Tuesday 12 December 2017

Born This Way... Nah Its Make-up

I'm a firm believer in buying whatever suits your skin, and if I can find a product for half the price AND it gives me just the same coverage... then I'm going to buy the cheaper one. I am constantly trying to sniff out the best deals around. I love a good barGAIN. As of recent I started my new job at DIARY Directory, and I was lucky enough to have been able to attend the Too Faced cosmetics Flag Ship Store launch in Carnaby two weeks ago, and my god the crowd was insane. Soooo many beautiful people in one room, that also made me think 'Jesus I have no idea how to do my make-up!'.

The event was amazing, influencer galore, and I then had my skin matched to the perfect concealer and foundation... Fairest and Snow, yeah I'm pretty pale! Now here's the important part, whether these products are worth it. In all honesty, I love them both and think they are fab, but if I had to choose one over the other it would definitely be the foundation. I don't use foundation every day, I am actually a concealer girl through and through, but this one is a bit too thick for my skin. I'm definitely better off with my Soap and Glory Trick and Treatment. But...this foundation is an absolute DREAM! You only have to put the smallest dab on and you are covered, and it lasts throughout the day. No having to re-apply at work HAZAH! 

Too Faced products are definitely a new favourite of mine and are giving Benefit and Soap & Glory a run for their money. Watch this space for more product reviews soon!


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Tuesday 14 November 2017

Busy In Brighton

Exciting news guys! I am currently in-between jobs and am taking a week's holiday to relax and rejuvenate before starting my new editorial role, more info on this soon. I decided to use these days of relaxation to take a trip down to Brighton and Hove, for a little getaway and to catch up with an old friend. I had visited Brighton before, but never really soaked up the seaside, coffee culture and delicious brunch spots. 
We started the day by stopping for a quick cuppa and Bond St. Coffee, a cafe that I have heard serves up arguably the best coffee in Brighton, and that it was... delish! 
After sipping on my Flat White, we ventured around the lanes, taking a look at the market stalls, and partook in much window shopping (payday can't come sooner!). 
Our next adventure... lunch. I was taken to a fiery sandwich store, Hell's Kitchen. 
Out of the 7 Deadly Sandwiches, I chose Sloth. A seedy roll filled with bacon, avocado, rocket, peppered tomatoes, and pesto. Sheer perfection. After which, we made our way through the Pavilion, and on to the water's edge and Pier to view the sunset. 
It was a much deserved fun-filled day with good company



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Sunday 15 October 2017

Magnitone's New BlendUp Vibrasonic Beauty Brush!

So this post has been a long time coming, but I don't like writing a review of a product until I've given it a good try and tested it a few times. As a Magnitone Babe, I had the honour of receiving their newest product, BlendUp, a few days before its official launch. None of us were told what we would be receiving in the post, and as Mangnitone usually produce skincare and beauty based products I was so excited when I opened up my parcel to find this absolute gem!
BelndUp uses the same technology as their original BareFaced cleansing brushes, and is the very first vibrasonic makeup brush! The idea is that the consistency and fluidity of the vibrations create an even and smooth distribution of makeup, whether it be bronzer, blusher, or even foundation!  
I was so excited to try it out for myself, and over the past three weeks I have used this wonder brush for contouring, bronzers and blush. I will at some point try it out for foundation, but as this isn't part of my every-day makeup routine I will leave this for a special event or occasion. 
It's safe to say that this brush is fab! My usual makeup brushes (ABODY) are in fact the best I have ever used, and I stand by that they are the best (non-vibrasonic)for blending, eyeshadows and contouring, but this brush is a total winner and out of this world! Everyone experiences the odd skin patch that often collects and clumps your powder. I get this often on my cheeks in the morning and have to use my fingers to smooth and pat it out. BelndUp does exactly what it says on the tin, it glides over your skin to give the softest, most natural, and airbrushed effect. If you're using this new product from Magnintone its safe to say you will not experience any clumping or streaks. 
Oh Magnitone, you've done it again. Such genius! I will be using this brush for Halloween to create a mermaid inspired look, so keep your eyes peeled for pictures and how-tos! 

If you're interested check out their website HERE
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Wednesday 4 October 2017

Out and About in Notting Hill

So I know it seems a bit delayed, but I wanted to share with you all the fun I had out and about in Notting Hill two weeks back with one of my best friends. We found some great gems, including the best Gin & Tonic we have ever tried from The Distillery on Portobello Road, and the hustle and bustle of live acts and music whilst making our way through the famous market itself. 
We started off brunching at the Farm Girl cafe, which unfortunately was a bit of a let down. Yes, if you want a good instagram, sure go there, but the line was long, service slow and unpleasant, and the food was quite average for a brunch (my ultimate fave is still MILK in Balham). 
We then trotted through the markets and made our way to the Biscuiteers cafe, Notting Hill Bookshop (a dreams come true movie moment), and then off for a good old drink.

 It was a fab day exploring. I forgot the sheer experience of Notting Hill and The Portobello Market, the atmosphere is amazing, and SO many amazing street artists that you can stand and listen to for hours. 

If anybody has any recommendations around the area please let me know, I'm sure I'll be strolling around again soon!
 

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Thursday 21 September 2017

Taylor's 32: An All-Natural Whitening Toothpaste

Taylor's 32 are a natural toothcare brand, which unlike so many other toothpastes are free from SLS, artificial preservatives, sweeteners and abrasives. It's safe to say when this product turned up in my Glossybox I was super excited to get some use out of it! They gifted me the Grapefruit & Mint flavour, and although I'm a massive fan of Grapefruit, most of my toiletries that feature this are soap oriented, so I wasn't quite sure how I felt about it...

My first use of the toothpaste wasn't actually too fab. As I had been used to typical toothpaste brands such as Oral B and Colgate, I only put a smidge of a dot on my toothbrush, and after the first use I was worried that it wouldn't leave my breath minty fresh, and in addition used mouthwash directly after, which definitely defeated the purpose of using this brand! But after a week of use, and trialing and testing using different amounts (ALWAYS USE A BIG DOLLOP), I have fallen in love with this fresh toothpaste, and am already starting to see my teeth looking whiter and brighter! I think next time I might take a wack of the classic mint, but it was nice to try a toothpaste with a flavour of something a little different. 

Beaut brand and beauty product, I would highly recommend!

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Wednesday 6 September 2017

Trying Out Magnitone's BareFaced Vibrasonic Cleansing Brush


It's taken me a while to test out this one, but after a month of using this beauty, I can now give an honest review on how the Barefaced Brush effects and cleans your skin. I have previously used other non-electronic cleansing brushes that have been tough on my skin, and instead of feeling the positives of brushing away oils, impurities and dead skin cells, the only thing that I could think about was how harsh and painful they left my skin. When I first used Magnitone's Vibrasonic brush, I was so wary of it being the same. I hesitantly put the brush head on my skin, scared it would leave my skin stinging and in pain...

I chose to go with the original brush head, rather than take a wack at the one designed for sensitive skin just so I could see a comparison, but because the original was so soft, I haven't had to use the other yet! I then grabbed the instruction manual to make sure that I was using the tool right...

1. Remove all makeup and apply your usual cleanser. In this case, I used the Dirty Works Creamy Cleanser, I love the smell and how soft it leaves your skin. 
2. Wet the brush and choose which mode you would like, normal or pulsing. 
3. Let the vibrations do the work and glide gently over your skin in small slow circles. 
4. Every 20 seconds the brush will beep, after which continue to another section of your face.
5. After 1 minute the brush will turn off and you're all set!
This cleanser and brush are an absolute match made in heaven. Although the day after use you may witness some spots coming to the surface of your skin, after a few weeks you will really see improvements all around. My skin has become less oily and blotchy, something I'm sure everyone would appreciate on a daily basis! 
Magnitone is such a fab brand, and I'm so lucky to have been able to review this product for them. If you are looking to try one out for yourself check out their website - HERE 

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Tuesday 22 August 2017

#Magnitonebabe Wipeout! Cleansing Cloth Review

Anybody following my Instagram account will know that I have just become a Magnitone Brand Ambassador! Super exciting stuff. And as I am now a Magnitone Babe, I have been ever so lucky enough to receive a box of goodies to review, especially for you guys! 

The first of their products that I have been particularly excited to review is their Wipeout! Cleansing Cloth, a cloth makeup remover that works just by adding hot water! It's great for those with sensitive skin, looking to avoid nasty and harsh chemicals. 
After giving it a good soak in the washing machine at 30, I tried it out for the first time yesterday evening, and it did not disappoint. The cloth is like the softest and fluffiest flannel you have ever touched and wipes off your face in seconds. You don't have to scrub at your face harshly, and its soft on your skin, perfect for me as so many products end up stinging my face! 
 The only downside is that unlike your common makeup wipe, you can't just throw it in the bin and get rid of the makeup remnants, it does leave a stain on the cloth. I suggest using the cloth nightly, and then after a week popping it back in the washing machine for a good clean, so it's then spic and span for the next! 

Thanks so much, Robyn and the team at Magnitone. Next up will be the Barefaced Daily Cleansing Brush- looking forward to it! Grab your own cleansing cloth HERE 
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Sunday 13 August 2017

KIKO Milano Bargain Buys

Hiya all, sorry that It's been fairly quiet on the blog recently. Summer is a busy time, but I have lots of new posts coming up and exciting things for the upcoming months! 

If you haven't seen on my Insta account, I have just got back from being in Italy for a short holiday, just north of Luca. A fab week spent eating, drinking, sleeping and chilling by the pool (I did play tennis a few times to get a bit of exercise in). On our final day, we went to Viareggio to spend some time bathing on the beach, but I couldn't resist a little bit of shopping! KIKO Milano had a sale on, and when I walked inside to see bargain buckets of beauty and makeup products I just couldn't help myself...

I was amazed, and with the total of these two products, Super Duper Less is Better Cream Blush and Signature Eyemarker Liquid Liner, totaling to only three euros sixty, I am now looking back thinking I was a total fool and should have stocked up and bought Birthday and Christmas presents in advance! 

I assumed that as they were so low in price that they must have been lacking in quality, and I was so so wrong. Okay, so I've only been using these two products for the last two days, but in that time I can truthfully say that this is the nicest cream blush that I have ever used, the tone is beautiful, and it lasts leaving your cheeks flushed and blushed for hours at a go. The liquid eyeliner is also a steal, the application is fab, leaving thick and clean lines instantly, without having to press down hard onto your skin. Unfortunately, the precision isn't as great at the Bareminerals liquid liner that I usually use, but for one euro it's pretty amazing, and I usually end up using a cotton bud to smooth and shape each line anyway. 

I am pretty chuffed with both of these. I SHOULD HAVE BOUGHT MOREEEE, WAHHHH 

Kristy x

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Monday 31 July 2017

Rimmel London's new Stay Matte Lip Colours

So I've recently joined the Influenster gang, and luckily enough my first voxbox package was these lovely Rimmel London Stay Matte Lip Colours! These really have been a fab introduction to the Influenster programme, and have made me rethink my daily makeup routine. They are quick and easy to use, and last throughout the work day. 
I was sent 5 new beautiful shades; Midnight, Blink Pink, Rose & Shine, Blush, and Latte To Go. So far I have only worn Blink Pink, Rose & Shine, and Blush, for either a night out or to go to work, as I believe those are the three that are better suited to my complexion. Don't worry I will be sharing more pics of how to pull off those other daring shades soon on my Insta!
Whilst trialing these products I was slightly skeptical, as I had previously heard reviews that they flake and come off fairly easily. I have to say I completely disagree, and that even when wearing the Blink Pink on a night out drinking, it still remained on my lips when I ventured back at around 1 in the morning. I think that this may indeed be affected by the smoothness of your lips, due to the matte nature of the lips colours they do tend to dry them out, so if you have naturally dry lips I'd give them a quick exfoliation before wearing these, as it's likely to improve the chances of them staying on for longer. 
I usually steer away from any products that even slightly resemble lip gloss, but these are a must! 

K.x

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Tuesday 11 July 2017

Working Out for Busy People

After graduating last June I wrote a few blog posts on 'How to Exercise at Home' and 'How to Achieve A Good Gym/Work Balance'. Since then I have moved from being the My Baba Editorial Assistant to a Product Stylist for good old Net-A-Porter, a job that isn't your standard 9 to 5, but rather 8 to 6, although I can't complain as I now have a 4 day week! I've also just moved from home to my new place, and have joined a fab new gym called Bounce. I thought I'd do a little fitness post, as I haven't in so long, to celebrate my new membership!
 
 On my extra day off I try to get to the gym in the morning, in addition to a workout session at the weekend and Yoga practice every Wednesday Rules. I've realised that getting yourself to the gym 3 times a week just isn't always possible for everyone, so I thought I'd write a post for those of us who are only getting to gym 1-2 times a week, and how to get the most out of your sessions. 

1. Train Full Body: 
If you are only getting down to the gym 1-2 times a week you want to be maximising each session by hitting your whole body.

2. Use Compound Movements:
 target the largest muscle groups as this will burn more calories and get most out of the session: think pushes, pulls and squats.

3. Superset Movements and Use Circuits: 
Save time, allow you to work your whole body without being there for hours, this also keeps the intensity high, keeping your heart rate up, meaning you will get cardiovascular benefits as well as strength gains.

4. Train Core Stability Not Abs:
 to be the most efficient, work to stabilise your core, not just doing 1000s reps of crunches which work the superficial muscles. Work the functional ones to get the benefits that a strong core gives you (reduced back pain etc).

5. Finish off with Some Sprints:
 To maximise cardio benefits as well as strength training, jump on a bike or treadmill and push out 4-6 all-out sprints for 20 seconds, taking as long as you need to recover between, but make sure you are going full-out during the sprints. This finisher will have your heart rate through the roof, just make sure to bring a sweat towel!
Here's an example session that I am using at the moment:

Strength Circuit 1
3 sets of:
Squats with Barbell x10
Bench press with Dumbbells x10
Bent over rows with Dumbbells x10
(Resting 1-2 minutes between each set)

Strength Circuit 2
3 sets of:
Stiff Leg Deadlifts with Barbell x15
Standing Dumbbell Shoulder press x15
Machine lat pulldown x15
(Resting 1-2 minutes between each set)

Core circuit
3 sets of:
-Plank on Swiss Ball for maximum hold
-Russian twists with medicine ball x15 each side
-Super-mans 3-5 on each side 

HIIT Cardio(Bike or Treadmill)
Start with a 2-3 minute warm up to get the blood flowing
Perform 4-6 all out Sprints for 15-20 seconds
(Rest as long as needed between Sprints)
Take a 3-5 minute cooldown on the machine
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Saturday 24 June 2017

Holiday Hot List

So I've just got back from Mexico, a week of beautiful tropical weather. We experienced blue skies, sandy beaches, cool pools, as well as tropical rainstorms and trekking through the rainforest in well... rain. Now I'm back I thought I'd share my holiday hot list. One of the best parts about the lead up to a holiday is that you have an excuse to get in some sneaky shopping because let's be honest you can't wear everything you wore on last summer's vacay, even if nobody else remembers, you will. Run round the shops and take in the summer vibes, a new summer wardrobe gives you a feeling like no other! 


I've put together a holiday checklist, of all the items, whether fashion, beauty, or accessories, that I think every girl needs in her suitcase this summer. 


1. A Selection of Sunglasses

From top to bottom: Marks and Spencer, Rokit Vintage, Matalan.

2. SUNCREAM

Did not burn once with these! a bit more on the expensive side for suncream but they are VERY water resistant and you shouldn't have to re-apply (although I did because I have very pale skin).

 3. Beach Bag 

A beauty from Primark

4. Beauty Essential: Hydrate + Refresh Spray

I've already sung my praises about this product for a while, but this is great for cooling yourself down when you get all hot and bothered. 

5. Sliders

My Zara Basic (bitch) sliders. I'm in love.

6. Beauty Essential: Mini Toiletries 

Always great as you can ditch them before packing for the plane home.

7. A Super-Cute Sports Bra (I had the best yoga session on the Sky Bar overlooking the beach)

This one was a purchase from GAP, it's super-comfortable and stretchy, great for yoga! 

8. A Good Read (A suggestion from Sheerluxe)

So I'm currently half way through this but can honestly say it's a great read. It's an assortment of short stories from different women's perspectives. Not light-hearted, but a very good read! 

9. Kaftan 

This little number was a purchase from H&M. There are so many kaftans on the market right now, but some people are charging far too much for them. This one is a perfect throw-over for at the beach or by the pool. 


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Sunday 28 May 2017

Binging at Brick & Liquor

Just over a week ago I headed over to the best new hotspot in Tooting, Brick & Liquor. A few nibbles and just one drink soon turned into trying out a few too many from their brand new cocktail menu, which was released the day we visited. 
We started off with a Clover Club, Vanilla-infused gin, lemon juice, egg white & homemade raspberry syrup, typical of my usual drink of choice, sweet and fruity. 
We then nibbled on their Carnivore Platter, all elements bursting with flavour as the next. Teriyaki Steak Skewers, Chicken Lollipops, Pincho Moruno Lamb and Rum & Coke Ribs, served with our home roasted focaccia and our Brick & Liquor dips. One word. YUM. The focaccia and rum and coke ribs where the highlights of the platter, and are making my mouth water just thinking about them.  

In celebration of their new menu, we were then asked behind the bar to make a cocktail of our choice. I went for the Deconstruct-Reconstruct, a cocktail very similar to a Bramble, A deconstructed cocktail with Beefeater gin, lemon, sugar, egg white & Crème de Mure. It was absolutely delicious, but be careful as gets stronger as you drink it, with a mini beefeater gin bottle hung upside down, slowly seeping into the drink as you slurp through. 
Finally, we saw off the night with a Ninety 9. Bring back those childhood memories with Absolut vodka, apple, vanilla liqueur,& vanilla foam. They top it off with some whipped cream and a wafer, so it looks just like a 99! 

A 10/10 experience! I'll be back, and will be the first in line to the opening of their second bar opening in Clapham this Summer!

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Sunday 14 May 2017

Going Bananas Over Zeadora

Recently I've been lucky enough to receive my gorgeous STEPHANIE clutch from Zeadora, a brand that came to my attention via instagram for their simplistic designs and beautiful marbled texture bags. 
The first collection was named after the founder Lisa's Grandmother, Zea Theodora, and were all entitled after her favourite songs that she used to play on the piano. I feel that brands that have these extremely personal touches seem to have an extra drive and liveliness behind them, which is most definitely the case for the Zeadora boxes! The second collection, which my STEPHANIE clutch is part of, became more vibrant and bold in their designs, but just as luxurious as the originals, whilst appealing to a wider audience. 
Each clutch comes with their own duster bag (as all good bags do), and two changeable gold and/or silver straps, depending on your choice of design. Mine currently dons the heavier and thicker chain, for a more casual day-to-day look, but I know that I will definitely be using the thinner one come my Summer holiday to Mexico, for a stylish evening look. 
I have to say aside from their STEPHANIE clutch, which I am undoubtedly in love with, I have also had my eye on the wonderful ROMY. Fingers crossed, I might be able to get my hands on this one after payday or as a treat for my Birthday! 
Here's a little peak at the whole collection. Thanks so much to Lisa and the Zeadora team for my bag, a timeless piece that I can strut my stuff in whether it's for a meal, day out, evening or occasion. 

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