tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792512323466524452024-03-05T09:36:49.140+00:00Scatterbrained BloggingLife is beautiful and this is where I try to capture thatAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.comBlogger156125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-87989379407854103822014-05-16T23:46:00.000+01:002014-05-16T23:46:37.956+01:00La Vie En Rose - La Vie Est Belle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXL8_YJ96B0DuQ2Qg0Z4vEgrPYAlSLA3rQcwGyzc_drV4gMSkWhQYLOeZXp8J6RP_VACKL85GcqhS4qs6wAagXXjLJH3wYjB2zH72645t9B5yWFFuDy6GOEcpguCGu6fhQcWrXfscFOT8/s1600/_DSC6092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXL8_YJ96B0DuQ2Qg0Z4vEgrPYAlSLA3rQcwGyzc_drV4gMSkWhQYLOeZXp8J6RP_VACKL85GcqhS4qs6wAagXXjLJH3wYjB2zH72645t9B5yWFFuDy6GOEcpguCGu6fhQcWrXfscFOT8/s1600/_DSC6092.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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This one the seal of approval the second day I wore it. Having spritzed that morning, I arrived to Boyfriend's house after work to be greeted with - "Oooh, you smell nice."</div>
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He likes it. I love it. Lancôme is on to a winner.</div>
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Yes I loved the fact he acknowledged my fragrance-du-jour, but also the fact an Eau de Toilette had <b><i>lasted all day</i></b>! This is big deal in my world. Wild, so it is. It's not just him. Mum and sister are eyeing it up too, a little too much for my liking.</div>
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Lancôme's original <b><i>La Vie Est Belle</i></b> has had a re-imagining as a brighter, lighter scent. I'm not familiar with the original, so I can't compare; instead I love it for what it is all on it's own.</div>
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The heart note is magnolia - a flower that blooms early in spring with a <b><i>rich, creamy floral freshness.</i></b> This is enveloped in a base of <b><i>almond</i></b> and praline and very <b><i>sophisticated vanilla</i></b>. There is a <b><i>sweetness</i></b> to the top, but not an offensive saccharine assault on the nostrils, more a nod to youthful candy-scented cosmetics mixed with chic pistachio <b><i>macaroons</i></b>.</div>
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Rose coloured fluid, just because. I'm torn as to whether the elasticated "ribbon"is necessary. Sometimes it reminds me of children's Tinkerbell wings, other times Gran's hastily decorated birthday gifts.</div>
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The bottle is <b><i>perfection</i></b>. Sleek, slim and square with a feminine curve to the profile. I'm a bit obsessed. I find myself enjoying the physical sensation of picking it up. It's a treat for all the senses.</div>
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It's the perfect signature scent while also being suitable for almost any one.</div>
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Do you have a signature scent?</div>
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What would it smell like?</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-40596199607892760342014-05-09T13:23:00.000+01:002014-05-09T13:23:05.160+01:00The Glitter-fobe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6GISDuzH5y6_5Qhyphenhyphen_Qj4BfvIBColIpScDbSWTUz-16TcizFiqSG2oHm1qKBwk0IUH0h4INizbScyJKcbQhrPpyU9QitnZld5om9hvQk_F7zWYVmze_Mz0ZCatM5I9z8sHWcdKhNxiFc/s1600/2014-04-19+19.07.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6GISDuzH5y6_5Qhyphenhyphen_Qj4BfvIBColIpScDbSWTUz-16TcizFiqSG2oHm1qKBwk0IUH0h4INizbScyJKcbQhrPpyU9QitnZld5om9hvQk_F7zWYVmze_Mz0ZCatM5I9z8sHWcdKhNxiFc/s1600/2014-04-19+19.07.28.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have a<b><i> love/hate</i></b> relationship with glittery nail polishes, in face any nail varnish that isn't an opaque block colour I'm wary of. When I say love I mean I used to love them. I loved them when my first nail polishes were pink and blue with silver sparkles. When my 11-year-old self's go-to polish was a horrid dark green with gold flakes. When the first time, at age 7, someone applied a <a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2012/04/spring-varnish.html" target="_blank"><b><i>beautiful rainbow glitter</i></b></a> I've pined for ever since.</div>
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However, I also hate them at time too. I hate removing them. I hate them first thing the morning when the glint catches my sleepy, pre-coffee eye. I basically hate them in <b><i>daylight</i></b>, unless it's <b><i>Christmas</i></b>. And it's not just glitters. It's shimmers, metalics, "sugar" finishes, "feather finishes", even Gosh's <b><i><a href="http://www.superdrug.com/gosh-cosmetics/gosh-frosted-nail-lacquer-frosted-plum-4/invt/830662&bklist=" target="_blank">mat glitter</a></i></b> intrigued me briefly before going into the Box Of No Return. My name is Lisa and I'm a polish snob.</div>
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Until Black Magic from <b><i><a href="http://www.preciouspolish.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">Precious Polish</a></i></b> came into my life. The 15-year-old-Goth in me giggled at the prospect of a <i style="font-weight: bold;">black glitter</i>. The brainchild of the very lovely Anita James, Precious Polishes are Ireland's one and only indie polish line, and, to quote, all <i>"polishes are 5 Free: DPB FREE, Formaldehyde FREE, Formaldehyde Resin FREE, Toluene FREE and Camphor FREE and all glitters used are solvent resistant so they won't bleed into your polish."</i></div>
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Black Magic</i> contains flecks of minute black "glitter" with a sprinkling of iridescent blues, greys and greens. Nothing too overbearing, not your traditional topcoat - but what I'm now dubbing a <i style="font-weight: bold;">chic</i> amount of sparkle.</div>
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I'm wearing it here over an Inglot polish, the number of which I will never remember (I want to say 375...) but it was from the <b style="font-style: italic;">coffee</b> collection, teamed with (slightly chipped) <i style="font-weight: bold;">OPI's My Very First Knockwurst</i> - one of the more beautiful nudes I've seen in a long time.</div>
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Anita also designs <b><i>custom orders</i></b> (hello hen party idea) and the prices can't be beat. I wouldn't say that if I genuinely didn't think that. I have another subtly sparkly polish winging its way to me very soon, so this glitter-fobe may well turn a new leaf yet.</div>
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Am I a fool to fear glitter?</div>
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What's your favourite glitter combo?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-27823911862998331772014-05-03T12:26:00.000+01:002014-05-03T12:26:50.781+01:00The Girl Behind the Mask - Aesop Parsley Seed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh02al6Io9W80bGpxmisYEUC7y_4TzDGQ_F5yN4F69LRQ8pz6fHF0ZH2QF54xvGJT-K53jKoRNs5qm_3oy_OS1sMTx8jfo0EsLVFqH8kEkDQlypmjkXEIrtv1g25b4GxgP4QiT0u1eXDk/s1600/_DSC6127(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh02al6Io9W80bGpxmisYEUC7y_4TzDGQ_F5yN4F69LRQ8pz6fHF0ZH2QF54xvGJT-K53jKoRNs5qm_3oy_OS1sMTx8jfo0EsLVFqH8kEkDQlypmjkXEIrtv1g25b4GxgP4QiT0u1eXDk/s1600/_DSC6127(1).JPG" height="412" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm fresh out of a bathroom spa treatment session with my sister where I declared - if I could only have one face mask for the rest of my life, I would be perfectly happy if it was this one.</div>
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At some point everyone of my go-to beauty bloggers have posted a picture of their masque-smeared visages so when wandering through the streets of London en route to Selfridges and Aesop came into view around a cobblestoned corner, I stopped dead in my tracks, grabbed Boyfriend's arm and made a b-line for the door.</div>
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The <i><b>Aesop Parsley Seed Masque</b> </i>is a deep cleansing, refreshing mask that's especially kind to dry sensitive skin. The long and the short of it is that this is most definitely a <i style="font-weight: bold;">where have you been all my life</i> product. Which is a cut above Holy Grail and then some. You don't get better than this.</div>
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My sister and I compared our thoughts and reached unanimous agreement on the following key points - my skin feels really<b><i> clean</i></b>, it doesn't feel like my skin is drying out, my skin looks <b><i>brighter </i></b>and ... it smells nice too.</div>
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It's clay, which is nice for drawing out <b><i>impurities</i></b> (less disgusting way of saying ... anything else) - but it's creamier which makes it feel <b><i>nourishing</i></b>. There's a light, herbal-meets-lavender scent - definitely more of a scent than a smell. Aloe leaf juice, glycerin and a host of fruit and herb oils get to work on your skin. I like to open my pores with a hot muslin cloth before use and wash it off with cool water, and it needs to be said <b><i>it washes off a lot easier </i></b>and cleaner than most clay masks.</div>
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My skin, which is pretty easily offensive, comes away <b><i>calm and collected</i></b>. Absolutely no redness. Soft, clear and happy - and all in fifteen minutes. You only need a light layer all over your mug, so this little tube (coming in around the <b><i>€30 </i></b>mark, perfection) just keeps giving.</div>
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Ten years from now I will <b><i>still </i></b>have a tube of this in my bathroom. I love it so.</div>
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Have you got a favourite face mask?</div>
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Are there any other Aesop products you'd recommend?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-51833004151269641962014-04-27T11:14:00.004+01:002014-04-27T11:19:19.959+01:00Re-Moving' On Up - Nothing Can Stop Lidl's Nail Varnish Remover<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpLmkcRGWdlf1GSO1BgYppvZcTHCYWIYD7QFZh2eLNtRUHYY4fX3VLCY8G26fogK_VLhLiEwZIf0ThdChZxNzhyqVqgC_YUcHyGHfOGSVVpmETicgpXHsl5_vji7Xu0crvjiJBusSpSBA/s1600/_DSC6125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpLmkcRGWdlf1GSO1BgYppvZcTHCYWIYD7QFZh2eLNtRUHYY4fX3VLCY8G26fogK_VLhLiEwZIf0ThdChZxNzhyqVqgC_YUcHyGHfOGSVVpmETicgpXHsl5_vji7Xu0crvjiJBusSpSBA/s1600/_DSC6125.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Acetone Free and only €1.49 - there has to be a catch, right?</i></td></tr>
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As the sister and I browsed the aisles for the ingredients for our <a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2014/04/tried-tested-paul-flynns-family-food.html" target="_blank">Paul Flynn recipes </a>I couldn't help but check out the Holy Grail section as I like to call it.</div>
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I'm already a big fan of <b><i><a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2012/10/which-hand-cream-am-i-loving-lately.html" target="_blank">Cien handcream</a></i></b>, both classic and the <a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2013/08/home-desk-essentials-cien-anti-aging.html" target="_blank">super-nourishing anti-aging</a>, as well as their antiperspirant, random - I know.</div>
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That's how this little beauty came into my life. Ladies and nailvarnish-wearing gentlemen, this is the bomb!</div>
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You've got two choices, regular and acetone-free - both fragranced with <b><i>a delicate almond-scent</i></b>. Also, at only <i><b>€1.49</b></i> it's all too easy to pop into your basket. BUT let's address the elephant in the room, the real reason I picked it up was not the in-offensive scent, the gentle formula or the jaw-dropping value; guys, look at the bottle - <b><i>it's got a pump!</i></b></div>
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I had read into it much, but I had only ever seen one other non-pro brand with these bottles. Sure I could have picked up an empty at the Irish Beauty Show and transferred my remover into that, but who's got that amount of patience?!</div>
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It's the same super-slick, <b><i>where-have-you-been-all-my-life bottle</i></b> your manicurist has at her station. Hold a cotton pad on top, push down to pump (I find two pumps does one hand pretty nicely) and you're away! You won't ruin the varnish on your coffee table if you knock it over while the lid is off (I'm down two tables and counting at this stage) and you won't get light-headed from the fumes.</div>
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And for all the bells and whistles does it work? <b><i>You betcha. </i></b>I have yet to be disappointed with it. My typical <b><i>3 coats</i></b> of OPI comes off no bother. I've soaked a <b><i>glitter</i></b> top coat for a few minutes and swiped it right off. Also, it's nice and gentle on my nails and <b><i>doesn't stink </i></b>out the house. It's safe to say this is my new favourite thing.</div>
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Have you find any unbelievable bargains lately?</div>
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Do share!</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-53886376021137658822014-04-22T13:11:00.000+01:002014-04-22T13:11:52.080+01:00Brow-Wow - Benefit Gimme Brow Vs Maybelline Brow Drama<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5n4LAPglUuv_lbcOopedP8VYoZprfEZTYOAfPtVuENOXOCLHsw4uRQHBN5wuEKMXQJdbt9pmVSEB2qfI0SnUcmsR8uy9IJRVovy7znV34L3ZjqcO2nCQtoE5MNNn-4-7c9k7qPYSVbE/s1600/_DSC6015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5n4LAPglUuv_lbcOopedP8VYoZprfEZTYOAfPtVuENOXOCLHsw4uRQHBN5wuEKMXQJdbt9pmVSEB2qfI0SnUcmsR8uy9IJRVovy7znV34L3ZjqcO2nCQtoE5MNNn-4-7c9k7qPYSVbE/s1600/_DSC6015.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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Brows are a big thing. Of that there is very little doubt. Thankfully the evolution of brows has only gone from over-plucked, pencilled-on, to over-drawn and over-dramatic to nice and natural.</div>
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Now mine, are invisible. They're there, but you just can't see them. Yes, I could get them tinted - but I'd be back in the chair every 2 weeks. Ain't nobody got time for that!</div>
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So I've been road-testing a couple of the newcomers to the brow scene that claim to help me transform my meek little caterpillars into blossoming butterflies - there's an odd image.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW553bX_2fpw6VRdVZjHoFCjcHCaTDpkHzT5gXWC5X7C6nWauDHBf6aIpoLxaSKDswf9MuqAOcNazVb0X_MJnjKpDWeY6f0f8NcDNf96FgNk-5Yk5abMS608QYxlQxtYTBO1_S8dY3t3k/s1600/_DSC6016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW553bX_2fpw6VRdVZjHoFCjcHCaTDpkHzT5gXWC5X7C6nWauDHBf6aIpoLxaSKDswf9MuqAOcNazVb0X_MJnjKpDWeY6f0f8NcDNf96FgNk-5Yk5abMS608QYxlQxtYTBO1_S8dY3t3k/s1600/_DSC6016.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Maybelline Brow Drama - Benefit Gimme Brow</i></td></tr>
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Pencils be dammed and waxes, who needs em -<b><i> tinted brow gels/mascaras </i></b>are the order of the day. <b><i><a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Maybelline-Brow-Drama-Sculpting-Mascara_1365297/" target="_blank">Maybeline's Gimme Brow</a></i></b> was the first on the market that drew me in. I remember Dolly Rouge giving it a rave review as a quick-fix, morning rush product so the second I spied it (in Tescos of all places) I snatched it right up.</div>
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First thing you'll hear about it is the <b><i>dome-shaped brush</i></b>. Anyone who's run a spooly (great word) through their brows for a quick tidy-up knows the traditional mascara wand shape did just fine, so what this was supposed to be doing was beyond me. But it was <b><i>€7.50 </i></b>so I wasn't going to argue too much.</div>
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The product goes on fine enough, which is a bonus given that we are looking for a <b><i>natural look </i></b>here, but the spindly bristles don't hold much at all. It was near<b><i> impossible </i></b>to build up any sort of consistent colour throughout. A breakthrough came when I paired it with my <b><i>Soap&Glory Arch de Triumph </i></b>pencil, but at the stage I'm loosing the effortlessness and .. frankly I'm lazy.</div>
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<b><i><a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk/product/view/gimme-brow" target="_blank">Benefit Gimme Brow</a></i></b> had a lot to live up to. Benefit Brow Bars are a mecca for brow enthusiasts and <b><i>Browzings</i></b> has some die-hard fans to say the least. <b><i>Gimme Brow</i></b> is a tinted gel with added mini fibers, to help "volumize" your brows. (At €25 you'd bloody-well hope so)</div>
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This is far more<b><i> my kind of product</i></b>. It gives me brows where I didn't have them. The product itself is thick enough and the brush holds quite a bit so it does take some getting used to, but it's definitely a <b><i>one-stop shape-tint-and-set product</i></b>. It has a tendency with the tiny fibers to cling to the little hairs that are outside of the nicely-shaped limits, so tread carefully.</div>
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For a little side-by-side comparison, I applied these two competitors on my sister - who has the world's most unfairly-lovely eyebrows.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnx7s5ycxDzzRebsnzaQjf-C2wcl9mcGVD4JFBht_0otLvFh52Yf8g0XA-Zqv20BxC3_KKqSd5RhuUgN6ODfO08UXtnA8Qnc0PckwWJMlHuSZ_IemAX-0u35b4OF5VZT1el1O2s35fvg/s1600/_DSC6139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnx7s5ycxDzzRebsnzaQjf-C2wcl9mcGVD4JFBht_0otLvFh52Yf8g0XA-Zqv20BxC3_KKqSd5RhuUgN6ODfO08UXtnA8Qnc0PckwWJMlHuSZ_IemAX-0u35b4OF5VZT1el1O2s35fvg/s1600/_DSC6139.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>From left to right - Benefit Gimme Brow - Maybelline Brow Drama</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What's funny is that my sister <b><i>preferred</i></b> the Maybelline, as with her fair (yet not as invisible as mine) brows it gave them that little <b><i>extra definition</i></b> she needed. Whereas the Benefit was more of a <b><i>defined brow</i></b>, which is more of what I look for. I may give her the Medium-Brown Maybelline for her own collection and keep an eye out for the Deep Blonde formula - all the while sparingly relying on my Benefit for days I simply can't be without brows.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
What's your go-to brow product?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Do you prefer one-stop-shops or do you like taking your time?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lisa</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-51050313782612365492014-04-16T23:16:00.003+01:002014-04-16T23:16:46.292+01:00Let's Call a Dupe a Dupe - W7 In the Buff Pallette<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLp7JUm-bPKc9_38hLrqgjcZCIZMb1Sz4GjqCdWi23O8GSQjAR-uxNENWfivLBxEfDUBc5qjggWNr-y3doRgjLvte1cX98qcYOFVWvXBKCYbcfQnJPY7KGHOZG4WKP8Bd7qL__dZYXsY8/s1600/_DSC6099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLp7JUm-bPKc9_38hLrqgjcZCIZMb1Sz4GjqCdWi23O8GSQjAR-uxNENWfivLBxEfDUBc5qjggWNr-y3doRgjLvte1cX98qcYOFVWvXBKCYbcfQnJPY7KGHOZG4WKP8Bd7qL__dZYXsY8/s1600/_DSC6099.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>€37 versus €7 ... which would you choose?</i></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
MUA were brazen with Undressed but w7 are being just plain bold. Imitation is supposed to be the highest form of flattery, and yes the popularity of the perfectly put-together Naked pallets have meant more beautiful more affordable neutral palettes on the open market, but there's taking inspiration and there's taking the biscuit.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So let's call a dupe a dupe and compare Naked 2 with its latest doppleganger - the <b><i>w7 In The Buff palette</i></b>.</div>
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There's no denying, they weren't trying to hide their inspiration when w7, a brand that hovers comfortably below the radar boasting a range of 150 nail polishes and a line-up chockablock of copy cats, came up with In The Buff.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOuiWDB2EhHtln0UBO1F6yIGa_6XGYw__OgmHSt-KpSSewwk4AfdMCpQPByIVGDelLISDAKml0F2MhfakfHQZPMZqIeKyRkCs2xO1HsJV3FUkRDqTNnc8HZTTSmf23tJmNXIduAuWvye0/s1600/_DSC6105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOuiWDB2EhHtln0UBO1F6yIGa_6XGYw__OgmHSt-KpSSewwk4AfdMCpQPByIVGDelLISDAKml0F2MhfakfHQZPMZqIeKyRkCs2xO1HsJV3FUkRDqTNnc8HZTTSmf23tJmNXIduAuWvye0/s1600/_DSC6105.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Subtle, right?</i></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
There's no denying it - but how well have they done?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well on price alone there's almost <b><i>€30 in the difference </i></b>- depending on where you buy it. Those near a Cara Pharmacy should be able to pick an In The Buff pallet and have change for a tenner, while you'll need to hit up the ATM for Urban Decay.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Does quality suffer at the expense of a bargain? Well, not as much as you'd think. Eyeshadows are not the pigment-less chalky horrors of years ago, people are investing in higher end colours so the budget brands have had to up their game. The glitter isn't as fine, the fall out a little trickier, blending is possible but not always perfect - but you know, it's not half bad at all.</div>
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<br /></div>
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But I know what you're waiting for - SIDE BY SIDE SWATCHES! Okay, seeing as you asked so nicely ...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Mb8Y9kvKJa5BpdDl7DRVVUzZaIbt8ElTFe6ybnAXW1b2rZ6Cgw3aejyc4GR6z6CgXV1UNhLmnhCyOAjgygHwNNViaMYXRfIaMdnmfWVzJRX03FPAdFV-X6cIWKI6bzxM9C9zMJMwJJ0/s1600/2014-04-13+20.30.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Mb8Y9kvKJa5BpdDl7DRVVUzZaIbt8ElTFe6ybnAXW1b2rZ6Cgw3aejyc4GR6z6CgXV1UNhLmnhCyOAjgygHwNNViaMYXRfIaMdnmfWVzJRX03FPAdFV-X6cIWKI6bzxM9C9zMJMwJJ0/s1600/2014-04-13+20.30.23.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left - Right : <i>Urban Decay - w7</i>Urban Decay, moving upwards, Foxy - Half Baked - Bootycall - Chopper. w7: Buff - Camel - Sand -Dust.</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Foxy/Buff is a write-off. w7's offering is dusty to say the least, it doesn't give the same ready-to-blendy base that Foxy does. Half Baked is one of my favourite UD shadows, so I never thought anything could compare to it. Camel doesn't fair too badly. The "shimmer" is little more glitter than glisten, but it's all there. Bootycall is another personal favourite, the <b><i>ultimate shimmering champagne</i></b> and I'm sorry but Sand just doesn't do it for me, but it's a valiant effort. Dust isn't a bad match for Chopper, although it's a little more bronze/brown than the rich copper of UD. But <b><i>not bad </i></b>at all I must say.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKlgn64kHtt1Vo6gw7W-uQJIYAKtZ7FoQQoOgzHXbXBpdzR3haD1eDLgt0G2HaxnLsCGzXn2WC_K2p5Uf_Gw_NwqSimG3rN2LJvAeGK89I0G3L-B_aKUN9Fap6f4nh9yjZIVSFEZRvjtU/s1600/_DSC6114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKlgn64kHtt1Vo6gw7W-uQJIYAKtZ7FoQQoOgzHXbXBpdzR3haD1eDLgt0G2HaxnLsCGzXn2WC_K2p5Uf_Gw_NwqSimG3rN2LJvAeGK89I0G3L-B_aKUN9Fap6f4nh9yjZIVSFEZRvjtU/s1600/_DSC6114.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Below - Above: <i>Urban Decay - w7<br />Right to Left - Urban Decay: Tease, Snakebite, Suspect, Pistol - w7: Chocolate, Topaz, Earth, Storm</i></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The matts are so far letting me down. <b><i>Harder to hide </i></b>I think with a matt, you really need the quality behind it or it all goes to pot. Tease is a wonderful crease colour, typical of the taupey tones of the pallet, but Chocolate isn't up to parr. It clumped, it was chalky and far from what I looked for. Snakebite is another classic and an old favourite. Topaz isn't far off although it has a slightly more golden tone rather than silver. Earth is a very good match for Suspect, a colour that really doesn't get enough love. Pistol is one I never thought I would see matched, but Storm is close I'll give it that. Not quite the same intensity but <b><i>multicolour micro glitter </i></b>is drawing me in.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWbLxa9mEVAwp3ORwkEn0rfdnB9nR0hu9n2dA8jQ4dGOm2Zez2tjD9rPB79zGSLk-ny0hyotfZwiYQVeXqgQ7A7n7cWT1CfCeFZ9wtbhQWcVpGufoRTgF612WfySsg7IpSTGkDUlhko4/s1600/_DSC6116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWbLxa9mEVAwp3ORwkEn0rfdnB9nR0hu9n2dA8jQ4dGOm2Zez2tjD9rPB79zGSLk-ny0hyotfZwiYQVeXqgQ7A7n7cWT1CfCeFZ9wtbhQWcVpGufoRTgF612WfySsg7IpSTGkDUlhko4/s1600/_DSC6116.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Below - Above: <i>Urban Decay - w7<br />Right to Left - Urban Decay: Verve, YDK, Busted, Blackout - w7: Silk, Wave, Thunder, Onyx</i></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Silk was so promising, but it began crumbling under my finger as I swatched. So proceed with caution with this one, although I was reminded how nice a colour Suspect is, not the cold silver it looks in the pan. YDK is <b><i>irreplaceable</i></b> in my eyes, and Wave isn't really up to code, but nice in it's own way. Thunder was another close-but-no-cigar lacking the depth of the richer Busted. It's all there, <b><i>just not enough </i></b>of it. Onyx was the spanner works. True black shadow is hard to come by in the lower end of the price scale, and Blackout was for a long time my go-to blackest-black but Onyx is a pleasant surprise. It's rich, smooth and is <b><i>actually black</i></b> rather than a washed out grey. Well played w7, well played.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yes I was critical. But Naked 2 is a tough act to follow. No not every shade in w7 is perfect, but (bar 2) it's <b><i>pretty good.</i></b> Does it replace my Naked 2? No. Would I be upset if I accidentally packed the w7 on a weekend away? No, it's perfectly fine.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
My sister took a look at it when it first arrived (I ordered from <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheCosmeticOutletDublin8" target="_blank"><b><i>The Cosmetic Outlet </i></b></a>here in Dublin) and said "Yes please, I'll take one" which made me think it's a good pallet for someone just getting into makeup.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Being a nerd, I compared the <b><i>ingredients,</i></b> and they're largely similar, although there is one key ingredient that's different which I think is the root of the difference in quality and <b><i>blendability </i></b>(new word).</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have you tried In The Buff?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Could anything compare to your most beloved Naked Palette?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lisa</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-26915100185872372202014-04-13T12:58:00.000+01:002014-04-13T13:01:30.242+01:00Tried & Tested - Paul Flynn's Family Food from Lidl<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho3lumHJjk-rYm1VMpn3NclvVOG_UjRiwNWaUyimu2SEREjexNJe-rERdOwyLN4wuh0r_FWeSs9fGLaxyHl3fWG8W31mSFD72A9Wmrq0sQgU4EpvEwCFSiq851pibBdAbs8QQ38AZ92eY/s1600/_DSC6034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho3lumHJjk-rYm1VMpn3NclvVOG_UjRiwNWaUyimu2SEREjexNJe-rERdOwyLN4wuh0r_FWeSs9fGLaxyHl3fWG8W31mSFD72A9Wmrq0sQgU4EpvEwCFSiq851pibBdAbs8QQ38AZ92eY/s1600/_DSC6034.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>All this and change for a 20 ...</i></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
You just can't ignore Lidl, no matter how hard you try. What was originally the cold, lifeless foreign concept that people were skulked into hoping the neighbours didn't see - is now a bragging right and the dirty little secret at the same time. In the same breath we'll gloat at our latest Penney's purchase we're itching to spill about the great deal we got in Lidl. It's an addiction.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now they've switched tactics from bargain basement to family favourite with their focus on Irish produce and value for money. This month they launched <b><i>Family Food,</i></b> in association with their spokesperson chef Paul Flynn.</div>
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So naturally when I got my hands on the book the sister and I figured we had to take a few of the recipes for a spin. And seeing as it's Sunday, it seemed fitting to talk family feasts.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkKNUHZluUhbEOdSycv1DwLzfMCb7mMcscNsl0oi0SJnKHms9-aj2Z8dTizENXplpGyuAm-VKkC6R2KU80gASEIFour8gOoNZNKieyyHhRBZaaUgkrEr3u2AiIJrmytOeUQwLQ0DNqgU/s1600/_DSC6065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkKNUHZluUhbEOdSycv1DwLzfMCb7mMcscNsl0oi0SJnKHms9-aj2Z8dTizENXplpGyuAm-VKkC6R2KU80gASEIFour8gOoNZNKieyyHhRBZaaUgkrEr3u2AiIJrmytOeUQwLQ0DNqgU/s1600/_DSC6065.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Sticky Onion Spaghetti and Crunchy Cabbage with garlic & Ginger</i></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The nice thing about this book is that it's food you would actually eat (although if you don't eat chorizo it rules out at least half of it, but it's easily left out in favour of some extra salt and smoked paprika)</div>
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We gave the Sticky Onion Spaghetti a test drive. With two onions requiring dicing, my recommendation is to use a food processor and wear waterproof mascara. We replaced the Grana Padano cheese with<b><i> parmesan </i></b>- although the recipe flip-flops between recommending one and then the other. It was a lovely <b><i>tasty </i></b>dish, which even sauce-obsessed Boyfriend, <b><i>enjoyed it</i></b>. Initially you wouldn't think your little pot of sauce would cover a whole pack of spaghetti, but have faith it does.</div>
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Next, the crunchy cabbage. The sister and I always get excited about cabbage when we get carvery, so this was an obvious choice for us. Boyfriend was the skeptic, expecting soggy, flavourless green stuff, but it's a <b><i>refreshing </i></b>take on an often-overlooked vegetable. The garlic gives it a <b><i>richer flavour</i></b> and the ginger brightens it up. New signature side dish over here.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQLOkCtxn0UUg_y5RDZnEovUVKpm47lHYI-UJBUXMtEXSNfVcRQcGQw44-psPVsARFwwc0-vg8SxUePR2iEvghUiaW3ERxMEX89dfCCYbPmMMsVvwee3mGKoQnAAIgsQcvNjosFRtu20Q/s1600/_DSC6039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQLOkCtxn0UUg_y5RDZnEovUVKpm47lHYI-UJBUXMtEXSNfVcRQcGQw44-psPVsARFwwc0-vg8SxUePR2iEvghUiaW3ERxMEX89dfCCYbPmMMsVvwee3mGKoQnAAIgsQcvNjosFRtu20Q/s1600/_DSC6039.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Crimson Grape Cheesecake</i></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
I can't take any credit for these little beauties, these are 100% my sister's doing. The talented little bugger that she is. This was the first recipe we gravitated towards in the book, partially because the picture of mini cheesecakes in tiny jars was too <b><i>adorable</i></b>, but also because they sounded so interesting.</div>
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As a nice, <b><i>light dessert,</i></b> I can see us breaking these out again come summer for dinner parties and get togethers. Where you'll find a willingly empty wine glass in my house I'm not sure - but I'm planning to try them in cute little juice glasses next. The addition of the fruit shorties on top instead of regular rich tea or digestives is a perfect example of the <b><i>clever little twists </i></b>throughout the book.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dad devoured one of these on he couch one evening with his signature seal of approval "That's grand it is". The sister's tip is to leave these to set <b><i>overnight </i></b>rather than the 30min the book says so that it sets and becomes more cheesecake-like. </div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
On the whole it's a nifty book. They recipes are practical, at minimum they generally serve 4 or more people and there's no strange ingredients you've never heard of or will never use again, yes all the ingredients are Lidl products - so added bonus they won't cost you the earth either. It's on sale for <b><i>€12.99</i></b> right now. Granted it's quite limited in regards veggie recipes, but for the most part it's pretty <b><i>adaptable</i></b> and doesn't over complicate things.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Have you given any of Lidl's new recipes a try?</div>
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Or have you cooked anything recently?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lisa</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-85551382644163454462014-03-16T23:04:00.003+00:002014-03-16T23:04:59.085+00:00Scents & Sensuality - Roger & Gallet Gingembre Rouge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBE75zj4goBEt5tISF02Z7IZL-WRdb_X2bJ4MmvJjARdjnV5Fv9WF4wbzwDHXfmBDS7o6ied43PoTmb-30Uctkddq7sbD5Z6Qu8ZadyQhWBa5SyqRb0T_BmzJIZpC0CmkGHpNKacSU13M/s1600/_DSC6007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBE75zj4goBEt5tISF02Z7IZL-WRdb_X2bJ4MmvJjARdjnV5Fv9WF4wbzwDHXfmBDS7o6ied43PoTmb-30Uctkddq7sbD5Z6Qu8ZadyQhWBa5SyqRb0T_BmzJIZpC0CmkGHpNKacSU13M/s1600/_DSC6007.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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This review wrote itself within 24hours of owning this perfume.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Instantly, I loved it. Although, as a complete perfume obsessive - I'm can be equally easily pleased and critically cynical. But the delicate, citrus-y florals of <b><i>Gingembre Rouge</i></b> was right up my ally.</div>
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But my morning spritz was not the moment that won it for this scrumptious scent, it was what happened that evening.</div>
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The inspiration behind Gingembre Rouge (<i>don't ask me how to pronounce it, and I did French in school)</i> was <b><i>Zanzibar</i></b>. Refreshing, spicy, colourful and bright.</div>
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The fragrance is based around the <b><i>flower of the ginger plant</i></b> - at first sniff the rich texture of warm spices and orange blossoms draws you in. It then <b><i>melts</i></b> into <b><i>earthy</i></b> almond and lily notes and lingers afterwards; peppery and feminine with hints of <b><i>cedar wood</i></b> and the overall theme of the crystallised ginger.</div>
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<b><i>Florals</i></b> have been the dominant scent for years. Jasmine and fig for deeper, more sophisticated notes and the more citrusy fragrances for the lighter, fresher spritzes. As someone who loves florals, I was bound to love this. I love the duskier, older scents, but the <b><i>lighter</i></b>, flowery re-imagined perfumes tickle my fancy just as much. This is the kind of signature scent that <b><i>delicately wafts</i></b> beautifully around you throughout the day, or captures a <b><i>sensual atmosphere</i></b> of girly glamour in the evenings.</div>
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Yes, I sound like a mad woman. Let me break it down for you. Personal opinions aside, the first vote of confidence for Gingembre Rouge was when my sister, a girl of uncomplicated tastes, took a whiff and made the same face I make when <b><i>Chris Hemsworth </i></b>appears on screen. She liked it, <b><i>really liked it</i></b>.</div>
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What won it for this pretty pink bottle, however, was when, freshly-misted in Gingembre, I popped down to the pub to catch up some friends. Upon greeting one of the guys with the customary hello hug, the first thing he said was <b><i>"Whatever perfume you're wearing, it's really nice."</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Guy friend approval</i></b> is the seal of approval that many of our convoluted girly things rarely get. It's not like they're our Boyfriends, who have to like our things or fear our wrath, guy friend approval is hard won - but Gingembre Rouge got it in one.</div>
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You can pick up Gingembre Rouge from your <b><i>Roger & Gallet</i></b> counter, with the handbag-optimised 30ml starting at only €17.50. Get it and you won't regret it.</div>
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What are your favourite perfumes?</div>
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Do you read as much into it as I do?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-40119219886279124412014-03-14T13:29:00.002+00:002014-03-14T13:29:50.994+00:00Red Lip Re-Do - Nars Satin Lip Pencil Hyde Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsJgjeJAbdnrbpfZV4inufIVuGY8w3GQl-q7vdFqEV_RfFuGjt8j7fgQPfqwMvCzSGN4WUsO_b1VnNb7CD36sqAQZ8_jcAybysrwTrTKIu3Gha0j1KlZhtc28MTvuAYr4k-ucJz9bKXtE/s1600/_DSC5988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsJgjeJAbdnrbpfZV4inufIVuGY8w3GQl-q7vdFqEV_RfFuGjt8j7fgQPfqwMvCzSGN4WUsO_b1VnNb7CD36sqAQZ8_jcAybysrwTrTKIu3Gha0j1KlZhtc28MTvuAYr4k-ucJz9bKXtE/s1600/_DSC5988.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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My love for red lipstick knows no bounds. It's like red nail varnish, it goes with anything and everything.</div>
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The trouble is, however, it's usually only under the cover of night time do I break out a red lip, being far to shy to sport one in the office.</div>
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So when the craze behind the Nars Lip Pencils began I told myself I could have one, but <i style="font-weight: bold;">only</i> if it was a <i style="font-weight: bold;">wearable</i> colour. And so, here it is - <i style="font-weight: bold;">Hyde Park.</i></div>
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I approached the counter completely unprepared. Well, that's a lie - I knew I wanted to steer clear of my usual pillar-box or vampy reds in favour of something a little more brown-ish and toned down (think <i style="font-weight: bold;">MAC Brick-ola</i>, a wonderful daytime red).</div>
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Now, up until now, anyone and everyone had been talking about the Velvet Matt pencils, particularly the shades <b style="font-style: italic;">Cruella </b>and <i style="font-weight: bold;">Dragonfly</i> but to my eyes' delight, I spied the other half of the range - the <b><i>Satin pencils</i></b>.</div>
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Not quite glossy, but not matt either - satin is my <b><i>favourite finish</i></b> for any cosmetic. For foundation, it's dewy yet skin-like, and on lips it's a natural sheen without the unnatural shine. The MUA, a fellow fair-skined, fair-haired lass, listened to my ramble about having a drawer-full of red lipsticks that only come out at night.</div>
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Her first port of call was <b><i>Hyde Park</i> </b>- a not-too-red-slightly-plumb-toned-red. Red enough to be a red lip, but subtle enough for a "Oh I just threw stuff on my face this morning" make up look (my signature, if you will). The consistency is just how the matt pencils have been described. Packed with <b><i>pigment</i></b>, glide on, <b><i>long-wearing</i></b>, non-drying and easily worn all day every day.</div>
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Also, between the remnants of a gift voucher and some saved up BT points, I walked away with this beauty without having to pay a penny towards the €25 asking price. Although, for such a lovely product, I really wouldn't have minded at all!</div>
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And look - here's a picture of my face wearing it! (You don't have to look if you don't want to)</div>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23FOTD&src=hash">#FOTD</a> Featuring my newest love - Nars Satin Lip Pencil in Hyde Park <a href="http://t.co/VSekhGBZjd">pic.twitter.com/VSekhGBZjd</a></div>
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— Lisa D (@Lisa_san) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lisa_san/statuses/422034142684250113">January 11, 2014</a></div>
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<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script><br /></div>
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Have you tried any of the Nars lip pencils?</div>
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What's your go-to daytime lip colour?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-20340145308303110812014-02-26T13:34:00.001+00:002014-02-26T13:34:48.940+00:00Let's Face It - My Favourite Face Masks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI5HsRjUxu2xGHTlrd3VYGpiuAQXvIfC7zNnWdYTda_v8ZYb449mCwYzDDEm0QU4QfWPO8hQu-XaCOYsHwJDxBqfyzCom1dharRPIoiKHOe4-AcuoW0zRtA_XiOnkcGT95DT_rnPzaeS4/s1600/_DSC5953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI5HsRjUxu2xGHTlrd3VYGpiuAQXvIfC7zNnWdYTda_v8ZYb449mCwYzDDEm0QU4QfWPO8hQu-XaCOYsHwJDxBqfyzCom1dharRPIoiKHOe4-AcuoW0zRtA_XiOnkcGT95DT_rnPzaeS4/s1600/_DSC5953.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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Show me a girl who doesn't love an at-home pamper session with a face mask and an optional <i>(read: necessary)</i> glass of wine, and I'll show you my best "I Don't Beliee-eeve it" impression.</div>
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As much as I'd love to book myself in for facials every other week, it's just not practical. Instead the bathroom cupboard has become a breeding ground for face masks, a collection which has grown even after I snapped the shot above not 2 weeks ago.</div>
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The way I look at it, a face mask is going to be doing one of two things. <b><i>Drawing something out</i></b> or <b><i>putting something back in</i></b>. At least that's what I go for. No tightening or firming action needed here <i>(yet) ...</i></div>
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My skin can be very <b><i>dehydrated </i></b>at times so I love a face mask that brings with it some much-needed hydration. That's where <b><i><a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2012/11/skin-week-day-3-let-there-be-light.html" target="_blank">Nars Aqua Gel Luminous Mask</a></i></b> comes in. I've written about this little beaury before but my love still beats strong. The makeup artist who recommended it with me said she particular gives it to brides the night before for a <b><i>bright dewy complexion</i></b> the next day.</div>
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Similarly, if my skin is in need of some rescuing, <b><i><a href="http://www.laroche-posay.ie/product-treatments/Hydraphase-Intense/Hydraphase-Intense-Masque-p8661.aspx" target="_blank">La Roche Posay's Hydraphase Intense Masque</a></i></b> is my knight in shining armour. I love the <b><i>Hydraphase</i></b> range, in fact I'm still pining for the hydraphase serum which stole my heart all those years ago which I'm waiting to repurchase. If my skin is ever in need of a tall drink of water (such as after a hangover for example) I go in for an <b><i>overnight session </i></b>with this bad boy. I keep it to overnight usage as, being quite rich, it's <b><i>a bit greasy</i></b> to try and clean off before makeup application.</div>
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On the other hand, because the universe likes to torment me, my skin can also be very <b><i>congested</i></b> (ever wonder why I've next to no pictures of myself here?). I've loved<b><i> clay masks</i></b>, particularly this clay mask, for a while. This is my second tube of <b><i><a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Botanics-Shine-Away-Ionic-Clay-Mask-100ml_1261993/" target="_blank">Boots Ionic Clay Mask</a></i></b>. Admittedly it's from the "shine away" range which I can't buy anything else from, but I've never had any problems.</div>
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Usually, skin prone to redness should <b><i>avoid clay masks</i></b> or charcoal as they can be a bit irritating. But I've found this mask nice and <b><i>gentle </i></b>and so have only nice things to report. Containing <i style="font-weight: bold;">willow bark</i>, the natural source of salicylic acid - it's very good at breaking down blemishes at their core and helping draw all the nasties out. And at only <b><i>a tenner</i></b>, it's a steal compared to higher end clay faces.</div>
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In searching for something similar to a clay mask, I came across the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Soap-Glory%C2%99-No-Clogs-Allowed%C2%99-Deep-Pore-Detox-Mask-100ml_1015561/" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Soap And Glory No Clogs Allowed</a><b style="font-style: italic;"> </b>and was drawn in by its promises of <b><i>deep cleaning</i></b> and skin smoothing. Being <b><i>self-heating</i></b>, which feels really weird, I use this less often so as not to annoy my skin. The <b><i>post-pamper-pumice-polish</i></b> is nice, because it helps dislodge the nasties that have been brought to the surface. Be warned though, those with <b><i>sensitive skin should tread lightly </i></b>as it may prove to be a bit harsh, it's tailored more for acne-prone, oily skin. Also it <b><i>changes colour</i></b> ... it's mad all together.</div>
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The final mask is another Boots budget buy, and teenage favourite, <b><i><a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Boots-Tea-Tree-Witch-Hazel-Peel-Off-Face-Mask-50ml_1213614/" target="_blank">Tea Tree and Witch Hazel Peel Off Mask</a></i></b>. This is one of those plastic, <b><i>second skin masks</i></b> that forms one of those creepy peel-off layers on your mug when it dries. I have to say it's unnaturally fun to peel off and quite refreshing <b><i>without being too harsh</i></b> which a lot of intensive blemishes-banishing products can be.</div>
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Like I said at the beginning, a new mask has swooped in and stolen my heart but I'll wait until we get more acquainted before introducing it to everyone.</div>
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Have you got a favourite face mask?</div>
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What is it you look for when you buy one?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-15121066166931841092014-02-25T13:57:00.001+00:002014-02-25T13:57:21.563+00:00The Bloggers' Bags: The Zara Office City & Mini<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKNgEDVak9TY0P67kwJ_CABNddofNDCB6XeiwUbDO660FWQwRytAgG-nVO_8aW25uQtzn5Ir3gtS7ybuFTolnnDb_5bvQcZA6qTD_Dm2pEnR-Bc8RbMMCa2cUGTbZ6eAssOfRF1tYHkhI/s1600/_DSC5943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKNgEDVak9TY0P67kwJ_CABNddofNDCB6XeiwUbDO660FWQwRytAgG-nVO_8aW25uQtzn5Ir3gtS7ybuFTolnnDb_5bvQcZA6qTD_Dm2pEnR-Bc8RbMMCa2cUGTbZ6eAssOfRF1tYHkhI/s1600/_DSC5943.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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The preface this ramble with a disclaimer - I<b><i> hate</i></b> buying bags. I look at other people with beautiful bags, admire them, but I can never own them. Purely because I never shop for them.</div>
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You can't properly shop online because you have to see what it's like on - who's with me on <i style="font-weight: bold;">trying on</i> bags in the shop? Try shop in store and it's frustrating for no logical reason except it's annoying. So I'm cursed, basically.</div>
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Until Zara happened.</div>
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Both of these bags came into my life as a result of bloggers. The first, and largest, <b><i>Zara Office City</i></b>, or City Shopper I've seen it called, took the blogosphere by storm, due largely in part to its uncanny resemblance to a certain Prada beauty. Both <a href="http://www.lilypebbles.co.uk/" target="_blank"><b><i>Lily Pebbles</i></b></a> and <b><i><a href="http://www.viviannadoesmakeup.com/" target="_blank">Vivianna</a></i></b> had it, it was neat, big, chic and I had an interview coming up so I justified the purchase to myself, dived right in and never looked back.</div>
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Sold out everywhere, understandably, I spied this one on Adverts. Brand new, tags still attached, a tenner less than the RRP of €60. Sold. </div>
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We had, and still have, a long and happy life together. Any complaints? Well, no marriage is perfect. Yes it's large and you'll loose many a lipstick in there, but <b><i>you won't fit as much in as you may think</i></b>. It's big, but it's structured, so there's not all that much give for stuffing in a coat or a laptop. That said, I've managed to fit quite a bit in there and looked hella cool while doing it.</div>
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The next addition to the line up came in the last few weeks. When I laid my eyes on <b><i>Chloe's </i></b>(<a href="http://nursefancypants.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank">NurseFancyPants</a>) newest purchase something inside me thought "I have to have it". Not a day later I bumped into Chloe and said bag at an event and that sealed the deal. It was straight to Zara to nab the very last one. Also available in black and a very cute navy, the <b><i><a href="http://www.zara.com/ie/en/woman/handbags/hand-bags/mini-office-city-bag-c358020p1753063.html" target="_blank">Office Mini</a></i></b> is basically a baby City Shopper with a hint of <b><i>Rebecca Minkoff</i></b> (or at least that's what I'm telling myself)</div>
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Its <b><i>smaller size</i></b> keeps me from carrying around too much - which my dodgey shoulder is thankful of, and it's a nice change from the black bags I'm usually carrying. The snap-fastening sides <b><i>do worry me slightly</i></b> from a security point of view, but anything of value goes into the centre, zipped, pocket. At €40, I'm not sure if that was a steal or a rip off. Considering it's only 20 less than it's much grander city-slickin' cousin, but I'll forgive it for being adorable. This time.</div>
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Are you as ridiculous as I am when it comes to bag shopping?</div>
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What do you think of Zara's high street offerings compared to the designer?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-50230177134249268352014-02-24T13:23:00.000+00:002014-02-24T13:23:43.486+00:00Just Look At That Glow Go - Inglot Multicolour Highlighter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8HtDwVhEuMZUe7Mti4cg4Ds3HqL2KwRfjagb7PHi7UXZuEkLTOzFXFQL20RU9Vqg5Rs8gmk2vJHQzgprKW6-_iQK2uBVwYUu3_3O8pAsmDm5xbz-GPr0FaCv1abLEfWhKlSjb_QbTmI/s1600/_DSC5891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8HtDwVhEuMZUe7Mti4cg4Ds3HqL2KwRfjagb7PHi7UXZuEkLTOzFXFQL20RU9Vqg5Rs8gmk2vJHQzgprKW6-_iQK2uBVwYUu3_3O8pAsmDm5xbz-GPr0FaCv1abLEfWhKlSjb_QbTmI/s1600/_DSC5891.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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This dewy, radiant, glowy finish thing is totally my scene. When matt finishes were all the rage I was so completely lost. It just didn't seem natural.</div>
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Now, however, everything is different and no powder comes within 2feet of my face unless is shimmery, sparkly and <b><i>distractingly shiny</i></b>.</div>
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Like most make up freaks, politically correct term, I'm amassing quite the collection of highlighters. The collection, equal parts creams and powders, generally leans towards <b><i>pinkish-golden tones</i></b> - not so much bronze as it's the polar opposite to my colouring and nothing too much on the silvery side because I feel it looks too cold. I guess you could say that <b><i>champagne</i></b> is the colour of the day when it comes to my hightlighting preferences.</div>
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Of course when my beloved limited edition Chanel joined the ranks I thought my life was complete. That I couldn't love another highlighter any more and that was it, I could stop searching - how many times have we said that to ourselves?!</div>
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Then Christmas happened and this Inglot beauty blindsided me. One of their<b><i> Multicolour System Highlighting Powders</i></b> in 83. A very generous gift from one of my school pals in our annual Kris Kindle, it's exactly what I would have picked for myself.</div>
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The powder is <b><i>very fine</i></b>, meaming there's no lumps of glitter to give away your glowy secret, the pigments are described as <b><i>"satin pearls" </i></b>which pretty much hits the nail on the head. The colours are just subtle enough to bring <b><i>warmth</i></b> without having to add any more colour (as someone with permanently flushing cheeks I don't need any more pink thank you very much).</div>
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Sometimes the upper most, white colour is singled out as a brow bone or <b><i>cupids bow highlight</i></b>. Moreover, a big fluffy brush takes a whirl around the entire spectrum for a sweep of satiny, shimmering loveliness over the tops of the cheeks. And yes, it's the spitting image of a <b><i>Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick</i></b>, extra bonus.</div>
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You can pick this beauty up from your local Inglot counter or store today.</div>
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Have you got a favourite highlighter?</div>
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Do prefer one colour or a variety?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-44877604423361464232014-02-13T19:00:00.000+00:002014-03-02T22:52:09.405+00:00Best of Beauty 'Hair Heros'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHYbABhVsjUIoAdsT1XQwKbXprIUMnzQK3ya7FNxUhBtc5bUKWVLB3iTr9aUNGqR5fxzyz2FpNWZC1bMs5EuqsWH9mh-eND9GliXlrBh3vdh_3OfN-7jbhT1iDbC_YwIA2gFRy5Qesu7M/s1600/_DSC5923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHYbABhVsjUIoAdsT1XQwKbXprIUMnzQK3ya7FNxUhBtc5bUKWVLB3iTr9aUNGqR5fxzyz2FpNWZC1bMs5EuqsWH9mh-eND9GliXlrBh3vdh_3OfN-7jbhT1iDbC_YwIA2gFRy5Qesu7M/s1600/_DSC5923.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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The fantastic response to week 1 of the <b><a href="http://allthebuzz.co.uk/blogger-challenge/" target="_blank">Best of Beauty Blog Challenge</a></b>, which was <b><i><a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2014/02/best-of-beauty-skin-care-saviours.html" target="_blank">Skin Care Saviours</a></i></b>, has made me even more excited to be cracking on with week 2.<br />
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From skin to hair, and our favourite products or tricks for hair. Mine is very new to my regime, but seeing as my hair care regime doesn't usually stray much further than the odd bit of hairspray, this is as good as we're gonna get!<br />
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<a name='more'></a>I spoke about my recent <b><i><a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2014/01/january-detox-hair-edition.html" target="_blank">hair issues and follicle detox</a></i></b> in only a little while ago, in case you happened to miss it.<br />
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Meanwhile, on a recent visit to <b><i><a href="http://www.sugarcubed.ie/" target="_blank">Sugar Cubed</a></i></b>, my go-to salon, I mentioned to my stylist, Amanda, that my hair often (read: always) goes<b><i> fluffy</i></b> when I dry it. Usually it's the next day before I start liking my hair again by which time I have to think about washing it again. Effort.<br />
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Never fear, Amanda said (well, not really) for hair serum is here. As she began to dry my hair she applied this serum, <b><i><a href="http://www.gkhair.com/product/c8-serum" target="_blank">GKHair Hair Taming System</a></i></b>, and recommended it for taming pesky flyaways.<br />
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Applied to damp or dry hair, the serum is largely based on <b><i>keratin </i></b>- the protein found in hair and nails that's used in relaxing treatments and 16-week blowdries. It also contains <b><i>Argan oil</i></b>, extremely nourishing for hair and smells fantastic. Already, I was intrigued.<br />
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Otherwise the ingredients are some <i><b>silicon</b></i>-based fluids, a light perfum and a dash of colour. That's all. Nothing too strenuous or unnecessary. It's <b><i>not heavy</i></b> on the hair, doesn't make it look greasy and doesn't leave me with that catwalk wet-look either.<br />
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One pump through damp hair and maybe half a pump through any unruly ends when it's dry and I'm laughing. I've also taken to applying a little before bed and twisting my hair into loose buns for soft, f<b><i>rizz-free</i></b> waves in the morning.<br />
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It cost a little over €25 in the salon, but I was assured I would get great value from it seeing as not much is needed for each use - and I can already see that they were right. I also like the feeling of having a slightly more<b><i> professional finish </i></b>to my hair seeing as I know it's a product stylists use themselves.<br />
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What are you favourite hair care products?</div>
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Have you been following the Best of Beauty Blog Challenge?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-15674931914002272932014-02-11T13:32:00.001+00:002014-02-11T13:32:45.137+00:00Wax On - Hair Off. Waxperts Win Me Over<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVv4PyltoL7kSRrtUh39p-NZz8helyVQpXAKpideIl4-wSRjWhZW_52xeiW4M6wYoQMU2fepdMrKymJD9ju1n7tZvroY1FOZRNFiXIgOHj9bQc6il7lUCXOzGgbtEkMqEpRwrU9oTN5ds/s1600/_DSC5934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVv4PyltoL7kSRrtUh39p-NZz8helyVQpXAKpideIl4-wSRjWhZW_52xeiW4M6wYoQMU2fepdMrKymJD9ju1n7tZvroY1FOZRNFiXIgOHj9bQc6il7lUCXOzGgbtEkMqEpRwrU9oTN5ds/s1600/_DSC5934.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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Let's be honest, or I will at least - if I was single I probably wouldn't even bother shaving my legs. There, I said it. Being a blondie, my hair is very, very fair so you'd be hard pushed to spot any fuzz unless you got up close and personal (giggidy) so I'm incredibly lazy when it comes to this side of the beauty world.</div>
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As well as almost invisible body hair, I'm also plagued with <b><i>Keratosis Pilaris</i></b> all over my legs (and it's spreading, good times), so if I was ever to wear a skirt it's always accompanied by thick, black tights.</div>
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But this year I've banished the insecurities of my early 20s and I'm embracing womanhood with a plan I'm calling <b><i>"Operation Love My Legs"</i></b>. Join me, won't you?</div>
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Shaving has never been my friend. Sporting red bumps and lumps most of the time anyway, achieving that smooth flawless finish was near impossible. The best result I had was with hair removal cream (<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Boots-Smooth-Care-Sensitive-HRC-200ml_1189189/" target="_blank"><i><b>Boots finest own brand</b></i></a>) but again ... that takes patience and my attention span is desperate.</div>
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Then, the offer came to try Waxperts. The brainchild of <b><i><a href="https://twitter.com/WaxpertsEllen" target="_blank">Ellen</a> </i></b>- who I had been following on Twitter for a long time for some strong female empowerment inspiration, they were kind enough to offer me some waxing treatments of my choice to give the product a whirl.</div>
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My waxer was Aoife, in <a href="http://www.waxperts.ie/" target="_blank"><i><b>Waxperts Dun Laoghaire</b></i></a> salon, who coincidently is nominated for Best Waxer by Image magazine <i>(good luck Aoife!)</i>. My waxing experience to date had been a few brow waxes and a pathetic attempt at at-home wax strips. Not quite a novice, but hardly a seasoned pro.</div>
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Now, can we just talk about for a moment that fact <b><i>the wax is purple</i></b>?! Purple! Like, Willy Wonka purple, is all I kept thinking to myself. As shallow as it seems I was already won over by that alone. Everything is purple from the wax itself to the oil they use to prep the skin. This comes from the lavender which is a key ingredient in the range. 10 points for pleasant aromas right there.</div>
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Aoife started with my brows, applying their <i><b>specialised oil </b></i>before and throughout the treatment. This helps create a barrier to protect the skin so you're not taking a layer off with the hair, it also helps keep the pain level of the treatment as low as possible. I've never found waxing my eyebrows to be particularly painful, but this time it was even less so. I'd say it would be <b><i>perfect for a first-timer</i></b> or anyone a bit nervous about the whole thing.</div>
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Next we <i>(because I was to totally involved and not just lying there talking about holidays, ahem)</i> moved onto the underarms. This I was a bit nervous about because I've only ever shaved them, but I need not have been as. No squealing or flinching in sight. What's also excellent, is while I would usually have to shave at least twice a week, it's been over a week and a bit now and we're <b><i>still looking smooth under there</i></b>. Needless to say my razor is feeling very neglected.</div>
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Lastly it was time for the legs. For this, Aoife used the strips we all know and love with the hot wax. Throughout, she was vigilant in only ever using a wooden-stick-spatula once, <b><i>never double-dipping</i></b>. I remarked they must go through thousands of them, but it's a small price to pay to make sure there no risk of any nasties getting spread around. Ew.</div>
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Waxperts wax is developed to having a <b><i>lower melting temperature</i></b> than most hot waxes. If anything it's not a hot wax at all, it's a <b><i>pleasantly warm wax</i></b>. Which was perfect considering it was positively Baltic outside that day. Neither on my brows, under my arms or anywhere on my legs did I get any of that <b><i>post-wax tingle</i></b>. Even my brows, which will take any excuse to flush red were considerably calmer than usual.</div>
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I swanned out of the salon feeling soft and smooth and floated towards the coffee shop to regale Mum of my experience and how much I love waxing all of a sudden! I'm insisting she try it some time, and it might just be working. I'd recommend everyone try it really if you're even the slightest bit curious.</div>
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And what of the now-famous <b><i>Waxperts Ingrown Hair Pads</i></b>, now known as the multitasking <b><i>Wonder Pads</i></b>, I hear you ask? I, of course, couldn't leave the salon without a pot. Waxperts propose you set yourself a <b><i>40 Day Challenge</i></b> to see how you get on with with, so I'll report back when I hit the 40 day mark - SPOILER ALERT: I'm 4 days in and already in <b><i>love</i></b>!</div>
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Have you ever had a wax before?</div>
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Would you recommend it?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-8479670751498196872014-02-06T19:00:00.000+00:002014-02-06T19:00:00.072+00:00Best Of Beauty 'Skin Care Saviours' <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QOsyQ89bWLiU9TRLQ5edyQvBnrgBRVqkjy-FpmA_1GoVZGECrOsVN2pod5H9QCu6lsERueX6KJmW_4LLIJRL3C6mhQZtUJuhALvYgQ5vd-6vPDUbsLHmaYwfbMX2AiJOX7dbhHKJbSU/s1600/_DSC5901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QOsyQ89bWLiU9TRLQ5edyQvBnrgBRVqkjy-FpmA_1GoVZGECrOsVN2pod5H9QCu6lsERueX6KJmW_4LLIJRL3C6mhQZtUJuhALvYgQ5vd-6vPDUbsLHmaYwfbMX2AiJOX7dbhHKJbSU/s1600/_DSC5901.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Skin Care Saviours feat. Clarisonic, Vichy, La Roche-Posay and Trilogy</i></td></tr>
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I'm delighted to be be taking part in Samantha's <a href="http://allthebuzz.co.uk/blogger-challenge/" target="_blank">Best of Beauty Blogger Challenge</a>. I'm in desperate need of something to keep me on track with blogging-type stuff.</div>
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The first topic is one dear to my heart - and one I've had a mental note to write about for ever and ever, so no time like the present.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>So my <i style="font-weight: bold;">skin care saviour</i> is no one product. Instead it's a combination of products, that I half-stumbled, half-planned upon when it came to whipping my skin into shape.<br />
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My blog has chronicled my battles with my skin since it began. From excessive dryness and dehydration. To mystery reactions to products, to redness, to make-up-repelling-awfulness. No more, I said, I've had enough. So the first thing I did? Marched (well, wondered aimlessly is more like it) straight to the Clarisonic counter in House of Fraser and put the fate of skin - and my purse, in the hands of <a href="http://kellyhopemurphy.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank"><b><i>Ms. Kelly Hope</i></b></a>.</div>
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The Clarisonic won me over almost instantly, but in a strange way. I was one of the sort who got a purge period. Nasty time all together. My skin broke out everywhere, and I mean, everywhere. But Kelly urged me to power through. And I did. Because <b><i>these breakouts were different</i></b>. They appeared, developed and started healing much faster, and after they cleared the skin beneath was clear and calm. I started out with the sensitive brush, then, when it was time for a fresh one, I switched to the normal brush - the one pictured here. I use it morning and night, 7 days a week, unless I'm really <i>really</i> lazy some mornings. I treat my skin to a deep cleanse with the, you guessed it, deep cleanse brush once a week. This was the first, crucial step in what was to be an epic skin care journey.</div>
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Now, the Clarisonic can only do so much. It won't promise you the Earth because it's only a stage one product. <b><i>It's all about what you use along side it</i></b>. That's where the rest of my Skin Care Saviours come in.</div>
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First, <b><i><a href="http://www.mccabespharmacy.com/beauty/la-roche-posay-ireland/la-roche-posay-effaclar-duo-corrective-and-unclogging-anti-imperfection-40ml.html" target="_blank">La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo</a></i></b>. There's nothing I can say about this product that hasn't been said before. Why I found it good was because it worked by helping to <b><i>draw out the impurities</i></b> in my skin which the Clarisonic could then clean away (gross). It also<b><i> kept reoffending areas at bay</i></b>. This bottle has lasted me months upon months, with daily use. I'm mighty impressed, and also very distressed that it's almost empty. No other blemish treatment, especially not an all-over treatment has worked so well for me (I'll admit, I had written it off in favour of a targeted treatment, <a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2013/03/falling-for-hype-effaclar-duo-or.html" target="_blank"><b><i>Effaclar AI</i></b></a>, from the same range a while back - but we live and we learn!)</div>
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Finally, moisturising - or for me, <b><i>hydrating and nourishing</i></b> to be exact. What I loved about the Clarisonic, and really what sold me on it, was when Kelly explained how it readied your skin to take in the products you apply after. Music to the ears of a skin care junkie such as myself who always wants to get the most out of her products. Firstly, hydration comes from the creme-de-la-creme of night creams, <b><i><a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2013/08/my-skincare-regime-evening.html" target="_blank">Vichy Aqualia Thermal</a></i></b>. My skin adores anything <b><i>thermal water-based</i></b>, and no matter what the time of year or weather, this cream-gel-hybrid has delivered. I also find, and I don't think I'm alone in this, that my breakouts clear better when I come at them when with a burst of hydration.</div>
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Last, but by no means least, <b><i><a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Trilogy-Certified-Organic-Rosehip-Oil-20ml_51091/" target="_blank">Trilogy rosehip oil</a></i></b>. It might seem like a lot but bare with me. The Vichy is water based, so that absorbs into the skin. Oil, sits on the skin, <b><i>locking in moisture</i></b>. This oil isn't greasy, if anything it's a slightly dry oil. 3 small drops is all you need for your entire face. Winning all round so far. I started using this because I read a lot about these types of products helping to <b><i>clear acne scars and redness</i></b>. I'm happy to say that I've managed to escape any particularly nasty scaring, something I was worried about given the rapid changes in my skin, and frankly, I'm trying to give it all the help I can get. This oil nourishes the skin with antioxidants, essential omega acids and vitamins. This oil deserves a post all of its own, watch this space!</div>
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There are literally dozens of these posts live across the web <i style="font-weight: bold;">right now</i> as part of the Best of Beauty Blog Challenge. You can always follow #BOBBlogChallenge on Twitter to find more.</div>
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Lots of love</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-76316273852194923002014-01-30T23:45:00.000+00:002014-01-30T23:45:32.434+00:00It's Not Just The Weather That's Wet n' Wild<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYx2TpTPOtNzplXLsxPfhKFrBwAtbZ__XFBEwT0fcgJOD27NaL2VlnC1NawuehgeEQnLDrUpMpSBLnzENX_qumvdMFvM0qmlvFw3xhfUVBroL-9PHSvr8wGYXm1txyL8lIV205RJLEzKI/s1600/_DSC5876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYx2TpTPOtNzplXLsxPfhKFrBwAtbZ__XFBEwT0fcgJOD27NaL2VlnC1NawuehgeEQnLDrUpMpSBLnzENX_qumvdMFvM0qmlvFw3xhfUVBroL-9PHSvr8wGYXm1txyL8lIV205RJLEzKI/s1600/_DSC5876.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First of many forays to the freshly stocked Wet n Wild stand ...</td></tr>
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Wet n Wild was up there with Lucky Charms, Tootsy Rolls and Sephora when it came to stocking up while on holidays stateside.</div>
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The penultimate budget beauty brand their products, eye shadows in particular, was hailed as a holy grail of buttery pigments and stand out pay-off.</div>
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But now, the panicked days of impulse-buys in the airport and raiding a lonely Walgreens stand because Wet n Wild have landed on our shores and they're here to stay! Hip, hip, hurray!</div>
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The first product to be snapped up was <i style="font-weight: bold;">Silent Treatment</i> a trio I like to think of as girly-with-an-edge. The brow bone colour is a delicate <b><i>champagne pink</i></b>, beautiful anywhere in particular the inner corner or middle of the lid. The eyelid colour is one of those beautiful <b><i>shimmering taupe</i></b> that we all know and love. Yes I have a bizillion taupe shadows, but you can't have too much of a good thing right?! The crease colour is a <b><i>rich black with gold</i></b>, almost antique gold, glitter. I have a feeling you'd really need to pack on the colour to get the glitter to show, but I'm <b><i>very impressed</i></b> with the pay-off having been disappointed on many occassions with "black"(read: grey) budget eyeshadows. I could happily use the little trio day after day and never tire of how lovely it is.<br />
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The blush selection was modest to say the least, but there was a part of me that wanted all of them. <i style="font-weight: bold;">Mellow Wine</i> won me over as it was just too pretty to pass up. It's a soft <i style="font-weight: bold;">plum-y pink</i> which reminds me of vibrant pinks coming our way this season. Also it's <i style="font-weight: bold;">matt</i> which I love. There's something so pretty about it. I'm not a fan of Barbie-pink blushes, this is about as pink as my blush collection gets - but I'm very happy with that.</div>
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Finally, and I'm sure many of you recognise this - <i style="font-weight: bold;">Comfort Zone</i>. This 8 pan wonder has been a cult hit for years so I couldn't resist it when I saw it sitting there, in front of me, in all it's <b><i>€6.49</i></b> glory. That's less than <b><i>a euro per shadow</i></b>! Sure I'de be mad not to. There are so many <b><i>wearable colours</i></b> in this pallet - pretty much the entire left side for me, and others that aren't too mad that you wouldn't be tempted to try them out. The colour on the bottom right is very interesting (and difficult to photograph) it's a rich <b><i>chocolatey brown </i></b>with something like an <b><i>oil-slick-colour glitter</i></b>. Bluey-black. I have yet to try it out but to say I'm intrigued is an understatement. Don't know how much use I'll get of the greens, although the darker, emerald green, looks like it would be a great feature colour for a smokey eye.<br />
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My verdict? BUY EVERYTHING. Well, considering this entire shopping trip cost all of €15.47, I'll probably be the one buying everything. To be honest I'm itching to get back to my nearest <i style="font-weight: bold;">Dunnes Stores</i> and pick up another few (many) bits. In particular the <b style="font-style: italic;">Walking on Eggshells</b>, which Orla featured on her blog (<a href="http://www.makeupovermind.com/2014/01/wet-n-wild-in-ireland-mini-haul-swatches.html" target="_blank">MakeupOverMind</a>) because we all need more beautiful browns in our lives.<br />
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Stop. Swatch time.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhN4KcDucc0eSGkk-t97SHCXZAqi8_ebGk8Ihw8mpwUKUh26hIeI44izpZn0j6mvkcojOoSEAMuAL51l1Yuf2Ft5UuOlWWCASbZJQ_8QQccaNLLWQ0LQ9OXv9eYAEnXwHspg8zTPT0tI/s1600/2014-01-26+16.18.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Wet n' Wild Comfort Zone" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhN4KcDucc0eSGkk-t97SHCXZAqi8_ebGk8Ihw8mpwUKUh26hIeI44izpZn0j6mvkcojOoSEAMuAL51l1Yuf2Ft5UuOlWWCASbZJQ_8QQccaNLLWQ0LQ9OXv9eYAEnXwHspg8zTPT0tI/s1600/2014-01-26+16.18.23.jpg" height="300" title="Wet n' Wild Comfort Zone" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wet n' Wild Comfort Zone</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8M8Jmi_3jBWyx3mYlNqcrNvlxxXWXW95Y_AJdNbpE6Tg6LLRqyGQu6XvqZSQEGCZC5E_UVahw55WcoBdnjmYt7QhhIiO8dFjvlPzoqgLex_Z0L2qOaFfobTRC2iaB2djeB03MQzUFJis/s1600/2014-01-26+16.15.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Wet n' Wild Silent Treatment" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8M8Jmi_3jBWyx3mYlNqcrNvlxxXWXW95Y_AJdNbpE6Tg6LLRqyGQu6XvqZSQEGCZC5E_UVahw55WcoBdnjmYt7QhhIiO8dFjvlPzoqgLex_Z0L2qOaFfobTRC2iaB2djeB03MQzUFJis/s1600/2014-01-26+16.15.51.jpg" height="400" title="Wet n' Wild Silent Treatment" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wet n' Wild Silent Treatment</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nYxzd8e0zJcFXUi_uCEgcXwFLfsV4ZNw69VzJ90qsVC7X_bm5nVD00seiG9V7RyOPZzZ1AeUaXJag4ognWAnWKQm6Zdyk-U8LuQiTKkqZwvGvpPw0Bnz6CHngCYAAPLBCbv-ut4ZhR0/s1600/_DSC5883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Wet n' Wild Mellow Wine" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nYxzd8e0zJcFXUi_uCEgcXwFLfsV4ZNw69VzJ90qsVC7X_bm5nVD00seiG9V7RyOPZzZ1AeUaXJag4ognWAnWKQm6Zdyk-U8LuQiTKkqZwvGvpPw0Bnz6CHngCYAAPLBCbv-ut4ZhR0/s1600/_DSC5883.JPG" height="263" title="Wet n' Wild Mellow Wine" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wet n' Wild Mellow Wine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Have you tried out any Wet n Wild yet?</div>
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Are you even a little bit tempted?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-89543043861827738422014-01-29T08:30:00.000+00:002014-01-29T08:30:01.355+00:00Get Your Glow On - Everyday Dewy Foundation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQhA0a5H-nopkBYQKIvkhX_31lh7dNmf2RHikenZSgotJ7AbFuQu7hYbj6dL6qJoC-y6Dj4Fx4xqx77ReNAq8464NRit1v46FVNSY1uE-qRBV5luO56CYKqu0mDQ8V8FcLQ5gDLmYu-I/s1600/_DSC5869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQhA0a5H-nopkBYQKIvkhX_31lh7dNmf2RHikenZSgotJ7AbFuQu7hYbj6dL6qJoC-y6Dj4Fx4xqx77ReNAq8464NRit1v46FVNSY1uE-qRBV5luO56CYKqu0mDQ8V8FcLQ5gDLmYu-I/s1600/_DSC5869.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am a girl obsessed with many things. To name but a few, they would be things like bushy brows, ashy blonde hair, Irish wolfhounds and dewy foundation.</div>
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My go-to for a long time was YSL Touché Eclat foundation but I generally keep that for special occasions. So I've been on the lookout for an every day, drugstore alternative.</div>
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The first, <a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2013/05/today-im-wearing-rimmel.html" target="_blank"><b><i>Rimmel Match Perfection foundation</i></b></a> I've written about before. I still love it. My sister loves it. It's the palest I've ever found outside of higher end. The name says it all - <b><i>Match. Perfection. </i></b>The finish is skin-like; not too shimmery or matt but <b><i>radiant</i></b>. Definitely radiant. Also it's €9.95, what's not to love? Great value especially when you're wearing it nearly every day. It makes me realise just how pale I am, which is very, so once applied I make sure to bring some life back into my complexion with blush and contouring.</div>
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I first picked up <i style="font-weight: bold;">Maybelline Fit Me Foundation</i> because <a href="http://tarapower.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank">Tara Power</a> mentioned something about it reminding her of Chanel Vitalumiere. Instant. Impulse. Buy. Having never tried the Chanel I can't compare, but applying the Fit Me foundation I could see a lot of similarities in how people had described it. The shade range was a pleasant surprise, with the appearance that there was more focus on those <b><i>"in between shades"</i></b> - numbers ending in 5 are cooler, ending in 0 are warmer/yellow toned. 115 is the lightest I found. It's a thin formula that delivers a <b><i>light-medium coverage</i></b>, melting and blending to a skin-like finish you almost don't notice it. It's not super long lasting, but a bit of primer and setting powder and you'll get most of the day out of it. This is my <b><i>fail-safe</i></b>, no matter what occasion, what my mood, it's always a good choice.</div>
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One day, while hanging out with Avril from <a href="http://blushfulbeauty.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank"><b><i>Blushful Beauty</i></b></a>, I couldn't resist asking her what foundation she was wearing because her skin was <b><i>positively glowing</i></b>. As it turns out it was <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Bourjois-Paris-Happy-Light-foundation_1388242/" target="_blank">Bourjois Happy Light foundation</a>. </i>Having never got around to trying the much-acclaimed Health Mix (because every shade was just so darn yellow looking) I was delighted to find <i style="font-weight: bold;">Vanilla Rose</i> among the Happy Light Mix. This is <b><i>dewiest</i></b> of all three foundations, going beyond radiance to being<b><i> luminous</i></b> and there is a great light to this foundation (hence the name). It definitely needs some working in to the skin, and I've found it clinging to dry patches in strange white clumps when I use the wrong application technique. I've found <b><i>very lightly</i></b> stippling or buffing (again, very lightly) delivers the perfect, flawless, glow.</div>
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Often all my hard work applying foundation is undone by the fact I rarely, if ever, set it with power. Now, before you revoke my beauty card, let me explain. With my dry skin, very often powders dry out my skin and often undo all my moisturising. Also, I never want to mattify my dewy base. But knowing I needed to get over my powder-phobia I decided to venture into illuminating powders. Finely milled, powders like <b><i>Bourjois Java Rice powder</i></b> and the <b><i>Inglot HD Illuminising Loose Powder</i></b> give wonderfully radiant finishes while still setting the make-up underneath. It's hard to describe what these powders do for your skin, but it is as if they've got the HD-treatment. And they last and last and last, so naturally I'm beyond happy.</div>
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What's your every day foundation look?</div>
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Are you too on the hunt for the perfect flawless finish?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-34977394178167517072014-01-29T00:24:00.000+00:002014-01-29T13:36:14.567+00:00Dear RTE ...Subject: Promotion of Discriminatory Views<br />
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To whom it may concern<br />
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Need I remind you of your duty as a Public Service Broadcaster? It seems to me the definition had been lost somewhere, more than likely buried under cowardly solicitors letters and demands for un-deserving apologies.<br />
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I refer to your reaction, not the broadcasting, of the interview with Rory O'Neill on the Saturday Night Show. I'm sure you know the one. The removal of this link and the "apology" to "injured parties" is frankly disgraceful.<br />
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Your duty, may I remind you, not to mention your salaries costs, is in the hands of the PUBLIC. A public who are crying out for a true reflection of their views, which, to date are not being expressed. 5 minutes outside of your own bubble would show you that as clear as day.<br />
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RTE are answerable to the Irish public. NOT private institutions who flout solicitors letters and whose sole purpose is to offend and upset. It is not for you to bow down to their petty demands. It is your duty to address the issues that we all face add a nation. And this is one.<br />
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Censoring this issue will not make it go away. Avoiding the topic in news coverage will not distract people into forgetting.<br />
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The views and actions of the Iona Institute offend and perpetuate hate towards women and LGBT citizens on an almost daily basis.<br />
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I would hate to live in a world where I feel my public service broadcaster favoured outdated sexist views that belittled and demonised (to use the word of the moment) me as a woman. But your actions so far have done just that. Your duty is to provide equal service and coverage to all, yet you are treating a considerable portion of our society as second class citizens. Women and LGBT included.<br />
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Listen to your audience rather than a solicitor's letter and you will see that what I've said is true. As an entity, RTE had been out of touch for too long.<br />
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Ask yourselves, what is real reporting? What is real journalism? I can assure you it's not regurgitating press releases and exaggerating trivial tiffs within government houses.<br />
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It is certainly not submitting yourself to become a tool of discriminatory propaganda.<br />
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As long as you apologise to the Iona Institute you are, in my eyes, supporting their hate-filled, archaic views and I will no longer count myself as one of the public you broadcast to.<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
Lisa<br />
Irish, Female, Bisexual and offended.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-73909058654673849912014-01-27T20:45:00.000+00:002014-03-02T22:56:05.832+00:00January Detox - Hair Edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjidXZzx0TQQDauN2F6Mu0vVhGuqMztpXQ5EYjBzi_AMSGCUHNXMly11z802jxx12R7_cyFEjKaN4tA5dvEU4JmtJ9HBTMxW7g-wt2M_Yky4SeTyA_H1CQ23_0nHOZmp9ax1GJfw_plprI/s1600/_DSC5849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjidXZzx0TQQDauN2F6Mu0vVhGuqMztpXQ5EYjBzi_AMSGCUHNXMly11z802jxx12R7_cyFEjKaN4tA5dvEU4JmtJ9HBTMxW7g-wt2M_Yky4SeTyA_H1CQ23_0nHOZmp9ax1GJfw_plprI/s1600/_DSC5849.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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There came a point in January when I felt rubbish. Generally rubbish from head to toe. Granted a lot of that was to do with the over-indulgence on foods my stomach repeatedly reminds me I hate. But it wasn't just that, like I said, from head to toe I felt rubbish. Hair included.</div>
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It didn't sit right, it wouldn't style right, <b><i>it never felt right</i></b>. It was dull, not matter how or when I washed it, it felt as though it never stayed clean.</div>
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I had been chopping and changing shampoos for a while, none being particularly likable. My hair needed a <b><i>detox</i></b>.</div>
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There are plenty of clarifying shampoos, <i><b><a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Bumble-and-bumble-Sunday-Shampoo-250ml_1275624/" target="_blank">Bumble and bumble Sunday Shampoo</a> </b></i>or <b><i>Boots Expert Build Up Removal shampoo</i></b> (which <a href="http://blushfulbeauty.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank">Avril of Blushful Beauty </a>swears by) so I went to Boots on my lunch break in search of my own.</div>
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This pair drew my eye because together they were everything I needed (and there was a special on Tresemme that day) . My roots needed a thorough cleanse and my ends needed some lovin' too. I like to think of this combo as j<b><i>ust what you're looking for </i></b>when you go to look for a decent shampoo and conditioner.</div>
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First up we've got <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/TRESemme-Vitamin-C-Deep-Cleansing-Shampoo-500ml_14756/" target="_blank">TRESemme Vitamin C Deep Cleansing Shampoo</a><u>. </u>Like all Tresemmé shampoos I've tried this lathers like a dream. I have to have <b><i>bubbly shampoo</i></b>. Although it's decidedly lighter than their richer "salon" shampoos. It rinses clean, no residue or smell and it didn't take long at all for my hair to feel lighter, refreshed and generally happier.</div>
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Next we've got <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/TRESemme-Pro-Vitamin-Aloe-Remoisturising-Conditioner-500ml_14758/" target="_blank">TRESemme Pro-Vitamin Aloe Remoisturising Conditioner</a>. This conditioner too does the trick. <b><i>Moisturising </i></b>without being too thick. No smell or silicone feel, like, for example, Aussie shampoos.</div>
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I'm about half way through the two, and while I could finish them I may stash them and have a rotation of blonde/brightening shampoos and these in case of a product-build-up emergency or when I'm in need of a good clean, well, <b><i>clean</i></b>.</div>
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Have you tried any clarifying or detox shampoos?</div>
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Or have you done any other detoxes this month?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-72132484063447278392014-01-03T23:36:00.000+00:002014-01-03T23:36:55.517+00:00Lip Balm Low-down<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi89LHIzBlReE-oUJ-yyxP297OLq70lUMVmIchTqPhYPLTLarsnyTAG_FJJYlTM8LQlplpblvczC18sSlcTP02LPo8_Gpn6F-bUUE0jKwrjykjzG6TsL2Fl-UyIrHLgDpgM2o3PQ8h9DmQ/s1600/_DSC5817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="La Roche Posay and Nuxe lip balms" border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi89LHIzBlReE-oUJ-yyxP297OLq70lUMVmIchTqPhYPLTLarsnyTAG_FJJYlTM8LQlplpblvczC18sSlcTP02LPo8_Gpn6F-bUUE0jKwrjykjzG6TsL2Fl-UyIrHLgDpgM2o3PQ8h9DmQ/s640/_DSC5817.JPG" title="La Roche Posay and Nuxe lip balms" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>La Roche-Posay and Nuxe lip balms</i></td></tr>
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Christmas might be over but winter is far from finished. It takes its toll on just about everything. Skin, hair, hands, lips - you name it, and there's nothing I hate more than sore, cracking lips.</div>
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A year ago I stopped using any and all lip products that contained petroleum, which has done wonders all in itself in helping my lips stay naturally moisturised and reducing my dependence on constant reapplication.</div>
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In recent weeks I made a point of seeking out my ideal lip products, and tonight, the results are in.</div>
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One of my first beauty-blog-buys was <a href="http://www.lloydspharmacy.ie/Product/NUXE-LIP-BALM-15ML-POT/257002/2226.1.5" target="_blank">Nuxe Rêve de Miel</a>. Very much a <b><i>lip treatment</i></b> in my opinion. A very rich balmy texture, it's almost slightly grainy when you apply it but whatever that is melts away on application. This little frosted pot of pout perfection lives exclusively on my bedside table where I liberally apply it before drifting off. In the morning my lips are soft and smooth and often times I barely need to apply any lip balm during the day, or at least not until after lunch. Even the most weather-worn lips are brought back to life in a matter of hours with this little wonder. The texture is non-greasy, almost semi-mat so dabbing a smidgen under your daily lip colour and you're only laughing.</div>
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Cicaplast is a range within La Roche-Posay well-known for being, well, brilliant. <b><i>Baume B5 </i></b>has a cult following for being an all-purpose wonder product, I named it last year as one of my <a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2013/03/weather-worries-dry-lip-saviors.html" target="_blank"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Dry Lip Superheros</i> </a>(also featuring Rève de Miel) as a great emergency treatment for sore, swollen lips. Now, somehow, the magical properties of Cicaplast has been channelled into a neat <i style="font-weight: bold;">barrier repairing balm</i> which fills in cracks and creates a soothing barrier that repairs and protects long suffering lips. <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.lloydspharmacy.ie/Product/LA-ROCHE-POSAY-CICAPLAST-BAUME-B5-BARRIER-REPAIRING-BALM-LIPS-75ML/258162/2226.1.1" target="_blank">La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Levres</a></i> came into my life only a few short weeks ago but I've already repurchased a new tube and re-gifted a tube to my sister, who sings its praises to the tune of <i>"you don't have to apply it as often as other lip balms and it's particularly good overnight."</i></div>
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As my first tube of Cicaplast Levres began showing signs I ventured out to repurchase and got drawn in, in the name of blog research, to <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.lloydspharmacy.ie/Product/NUXE-STICK-BALM-4G/257352/2226.1.5" target="_blank">Nuxe Rêve de Miel Lip Moisturizing Stick</a></i>. Could it be that honey-scented miracle I knew and loved was available in a handbag friendly twist-up? Well, not exactly. But it's close. The formula isn't a rich, obviously to allow for the new application method, but it is effective. I find it's the <b><i>perfect accompaniment</i></b> to it's more luxurious sister as a top up during the day.</div>
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On the same day, my eye was drawn to <i style="font-weight: bold;">La Roche-Posay Nutritic Lips</i>. Nutritic is the range that produced the moisturiser that saved my skin, and to which I owe nearly two years of flake-free face so when I read <b><i>"transforming care for very dry lips"</i></b> my heart skipped a beat. As a standard stick lip balm goes it does exactly what you need. Keeps lips soft, moisturised and generally satisfied. It will remain in my collection as my <i>"oh crap I need lip balm"</i> lip balm.</div>
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Nuxe Rêve de Miel comes in at just under €12, Cicaplast Lips €6.50, Rêve de Miel Moisturizing stick €6.99 and Nutritic Lips at €4.</div>
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Do you take lip balms as seriously as I do?</div>
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Lots of love</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lisa</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-8250520704899699722013-12-08T17:04:00.004+00:002013-12-08T17:07:03.089+00:00Colour Week - Day 5 - Seeing Red<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiVYhGf4ehyphenhyphenUppnwXO1Rbv4s6P4tyb_Kzb2qSDr2ZFnvzkY70MxwPETwny5sXpmmyyAf5O6Dvwme_I5VcN3-dT1GeHayVXo2fUHLezqhWrlQOpF48-1oOH2AJR1RcoG6Lj5xZ4DRY57g/s1600/_DSC5687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiVYhGf4ehyphenhyphenUppnwXO1Rbv4s6P4tyb_Kzb2qSDr2ZFnvzkY70MxwPETwny5sXpmmyyAf5O6Dvwme_I5VcN3-dT1GeHayVXo2fUHLezqhWrlQOpF48-1oOH2AJR1RcoG6Lj5xZ4DRY57g/s640/_DSC5687.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Red lips at the from the iconic, to the vampy to the bitten</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Red lips were my first love as far as makeup was concerned. As soon as I moved away from tinted moisturiser and clear mascara, it was red lips that stole my heart.</div>
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For a long time red was the <i style="font-weight: bold;">only</i> colour I owned, and to this day it still dominates my collection. Still, when faced with a selection of colours for any lip product, my eye automatically scans down the line to the far right and fixates on the rich red shades that reside there.</div>
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Let's face it, in most lip colour collections there are the nudes, the pinks and the reds. I'm a red. This time of the year lends itself perfectly to a chic red lip. Be it a stain in the day time or a perfectly painted pout over cocktails - t'is the season eh? So here's the low down on the reds you can expect to see on my lips for the foreseeable future.</div>
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Straight in with the classic pillarbox/orange red, Lanôme have completely won me over with their lipsticks as of late. As price points go, MAC are just under 20 and Lancôme just over <i style="font-weight: bold;">(€26)</i> but they're worlds apart as far as luxury and quality go. <i style="font-weight: bold;">132 Caprice</i> is pictured above in the gold bullet, a best seller and part of the Kate Winslet collection. First off, it <i style="font-weight: bold;">smells gorgeous</i> and what's more the colour pay off is second to none. Three strokes and your done. Bottom, top left, top right. A classic <i style="font-weight: bold;">vermillion </i> red (read <i style="font-weight: bold;">very red</i>) it has the tough of bright orange to mimic the class 1950 red we all know and love.</div>
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I've spoken about <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2013/09/cc-lipstick-yes-armani-have-made-it.html" target="_blank">Giorgio Armani CC lipsticks</a></i> before, but <i style="font-weight: bold;">410 Hot</i> is too good to not to bring up again. Where Lancôme has a hint of orange, Hot has an <i style="font-weight: bold;">ever-so-subtle hint of taupe - </i>by that I mean, it's not the classic pillar box red, rather a <b><i>sophisticated, true red</i></b>. The lasting power of this lipstick is a blessing. It's so easy to wear in how easy it goes on, stays put and required minimal fussing over. Lasting through fancy party nibbles and cheeky rum-and-cokes alike.</div>
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Moving on to the dark stuff, <b style="font-style: italic;">Rimmel</b> again feature heavily, producing 3 of my favourite budget reds. <i style="font-weight: bold;">Moisture Renew </i>in<i style="font-weight: bold;"> Diva Red </i>and <i style="font-weight: bold;">Apocalips </i>in <i style="font-weight: bold;">Eclipse </i>and <i style="font-weight: bold;">Across the Universe. </i>Depending on how dark you want to go, these shades are very much the gateway. Dive Red is a beautifully rich blood red, with an unbelievably luscious finish and impeccable colour. Across the Universe is a really unique red-brown. Not too dark, but certainly not a bright red either. It's the kind of red not many brands do, I don't find. Eclipse is getting firmly into purple territory. Deep, mysterious luxurious, <i style="font-weight: bold;">vampy</i>. Everything you're expecting from the moniker.</div>
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Now I will admit, red can be a scary colour to wear. Even I, a die-hard fan, don't feel like wearing it every day. But if I simply must get my hit that day, that's where <i><b>e.l.f Barely Bitten</b> </i>and <i style="font-weight: bold;">Revlon ColourBurst Lip Butter</i> in <i style="font-weight: bold;">Wild Watermelon </i>are perfect for just enough red, without needing to commit to a statement lip. The Lip Butter is a particular favourite of mine for a <b><i>my-lips-but-redder </i></b>look.</div>
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Ah go on. Let's have some swatches</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe5HOA6qIIKS6lGETb_s3vvNVr7RVkjpvI1X-VuS9-xTf36TUqTcVXzsLapdXpZKFU5_Yh2c4qELbwI-e2GH1xrq1UaXnvWr-VIsRqKfApfUVuwoIrYP0styrhRKoDB7FQOvGzI_b7FM/s1600/2013-11-05+12.37.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYe5HOA6qIIKS6lGETb_s3vvNVr7RVkjpvI1X-VuS9-xTf36TUqTcVXzsLapdXpZKFU5_Yh2c4qELbwI-e2GH1xrq1UaXnvWr-VIsRqKfApfUVuwoIrYP0styrhRKoDB7FQOvGzI_b7FM/s640/2013-11-05+12.37.26.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Eclipse, Across the Universe, Diva Red, 401 Hot, 132 Caprice, Barely Bitten, Wild Watermelon</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Will you be seeing red this season?</div>
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Are you a fan of red lips at all?</div>
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#ColourWeek is getting there! I promise! Better late than never!</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-85702727323579594932013-11-16T01:02:00.000+00:002013-11-16T01:02:01.480+00:00Colour Week - Day 4 - Violet Eyes<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDXmch00ZftnxF_M5uMaiWKNOSaeMSuuGrLLcvQIrEyO8TUrjK8xe2bPTAcsM2J8OmDs13MqeWh2BQvlGF45AMxQ2gxRILkNCFKB1uRarJOqwzwrbcnSRBqrteBn3onBZelvMPGfCEfM/s1600/_DSC5679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDXmch00ZftnxF_M5uMaiWKNOSaeMSuuGrLLcvQIrEyO8TUrjK8xe2bPTAcsM2J8OmDs13MqeWh2BQvlGF45AMxQ2gxRILkNCFKB1uRarJOqwzwrbcnSRBqrteBn3onBZelvMPGfCEfM/s640/_DSC5679.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>- Elizabeth Taylor watch out, we can have violet eyes too -</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Purple has to be my absolute favourite wildcard colour when it comes to eyes.</div>
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Sure bronze and burgundy are in the running, <a href="http://scatterbrainedblogging.blogspot.ie/2013/11/colour-week-day-1-ole-blue-eyes.html" target="_blank"><i>(and Blue of course)</i></a> but nothing says <i style="font-weight: bold;">POW</i> like a pop of purple on your peepers.</div>
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Okay, I promise the P puns are over (okay <i>now </i>they are), so instead I'll get cracking on a run down on my favourite purple products. (<i>You can't blame me for that one)</i></div>
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The thing about purple is, no matter what colour your eyes are, it has this unique ability to bring out the best in them.</div>
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My first foray into the realm of the purple eye was with a matt purple Sephora shadow. My latest obsession, oh so similar yet of course just so different, is <b><i>Matt 375</i></b> from <b><i>Inglot</i></b>. A lovely, wearable, true purple, and I take my purple's very seriously. My favourite look with this kind of colour is a shimmery champagne over the lid with purple on the <b><i>outer third,</i></b> blending into the crease. G'wan and smudge a little on the lower lash if you're felling frisky. Throw in a neat feline flick of black liner and thank me later.</div>
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This season my favourite way to encorporate purple has been a little more subtle. <i style="font-weight: bold;">Eyeliner</i> is a particularly effective, and inexpensive, way to spruce up any look. My personal favourite is to whip up a matt, or slightly shimmery <b><i>brown smokey eye</i></b> and team it with a <b><i>rich purple in the waterline</i></b>. Instant Ooomph. I got the idea from Sarah (<a href="http://atthebeautydesk.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank"><b><i>At The Beauty Desk</i></b></a>) during an <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23irishbbloggers&src=typd&f=realtime" target="_blank"><b><i>#irishbbloggers</i></b></a> chat and I haven't looked back. <b><i>Rimmel Scandaleyes in Purple</i></b> is a great one, one of my go-tos this season. The colour is stunning, think Cadbury purple, and lasts and lasts.<b><i> Essense in Coolest Chic</i></b> is that bit brighter, if you're looking for something a little more eye catching.</div>
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Metallic purple is really what I'm all about when I'm talking about purple. It's so rich and luxurious, especially coming into party season <i>(there I said it!)</i>. <b><i>Gosh Velvet Touch Eyeliner</i></b> in <b><i>Purple Stain</i></b>, weird name but stunning colour and beautiful shimmer. <b><i>Urban Decay 24/7 Glide on Eyeliner </i></b>in <b><i>Empire</i></b> now, well, well, well - that's a purple eyeliner. I'm so in love. The <b><i>colour</i></b>. The <b><i>staying power</i></b>. The <b><i>shimmer</i></b>. It's also a lovely deep purple; on the waterline at a distance it may appear black, but it brings that unique <i>je-ne-sais-quoi </i>purple does so well. Honourable mention has to go to <b><i>Rimmel Scandaleyes Shadow Stick</i></b> in <b><i>Paranoid Purple</i></b> for an equally beautiful colour and hello beautiful purple eyeshadow.</div>
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Of course no purple eye post would be complete without an ode to <b><i>purple mascara</i></b>. Yes, it reeks of tragic teenage experiments, but there's a far more sophisticated air about these beauties. <b><i>YSL Babydoll in Violet</i></b> is guaranteed to warrant second looks, and thirds and fourth. It's not immediately obvious as purple when it's on the lashes, but it's just enough to bring the right amount of attention. Not to mention Babydoll is one of my most <b><i>favourite mascaras</i></b> for stunningly sultry lashes. You can't go wrong. Also, it smells really nice. Is that weird?</div>
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Lastly, <b style="font-style: italic;">L'Oreal False Lash Flutter </b>in<b style="font-style: italic;"> Purple </b> is a great gateway product. Not only is it a <b><i>great mascara</i></b>; lovely wet formula that doesn't clump, lifts and lengthens and holds something fierce. The <b><i>Midnight Blacks</i></b> is an intriguing collection to say the least. I think it snuck out onto shelves before it hit the presses because I picked my purple up a while ago in a purple-loving haze only to discover they were a new, big deal. So how purple is it? Well it's black, with a <i>hint</i> of a <b><i>hint of purple</i></b>. But like I said, it's just about bringing that little something special. We're not looking to re-living electric-coloured mascara any time soon ...</div>
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How do you feel about purple?</div>
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Would you consider it for everyday wear, or just for Christmas?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-34838984572343071662013-11-11T21:08:00.000+00:002013-11-11T21:08:33.042+00:00Colour Week - Day 3 - This is Pop, Baby<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinUrblXXCZ1foQRwC0FViZGhcDCd8NbIi9_WTxB9foUEJ9_BLL4ANElcd9n9-O29_0o8MakkghBIF2tkWYdsmr0pBHGmdv4KlWY1KNde_OiPUsv8E1lACv-cDg07NhhGeQDEHEPIZVlpA/s1600/_DSC5559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinUrblXXCZ1foQRwC0FViZGhcDCd8NbIi9_WTxB9foUEJ9_BLL4ANElcd9n9-O29_0o8MakkghBIF2tkWYdsmr0pBHGmdv4KlWY1KNde_OiPUsv8E1lACv-cDg07NhhGeQDEHEPIZVlpA/s640/_DSC5559.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Adding a pop of colour to brighten up the darker days</i></td></tr>
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Well colour week is turning out a bit sporadic, but I'm persevering nonetheless!</div>
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I refuse to believe that bright colorus are purely a summer thing. The duller the day, the brighter I wanna make it and these are the products I reach for to do just that!</div>
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Bright blush is something I had to be eased into. One of <i><b>Benefit's</b> </i>newer box blushes<i>, </i><b style="font-style: italic;">Bella Bamba</b> was my gateway blush as you may call it. It's called a <b style="font-style: italic;">3D blush;</b> watermelon pink (my personal favourite shade for pink blushes) with <b><i>shimmering gold</i></b> undertones. Strong colour to bring focus to your features and Jennifer-Lawrence-esque cheekbone highlighting. You only need the lightest dusting of this beauty. Mine hardly looks used but I've had it over a year and I've been calling on it a lot lately. An investment blush if you will.</div>
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Nars New Order</i> was, sniff, my first highlighter - and boy did I go big for my first highlighter. By that I mean the <b><i>glitter particles </i></b>are quite big. If you're looking for a way to really make your cheekbones pop, hence its inclusion in this edit, you're on to a winner with this one. It's particularly suited to us <b><i>cooler tones</i></b>, which is why it was recommended to me, but warmer tones can also rock it's lavender colour like a pro. Again, steady as she goes with this one.</div>
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Catrice Prime and Fine Highlighting Powder</i> in <i style="font-weight: bold;">Fairy Dust</i>. This was one of those, spotted it, swatched it, bought it products. I told anyone who'd listen about the beautiful new highlighter. It's super fine, champagne, shimmer catches the light just right for a real <b><i>je-ne-sais-quoi effec</i></b>t on the cheeks. A great product for making your cheekbones, cupid's bow or brow bone pop. If you didn't get your hand on the Chanel Spring/Summer highlighter, this is not a bad alternative.</div>
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Of course we can't talk about a pop of colour without mentioning lips, and no brand had impressed me more recently for colour and finish than <b><i>Rimmel</i></b>, especially <i style="font-weight: bold;">Apocalips </i>in<i style="font-weight: bold;"> Apocaliptic</i> and <i style="font-weight: bold;">Moisture Renew </i>in <i style="font-weight: bold;">As You Want Victoria</i>. There' more than one common denominator between these two. You could easily have one over the other or, if you're anything like me, why not have both?! Equally amazing colour from the two, out of this world <b><i>raspberry red</i></b> with a hint of magenta. Super-glossy finish that just keeps on going and instant pay off at even the slightest touch. No such thing as just a stain of colour with either of these, it's go big or go home.</div>
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How do you add a pop of colour to your routine?</div>
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What's your favourite colour for brightening up these dark mornings?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-21550363085388336762013-11-05T21:30:00.000+00:002013-11-05T18:37:27.452+00:00Colour Week - Day 2 - Autumn Leaves<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLcGoZ6foDYOmDyEmvat4eZpRbQe8FSILSIfISGY86kQDOXE3vcVtqNdMRpcD9RoWhShgeoAYP_vvle_abS7Opaah-YoK0Yzn4kBrusOoMfAbd5ZF8xL5L4ggc6wLk-7yJlxisIe4s-M/s1600/_DSC5543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLcGoZ6foDYOmDyEmvat4eZpRbQe8FSILSIfISGY86kQDOXE3vcVtqNdMRpcD9RoWhShgeoAYP_vvle_abS7Opaah-YoK0Yzn4kBrusOoMfAbd5ZF8xL5L4ggc6wLk-7yJlxisIe4s-M/s640/_DSC5543.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Perfect on fair skins, take inspiration from the world around</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Trying to bring in a bit of extra colour into your everyday makeup doesn't need to be complicated. At this time of year there is plenty of inspiration all around us, and fairer skin tones glow when teamed with warming orange shades. And in a strange turn of events ... they're all matts.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>Coral caused a bit of a craze not long ago, and thankfully it meant the wonders of the orange/coral blush on fair skins became abundantly clear.<br />
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Prone to redness and high colouring, I myself are better off avoiding pink blush but more than that, orange shades are simply gorgeous and so unexpected. They're just what you need to warm up the complexion without looking flushed, because let's face it with that cold breeze out there we don't need any help with that.</div>
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The most subtle of the three, <b><i>Nars Sex Appeal</i></b> is almost invisible on the skin, but just what you need if you're just looking for a little bit of life in the skin. I'm not always in love with the idea of blush, especially because of my naturally-red cheeks, but I can't leave my foundation just flat, this is the one I call on. As a matt it's great for bringing attention to your cheekbones without relying on shimmer, because let's face it sometimes we don't feel like looking like disco balls!</div>
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For a little more colour, and more options, I call on my <i style="font-weight: bold;">Vanity Professional Makeup Starburst Powder in Peach Glow</i>. It immediately caught my eye when I was looking at the range in The Beauty Boutique and was also the shade the lovely Leanne (the powerhouse behind the brand and the boutique) recommended for me. You can dip into whichever colours you need; be it darker, rich oranges, or lighter peaches with some white to highlight. Of course you can always just swirl your brush around for a bit of a boost on the colder mornings.</div>
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Don't hurt me for including Sephora, but I simply had to! When I was in Copenhagen this summer I simply had to hunt down the one and only Sephora store for a browse. Seeing as it was summer I was drawn towards <i style="font-weight: bold;">Orange Pop</i> which is a bit of a chameleon colour depending on the light. I would hazard to say it's a little more of a coral than an orange, but there's no denying it's hella bright! With just a light dusting over the cheeks, however, it transforms from a shocking neon to a beautifully warm glow.</div>
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<b><i>Some swatches, because I'm just so good to ya'll!</i></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqdoDwXaiaVUhoosTNrfhCPZK66P7LSK1yLzW2Pd5bZmj9KgCeHNX94Yq6uAlZOcz4xPLQPsc_RnTIofsFFsIkize_YMt8-dUm31E6NgGPwBLpao7kE9A583zP75Mn5wG_x3b2Cdh0mXA/s1600/2013-10-13+14.55.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqdoDwXaiaVUhoosTNrfhCPZK66P7LSK1yLzW2Pd5bZmj9KgCeHNX94Yq6uAlZOcz4xPLQPsc_RnTIofsFFsIkize_YMt8-dUm31E6NgGPwBLpao7kE9A583zP75Mn5wG_x3b2Cdh0mXA/s640/2013-10-13+14.55.26.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Vanity Makeup Starburst Powder in <b>Peach Glow</b>, Sephora <b>Orange Pop</b>, Nars <b>Sex Appeal</b></i></td></tr>
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Yes the Nars is very light, and that's some serious building up! The Sephora needs hardly any encouragement to show itself, and the Starburst Powder is the same - you need a light touch with these two.</div>
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Do you switch up your blush colours for the seasons?</div>
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Which colour should I feature next for #ColourWeek?</div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-779251232346652445.post-59598668901236062832013-11-05T17:21:00.000+00:002013-11-05T17:30:42.569+00:00Colour Week - Day 1 - Ole' Blue Eyes<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaiujMEyzFstBWLnQi3nddpGqdGY3C8pMPBjt_UXPLWcjmRDidSpCSl4K6F8najSs7ZYNep7zxtqnCJaw0SBb9n0OjggVfdgJHGA12uG4GgDksTAOWVA-Eh48d2BOBn-ocRUn6M6kOKWs/s1600/_DSC5532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaiujMEyzFstBWLnQi3nddpGqdGY3C8pMPBjt_UXPLWcjmRDidSpCSl4K6F8najSs7ZYNep7zxtqnCJaw0SBb9n0OjggVfdgJHGA12uG4GgDksTAOWVA-Eh48d2BOBn-ocRUn6M6kOKWs/s640/_DSC5532.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Bringing Blue Eye Looks Back with Inglot, Essense, Maybelline and Lancome</i></td></tr>
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If you told me the idea of blue eye shadow scared you, I wouldn't blame you.</div>
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Images of 80s music videos and 90s B-movies are pretty terrifying all on their own without re-living them in your makeup mirror when that <i style="font-weight: bold;">subtle </i>blue eye look backfires.</div>
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That said, the runways this past season have had us reconsidering. And these are just a few products to ease us into the trend...</div>
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The runways don't always give us ready-to-wear looks, however, Marc Jacobs Spring and Autumn catwalks were full of them. The most iconic was the graphic electric blue eyeliner - which is a doddle with something like <i style="font-weight: bold;">Lancôme Artliner</i>.<i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>Fine line, long lasting colour and guaranteed wow factor. I love wearing this in a fine feline flick with a dusting of champagne eyeshadow. Minimal effort, maximum impact. Similarly, a blue kohl pencil like <i style="font-weight: bold;">Essence Long Lasting eye pencil</i> is a nice way to add just a hint of colour to a neutral eye. I walked past a girl on Grafton Street who had blue pencil lightly smudged under her lower lashes with subtle black eyeliner on top. So lovely and yet so simple!</div>
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Moving into more terrifying territory, blue eyeshadow. <i style="font-weight: bold;">Maybelline Colour Tattoo </i>in <b><i>Everlasting Navy</i></b> was my eyeshadow of choice for a night out last week. It's a stunning, deep metallic blue. I blended black shadow through my crease and in the outer corner, with a lighter highlighter in the inner corner. It got the Boyfriend's seal of approval at least! Also, it didn't budge all night.</div>
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Inglot, always a great go-to when you're looking for a specific colour have everything from the easy to wear, such as <i style="font-weight: bold;">61</i> - a soft black shadow with midnight blue glitter which makes for a the perfectly shimmering smoldering eye look although you really need to build it up to get a true black, and <b style="font-style: italic;">65 </b>somewhat more daring, eye-catching indigo.</div>
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<b>Some swatches, because ya'll deserve it:</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3QiCbcYKhQymOHBLozElxfEt-AE2lTs6ClOqs4IikLkwZeaIbZsnX8dS_vqmKcK99e_vTkxJrJc2cilcD3OnKrb3Vvp_sHiqZau-reIFGeYjlTRRefQEQJ4C55IAGCbAqwwJ1dM7hMoY/s1600/2013-10-13+14.36.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3QiCbcYKhQymOHBLozElxfEt-AE2lTs6ClOqs4IikLkwZeaIbZsnX8dS_vqmKcK99e_vTkxJrJc2cilcD3OnKrb3Vvp_sHiqZau-reIFGeYjlTRRefQEQJ4C55IAGCbAqwwJ1dM7hMoY/s640/2013-10-13+14.36.46.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Essence eye pencil <b>Cool Down</b>, Inglot eyeshadow <b>65</b>, Inglot eyeshadow <b>61</b>, Maybelline Colour Tattoo <b>Everlasting Navy</b>, Lancôme Artliner <b>Blue</b></i></td></tr>
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For anyone still nervous about blue eyeshadow should check out <i style="font-weight: bold;">Sharon Farrell's How to Rock Blue Eyeshadow </i>tutorial. You'll be put instantly at ease when you see how simple (and simply beautiful) it is!</div>
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Would you dare wear a blue eye look or do you find it difficult to work with?</div>
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What other colours would you like to see featured on #<b><i>ColourWeek</i></b></div>
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Lisa</div>
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xXx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02673561532282140849noreply@blogger.com0