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!

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

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

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

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. 

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Review

I've been meaning to review this product for a while, you can't escape it, its absolutely everywhere on Instagram. It's every bloggers go-to, so I thought it was about time I saw what all the fuss was about. At a pretty expensive price (£10) I was hoping for good things! 

As some of you may know from my previous reviews and posts, I tend to steer clear of makeup wipes as I have very sensitive skin and they often sting my eyes and face. At the moment I tend to stick with Garnier's Sensitive Skin Micellar Water, A product that I have also reviewed and is one of the only products that I repeatedly buy month-in and month-out, so Bioderma has a lot to live up to! Picking up the product in the chemist I found myself thinking 'its the same product for double the price. Why am I buying this?!', but hey I fell into the instagram trap. If other bloggers love it then so must I... right? 

After using this product for two weeks I can say that It is definitely a good makeup remover that treats sensitive skin with care. Dare I say it, it may even be just as good as Garnier's masterpiece that is their Micellar Water, but there is one thing that is better, and some people may say justifies the doubled price... the strength of the remover. You only need a few drops of this micelle solution to remover a full face of makeup! I find myself squirting ample amounts of Garnier's solution on a cotton wool pad before taking off my face, but this only needs one or two drops and you're done! In conclusion, you may say that although this product is £10, that it will last just as long if not two-three weeks longer than it's competitors, and is worth the price. It's weighing up the options and whether you can justify spending £10 on a makeup remover. For myself, I will be buying this product when I want to treat myself, but for when I'm budgeting and looking to save money, I'll be sticking to Garnier. 

Hope you've enjoyed this review! 

K.x

Crackers Christmas Presents 2016!

Happy 2017 everyone! I would like to say a big thank you to all of you who follow the blog, and although it has been a bit quiet lately in terms of posts, 2017 is going to be a good year and I will be pushing myself to write more and more content for you guys. To start the year off I thought I'd do a quick round-up of some of the amazing prezzies I received over the Christmas period, most of which will be having a follow-up review post, so keep your eyes peeled if you are interested in a specific product!

Benefit's 12 Days of Christmas Advent Calendar is always a good'n, my Mum has bought it for me for the past two years, and it never disappoints. This year's Girl O'clock Rock had some amazing products (and one very annoying tune every time you opened the box!), all of which were minis, perfect for travel and keeping in your handbag. The POREfessional, They're Real! Mascara, Benetint, Posietint, They're Real! Remover, It's Potent! Eye Cream, Lollibalm, Hoola, Dandelion, BADgal Lash, High Beam and Lollitint, all amazing products that make a regular appearance in my makeup bag. 

For my graduation last June I received this Crosley Record Player, an item that I knew I could keep and cherish for years to come, as well as building a collection of some ultimate vinyl classics. Pulp Fiction is a pretty awesome film, but I have always said that it's the music that brings it to life. I was lucky enough to receive the motion picture soundtrack, and I've been playing it non-stop since! 

I have been in desperate need of some new makeup brushes for a while and after being given an Amazon voucher for Chrimbo I set out to find the best brushes available. I looked at several reviews claiming that these ABODY brushes are as good as MAC or Sephora, and were only a fraction of the price! They are also a very cute baby blue colour which makes a difference to my standard black and silver. I've been using them for the past week and can honestly say that the foundation, angled powder, and straight powder brushes work like a dream, I can't wait to try out all the rest and keep you guys updated. 

• This Dainty Edge Hollow Oval Ring from Wolf & Badger hasn't come off my finger since I was given it! I may have given a few hints, but who can blame a girl! I am absolutely smitten with this gift and won't be taking it off any time soon.
• 

Last but not least is Charlotte Tilbury's Full Fat Lashes, given to me by my sister. I have previously tried the likes of Benefit, Lancome, Clinique, Rimmel, Dior, and Maybelline, and this has to be up there with my top two; BADgal and Clinique. It is a light mascara that builds with each layer, yet never clumps or gives your eyes that horrible sticky look. This is a definite keeper which I will be buying again. 

I hope you have enjoyed seeing some of my Christmas Goodies. Happy New Year all! 

Love,

K.

Beauty On A Budget: The Best Makeup Removers

Finding the perfect makeup remover for my skin is a constant and epic struggle. I suffer from sensitive and dry skin, but when using the wrong products it can also shift in the opposite direction and become greasy and spotty (I hope I'm not the only one!). So when it comes to trying out new makeup removers I'm all for it! I've always struggled with using makeup wipes as typical brands such as Johnson's, Nivea, Neutrogena and own brand skincare ranges leave my eyes stinging and watering- so I'm always on the lookout for a product that not only swiftly leaves me makeup free, but is also pain-free! I've done a quick round-up of my current top makeup removers, that are especially good for those with sensitive skin. Hope you enjoy!

1. Simple, Kind To Skin Micellar Cleansing Wipes

These are the most recent addition to my makeup remover collection. I received them as a freebie from my Fat Buddha Yoga Class last week along with your typical health bars and coconut water. I highly recommend these wipes, they are one of the few that doesn't sting my eyes and are super gentle on your skin. The only downside is that I feel you need to scrub your face quite hard to make sure all of your makeup is off, otherwise you wake up with panda eyes in the morning, and nobody wants that! 

2. balance me, Flash Cleanse Micellar Water

Can you see a trend forming yet? Yeah, I'm kind of in love with micellar, it's a beauty product that I love as it's extra gentle on your skin, unlike other harsh removers. I have previously reviewed this remover in the past, but my opinion remains the same. This formula was great and left my skin clean and pain-free within a few wipes. I only have two criticisms; 1. The bottle says to push down twice and apply, I would instead recommend pumping at least 3-4 times (but no biggy), and 2. The smell of the product isn't that great. For something like this I'd say either go completely scentless or go full-on, this was neither and smelt a bit like a mild bathroom cleaner (I've got to be honest). All in all, this is a great product, I will be using it until the bottle is finished, but I'm not sure if I'll be purchasing it again.

3. Garnier, Micellar Cleansing Water

I've raved about this product on a number of occasions, but I can't help it! It's truly one of the best makeup removers I've ever used, and it's perfect for my sensitive skin. This specific green formula is a combination for sensitive skin, but the original pink colour 'for even sensitive skin' is just as soft on my skin. 

 An added bonus is that it doesn't dry out my face, usually, waters and tonics removers do this, but my skin is left super smooth and clean.

4. Yes To, Coconut Cleansing Wipes For Dry Skin

As you've probably seen Yes To are a current favourite brand of mine and have featured at my Brand Of The Week around a month ago. I decided to try out these coconut wipes as they are supposed to relieve dry and cracked skin. The wipes smelt great and took off my makeup fairly easily, but unfortunately did sting my eyes, but many of my friends now swear by these after my recommendation- so for those with less sensitive skin I'd say give these a go! 

5. Yes To, Cucumber Soothing Hypoallergenic Facial Wipes

These were a clear winner for me, along with the new Simple wipes, these are the only two brands that have left my skin sting free, fresh and clean. The smell is refreshing and subtle, perfect for everyday use! 

I hope this helps anybody looking to change-up their skincare routine and try out new makeup removers.

Love,

K. 

Beauty On a Budget: Rimmel vs Soap & Glory

I haven't done a beauty on a budget post for a while, but since my uni-work life transition, I've realised that I definitely still need to be saving-savvy with all my beauty products If I want to be able to have good makeup, nice clothes, and go out with my friends! I've decided to compare two of my favourite concealers, both under £10, and that I believe are an absolute bargain. 

1. Rimmel London's Wake Me Up Concealer

In the past, I have mentioned how this is one of the best concealers for the price you pay (a mere £5.49!). It's perfect to brighten your eyes in the morning and hide those horrible bags. I simply apply this product under my eyes, on my forehead, and on my chin, all in the shape of an upside down triangle, then blend with a concealer brush. It's as good as any benefit product that I've purchased and has been a clear favourite of mine for the past year. The only downside is that due to its liquid nature it tends to sweat off quite easily, which means re-applying it a number of times throughout the day. 

2. Soap and Glory's Kick Ass Blur and Brighten Crayon

I bought this product a little over 3 weeks ago, to try out a new concealer and see whether there is anything else about that is better quality and better value for money. I've been using it every morning since! This product is amazing. I apply it in the same way I previously stated (triangles under my eyes, the centre of my forehead, and on my chin), and it lasts all day long. I wake up for work and put on my makeup at around 7.30 each day and I don't need to re-apply this until I leave work at 5! It's slightly thicker in texture to the Wake Me Up concealer and seems to cover up blemishes a lot faster and easier. The best part? This Kick Ass product is only £6! 

Although I love both of these products to bits in this beauty on a budget battle there is one clear winner... Soap and Glory's Kick Ass Blue and Brighten Crayon!

I hope this helps you if you're looking for beauty on a budget!

K. x 

Brand Of The Week

This week I've gone for a brand that is relatively new and are producing some really fab beauty products that I just can't wait to get my hands on. This week's brand of the week is...

These guys are fab! It has got to be one of the coolest blogs for makeup tutorials and lifestyle posts, I am addicted. And, to top it all of they've just released the coolest and most colourful makeup brushes ever(in addition to their nail polish and makeup). I'm tempted to throw all of mine out and start again, so my set is a beautiful rainbow of colours. I'll be posting really soon with a review... so keep an eye out! 

Go check out their website here

K.

Beauty on a Budget

Being a University student, I know the trails and tribulations of trying to keep your makeup collection in good nick whilst abiding by  a limiting budget. So here are a few of my favourite products, all under £10!

Bourjois Bronzing Powder (£7.99)

This is the best drugstore powder out there! It is second to my favourite, Hoola, and is great for daily-wear due to its matte finish.

Seventeen High Drama Liquid Eyeliner (£3.99)

I never go too pricey with liquid eyeliner, there's no need! This beats Rimmel as it lasts a full day, so there's no need to top up on the run!

Maybelline Great Lash Very Black Mascara (£4.99)

This is up there with the greats, Lancome, Clinique and Benefit. ItS one of the only drugstore mascaras that leaves my lashes lush and long, avoiding clumpy black bumps.

No7 Concealer Brush & Eye Colour Brush (Both £8.00)

I got these in a set for Christmas and they are absolutely brilliant. I tend to wash them on a regular basis (I've previously ruined a few brushes from forgetting to do this) and use them daily. They are as good as Mac or Sephora, and way under half the price.

The Groovy Food Company Coconut Oil (£5.99)

I've only started using this in my beauty routine fairly recently, I used to think you could only cook with it. So i've got into using it for my dry hands in the evenings, and to shave my legs, leaving them smooth and hydrated. 

I hope this helps anyone trying to keep to a tight budget!

K.

Summer Bronzers 101

So this post may be slightly pre-emeted, but I just can't wait for Summer 2016! So let's get those summer vibes going with my top 6 Bronzers to give yourself that sun kissed glow...

Benefit

£23.50

Just turned 15! Hoola is benefit's world-wide loved matte bronzer. I can't get enough of it, I use it all-year-round! It's great for stroking over your cheeks to wake up your skin, I also use it when contouring for nights out.

Too Faced

£25.00

This is another beaut! Slightly dimmer than benefit's hole but suits all complexions, giving a chocolatey layer that can be used all over your face to help give you a more chic than bright-and-cheap look.

Rimmel

£5.99

This just has to be one of the best bronzers, as well as one of the cheapest, this is a definite steal! whether your 12 and buying your first bronzer or a 22 year old off to work, this is great for day-to-day wear. 

the Balm

£15.00

Now unfortunately I have not had the pleasure of trying the Balm's Bahama Mama, so this feature should alternatively be on the I WANT list. I have only heard great reviews, suggesting its on par with the likes of Benefit. So when I get my hands on this one you guys will be the first to know!

Bourjois

£6.39

This was probably my second love, after Rimmel, a timeless classic that will be there for me through and through. Whenever times are hard and i'm low on cash this is the best bronzer to give me my daily need.

Bobbi Brown

£33.00

This one is slightly cheeky of me, as Its not actually a frequent member of my own makeup bag, it's always in my mums! I can't help sneaking it into my clutch for a night out when i'm in a shimmer bronzer mood, rather than my usual matte (sorry mum!).

K.