2 young boys running around.  It means she has products that are quick and easy to apply even when she is rushing about on the school run.  For those of you wondering, she is just as gorgeous in real life as on TV.  She has a chic, sophisticated presence and is so petite ... you could fit her in your purse.

The must have products for me are the concealer sets which remind me a lot of Bobbi Brown concealer and also her sheer cream bronzing product 'Golden Skin Glow' which I think will give a gorgeous healthy glow to any complexion.

Wild About Beauty hits Debenhams stores at the end of September with Glasgow Debenhams being the first to carry the line.

Tempting

The make up I chose to wear in yesterdays post was a little bit inspired by the Olsen twins smokey look that they have been rocking for ions.  I toned it down for day wear so it wasn't as deep and intense as some of their more recent dramatic looks.

-Insert ancient but gorgeous photo of Olsen Twins-

- Insert posey in the manky bathroom mirror photo of moi-

I STILL haven't cleaned the mirror! minger.

I used 2 of my very favourite MAC shadows to create the look, Tempting and Twinks.  Tempting is a lovely shade which is very similar to Woodwinked (another favourite) but slightly less intense.  It's a golden bronze with a slight shimmer, super pigmented and is fabulous to use as there is little to no fall out from it!

I started layering products starting with MAC Patina then applied and blended Tempting at the outer corner.  To add some depth I used Twinks, a rusty brown, in the outer v which also really helped 'lift' the look and avoided a flat bronze appearance.

Face: Chanel Pro Lumiere
Cheeks: Benefit Hoola, MAC Sun&Moon
Eyes: MAC Patina, Tempting, Twinks; MAC Smouler liner; Urban Decay Bourbon 24/7 liner;  Rimmel Scandaleyes mascara
Lips: No7 Nude lipliner; Tom Ford Lip colour in Blush Nude; Estee Lauder gloss in Twilight Petal

I really love wearing this kind of smokey eye and it was a welcome return of the nude lip for me.  I was never truly sold on a nude lip but I think having a break from constant images of nude lips on other blogs has made it a nice change to try on myself.

Lots of you have been asking questions about my hair colour so I am just compiling a post to tell you more about it and to show off some of the products I use most on my hair!

x

Hairspiration: The Top Sknot!

My lazy hair style of choice is the top knot.  I have become far too lazy to wash, style, straighten/curl my hair these days and find it easier to scrape up in a huge big bun on top of my head.

I have now stopped feeling normal unless my hair is sweeped up in some form of nonchalant bun.  However, it gets a bit boring when people see you looking the same all the time, so to mix it up I have started wearing my bun to the side in a look that I like to call - the top sknot!  A top knot to the side.

Hardly groundbreaking.

It adds a little variation to a style I love and gives it a bit of edge for nights out.  Here is my inspiration.

Sourced from Stockholm Street Style

I am not sure I could brave a full on bun to the top, side and front of my head like Thandie Newton but I like to give these other styles a go once in a while.

What do you think of the top sknot?

x

Getting my ROX on with David Coulthard

Last Thursday I was invited along to a special event held in ROX Jewellers in Glasgow.

Scotland's very own David Coulthard was in town to launch his special edition watch for TW Steel.   I let my husband tag along, a self titled watch connoiseur, he was in his element browsing the vast collection of watches and getting to see up close and personal the David Coulthard special edition watch.

Greeted by an F1 racing car parked outside the store, a glamorous evening awaited, set in the sumptuous Thrill Room of ROX, Argyle Arcade.  We were treated to a DJ, F1 themed interactive games,  F1 girls, overflowing Moet as well as French Martinis and platters of sushi.

David was interviewed on stage by Lee McKenzie, F1 commentator, another Scottish export.  Their rapport with each other was fantastic which made for an enjoyable interview - probably one of the most endearing presentations of a celeb/sportsman I have seen or hear at any event.  David came across very approachable as he later mingled with the crowd and words can't describe how beautiful his wife is.

While my husband ogled the watches, I was more interested in Rox own line of accessories, specifically their beaded charm bracelets which I am growing quite a collection of.

A sophisticated evening was topped off with pizza and beer on the way home.  I'm all class!

x

Scottish Fashion Awards 2011: What they wore

I have cavorted my own outfit for you and let you in on some of the highlights of the evening but here's a peek at what the other guests were wearing.

Shirley Bassey in Graeme Black (Sir Billi Tartan)

Samantha Cameron in a wonderful Christopher Kane dress
Event founder Tessa Hartmann in a gorgeous Holly Fulton gown

Brix in Christopher Kane and a swarovski crystal saltire clutch

Skins Freya Mavor won Style Icon of the year
wearing Pringle of Scotland

Henry Holland in House of Holland

There were some fabulous outfits that I am yet to spot photos of online, one of which is the creative director of Swarovski, Nathalie Colin, who wore crystal shoulder embellishments which are just to die for!

Along with the spectacular there were also the flops but I will leave that for you to judge.

And just for a bit of eye candy on a Sunday morning, here's David Gandy ...

You can check out David's blog on the SFA's on Vogue.com here.

x

Scottish Fashion Awards 2011: The results are in!

My evening at the Scottish Fashion awards started in a cocktail bar, Browns, to be exact with the gorgeous Morven and Ann, all dolled up and ready to strut our stuff with the best of Scotland's fash pack.

Morven and Ann having a bit of cocktail action

Best cocktail ever!

Unfortunately for us the champagne bar had run dry by the time we arrived at the actual event but a little bit of mingling and scoping our fellow guests was fun in itself.

Dame Shirley Bassey received most adoration of the night in her Graeme Black dress designed with Sir Billi Tartan and a sporran handbag.  Dolly Jones, Hilary Alexander and Paula Reed made up the fashion glossy gliteratti.  Henry Holland, Jonathan Saunders and Holly Fulton were Designers of note on the evening with many of the guests sporting their threads.  David Gandy, Brix Smith-Start and Lulu also added charisma and sparkle to the festivities.  Guests of honour and both equally inspirational in their fields were Hilary Alexander who won a surprise award and the God-like Rankin who was thoroughly down to earth!

Ann and I posing in front of the media board

Before we knew it, the awards ceremony was well underway in the iMax cinema at the Glasgow Science Centre.  

The exciting winners of the evening were Jonathan Saunders who won Designer of the Year, Henry Holland - International Designer of the Year, Hilary Alexander - Fashion Ambassador,  Bebaroque - Accessory designer of the year, Harris Tweed - Textile Designer of the Year, Henrietta Ludgate - Young Designer of the year and the most prestigious of the awards, Rankin winning the Hall of Fame award.

Henry Hollands entourage so to speak brought an infectious party spirit to the awards, whooping in applause at Hollands win!  And, it was heartwarming when Hilary Alexander was surprised with her award as Fashion Ambassador, giving credit to her support of the Scottish Fashion Awards.  It was also endearing to listen to Rankin confess to his nerves on the evening and how proud he was to be picking up an award.

The evening progressed on to a wonderful 3 course dinner, interesting chat and lots of bubbly.  I was fortunate enough to be at a table full of characters from the world of fashion retail, journalism and tv.  I met the lovely Mark Hayes, GMTV stylist, who was so down to earth and kept us amused with stories of how he is often mistaken for Jason Gardner of Dancing on Ice fame.

Mark Hayes and moi

Morven chatting to Jonathan and Daniel of Garcons de Glasgow

Brix, Morven and myself
(grey blob is not hiding a nip, it's an error i couldn't be bothered to fix!)

After dinner we were treated to a wonderful catwalk show by Swarovski.  Sparkling models sashayed down the purple glitter catwalk in the most wonderful creations covered in bling.  I love my sparkle and I  lusted after every piece that pounded the floor before me.

Jonathan Saunders

Dolly Jones and Jonathan Saunders

Highlight of my night was getting to meet the amazing Jonathan Saunders who I mentioned in a prior post, I knew a long time ago in passing.  It was lovely to reacquaint myself with him and congratulate him on his award.

It was a long but fabulous evening full of glamour and sparkle.  It's fair to say I peaked far too early and by the time the after party got in full swing, I was probably tucked up in bed with a half eaten tunnocks caramel wafer from my goody bag, by my side.

You just can't buy class!

x

Scottish Fashion Awards 2011: What I Wore

Before I go into any level of detail about the awards like how fabulous Shirley Bassey looked,  how HAWT David Gandy is, how Henry Holland and his entourage brought the party, the lump in my throat when the wonderful Hilary Alexander won Fashion Ambassador or how much an honour it was to finally get to speak to Jonathan Saunders, I thought I would first show you what I wore to the event.

My evening started with a wardrobe dilemna - 2 weeks away from the gym had taken their toll and my jumpsuit had become a little tight round the edges shall we say.  I had to just make do and roll with it though.  This is the same outfit I wore for my birthday (I wore the same thing twice!! Quelle Horreur!)

Navy jumpsuit: Topshop
Shoes: Aldo
Fur Stole: Vintage Ebay
Earrings: Oasis
Rings: Karen Millen, Vivienne Westwood and some others picked up in stalls or abroad

I was hoping to wear some fabulous Warehouse accessories and a gorgeous Warehouse bag but unfortunately for me they were not in store.  I managed to make do with some last minute bits and bobs from elsewhere, including a cuff that fellow blogger Ann managed to pick me up after she learned of my accessory panic!!

Somehow I went from looking half decent and being quite pleased with my outfit to looking like a heffalump by the time photos were taken at the event.  Hmmph! Not quite sure how that happens but I'm hoping it's nothing the gym won't fix.

 For my make up I wanted a bright pink lip to match my nails which were painted in GOSH Flamingo.  I had forgotten what a fabulous shade this is!

I did my own hair up for the evening by trying to channel Chanel's catwalk look.  I literally scooped all my hair into a high ponytal, backcombed the pony to within an inch of it's life then scooped it all around the base, pinning with a few bobby pins here and there.  Naturally half a tonne of hairspray was added for extra peace of mind!

Face: Chanel AquaLumiere
Cheeks:  Nars Laguna, Nars Orgasm and a touch of Illamasqua Erzule
Eyes: MAC Brule, MAC Charcoal Brown (crease), MAC Blacktrack, Estee Lauder Blue Dahlia (Darkest blues mixed and layered over eyeliner).  MAC Haute & Naughty Mascara
Lips:  MAC Longwear Lipcreme in Love Forever

That's a lot of MAC!

I decided to forego false lashes but by the end of the night I wish I had worn them although sometimes it's nice to give the eyes a rest.

This is usually a failsafe outfit for me as jumpsuits are so comfortable.  Needless to say by the end of the evening my feet were killing me.

My fellow blogger gals who accompanied me to the do... Ann at Girl in the City and Morven from Cats and Rocking Chairs did not disappoint as they looked absolutely stunning.

More pics to come of all of us and a few schlebs too ;)

x

Jessie J - what a transformation

Known for her undeniable talent as a singer and performer, Jessie J was also making headlines with her unique and unapologetic sense of style.  The blunt fringe, the full on make up, Jessie made a big impact in the style stakes and had many a You Tube guru recreating her look.

At last nights Glamour Awards, Jessie won the 'Woman of Tomorrow' award and was nearly unrecognisable in her chic and glamorous get up.   She clearly stole the show.

She looked amazing with retro-esque waves in her hair and her fringe out of sight.  Toned down but stunning make up and a dress that clinged to her amazing figure, she looked a million dollars.   A picture of old Hollywood Glamour.

I never would have doubted her previous look had I not seen her look so unbelievably jaw-dropping at last nights Awards.  I wonder if Jessie J will keep up this new look or if it's for special events only?  

Would you like to see more of this new Jessie J?

x

Wall Candy

Last week I posted my bedroom makeover and as well as freshening up my bedroom, I have been trying to give my walls a revamp.

I enjoy images of iconic beauty, architecture and advertising in particular retro/vintage photography.  As a cheap alternative to otherwise expensive wall art I usually frame posters and photos, creating something a tad different to typical Ikea prints of City landscapes.

In this instance I logged onto AllPosters.co.uk and browsed through their many galleries from Banksy to Warhol to Kandinsky.  I went with my favourite choice of iconic beautiful women.

Instead of going for the obvious images of Audrey Hepburn,  I went for a stunning print of Liz Taylor and a gorgeous print of Marilyn Monroe, one of which I had never seen before.  I also purchased a movie poster of Le Mepris poster featuring Brigitte Bardot that was featured in a previous inspiration post.

Elizabeth Taylor

Marilyn reading 

Brigitte's Le Mepris poster

I think the key to choosing a good poster is dependant on the feel of your home and whatever room it will hang in but also to choose something that is a little bit different.  Instead of the same Audrey Breakfast at Tiffany's print or Marilyn's seven year itch, choose something that is less 'typical' to the eye so that it becomes a talking point in your room.

Of course I would love to afford 'real' art in my home and it's certainly something to work towards but in the mean time I find this a cheap and effective way at dressing my walls.

What do you have hanging on your walls?

x

When I grow up ...

... I want to be Julianne Moore.

Last night I watched the BAFTA's and was totally wowed by the gorgeous Julianne Moore in a floorlength blue velvet dress by Tom Ford, who was also her partner for the event.  She teamed the dress with stunning red lips (not unlike my favourite, MAC Lady Danger) and beautifully coiffed hair that harked back to old Hollywood Glamour.

Julianne and her good friend Tom Ford - oh hellooooo! 

As a fellow redhead I have always been fascinated by Julianne Moore.  It's not just red hair we have in common, as well as being half Scottish, Julianne too has pale celtic skin and a multitude of freckles.  Refreshingly, Julianne wears her freckles with pride against her porcelain skin ... something I just cant bring myself to do and so admire her for.

Odd as it may sound, I struggle to feel comfortable with my freckles.  There are so many of them covering my face, body, arms and legs.  I use fake tan as a platform to blend them with my skin.  I guess this struggle comes from the reaction of others over the years.  People do look at me sympathetically because of my 'infliction' or 'blemishes' and the fact my skin won't tan naturally.  It really is quite rude but something I have had to put up with for years and it has kicked my body confidence in many ways.  It is only now as an adult I am starting to accept and sometimes enjoy my peely wally speckled skin.

I love the mix of leopard print and blue in this image

Scenarios I have dealt with for instance, are being laughed at on the beach sunbathing, locals abroad taking photos of me, hysterically laughing and pointing at me or looks of disgust from passers by.  On the other hand there are the countries I have visited where they adore my ghostly tones ... 'White Chocolate' became a favourite nickname in Egypt where they couldn't get enough of my red hair and what is known in Scotland as my ginger skin!  You gotta have a sense of humour about these things ;)

Love the berry lips

Anyway, back to Julianne.  She is so beautiful and at over 50 (i think) she has aged so graceful and stylishly.  As an actress I have seen her in few movies but most notably are Boogie Nights, The Big Lebowski and A Single Man.  Julianne carries herself with such poise and elegance and although appears to be completely comfortable in her skin, she has admitted that growing up she was nicknamed 'Frecklefaced Strawberry' because of her sun kisses ... quite a cute nickname, huh?  She even went on to write a children's book about a little girl who tries to get rid of her freckles.


'I still have mine and I still don't like them, but I have other things to worry about. I care about it less'

Freckled and gorgeous in Boogie Nights

And I guess that's where I'm at now.  I care about it less.

x

New Look: Leona Lewis

It seems that Leona Lewis is looking to distance herself from her squeaky clean, pretty as a princess image and has been seen this week sporting Gaga-esque creations of her own and a Nicki Minaj inspired hairstyle.

I am not sure what to make of this or Leona's designs.  On one hand it is quite a quirky and fun look but i'm not sure it really fits her 'image' and we have never seen a personality to match this crazy exterior.

I wonder if she has just succumbed to the pressure of the Gaga's and the Rhianna's of todays music and is trying to market herself to a younger, cooler market.  In my opinion, she was beautiful as she was and with so many people vying for the 'quirky, i'm so different' title, she kinda stood out in her whimsical dresses, tumbling waves and soft make up.

What do you make of Leona's new look?

x

How to: Fishtail Plait

This is quite a pitiful post in the sense that my fishtail plait is slightly pathetic.

I've been longing for my hair to grow long enough to do a fishtail braid.  I think they are whimsical, gorgeous and the messier the better.

Yet for something that appears so effortless ... well, it's blimmin difficult!  I swear I built up a bit of a sweat trying to achieve this and my arms are aching from holding onto my hair for so long.

Now that's a fishtail plait!

However, practise makes perfect and this was only my first real go at it.  The more I do it and the longer my locks grow, hopefully I will achieve the stunningly plaited tresses a la Leona Lewis, Lauren Conrad and so on.

So here's what I did.

• I pulled my hair to one side and split into 2 sections so I have section 1 and section 2
• I took a thin piece of hair (this can be as thick or thin as you desire depending on what result you want) from the back of section 2 and pulled it across to meet and join with section 1. 
• I then took a thin piece of hair from section 1 and pulled it across to meet and join with section 2.
• Repeat these steps until you have finished your plait
• ... and voila!

pitiful, right?!

Sounds easy huh?

That's what I thought ...

Would love to know your tips for making this a little easier or is it just me who's all fingers and thumbs?

x

NOTD: OPI 'Not Like the Movies'

It's day 7 of my flu and I'm still feeling lousy. I'm in no fit state for more outfit posts at the moment but a nail post, that I can do.

I shoddily painted my nails in OPI's Not Like the Movies from the upcoming Katy Perry Collection as posted about previously here.

I'm sure OPI describe this is a metallic silver or such like. They certainly don't describe it as it actually is. It's more of an iridescent shade and depending on what light your in it appears a different colour. In the bottle it looks a mucky metallic silver with tinges of green but on the nails it at first appeared more purpley ... in artificial light it appeared more silver then in completely natural light it appeared green.

Here's the photographic evidence ...

In a mixture of artificial and natural lightDirectly under artificial light

Natural light

It's quite an extreme difference in colour from the first to the last photo. This polish is therefore a bit of a 3 for the price of 1 effort. This is the colour achieved from 3 coats of polish but to be honest it's the exact same result as 2 coats. I applied an extra coat since I had time and just to make sure I wasn't missing out on anything from the shade.

There is also a definite sparkle that runs through this particular shade ... not glitter, not chunky sparkle ... more like a magical sprinkle over the nail ... it isn't noticeable in the bottle at all - only when applied to the nail and it's really very pretty.

Iridescent shades are not normally my bag ... I like to pick a colour and stick with it not have it interchange dependant on conditions however, this one is growing on me. It has those kind of mucky undertones that has been trending for the past year or so but with a metallic edge.

The Katy Perry Collection comes with a cackle effect polish which I think would look pretty cool over this shade due to the colour change qualities.

x