2016 FAVOURITE FAVOURITES | PART 2

I hadn't originally intended to make my 2016 Favourites into a two parter but when I found what is now Part 1 taking on a long life of it's own I decided to carry on today with the eyes and the lips.

Lorac Pro Palettes are well known in blog circles and they are still one of the now few US releases that are difficult to get hold of in the UK, and even if you're lucky enough to head to the US tracking down an Ulta that have them in stock is your next problem. I'm lucky to have a US Beauty mule in the form of my friend Rose who placed an order for me and shipped it over and I'm so thankful she did. On first impressions I thought the Lorac Pro Palette 3 was a little disappointing compared to Lorac Palettes 1 and 2 which I also have. Was this palette just a little too neutral and boring for even little old me who is not skilled with eye make up. The answer is not at all and this is a palette I reach for, and have reached for on an almost daily basis. So much is the love that I'm due to embark on a declutter of my make up and think it's time to part ways with some of my eyeshadows that are left behind and unloved.

One eyeshadow range I will not be parting with are my small, but growing collection of L'Oreal Infallible eyeshadows. I first picked up Amber Rush and Bronze Taupe in the US during ravings years ago and since then Amber Rush, a US exclusive at the time although it seems the range has been discontinued in the UK completely now,  has appear in favourites posts for March and June last year.

These pressed pigments are amazing and really pigmented and one of the few ranges with some shimmer that work with 'older eyelids'. I added another couple to my collection in October when I visited Las Vegas with Iced Latte the pictured shade and a favourite during December. This in particularly is apparently a dupe for Urban Decay Kitten which I can neither confirm nor deny but I can tell you its a wonderful shade that worked perfectly over the festive season.

Interestingly I have found myself neglecting my favourite Mac 217 of late for the Zoeva 227 Brush*. I find this softer than the 217 and therefore easier for blending and creating the look with my unskilled hand. I still of course have love for the 217 and it's still the product I always treat myself to in Duty Free but I think it's time to add a few more 227 to the mix.

Finally it's the brows. I know brows have been big and I should really be singing the praises of various brow pomades and the like, which I do use but it's the L'Oreal Brow Artist Plumper that I've reached for this year. Taking the place of my previous favourite, Maybelline's Brow Drama the L'Oreal addition to the line up of such products has a much more appropriate brush to work with. I have dark and thick brows so I find a sweep of this product is sufficient for 'every day make up' looks. Yes if I'm putting more effort in I'll reach for products such as the Anastasia Brow Wiz but it's not something I favour working with.

I've tried to work through my mascara stash during 2016 but the favourite product which has already been repurchased on two occasions and heading for it's third purchase is the Tarte Lights Camera Lashes. I'm tempted with the duo available on QVC such is my love although I've just seen there is one available with a bottom lash mascara which is very temping to try as I've been applying mascara to my bottom lashes more often than I have previously. This is one of few mascaras that I find gives my lashes that false lash effect and doesn't have any fall out. If I have a long night ahead this is what I'll reach for.

That said a good competitor is the L'Oreal False Lash Superstar Red Carpet Mascara which isn't as good but at a drugstore price it hits the spot. I'm even more tempted to try the Superstar X Fibre version which has been released recently as it offers a black primer as opposed to the formers white. I don't find any issue with the white but I wonder if the black improves things. If you've tried both I'd love to hear your thoughts.

As I enter 2017 I do want to address my make up collection and lipsticks is one of those areas where I have certain favourites and therefore wonder why I have so many others. Here are some picks which have been in steady rotation starting with the KIKO Impressionist Red* which was part of The Artist Collection. This is the perfect red for Summer and one I took on holiday with me loving it's staying power and creamy formula that does not dry out lips. I've only tried two lipsticks from KIKO and this collection but I would be interested in trying more based on this foray. I'll also give special mention to the complimenting lip liners which work just as well on their own if you're looking for a more matte look.

Revlon Ultra HD Matte Lip in Devotion has fallen out of favour recently but was a lip product I'd often reach for on working days when I didn't want to think about my make up too much nor worry about keeping a red shade topped up. For a matte lip they are not drying at all and if you're a fan of Rimmel East End Snob Liner (which is another favourite I recently finished) you'll love this.

A more recent favourite has been the L'Oreal Gold Obsession Lipstick in Rouge Gold. This is a wonderful shade of red shot through with a gold that adds a shimmer you don't often find in a red but doesn't give off an old fashion glittery look. I have travelled with this shade as I find it works well for as a red for all seasons thanks to the 'hidden gold' element.

Finally for lip favourites are the Maybelline Color Jolts or Paints depending where you are in the world. Mine have come from the US and the shade names certainly vary. These aren't the longest lasting lip products but they last longer than I expect for a product of it's type and I like the ease of which they're applied. I do fear their size and my usage means these will be used up very quickly.

Finally the products that finish off any make up look. I've used some artistic licence and have photographed the Maybelline Setting Spray when it has been the L'Oreal Fixing Mist I have in fact used and recently made its way to the empties pile. That said both my versions which were picked up in the US, and again I believe are different from the UK equivalents do have the same ingredients so I assume they are one and the same bar branding.

I was unsure how I felt about setting sprays and how much of a difference they make but they sit on my dressing table and I give a spritz before walking out the door. Mac Fix Plus has made more of an impact that latter half of the year about seeing Laura discussing the various ways she's been using and I've adopted one or two myself. I've gone so far as pop this handy travel size into my make up bag and it really does perk up the skin on a long day. I feel this could be a staple for 2017.

That brings a close of my make up favourites in 2016, don't forget to give Part 1 a read if you haven't already done so and do share your favourites for the past year and any thoughts you have on my picks.

*this post contains press samples and / or affiliate links

Monthly Favourites June 2016 | Holiday Edition

Whilst I was only on holiday for a week, and for just a week at the that my favourites for this month were all from my recent trip. June as a whole was one of those months were I wish I had a YouTube channel as there was so much I could’ve talked about. Instead additional loves such as OrlyScenic Route or mysecond day hair duo were mentioned in their own reviews.

Speaking of hair duos a new one appears in this favourites line up; Bumble& Bumble Surf Spray and AVEDASun Care Protective Hair Veil. Bumble & Bumble Surf Spray is a much talked about favourite for many and I’m surprised that I’ve not shared this in a favourites post before as I’m pretty sure it’s my second bottle as I like to pick up the Bumble & Bumble Surf SprayTravel Set during Summer months. Admittedly my hair requires less assistance from salt sprays currently due to it already being dryer from the colouring process but I still wanted to have it on hand and would spritz a little in before hitting the pool to add some texture to the unruly, post sleep bedhead. My friend who I was holidaying with was glad I had it to hand as he loves a little salt spray and forgot his – beauty blogger to the rescue.

My hair has always been something of an afterthought where sun protection is concerned but with blonder highlighters I wanted to avoid any sun damage and fears that I’d wake one morning with green hair! I had a little search around and stumbled on the AVEDA Hair Veil and thought that’s something new to try. A simple spray bottle that ‘forms an invisible screen’ which protects hair from sun exposure for up to 16 hours and will minimise colour fading, damage and dryness. I was quite surprised that my hair remained in such good condition which I put down in part to AVEDA’s hair veil, wearing a hat and rediscovering Bumbleand Bumble Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner.  

My routine of a morning was to dampen my hair a little with the AVEDA Veil, brush out my hair and spray some salt spray, pop on my hat and then take up residence on a sun lounger – perfect. The AVEDA Veil is a little expensive than what I would usually pay at £21.50 for 100ml – I even thought I’d discovered a travel size when I picked it up in store and was shocked at how much it cost – but it’s hand luggage friendly and a little goes a long way. I’ll be able to use this spray on my forthcoming tips to Italy next month and Las Vegas later in the year.

Another favourite for my friends and I in Menorca was Vichy Ideal Solei Double Usage After Sun Oil* (what a name!). I had been using during the trip and a couple of days in when my friend commented on his peeling skin I passed him the bottle. By the end of the week everyone was stopping by to use it and as you can see from the usage it’s barely made a dent.

As the name suggests you can use one of two ways; apply directly to dry skin or in the shower to wet skin. I used both ways, for speed the shower worked well and stopped that slightly oily slip you get on hands with any oil products but if I wanted to give my skin something of a sheen and had a little more time and was not worried about any oil on clothing then it was post shower.

I mentioned the oily slip although this is not greasy, nor unpleasant, and only a bother on the hands. On the skin itself, legs, arms and the like it gave a lovely finish and skin drank it up after a day in the sun and felt supple and moisturised. Whilst I was using SPFs and I’m not something of a sun worshipper I had a little ‘burn’ from a morning out on the open seas but I can report that I didn’t peel at all nor experience that tingly tight skin which often occurs on holidays. I’ve packed this away ready for my trip to Italy next month.

It’s over two years since Tarte Lights Camera Lashes Mascara appeared in a favourites post and here it is again, my second tube at that, making it fight for ‘holy grail’ status. Back in 2014 I said that this mascara made me want to ‘throw out all others I own’ and I feel no different now. This is the mascara at which I’ll benchmark all other mascara’s. It was the one I chose to pack for my holiday knowing that my lashes would look long, thick and volumised. I love it.

On our first night on holiday my friend commented how nice my make up looked (yay me!) and from that night on would join me to get ready and rummage through my make up bag to try out what I had. The two products she liked in particular were L’Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow in Amber Rush and Mac Extra Dimension Skin Finish in Magnetic Appeal and I agree she made good choices. I jumped on the L’Oreal Infallible hype when it did the blogger rounds and was able to pick up Amber Rush, a US exclusive during one of my trips. It’s had on and off usage and it was only the past couple of months whilst decluttering my make up that I realised how much I loved this make up. My eyelids aren’t my best feature so I need to be careful of heavily glittered lids but the infallible formula is heavily pigmented enough to work for me. I remember wearing to work one day and a colleague walked into find me admiring my eyeshadow as I had forgotten, or at best not fully appreciated how good this looks. Whilst I add some definition to the crease and liner when wearing Amber Rush it works just as well on its own making it a time saving for nights out when you’re in a rush. Amber Rush is a dupe of Mac’s Tan Pigment, and whilst I’ve never used that myself I’d still say buy the high street version. Mac Pigments last forever and they’re not the most travel friendly compared to the L’Oreal pressed pigments. This renewed love means I’m going to have to add a few more of these little beauty’s to my collection.

Magnetic Appeal is a limited edition product from the Magnetic Nude Collection that I picked up on something of a whim after seeing Jaclyn Hill raving about it way back in 2013. It was more ‘I love the look of that’ rather than knowing exactly how or when I would wear it and it has had sporadic use over the years. When it does come into its own is when I’m holidaying and I’m offering a darker skintone that lends itself better to the product. Like Mac Mineralise Skinfinishes this can be used as a highlight, blusher or bronzer depending on your skintone and Magnetic Appeal is certainly on the bronzer side for me. I use this as something of a do it all on my cheeks when on holiday and whilst it initially scared me using a lighter hand and blending it does look fantastic and will really make the skin glow which is just what we’re looking for on holiday.

Finally another unloved MAC product, Girl About Town Amplified lipstick. I’m pretty sure this was one of my first MAC lipstick purchases but I’ve been off bright pinks, this is a ‘bright fuchsia’, and it’s sat in my draw for I don’t know how long. Yes, yes it’s probably well past its use by date. It was Stacey I think I saw wearing this on Snapchat and thought that looks great, I have that and dug it out. I decided to take it on holiday knowing that much of my clothing for the trip would lend itself well to the colour. If you apply heavily this is very pigmented as the finish suggests but there’s a nice sheen to each which makes a change from the matte lipsticks everyone is tending to favour these days. I don’t normally bother with make up ‘round the pool’ but on the odd day where I wanted to liven my face up or perhaps we were heading to lunch I’d press this on to create a more muted stain which worked perfectly.

Well that wasn't quite the 'shorter' post I had intended, top marks if you reached the end!

*this post contains press samples and affiliate links

Sephora Beauty Haul

When I visit the US I must admit I'm more drawn to the budget end and much prefer browsing the aisles of the drugstores than Sephora. I don't know if it's the fact that we can buy the products online now or it's simply cheaper in Walgreens or CVS but nonetheless I still managed to come home from Florida with a few higher end purchases. And yes for the eagle eyed there are two items that were purchased outside of Sephora.

On my last trip to the US I picked up a smaller Z Palette from Sephora which you can read about in this post. It was much handier for travelling so I decided to get a larger size with a view to future trips and perhaps decanting some of my single products into the palette to make storage easier. Recently I've been going through my make up stash for this purpose and I'm even thinking of moving my Mac Eyeshadows out of their Mac Palette as Z Palettes really do afford much more room.

Next on my list was a Beauty Blender, something I'd never been tempted by before but there is only so many times you can watch a YouTube video of one in use before you need to try it for yourself. I went for the Limited Edition Red Carpet version for something different. As such a fan of red and hoping perhaps it might be more forgiving when in use I've still been too 'scared' to try it out but I'll report back when I have.

Another product I'd yet to give in to the hype was the Sephora Lip Stains of course choosing 01 Red as my starting point. It's recent appearance in my February Favourites tells you I was a fool for waiting so long to try. I've never found a lip product with the staying power of these and can't wait to add more to my collection next time I visit a Sephora.

I didn't really need a new mascara but I think the fact I wasn't finding much else to excite me on my Sephora shopping trip explains why Tarte Lights Camera Lashes ended up in my basket. I remembered this as a great mascara when I'd tried in the past and whilst it's available from QVC in the UK the dollars burning a hole in my pocket drew me in.

Moving on from Sephora I decided to have a trip to Ulta. I'd researched in advance and discovered that there was a branch in Florida a short walk from the mall I was visiting and I quite enjoyed the quiet stroll over there to browse the beauty mecca. As it happened once again, and I blame my tired feet I couldn't find much that made me want to part with my cash but I did track down the cult product from Laura Geller, her Baked Gelato Swirl Illuninator in Gilded Honey. I'm having something of a moment with highlighter and Gilded Honey is a current favourite and worthy of the hype in my eyes.

Feeling slightly despondent with the lack of excitement on my trip I found myself in Mac, somewhere I rarely browse or seek out beauty products on this type of shopping trip. Aimlessly swatching the Faerie Whispers collection I was drawn to the Foiled Shadows and their metallic finish. Fly by Twilight a silver looked amazing under the lights and I decided to treat myself to something that wouldn't get regular wear but would look fabulous for the right occasion.

As I draw to the end of this post I notice there was a lot of metallic and red in there, clearly an unexpected theme to my shopping trip.

January 2016 Beauty Favourites

I had intended to resume posting last week but with today, 1st February being a Monday and life still offering it's daily challenges I thought I'd give myself the extra week to get ahead with scheduling.

You will have noticed I missed out on Decembers favourites and whilst that was because I only had two offerings and their favoured state remained throughout the past couple of week I've bundled together to share with you today.

Starting with the Tarte Rainforest After Dark Palette. Whilst December should've been a time for glitter and sparkles, and yes there was some of that, for the most part time was short and as such leisurely make up routines were not high on the agenda. That said I wasn't ready for make up free and still wanted to look my best and the Tarte palette is perfect for that. Everything you need bar your usual base, mascara and lipstick are housed in this palette taking any decision making about what to wear away. After applying base I can pick up this palette, throw the additional products in my bag and put on in a matter of minutes. You can see some swatches and in my earlier post.

Another palette which I've swiftly fallen in love with is the Lorac Riesling Romance Eyeshadow Palette which was released as part of the Christmas 2015 collection and sadly no longer available to buy. My friend Rose sent this as part of my Christmas gift and whilst I'm sure the shades of brown are blah to some of you to me it was perfect and was the only eyeshadow selection I took on holiday to Florida with me. Like all Lorac eyeshadows the colours are pigmented and creamy and blend like a dream.

Another gift from Rose was the Covergirl Star Wars Darkside Mascara. I'm by no means an uber Star Wars fan but I do love themed packaging and a bit of fun and was excited to try this. I was surprised considering the chunky packaging that there was such a thin plastic brush but it's worked a dream. The size of the brush allows you to coat all your lashes and they fan out and lengthen nicely to give the right balance for a dramatic day look. I rarely coat my bottom lashes in mascara but have used this. Covergirls offering shows gimmicks aside you can still create a good product.

Whilst I'm desperate to try the new foundation from Chanel's Les Beiges range it was Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Fluid that accompanied me to Florida last month and reminded me how much I love it. Whilst holidaying my skin tends to be in much better condition as I'm better rested and relaxed and strangely tend to be more diligent with skincare regimes. This is a light coverage base which makes skin look as 'healthy' as they claim. I've spoke of it before and you may remember it was one use from a magazine sample that led me to making the full sized purchase. Despite being such a light coverage it gives a flawless natural base and I was quite pleased how my skin would look in my Disney selfies. My enthusiastic use means I'm currently squeezing every last drop as it reaches empty and I will definitely be repurchasing.

And finally Jo Malone Ginger Biscuit perfume the scent I might love even more than my 'signature' Chanel Coco Mademoiselle. A limited edition from yesteryear, recently returned and only available at the flagship store on Regent Street it was well worth every penny. Cheesily it's like a comforting hug especially at this time of year. I left this fragrance behind whilst on holiday and it brought an immediate smile back to my face when I returned and the chilly weather meant I was able to return to spritzing this long lasting, sweet yet mature scent.

What have you been loving this month?

Skincare Empties | July 2015

Some may have noticed that things became a little quiet and haphazard on Florence and Mary the past two weeks. Unfortunately I have been unwell with flu which completely wiped me out and left me unable to do anything blog related, I couldn't even muster the energy for a Tweet. Thankfully I'm now feeling fighting fit so it's time for some catching up to do, starting with some skincare empties.

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads

I raved about the First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads in both my May Favourites and my holiday skincare regime posts. I really enjoyed using these pads and found them quick and easy to use whilst actually feeling their effects working as well as seeing it. I was keen to repurchase immediately after noticing that the stack of pre-soaked pads were dwindling but decided to give the Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Exfoliating Pads a try when they were on offer. I plan to do a comparison post of the two shortly so I won't go into too much detail but thus far the Nip+Fab pads are falling a little short.

Decleor Aromessence Neroli Oil Serum

I have no idea where this Decleor serum came from or why I decided to throw a small size into my routine, maybe during my travels. I do know that I enjoyed using it. Decleor products remind me of old school, traditional beauty. When I was into beauty and skincare in simple terms and before I entered into the whole beauty blogging arena. The scent of this serum takes me back to mini breaks with friends where we treated ourselves to pricey facials and there was something very comforting about using this as part of my evening regime. It's a thick oil with a heavy scent that will not be too everyones tastes but as mentioned for me it put me right into relaxation mode which is just what I want of an evening. It was certainly oily but not unpleasantly so and felt like it was going to work on my skin and was a lifesaver when skin was particularly dehydrated or dull. I would definitely look to repurchase in full size despite it's hefty price tag. 

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Dynamic Serum*

I love Vichy serums but I appear to go through them like water. Maybe not so surprising since Vichy Aqualia Thermal Dynamic Serum is of a watery nature due to Vichy Thermal Spa Water in this product and said to keep continuously hydrated.

My skin is often dehydrated due to smoking, my lack of water intake (why are 8 glasses of wine easier to drink that 8 glasses of water?) and various other elements but I found that this serum would battle against these well and skin would look as if I was living a completely clean healthy lifestyle. 

I'm currently trying another similar hydrating serum so I'm keep to see how it fares against Vichy a brand I can always rely on. 

Trilogy Rosehip Oil Antioxidant+*

Another serum in my stash and one that is New Zealands best seller. As oils and serums go this was another that I preferred for nighttime as I preferred allowing it too sink into the skin and go to work whereas mornings are more of a rushed affair. My skins appearance in the morning was definitely brighter. You can read more in my review here. 

Tarte Pure Maracuja Oil

A dry skin saviour and a handy size for travel it's a perfect night time treat. A light oil that offers hydration and makes skin looks brighter come morning. I'd definitely repurchase this in a full size for my Winter skincare regime or when skin needs some extra attention. Definitely worth trying if you have dry skin. You may enjoy my other post on Facial Oil Favourites. 

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

Cleansing balms are pretty much a staple in blogger skincare regimes but I must confess my experiences are limited and I've yet to feel it necessary to explore them in great detail. My mum loves Elemis and when I spotted the Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm in her cupboard I asked to give it a try. I would argue this is very familar balm texture and it wasn't exactly pleasant to use. There was quite a waxy scent to the balm and I didn't enjoy the process of scooping from the tub and applying on to my skin. I also feel like I'm tugging at my skin rather than massaging due to it's thick texture. These little niggles aside it was a good product and certainly ensured any make up was removed from skin and there was no dryness to speak of after it's use and skin enjoyed the effects of using it. Whilst I wouldn't necessarily repurchase where I to see it on offer and/or needed a cleansing balm in my routine I wouldn't be against reusing.

A-Derma Rheaclam Soothing Eye Contour*

I can't get excited about eye creams despite my eyes being my 'problem area' with dark circles and the fine lines associated with being the wrong side of 30. Of course I use them regularly and I don't see them getting worse so it stands to reason the creams I'm using are doing their work. 

Hydrating Rhealba Oat seedling extract makes this the perfect eye cream for mornings, especially after my much mentioned late nights. 

StriVectin SD Eye Concentrate*

As mentioned in my holiday skincare regime this eye cream is never ending. I long became bored of using it but stubbornness and intrigue at how long it would actually last meant I kept using it. If you're looking for an eye cream that is cost effective this is the one. Finances aside this is a product that stakes its claims on results rather than fancy packaging. Scientific in its investigations with a no no-nonsense approach this is an eye cream that works for me. Tackling eye wrinkles (check!) and crows feet it's a great formula for use day or night. 

Ole Henriksen Grease Relief Cleansing Cloths

Ole Henriksen Cleaning Cloths are something of a blogging favourite. Despite jumping on the bandwagon I've not been overally impressed. Despite lazy attitudes to skincare in the past I've never been one for facial wipes. Yes they've had and still can have a place for late nights or short breaks but I'd rather go in with a simple facial wash that takes little more than time than using a wipe with better results.

So back to Ole Henriksen and the Grease Relief Cleansing Cloths. I picked this pack with botanical AHAs and Eucalptus to exfoliate, clarify and refine pores (in addition to the popular Clean Truth version) thinking they would be ideal for those aforementioned evenings when I didn't want to go into a full regime. Unfortunately the cloths are harsh due to their textured material and just too bumpy that I really felt like I was stripping my skin. Lack of enjoyment at using them meant they have actually dried up before I was able to use the pack in it's entirety.  

What skincare favourites have you used up recently?

*PR Sample

Tarte Rainforest After Dark Colored Clay Eye & Cheek Palette

Tarte Rainforest After Dark Coloured Clay Eye & Cheek Palette

I hadn't been tempted to place any orders from Sephora's website since it offered UK shipping as I'm lucky enough to visit the US at least once a year and have more than enough make up than one girl can use. 

That changed when I saw this gorgeous limited edition palette from Tarte and went about placing an order. How could I not? The price of $38 seemed fair for what was very much an all in one palette. I already knew I was a fan of the Park Avenue Princess Bronzer as it was included in a blush palette I'd brought previously and we all know how good the blushers are.

Throw in the gorgeous plums and golds for eyes and I was reaching for my credit card. Sadly as I hit check out I was repeatedly told 'this item is not shippable to your location'. WHAT?! I was devastated and can only assume it's due to its limited edition status although this was some time ago and its still available online so that may have changed.

So back to the time in hand. After ranting on Instagram about how I was unable to place an order for this coveted palette my fabulous blogging pal Grace asked for my address in a matter of weeks I had the palette in my hands. Isn't that just Blogger Love right there!

The After Dark palette contains one highlighter in Champagne, blush in Unleased and size eyeshadows which I've swatched for you above. A handy guide is included to show you how to use the products together and it was a favourite throughout most of Winter. That said I'm swaying towards the subtle nude rose shaded blusher as we enter Summer and thinking how amazing that gold (Up to No Gold) would look. This is the perfect palette for travelling or throwing into your make up bag when on the go. I have an event with work this week and I'm thinking this might be perfect rather than transporting all manner of products around with me

Are you a fan of these types of palettes for on the go?

Airline Approved Beauty

When a trip to Edinburgh was discussed I was naturally enthusiastic. Flights and accommodation were booked and then it came to packing and I realised that I was only allowed hand luggage and that meant a limited selection of make up and beauty products - cue panic!

All the products shown above fitted in this airline approved travel bag from Sephora as well as a few samples of moisturisers and serums to use from Kiehls. These products are also those I generally know work well and with better planning and more time (packing was somewhat last minute) I might have put more thought into double duty products.

Soap & Glory Clean On Me link
You can't go wrong with a Soap & Glory shower gel. The right size for travel, wonderfully scented what more can you ask for? Soap & Glory are great for offering many of their product in travel sizes and often on 3 for 2 offers.

Batiste Dry Shampoo in Blush link
My biggest worry was hair products. I'm so used to reaching for various products depending on whim but none were available to my in mini size nor suitable for decanting. I have since investigated and know that my favoured Bumble & Bumble Dryspun finish is available in travel size and have been testing Collab which I am loving and is also available in a handy travel size for forthcoming trips.

That aside I had a small can of Batiste in Blush available. As you will know I prefer the Brunette version which is only available in full size but the floral and fruity scented version did what I needed to give enough oomph to my hair.

Jo Malone Vitamin E Cream link
Adding this to the travel bag was something of a faux pas as I'd somehow read it was an eye cream, which it is not. I even used it as such and thought 'hmmm this is a bit greasy/oily/weird for an eye cream'. It was only the following day (when less cocktails had been consumed) I realised my error.

It's a shame I hadn't taken this along and used as intended it would've been just the thing. An oil-based moisturiser to treat dry, dehydrated or weathered skin would have been perfect after spending the day walking the cold windy streets of Edinburgh and battling snow storms. Likewise you can use on elbows, feet which I didn't benefit from during my stay. At least I'm informed for next time.

Avene Thermal Spring Water* link
The Avene Thermal Spring Water is fast becoming a travel essential for me having popped up in my beach bag and sightseeing essentials posts of last year. It was a no brainer to throw this handy can into my hand luggage. It's probably more suited to trips to sunnier climes but as a refresher from the biting wind we experienced this was perfect and suited my toner step in the regime.

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish link
An oldie but a goodie. The cleanser of choice for me whenever I travel. I've little to say but a handy travel size cleansed that works in the am and pm and tackles make up as needed.

Nivea Men Aqua Cool Deodorant link
I don't know why I have this travel sized mens deodorant but I did and took it away with me. I don't mind using mens deodorants as I find they often have quite a pleasing scent and work a little harder than female equivalents.

Tarte Pure Maracuja Oil link
Whilst I had Kiehls Ultra Facial Moisturiser by day (in sample form) due to my drier skin over Winter I still wanted to enjoy the indulgent evening step of an oil. It came to Tarte and their Pure Maracuja Oil to do the job. I love this oil (as you will know if you read this post) and as I type this post I'm wanting to dig it back out and start using day to day again.

Bumble & Bumble Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner link
As I said products that travelled to Edinburgh were those that I rely on and enjoy using. Bumble & Bumble's Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner is a range that I repurchased almost immediately after sampling travel sizes (these are decanted as I kept the bottles for this purpose). You can read that post here. This duo was needed more than ever as I was travelling without my usual styling products and it gives me enough volume to get by.

I'd love to know how you manage to travel light when working with limited liquid allowances.

*PR Sample

December Empties

Like my December favourites I'm 'late' with the products I used up last month and I better get posting as January's are hot on the heels. Towards the end of 2014 I made a conscious decision to start using products I own rather than adding more 'just because'.

Batiste Dry Shampoo, Dark & Deep Brown link
A staple in my haircare line up is Batiste Dry Shampoo. I wear the Dark & Deep Brown shade which obviously compliments my darker hair that other brands and shades don't. I tend to wash my hair daily but find this dry shampoo refreshens nicely before a night out or equally on a lazy day at home. Will I repurchase? Of course, and stay tuned for a haul in which I demonstrate that! It's up - you can read it here.

Tarte Lights Camera Lashes Mascara link
I probably could've got some more wear out of the Tarte mascara which I would say was one of my favourites for 2014. Unfortunately as the photo shows the regular lid broke towards the end of it's like and it was made difficult to open without using my teeth - not ideal. I would definitely repurchase again although my collection of mascaras is excessive and as such I need to work my way through those first.

The Body Shop Body Polish, Vanilla Bliss link
Vanilla Bliss Body Polish is just that, bliss. A present from Christmas 2013 that I put away as we went into Summer and brought out again last Winter. I love the scent of vanilla and I can definitely vouch it was more of a polish than a scrub. It's creamy yet softly gritty texture meant you could use alone without adding a regular shower gel. I do have the shower gel to compliment this and it's currently in my bathroom being used. I would definitely repurchase this as an alternative to other scrubs when I was something to gently exfoliate my skin rather than going in heavy duty.

The Wet Brush link
I have posted about my love for The Wet Brush, battled against the Tangle Teezer in this post and my stance hasn't changed. So much love do I have for this brush that as it was starting to show signs of regular use I paid the UK price via Cult Beauty (repurchase post here) to replace it. A traditional shaped brush that works through hair like a dream, it's another 2014 favourite.

Vichy Idealia Smoothing & Illuminating Cream* link
I love the Vichy Idealia Range and you will have seen this moisturiser pop up in morning skincare regime as well as the Idealia Serum and Eyes products in this post. And spoiler... it's also going to feature in my 2014 skincare favourites coming up later this week. Until I was introduced to the 'smoothing and illuminating cream' I hadn't found a day moisturisers that particularly wowed me. I love the light almost gel like consistency of this product and how my skin appears even before I slap on the make up. It's light enough for Summer and looking online I see there is one available for dry skin which would work for this time of year when my skin is on that side of the fence. Again I would repurchase and the only reason I haven't yet is my challenge to use products I already own.

Chanel Nail Polish link
Last Friday I posted about my Chanel nail polish collection and how following some use of the festive period I was using them to confirm my fears that the formula just isn't for me. Two at least have been used in their entirety, 18 Rouge Noir the classic shade we all know and love and 127 Irresistible which was a limited edition shade from some years ago. As last weeks post alludes I will not be replacing and am now on the hunt for a Rouge Noir dupe as it is a favourite shade of mine.

Ole Henriksen The Clean Truth Cleansing Clothes: Brightening link
Shock horror - cleansing wipes! It will come as no surprise that during December, the month of late nights and hangovers I emptied a pack of cleansing wipes. Whilst I generally follow a more pleasing skincare regime there are just some occasions when the fact I use a face wipes should be considered a success rather than what my pillow wipes off during the night. I purchased this face wipes during one of my US trips following some talk on the usual blogs and YouTube channels. I wasn't particularly impressed. Ultimately I don't want to use face wipes as they can lead me to be lazy. I purchased these under the heading 'if I'm going to be 'bad' use a better brand' but I didn't find them any better than the Simple wipes I used during an overnight stop off. Of course I'm sure if I looked into ingredients etc then  I might be swayed but for the few occasions I use face wipes I can't justify the cost. As such this would be a no to repurchasing.

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water link
I 'battled' the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water against the L'Oreal Version in this post and Garnier won. Whilst there was little difference I noticed at the time Garnier just pipped the post. Having finished this bottle and took to using a bottle from L'Oreal I had in my drawer before repurchasing I've noticed a bigger difference in how dry my skin feels. As I've mentioned my skin is drier at this time of year so likely doesn't help but I definitely find a slight tightness in my skin from L'Oreal which I don't with Garnier. I use a micellar water to remove my eye and/or face make up before going in with a cleanser of an evening. I seem to be going through the L'Oreal version far quicker than the Garnier but as soon as that bottle sees itself in an empties post I will be repurchasing.

Soap & Glory Hand Food link
Finally, no surprises is another hand cream. This small travel size has floated around in bags, hand luggage and the like and finally come to it's end. A full size sits on my desk at work and I'm sure I'll repurchase another travel size for my Summer holidays. The scent is amazing and product itself does what it should. If you're interested in giving it a try they currently have 3 for 2 on Soap & Glory products so it's a good time to stock up.

I'd love to know your thoughts on any of these products, especially face wipes and micellar waters.

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March Favourites

After Friday's lost passport saga (read the updated post on that here) and thankfully finding said passport I can now bring you my first ever favourites post. This is something new for me and I won't be sticking solely to beauty items as I think it'll make things more interesting if I post something more varied, so without further a do…

Yellow Dress from Warehouse link
I wore this yellow dress from Warehouse to a wedding recently with the LK Bennet shoes and bag you may remember from my Bicester Village haul here and I've never felt better. A visit from the hairdresser before I jumped into a cab and one of those days were your make up look exactly how you want it too. The photo above with my friends is an accompanying favourite and has caused a stir on the usual social media channels with everyone commenting on what a great photo of us all it is - I definitely think it's one to be framed.

Greys Anatomy
Whilst there are still a number of programmes on series link for me to watch I'm finding it harder to find TV series' etc that I really enjoy and want to commit time to watching. Greys Anatomy despite being in it's tenth series is still one that I love as much as the first episode.
I've never known a program that can generate such adrenaline from watching whether it's its from excitement or shock and has managed to consistently keep my attention episode after episode, series after series. Of course some series start with new characters one or two I might instantly gel with and then a few minutes in you're waiting for their next move whilst enjoying the developing of the existing ones as their lives move and change with the times.
Only recently I watched an episode which I actually jumped off my sofa for in glee and full on gasped in excitement. The only sad thing is none of my friends or family watch it so I have no one to gossip about it with. A work colleague loves it too but she's a series behind me so I have to be careful not to give away any spoilers so please if you enjoy the show too let me know.

Barry M Gelly Hi Shine Lips in Capella link

I think I might love lip crayons more than lipsticks if my growing collection is anything to go by and Capella from the Barry M Gelly Hi Shine Lips collection is heading straight to the No 1 position as a favourite. I had some Superdrug vouchers to spend recently and this was one of my purchases and I love what I find to be the perfect girlie, spring pink colour which goes with everything. The shine this gives to your lips is wonderful, has the sheen of a gloss without the stickiness and feels so much more pigmented than many lip colours I've used. I wore this to the wedding I mentioned above and the shade went perfectly against the bright yellow of the dress as I didn't want to go for a nude lip but needed to carefully chose a colour that wouldn't cause severe clashing. The only bad thing I have to say is I wish it didn't need to be manually sharpened. 

Tarte Pure Marajuca Oil link
I have had Tarte's Marajuca Oil since returning from Vegas and received it from Sephora as one of the samples available when making some purchases but as I'm such a fan of my Kiehls Midnight Recovery Concentrate I didn't really give it much thought and it was only the surrounding QVC hype that saw me give it a whirl.

Whilst Tarte's Marajuca Oil feels less oily than Midnight Recovery and not as strongly scented I can't help but have fallen in love with it. Kiehls Midnight Recovery feels heavier on the skin (and I do not mean that in a negative sense) whereas the Marajuca Oil feels like it sinks straight into the skin and I have less time between adding a drop or two in to my hands to work with it. Used in conjunction with my other skincare I wake in the morning with refreshed plump skin and am not afraid to go make up free.

Barry M Gelly Nail in Sugar Apple link
I'm afraid I'm another predictable blogger giving the thumbs up to Sugar Apple one of the new colours from Barry M. This colour is amazing and it's very rare that when I give myself a weekly manicure I want to reapply the same polish. This will definitely be heading on holiday with me along with Rose Hip which I also picked up.

No 7 Stay Perfect Superlight Foundation link
I talked about this foundation in my What to buy from No 7 post here so I won't repeat too much. All I will add is that when I was getting ready for the wedding recently I applied my December favourite Make Up Forever HD Foundation and wasn't happy with the finish and reapplied this No 7 beauty. I've also recommended this to a friend recently and she is very happily using it too so if you are looking for a great foundation do check this out.

Tarte Lights Camera Lashes Mascara* link
I had hoped to get a post on this mascara up before the big QVC launch last month but time escaped me. This mascara is amazing. I'm not part of the mascara fan club that many women are, I wear it, see it's benefits but rarely get the wow factor, until now. This mascara makes me want to throw out all others I own and never buy anything else. Sorry to mention the wedding again but I went to apply false lashes, they weren't cooperating so I gave up and just went for this mascara anyway. Lashes take on their own world when the Tarte mascara is applied and I have numerous mascara's in my stash to test but I just can't bear to be parted from this.

La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo* [+] link
Another product I've already raved about in this post this is now a must have in my skincare routine. I'm near the end of my first tube and so reluctant to run out I've already repurchased. I'm going to try taking application down to once a day and see how my skin fairs with that now it's in a 'perfect' state. Overally dramatic it may be but I'm so glad this product is in my life.

Holiday Planning; Paperchase link
Much like I love the excitement of Christmas Eve more than the day itself before going on holiday I love investigating things to do on holiday. Due to Ben and I visiting 3 different locations on this trip, some for only a day or two and all with various landmarks and tourist attractions to check off the list some thought was required. Ben has been the recipient of various links to restaurants and tour operators over the past couple of weeks as I've made reservations at The Ivy and booked trips to Alcatraz and Pearl Harbour.

Then of course there's keeping track of the things I'm looking for in Sephora and Duty Free or requests from my brother (fire dept t-shirts from each stop) and the list of turtles my nephew has provided that have just been released in the US as well as booking references and things to remember. This notebook was in a cute pack of 3 from Paperchase. Is thin enough not to weigh down my bag yet big enough to be able to write more than one line per page.

Topshop T-shirts link
Finally I leave you with something that shouldn't be that exciting but has resulted in my throwing out all my old t-shirts I'm so impressed. In a recent Topshop haul I ordered a simple black tee to wear with some funky joggers (I'm hoping to post the Topshop haul this week). I happened to pop it on with jeans on Mother's Day when visiting my brother and fell in love with the fit and shape, not too tight yet not too baggy. I came straight home and ordered in the white and grey and received a text from my SIL asking where I got my top from and placing an order herself. If you need something simple to dress up or down I would definitely think about these.

So there you have it my first favourites post. A bit longer than expected but I hope you enjoyed reading through some of my favourite things over the past month.

Don't forget to let me know what you have been loving.

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Tarte Cosmetics - Coming to the UK!

American beauty bloggers have been raving about Tarte Cosmetics Amazonian Clay 12-hour Blush range for some time and there are British bloggers who lucky enough to get their hands on them were just as complimentary. It went without saying that when I was in the US last year they were firmly on my wish list. 

Park Avenue Princess bronzer and Dollface blush were shades I'd noted down priced at $29 and $26 respectively so imagine my delight when I saw the Tarte Off the Cuff blush palette containing four blushes and one bronzer, including those mentioned for $42. 

I wasn't the only one who snapped up this bargain as it sold out almost immediately online so I was definitely in the right place at the right time. The palette is slightly tacky in it's glittery packaging but the slim shape makes it quite compact and would be perfect for travel. And I have to confess the 'free gift' of faux leather cuff with bow was disposed of fairly swiftly.

The Christmas period has been a great opportunity to play with these blushes and I'm pretty much in love with Park Avenue Princess for contouring and found myself reaching daily for Dollface a pretty medium pink for the perfect flushed cheek. I have dabbled with Crave but was a bit too heavy handed so need some more practice (and a Real Techniques duo fibre brush!) for application.

Whether they last for the full 12 hours remains to be seen as I haven't tested extensively but I'll keep you posted after a few tests during the working week as to how things pan out.

My fellow Brits might be wondering why I'm teasing you by raving about this fantastic blush and bronzer combo that unless you have your Summer holiday to the States booked you'll be unable to get your hands on. Well the good news is that in the next couple of months Tarte Cosmetics will be arriving to QVC.

I popped along to the QVC Spring/Summer press launch a few months ago and it would be a lie to say I didn't do a little happy dance when I spotted a table filled with Tarte Cosmetics. Details are limited as to when we'll be able to buy the products and see them demonstrated on our screens but early mumblings are around March.

I know I'm excited, are you?

Edited to add:

Word on the beauty street is Tarte Cosmetics will appearing with two shows on QVC Friday 28th March at 2pm and 6pm. For more information and a provisional list of products offered check out Really Ree's post here. And if you're too impatient to wait a couple of products have started to appear on the QVC website link.