Since September last year I've really been getting into the gym more and I've been aiming to go three times a week. One of the things putting me off committing to the gym was my insecurity with the way I would look, especially compared to the ultra-buff gym regulars. Finding the perfect gym to suit you is definitely important and probably the biggest reason why I haven't been able to stick at it before, but sometimes, no matter where you're going, if you think you look good, chances are you feel good.
I've taken quite a long break from the blog, but what better way to start writing again than a few lipstick posts. I've talked about two of these lipsticks in my last post, 'The Perfect Pillowtalk Dupe'. Even though I love lipstick and I buy a lot of it, I only tend to wear it on the odd occasion, usually because I can't be bothered with the upkeep - lazy, I know! Either that or when I do a full face of makeup, lipstick can look a little bit much with everything else so I just opt for some lipbalm.
The new Charlotte Tilbury lipstick launches have only been out a few weeks and as soon as I saw them I fell for the hype. I've never tried 'Pillowtalk' lip liner but I'm aware of its cult following, so I decided to pick up the lipstick. Granted, these are definitely not the cheapest lipsticks on the market but when it comes to Charlotte Tilbury you can't really go wrong.
These few MAC products are my must-haves that I just can't live without. I've used most of these for months, even years and they're ultimate staples in my makeup routine. There's a good mix of products for your base, eyes, lips and even a couple of my favourite brushes - I could happily use only MAC for my complete routine. So let's start with the base...
This body lotion is like gold dust! I am a serious fake tan novice, and the thought of turning orange puts me off trying new stuff. But after hearing I Covet Thee rave about this I was up for giving it a go. I've tried one other product from St Tropez in the past, the In-Shower Gradual Tan (can you tell I'm all about that gradual tan) and I had mixed feelings. This on the other hand, I am totally in love with.
Black shoes are a staple in any wardrobe and since my feet haven't grown in years, my collection is starting to grow to a ridiculous size. I contemplated sharing all the black shoes I own but that would've been one really long and dreary post. So as a small compromise, here are a few of my favourite pairs.
This summer has been all about the glow, and I'm fully committed to keeping it up as the seasons start to change. The days are getting shorter and darker so to keep the mood light why not amp up the glow and make it last longer. My skin is also inevitably going to get dryer and a little bit sallow - the classic case of winter face - so the more glow the better. I've been loving these products to add that little extra bronze and glow to my skin and make sure that my very faint tan lasts as long as possible.
The new Chanel Le Rouge Collection for Fall '16 has launched and its all about 50 shades of red (ok, maybe not that many...). I picked up this gorgeous eyeshadow palette from the collection, in the shade Candeur Et Expérience. This is the first completely matte eyeshadow palette released by Chanel, and it comes with the appointment of new Global Creative Makeup and Colour Designer, Lucia Pica.
I enjoy applying my makeup and like to take my time when I do it, but sometimes the lie-in can't be avoided and I end up in a rush. Whenever I'm in that rush, these are my go-to products that I know I can trust. These few products range from high-end to drugstore and long-time favourites as well as some newer finds.
There's a new Charlotte Tilbury beauty counter in John Lewis, Cardiff and I could not be more excited! Its not a brand that's particularly that difficult to get hold of these days online, but nothing beats seeing the products in front of you with your own eyes and avoiding having to rely on swatches you've found online. Side note: The counter in Cardiff is big, beautiful and sparkly.
Benefit's recent brow launch includes a huge selection of products suited to everyone's eyebrow needs. Arguably the largest brow launch ever and one of the biggest this year, Benefit are jumping on the eyebrow bandwagon. Brows are like fashion, the trend changes every season and Benefits extensive range caters to any trend you fancy.
I hadn't heard much about the new Tanya Burr Soft Luxe Collection launch until the day of the launch last week. As soon as I did hear about it I ordered the two new eyeshadow palettes straight away. I was most excited about these in the collection, I'm not really a fan of nail polish and although I did like the look of the liquid lipsticks, especially Martha Moo, the other colours weren't really up my street.
I've recently made a few spontaneous trips to MAC and I've picked up a few random bits and bobs. I don't usually have a plan when I go into MAC, I usually just have the urge to pick up some new makeup bits and I know I can rely on MAC not to disappoint. MAC is a great middle-of-the-road makeup brand, its not too expensive but its definitely not your drugstore budget option. I love how much is on offer, there are over 100 shades of eyeshadow and lipstick and tons of different finishes - there's something to suit everyone!
Charlotte Tilbury's Hot Lips have been so eagerly anticipated I couldn't wait to get my hands on one of them. I knew immediately I wanted the Kim Kardashian shade, Kim K.W., a pale pink nude, but there's no denying that all these shades are absolutely stunning! I've also got my eye on Super Cindy, a taupe-nude shade inspired by Cindy Crawford as well as Liv It Up, a rosey-pink shade inspired by Liv Tyler.
When I think of lip gloss, memories come flooding back of me
as a kid layering it on like there was no tomorrow. But since then I’ve strayed
away and haven’t worn it in years. Since discovering MAC lipsticks I’ve stayed true and haven’t bothered layering gloss on top. Nowadays, when I’m
wearing a full face of makeup or even just the bare basics I tend to stick to
lip balm – I can’t really be bothered with the lipstick upkeep throughout the
day. Now that lipstick is proving to be a bit too high-maintenance, I thought
why not dabble in the lip gloss department again.
Ok... first off lets discuss this beautiful packaging - obviously its what's inside that counts but you can't deny that this is one sleek looking mascara. The shiny metal packaging gives this mascara a bit of weight, making it feel a little more luxurious (even though the price tag won't damage your bank balance too much). As well as being beautiful this packaging is also practical - the cap clicks to make sure that its properly shut, meaning the mascara won't dry out quickly.
Recently I've been trying out a few Sanctuary Spa skincare bits, and trying to incorporate them into my skincare routine. I've moved on from the face wipes that I used to use daily when I was younger and I've really started taking my skincare seriously. There's a recent post all about my daily skincare routine here, but I've been using these Sanctuary bits every now and then.
Over the last few weeks I've been slowly collecting a few bits and bobs, so I thought I'd stick them all together in a mish-mash haul. It's mostly beauty bits, with a few added extras.
I picked up this little blue pouch on a holiday in France a few years ago and it comes with me every day. I use this for my go-to everyday essentials. I thought I'd run through what I keep with me daily, besides my wallet, phone and keys.
My Cluse watch was probably the most expensive purchase I've made, but I definitely think its my best. I hadn't worn a watch for over 5 years, and I kinda felt like that was a shame. I had one of those moments where I realised whenever I needed to check the time, I'd always check my phone. The thought of relying on my phone for the time as well as tons of other things made me want to have a little freedom from it. I've started to have time without my phone during the day and its a great feeling, very peaceful.
