Christmas Time, Glittery OPI

I received some OPI products for Christmas to add to my nail varnish collection, this included the OPI Nail Envy duo (original and matte) and two of the new Muppet Collection OPI's, both Miss Piggy ones (Excuse Moi and Divine Swine).

Excuse Moi is a pink polish with small glitter particles and when I got it I thought it looked red but now it's on it does look pink. I used a base coat of 2 coats of Nail Envy Matt, a coat of pale pink polish, 2 coats of Excuse Moi, then a top coat of original Nail Envy. I put the pale pink coat on to help remove the glitter later so it didn't get as stuck to my nails as usual (leading to scrubbing the glitter off).

Divine Swine is a pink polish with pink glitter and sliver hexagons. This doesn't give an opaque coverage and next time I use it I will put a coat of coloured polish under it as I ended up having to do 3 coats of the polish to give a good coverage. This was mega hard to remove due to this but it is such a lovely polish and hard wearing.

December's Glossy Box

After waiting very patiently and not sneaking a peek at any other blogs, I finally got my December Glossy Box on Thursday.

I even drove home from work before going to my parents to see if the postman had been as I really wanted to get my Glossy Box.

I wasn't disappointed at all! It was a great box and was red and Christmasy!

Unfortunately I haven't taken any photos as I opened the box round my parents and took the products out to use and forgot until today that I was going to review them.

In the box I received:

Cargo Cosmetics Classic Lip Gloss
This is described as a non sticky, high-shine, great wearing lip gloss. It felt nice to wear and wasn't sticky, although I still kept putting my lips together and pressing them as I always do with lip gloss. You can still feel it's there but it's not sticky, although other lip glossy I have aren't sticky either (although hair still manages to stick to my lips whether lip gloss is sticky or not!). I liked this product but wouldn't go out of my way to buy it as it's similar to others on the market but was a nice size to carry around. I don't wear much lip gloss or lip sticks but with the current weather I have been wearing lip balm (an Avon one that I have on my desk at work) or my new Elizabeth Arden tinted 8 Hour Cream stick. I don't drink enough so my lips are always dry but especially now with the heating on all the time and the cold wind outside.

Deborah Lippmann - Razzle Dazzle Nail Varnish with Stripped to Go Sachet
This was a lovely reddy/purply/pink glitter nail varnish with a nail varnish remover mitt. I gave the varnish to my sister as she likes nail varnish, especially glittery ones and she didn't feel well so cheered her up with this (I did open my box round her house too lol). I gave the nail varnish removed sachet to my Mum as she could keep it on her to take off her polish if it chipped, but also because it was lavender scented (my fiance hates the smell of lavender...even though he loves the smell of the Molton Brown pillow spray which has base notes of lavender lol).

FAB Face Cleanser
This came out of the tube a bit like toothpaste as it was stripped (white and clear) and is described as a mild, nourishing cleanser that's ideal for all type. Calms redness and reduces skin reactivity with regular use. I found this to be very mild and didn't dry my skin out at all and felt very gentle to use. I would definitely think about buying this again (apparently Boots sell it) as it's a nice night time face cleanser that won't wake you up as it doesn't have any tingling or strong smell, it's just nice and gentle. 

Nouveau Lashes - Noir Mascara
My favourite item in the box so far. When I opened it the box was very expensive looking and more like opening an expensive pen than mascara. The tube is very esthetically pleasing although I got a greasy fingerprint on it straight away than I rubbed off (funnily enough from having the lipgloss on my finger... as you do). My favourite mascara is L'Oreal Volume Million Lash as it makes lashes thicker and really opens your eyes. I've tried other mascaras but nothing has made me stop buying my L'Oreal mascara...but then this came along....and it will share the top spot along with my L'Oreal masara.

The reason I like this mascara is that it gives great length and curl, rather than thickness, so is a great daytime look or when you want a more natural look. It isn't clumpy or flaky and doesn't make my lashes hard at all and is great like contact wearers like myself. I am even thinking of wearing this for my wedding as it didn't irritate my eyes at all.

Rituals Foaming Shower Gel
This is what made my box to heavy and is a full size shower gel that comes out as a mouse, a bit like shaving foam. Radox use to do something similar which I loved, but not sure they still do it (I usually use Boux Avenue, Molton Brown or baby shower gel now).

The scent I received was T'ai Chi (White Lotus and Green Tea) which is nice and clean smelling and reminded me of L'Occitane products (due to the smell). I've not used this in the shower yet as I have a head cold so have been using my Molton Brown Warming Eucalyptus to clear my nose and head, but my Mum tried this on her hands and it made them really soft so I'm really looking forward to trying this out.

Overall this has been a great box and I'm pleased with the products I've received and the scents. I saw that some people got Blink & Go mascara or eye shadows instead of the Nouveau Lashes mascara, and a range of different creams instead of the cleanser but I'm so so so pleased I got what I did.

It was definitely worth £12.99, especially since the mascara on its own was worth £14.99!

Can't wait for the January box now!

Update on Percy & Reed Products

Two weeks ago I got the Percy & Reed products to review for Glamour Magazine and I've been using this for the last two weeks (I put my L'Oreal Shampoo and Conditioner away for a few weeks)

I do like the products but the last few applications I've been left with areas where my hair still feels soapy or gets greasy very easily. I try to wash the shampoo and conditioner out fully and even when I have, after drying my hair I still find areas of my hair feel like they have a residue on them or strands of my hair separate as if it's greasy. I think I will carry on using the Percy & Reed products but use them in conjunction with my L'Oreal Shampoo & Conditioner, swapping them every few washes as if not the Percy & Reed products seem to build up.

I think the reason for the build up is that the shampoo is so thick so it's hard to distribute and you really have to wash hard to get it out of thick hair or it won't budge.

I'm not overly impressed with the dry shampoo & conditioner either. I tried it on Wednesday morning when I needed to wash my hair but was going to do it later in the day as had a few things to do in the morning, but it didn't really do anything. I followed the instructions of spraying it onto a brush for best results but that just gave me a white hairbrush that I then had to wash as the powder wouldn't go. I then had to spray it onto my hair and rub to get the white marks away.

I like the no oil hair oil which is basically just really a serum but does help tame my hair. I tried the texturising spray but that didn't seem to do much at all but may be because my hair is so thick.

I saw that Percy & Reed were on QVC on Monday (just gone) but I forgot about it and only remembered at 6pm and it had already been on. I was hoping to watch to see how they used the products. I'll carry on using them and hopefully get better results over time.

Glossy Box ... hurry up December box!

Really want to see what's in the December box and this time I am going to try and not to search online to spoil the surprise.

If you would like to try Glossy Box for yourself click here: Glossy Box


It costs £12.95 at the moment and that includes postage via Royal Mail and you get on average 5 times each month. You can also cancel at any time so if you only want to try it the once, you can!

I really think it's worth it as I've been able to try lots of different products over the last 2 months and I've been able to share them with my family.

GlossyBox also give you discount codes for some of their products if you want to buy the full items.

Some people don't like the fact that most boxes come with a fragrance as one of the products. I only had one in the last box and although it was a bit heady for me (I did like it but bit migraine inducing) I was able to give it to my Mum who really liked it. Most of these fragrances are not readily available on the High Street, only online/high end stores, Harrod etc so it's a great way to try new fragrances

Percy & Reed London Hair Products

Just got home to find £100's worth of Percy & Reed products by my front door for me to review for Glamour magazine!

It does make me a bit worried though...has someone been spying on me as I have really had hair today and a random bit of fringe just hanging down.

In the box I received:

• Percy & Reed Splendidly Silky Moisturising Shampoo 250ml

• Percy & Reed Splendidly Silky Moisturising Conditioner 250ml

• Percy & Reed No Fuss Fabulousness Dry Shampoo 150ml

• Percy & Reed No Fuss Flawlessness Dry Conditioner 150ml 

• Percy & Reed Frightfully Firm Session Hold Hairspray 250ml

• Percy & Reed Wonderfully Wavy Texturising Spray 150ml

• Percy & Reed Quite Frankly Flawless Finishing Polish 

• Percy & Reed Smoothed Sealed & Sensational Volumising No Oil Oil Thick 60ml

 

The average retail rice of each item is around £14 which isn't bad. The packaging is really simple and classy with pictures that look similar to the images on Dainty Doll the Nicola Roberts make up range.

The smell isn't overpowering so you can still wear your favourite perfume without them clashing. 

I tried the shampoo, conditioner, oil and finishing polish (it was a toss up between sleek silky hair and texturising spray... but I'll try that out on Sunday).

I found the shampoo quite thick and needed a lot for my thick long hair (I went back for another handful) which was a bit disappointing as this pack was for thick hair and means ha I would get through this really quickly. 

The conditioner was thick but silky and spread easily through my hair. I left this on for 2 minutes as directed and my hair felt silky smooth after.

The oil feels like Frizz Ease and I had to use more than the 2 pumps suggested, but again this is due to my hair length. It didn't feel oily or sticky which was nice. My hair was silky soft once dried and had a healthy shine to it. 

My hair is very thick and after drying, if I don't straighten it, it goes a bit flyaway and a bit Kristal Tipps.

I would have straightened my hair but to be honest... I was too tired and I'll be going to sleep soon (been a long week). I did use the finishing polish however which did help the puffiness of my hair.

So far I am liking this brand and it's products, the only thing that I'm not to keep on is the amount of shampoo I need for my hair, although I may try and mix it up with a bit of water in my palms before I put it on my scalp. Another thing would be the stockists of these products as I usually buy my shampoo and conditioner from Boots or with my weekly food shopping but I do buy my styling products online as you don't need to buy them as often so I'll see how I get on with continual use and how the other products.

I do definitly like the idea of a dry conditioner to go with the shampoo. I don't use dry shampoo a lot but it is a life saver especially if I've come home from work with a migraine and gone straight to bed and really should have washed my hair, the next day I can give it a quick spray and not feel like a chip pan!

 

 

 

Sparkly Nails

Sporting some very glitter OPI nails today after raiding my sisters nail varnish box yesterday. Not sure of its name (my OPI app crashes when I try and open it and I don't have the bottle on me) but its a cold glitter with red and green glitter, quite Christmassy!

Nail Rock Wraps Durability Update

I've had the Nail Rock Nail Wraps on my toes and on my thumbs since Tuesday night and so far my toes are fairing very well! (even though this pattern reminds me more of spiderman than black lace)

My thumbs on the other hand (no pun intended) are starting to get a bit bashed up, although I have to say they are so much better than Nail Inc wraps! I must admit to I've been non-stop writing and typing at work so have been using my hands a lot and doing some housework (majority of it tomorrow...joy) but they are lasting better than expected!

November Glossy Box

I had a sneaky look at some blogs to see what people were getting this month and many (of the blogs I'd seen) seemed disappointed with the products.
I had decided if I got the bath salts I'd give them to my mum as I don't have a bath but they didn't out me off the box.

I then saw the different products people were getting and saw the Philip Kingsley Elasticizer which I'd heard about before and really hoped I would get it.

My box was delivered yesterday while I was out so this morning (in my day off) I got out of bed, put the kettle on, pulled my sheepskin boots on over my PJs and walked next door to the post office...still half asleep.

I hoped the box and was really happy as had no foot cream and no bath salts! (hope on the preferences soon Glossy Box have a 'do you have a bath or shower' question so we don't end up getting things we can't use)

 So was really happy when I opened the box and found this:

 Arbonne Ultra Hydrating Hand Creme - I've not tried this yet, only smelt it but it does have quite a strong smell which is quite an odd smell and as I have a headache I thought I would wait to try this.

Dead Sea Spa Magik Delicate Boosting Mask - Tried this within 10 minutes of opening the box! It has a lovely delicate smell and is very gentle. I have a scar on my nose which can get irritated but this is great on all of my face. You put this on and leave it for about 10 minutes before washing it off and you are left with a lovely feeling on your face.

Illamasque Freak Eau De Parfum - I was a bit wary of this due to the name as sounded really heady however when I saw it contained frankincense I gave it a try and it was really nice. I actually gave this to my mum as she loves the smell of frankincense and opium (which is also one of the smells in this).

Nail Rock - Designer Nail Wraps - I received the red with black lace and wasn't to sure of these as I've had nail wraps before (Nails Inc) and really didn't like them as they were fiddly to apply with the hairdryer and didn't last, however these don't need a hairdryer and are so much better! I have them on my toes (kindly applied by my mum) and then a wrap on each thumb with the rest of my nails painted red (Revlon Red). The only problem with these wraps are that they are very round at the base and my nails are more square at the base so there are a few gaps.

The final product I got was the Philip Kingsley Elasticizer. I really wanted to try this so was glad I got it. It said to put on wet hair and leave on for 10 - 20 minutes before rinsing out then shampooing and conditioning so I chucked my head over the sink and wet my hair then put the elasticizer on, placed a shower cap on over it (then I put my Dead Sea Salt mask on too) then after 20 minutes washed it out in the shower. I wasn't really sure what to expect but after washing and straightening my hair my head seems much stronger and straighter and then this morning (I washed it yesterday) I didn't need to straighten my hair! Great! As my hair is thick it suggests to use it once a week so I'll be using this weekly and see how my hair improves.

Overall I am very happy with the products this month and can't wait until next months box!

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Lip Protectant Stick / Wedding Lips

While at Bluewater last week I popped into Boots as I wanted to look for a lipstick for my Wedding next year but nothing that was drying, sticky or too in your face. I love Elizabeth Arden's (or Elizabeth Hardon as my fiance says) Eight Hour Cream so went to see if there were any lipsticks with it in.

Elizabeth Arden do a Eight Hour Cream Lip Protectant Stick with a sheer tint (and SPF 15) in a 4 colours: Berry, Plum, Blush and Honey (think there may be different colours available in America)

Blush Lip Tint

I originally picked up honey but while speaking to the Elizabeth Arden assistant she said that she would probably use 'Blush' on me due to my colouring and eye colour. Blush is a pinky colour, but I was a bit worried as it looked a bit too pink, however it just gives a wash of colour and has more of a reddy pink colour to it.

It's such a nice natural colour and had a slight sheen to it but is also great for your lips.

She also advised me that Elizabeth Arden do free wedding make-up trials/makeovers and took my name and number to give me a call in February (when they will be doing an offer on products in store so that I can buy some bits if I want cheaper or with freebies) to do a makeover if I want. She also suggested going to other cosmetic counters to so I can see what products I prefer.

While I was there she also gave me a tester of Elizabeth Arden Intervene Makeup (foundation) to try and suggested it for my wedding day as it had a glow to it so it wasn't a matt foundation. It wasn't until I got out the store I realised the trial foundation was 25 ml and the full size is 30ml and costs £27.58

The foundation is brilliant. I love the bottle, its a squeezy bottle and think I actually prefer it to the normal bottle their foudations come in! It goes on really well and has great staying power. The only thing is my forehead did get a bit shiney but a bit of powder and non-shine moisuriser should easily fix that!

Bare Escentuals - Bare Minerals Get Started Complexion Kit - Update

Back in August I posted a blog post about the Bare Minerals Get Started Complexion Kit I brought but I never did post a follow up or the results. Original Blog Post

To be honest I wasn't overly impressed with it. After watching it demonstrated on QVC (well the products not the kit) I thought it looked easy enough and had good coverage however using it was a different matter!

The foundation is good but I seem to use more than they say and it doesn't really build up. It's nice in that it's very natural but doesn't really give much cover if needed. Also I wish the lids were bigger as when you swirl and tap the product goes over the edge of the lid.

The 'warmth' product is good and does give a bit of colour to your face (I'm usually quite pale so this is brilliant to give me a healthy glow.)

The concealer brush didn't really do much concealing, I tried using both the Bisque and the foundation powders with the brush but it didn't conceal darkness or the lack of pigmentation on the scar on my nose.

I've not really noticed much from the mineral veil but then it's not something which is seen and is supposed to just soften your face.

All in all I like the foundation it's self, and is probably the best mineral foundation I have used, but as for the other products in the pack I'm not sure I would buy them. It's ok for day wear but I don't think I could use it for special occasions or evenings out as I would need a bit more coverage.

It's a good kit to get started with and I can see the warmth pot lasting quite some time and I may buy the foundation again but not the bisque. I would also suggest using another type of concealer if you have scaring or darkness rather than trying to use the bisque.

I did enter a competition on QVC to win a makeover / tutorial with Bare Minerals as thought it would be great to see how to use it properly to cover scars (mine is now just pale white on my nose) but unfortunately didn't win :o( I'll just carry on with my Laura Geller concealer (also from QVC lol)

I've not added any photos of me with this foundation etc on as it gives a very natural look so it would look like I had no make up on anyway (which is good in a way).

Molton Brown Shopping Event

Went to Molton Brown at Bluewater for their shopping event with my Mum. We've been invited before but have never been but I took the day off to go Christmas shopping today.
I had the most amazing hand and arm massage with Sensual Hanaleni moisture bath & shower and body cream as well as the Warming Eucalyptus and Ginger scrub. The sensual hanaleni is lovely and is a mix of essential oils of orchid, Madagascan ylang-ylang, Egyptian neroli and Chinese cinnamon.

I then purchased more of my favourite shower gel (warming eucalyptus) and Mum brought the new hand wash (even more as it smells so good) and the sensual hanaleni shower gel so we got 2 smaller shower gels free (Relaxing Yuan Zhi) plus goody bags!

The goody bags contained a mix of products and in the one I have it had:
50ml Enlivening Toko-Yuzu
50ml Relaxing Yuan Zhu
30ml Bracing Silverbirch
30ml Invigorating Suma Ginseng
PLUS £20 gift coin from Dower & Hall

Amazing! Can't wait to spend the £20 on some lovely wing earrings!

Lipstick Help Required for Wedding

I'm not getting married until April but I need suggestions and advice re lipstick.

I'm having my makeup done by a beautician on the day (and a trial before) but want to find a lipstick soon to try out for the day.

I don't wear much lipstick only lip stains or balms.

Things I want out of the lipstick:
Non-Drying
Not mega shiney (I dont want glare on my lips in photos)
Long lasting

I want a pale pinky colour so it still looks natural.

I'm thinking of trying Elizabeth Arden lipstick when I got shopping on Thursday or trying Lipcote (I've never tried it before). I brought a max factor moisturising lipstick on Monday in English Rose but haven't got round to trying it properly yet (only once I got it and then went into the shower but will test it and put a review up)

NOTD Nails Inc - Basil Street

Nails of the Day

Today I've painted my nails with Nails Inc Basil Street, a lovely beige colour. This was free with Glamour magazine. I don't usually buy Glamour unless on holiday (great size mag for my handbag) or if the free gift is any good (they do some great gifts).

I saw it in WHSmiths and I had all the other colours already (or similar ones) but really fancied a beige colour.

This is such a nice colour if you don't want a full on colour or want something to go with anything you wear. It reminds me of LK Bennett shoes as its a very similar colour and this colour is very in at the moment due to Dutchess Kate's love for her LK Bennett shoes.

I have Nails Inc Soho Silk as a base with Nails Inc Kensington Caviar top coat.

I love this colour so much...tempted to put this on my possible list of polished for my wedding next year....

Really want to get a similar OPI version of this (I only wear one brand at a time and like my Nail Envy) although I have asked for OPI Warm and Fozzy for Christmas which is a glittery beige (it looks like).

Testing Testing ... Twitter Feed

Just testing to see if my blogs will now be linked onto my twitter account... fingers crossed!

Molton Brown Warming Eucalyptus

I love Molton Brown products and brought this after smelling it in a Molton Brown store. This has become my winter survival product! The warming eucalyptus scent helps me to clear my head and nose when suffering with colds and is really comforting. It's not harsh on the skin either and a little goes a long way when use on a shower puff, although I just lather it up straight onto my skin when suffering with a cold to get the most out of the scent.

This along with Molton Brown Cracked Black Pepper are my favourite Molton Brown products (yes I am female and use cracked black pepper rather than the pink pepperpod)

OPI Shatter Polish - Black

I brought this when it first came out along with the Katy Perry polishes. (photo above with alternate nails painted with OPI Last Friday Night and OPI Teenage Dream with the Shatter polish on top, sorry for bad photo, this is an old one from when I first used the polishes)

It is a great effect and works when painted onto dried nail varnish (it won't crack on bare nails).

I like to put a glitter polish as my main colour such as Teenage Dream by Katy Perry as the glitter then shines through the gaps in the black shatter. You then put the shatter onto the dry polish (it has to be dry or it won't shatter properly.) You have to apply this quite quickly as it starts to dry straight away. The thicker you put it on the bigger the gaps made in the polish, ie you get less islands of black but they are bigger and more like animal print, if you put it on thin it goes more stripy and smaller streaks, more like the effect shown on the bottle. The shatter then gets to work and once dry will be matt. I then finish my nails with an OPI topcoat to keep it shiney and also to reduce chipping.

I think of all the colours the black is my favourite and this effect works well on both short and long nails.

The only thing with this polish is that it does go a bit lumpy as obviously its fast drying so make sure you put the lid back on straight away. You may also find it beneficial to wipe the brush off on some kitchen paper to get the lumps of shatter polish off.

OPI RapiDry Top Coat

I wear a lot of OPI products and brought this as it drys quickly. It helps keep my polish perfect for a few days however the only downside to this product is after a few months it goes very thick and gooey. This means that it goes on too thicky and not smoothly.

It's a good product but is only worth buying if you are going to use it a lot in a short period, ie not great if you wear other top coats or if you only paint your nails every now and then. I much prefer using Nail Envy as a top coat or the OPI Start to Finish Base and Top Coat.

OPI Nail Polish Start to Finish Base & Top Coat

I use to use OPI Fast Dry Top Coat but after a few months the top coat gets a bit sticky and gooey and I found this product while looking to purchase a new Fast Dry Top Coat.

I have a huge make up bag/box full of OPI and Nail Inc polishes and anything to help cut down on the number of product I have makes me (and my fiance) very happy! (ie less products left laying around the living room while I do my nails)

I usually use my OPI Nail Envy as a base coat but this product also has a strengthener in which is nice. My nail varnishes never last long on my nails as they chip within 24 hours usually (I am very hands on person so my nails always get bashed etc) but this top coat is great as it does give me a longer wear and doesn't take massively long to dry either.

This is usually the product I use if I want to sit down with my fiance to do my nails but don't want to turn the coffee table into a nail salon. This plus a nail colour is all I need.

It's also great as it works out much cheaper that buying a treatment, top coat and base coat and I would really recommend this to someone who wants to try OPI but doesn't have a huge OPI collection or for someone who wants to take OPI polished on holiday but doesn't want to fill their makeup bag with too many products.

OPI - Original Nail Envy Review

I've used this product on and off for a number of years and it's the best nail care product I've ever used and I'm a HUGE OPI fan!

I usually use this product when my nails are a bit weak and flaky although I always use it as a basecoat whenever wearing OPI polishes.

The way to use this product is to put 2 coats onto bare nails, then apply a colour polish if you wish, then either use a top coat or you can use nail envy as a top coat (which I recently have started doing and find it's very hard wearing.) Every 2 days you should then put a coat of nail envy over your nails again (over polish or just on top of the nail envy you already have on if you have bare nails)

I've only ever used the Original Nail Envy but I am looking to try the Matt version.

I did see a pink maintenance version of Nail Envy a while ago which I fancied but it seems to be out of stock everywhere so I think they may have stopped doing it but I'm going to carry on my search so that I can wear Nail Envy with a hint of colour as I prefer to wear a coloured polish on my nails.

Some people think that Nail Envy is expensive (its usually around £18) but keep and eye out on QVC as they usually do deals on Nail Envy sets for much cheaper. Word of warning though, I've heard that there are OPI fake products out there, ie products made to look like OPI but they're just imitations so I would try where possible to buy from official stockists.

Glossy box update

Less than 24 hours later and my polish has already chipped :( really want to find a long lasting polish
Sent from my iPhone

Caught The Glossy Box Bug!

Saw these when they first came out around May time and was tempted to subscribe but didn't fancy having to wait a few months due to the high demand so forgot all about them.... Until someone posted on Facebook again about them this week.... and my box arrived this morning!
I got it as my skin can be funny with products so getting smaller versions to try it handy as you can never tell if You like a product unless you try it a few times. I also find if I buy a new product I use it once or twice then never again so at least I can gage if I'll use the product regularly. Another reason I got it is as I seem to buy the same products again and again, OPI or Nails Inc polishes, L'Oreal make-up etc in the same types of colours.
This box contained Leighton Denny polish which I've seen in John Lewis before and on QVC I think but to me it looks cheapish packaging so I've never tried it (not that I wouldn't try cheaper things, it just looks similar to own brand polishes which I've tried and haven't been of great quality). I gave it a try last night and it's nice in that it goes on well and the lid/brush is quite weighty which seemed to make it easier to apply. The colour I received was sex kitten, a metalicy silver blue. It'a ok but having applied it while watching a film and not touching anything for a few hours I've noticed this morning marks on my nails like when you go to bed with wet nails so not sure what happened there... Doesn't usually happen with my other polishes. The test though now is how long it lasts....as usually my polishes on last 2 days max even long lasting polishes.
Love the dermologica products, especially the heating face scrub although it made my face all shiney but luckily I was at home all day. My fiancé at one point asked what I had on my chin and it was the light reflecting on my face making it look like I had something white on me.
The lip stuff is also great and really lasts and is making my lips look bigger with the shine.
Another product in the box was Stilla eyeliner in a goldy/greeny/brown colour. I've never used this make before and usually go for black eyeliner but really liked this for everyday wear without eyeshadow and it had a glittery effect to it which looks great. I wouldn't have brought this colour myself normally but love it! Also I've never tried Stilla but it's a good product, not sure I'd go looking for Stilla items but would probably but this eyeliner again when it runs out (or look for similar by my old fave L'Oreal.)
I've not tried the perfumes yet as had lots of migraines over the last few days and heard these were heady fragrances but hopefully will get round to trying them soon.
Very much looking forward to the next box :)

My lashes with scandaleyes mascara

Is it a highlighter pen?.... No it's New Rimmel ScandalEyes!

New Nails Inc Magnetic Effect Polish!

Just arrived (well it came yesterday but I was out so went to the post office in my pjs this morning!)
Housework, shower then nail painting time!


UPDATE.....

Note to self.... must read instructions! I painted my nails with this then left them to dry and wondered why the magnetic effect wouldn't work.... you have to do it when your nails are still wet lol.

So I took the polish off and started again, painting each nail and then using the magnet straight away. It took a while to get it right as I kept touching the wet nail with the magnet by mistake but after a few attempts finally got the hang of it

I like the look as it is slightly 3D but I have to say I was a little disappointed as thought you could make your own patterns but the magnet is in waves so always gives the same effect.

A few years ago there was a polish by Lancome which I tried to get hold of but couldn't find anywhere (well apart from £30 or something on eBay...) but their magnetic polish changed when the polish was dry and you could change the polish however you wanted so you could get a gradient effect (I thought this would be the same).

All in all a good polish but a bit boring after a while. 

Bare Escentuals - Bare Minerals Get Started Complexion Kit

I've used mineral foundation before and first heard about it while in America in 2008 while trying to get my usual Perscriptives foundation (a liquid) which they no longer stocked, so they suggested mineral foundation. I liked it but seemed to always get it on my clothes and got through it really quickly! I then tried Estee Lauder's version of mineral foundation where you turned the case and grated just enough foundation to use. This was ok but it lasted only a matter of weeks (2 or 3 weeks at most!)

I've seen Bare Escentuals on QVC and been very tempted to buy their products but wasn't sure as really I wanted to get a little set of products but didn't want to spend loads and not use it.

I recently got a free sample of the mineral foundation from Bare Escentuals with a little brush (via a voucher from Cosmopolitan Magazine) and really liked it. I have very pale skin and was given Fairly Light by the lady at the Bare Escentuals counter which was great as it matched my skin and gave me a very natural look.

Recently 'Look Fantastic' had a 48 hour Bare Escentuals sale so I brought the Bare Minerals 'Get Started Complexion' kit.  It should have been £45 but I got it with 15% off and a £5 voucher off as it was my first order though Look Fantastic.

My very lovely Fiance kindly went to the Post Office and picked my purchase up today (he had a day off and did all the housework too!)

The kit contains:
Fairly Light Foundation
Light Foundation
Bisque (can be used as a base or concealer)
Warmth All-Over Face Colour
Mineral Veil
Full Flawless Face Brush
Flawless Application Face Brush
Maximum Coverage Concealer Brush
Instruction booklet
DVD
plus a free sample of Prime Time

I also received a 2 free samples of Dermalogica multivitamin power recovery masque from Look Fantastic.

Below are pictures of the box and items.

I will be trying it out tomorrow (after sorting my eyebrows out!) Will post results!

Click here to see my update on this post

Final results from baby foot

I wouldn't recommend or use this again, 2 or so weeks of skanky peeling feet and at the end of it my feet weren't any smoother! Felt really dirty with peeling feet and ended up having to wear socks indoors to stop skin spreading round the flat, and socks to work as the peeling was mega obvious if not.

I had expected mega smooth feet but guess my feet will always be funny!

Baby Foot update

Feet still peeling (have been fir 7 days, 14 days after applying) but no baby softness noticed yet..... Can't really notice any difference :(

Sent from my iPhone

Nails Inc Wraps Update (yes another one)

They're lifting :( probably ok for 'occasions' but housework doesn't mix with the :( probably be brilliant on my toes and theyll last forever (well a few weeks) or fine if using on false nails, but on really nails (unless you have mega hard nails) natural nail movement makes them lift and I'm forever pushing them down and water gets in the creases where they've worn.

For occasional wear on nails 8/10
For daily use 6/10

Sent from my iPhone

Nail wrap results!

They weren't too hard to apply but I'd definitely buy a glass nail file next time to smooth the ends of the wraps. The only pain is it's mega hard finding the right size wrap! I have a few that are just a few mm too small on the right hand as it's hard to guess the size without sticking them on. The pack says there are enough for toes too but lots were too small for my fingers so not sure the ones I have left will fit all my toes but that's another days job.

Fingers crossed these now last!

Nails Inc Nail Wraps

This will go 1 of 2 ways.... Amazing nails or Sara throwing a strop and chucking them and the hairdryer across the room!

I'm doing them in the bedroom as Lee is on the PS3 and don't think he'll appreciate the hair dryer going on and off.

I brought the purple leopard print ones while on a dash to Boots while at work to get Strepsils due to a sore throat and cold.

Fingers crossed this works....then fingers crossed they stay on my nails for a few days at least!

Sent from my iPhone

Day 6.... Yeyyy feet starting to peel

See previous posts re the product 'Baby Foot' I'm testing

Baby Foot Update... Day 3

Still no sign of peeling yet but reading the box it says: 'dead cells will become dry between 3-7 days after initial application' so I have up to 4 more days to wait.

*sits and waits*

Revlon Just Bitten Lip Stain

I saw this online and thought it looked nice and may help me out of the whole 'I want something on my lips but nothing sticky and I want it to last' problem.

I tried Avon's Ever Lasting Lipstick and Glosses but didn't like them and they didn't last.

I went into Boot and they had £2 off of this, but the problem was there were no samples and the colours all looked really bright. I'd taken my Fiance with me and he didn't really help me with advise on what colour to get (well what would he know about lipstains!) so I finally went with the palest/natural I could see which was Beloved.

I tried it when I got it and it was a bit tricky to apply with the nip, so I tilted it and used the side of the pen and this worked great as it was fast even coverage.

I left it to dry for 30 seconds and then put the balm on top. It looked great! I love this as the balm isn't sticky and I can still kiss my Fiance without him pulling a face due to sticky balms/glosses or rubbing his lips to take the lipstick off of him.

I've worn this a few times and it looks natural and brightens my lips as they are usually quite pale. It also usually lasts all day too which is great for work!

I'll definately be buying this again.

Boux Avenue Stuff Arrived Wednesday

The gift box

Inside the gift box

I LOVE my new jumpsuit. I prefer it to my pale blue one as this one is a different material and doesn't act as velcro to the bed! It's so cosy!

I love the box it came in too and how it was packaged! It came with the lovely White Chiffon scented petals too!

If you like the White Chiffon scent (the smell you can smell in Boux Avenue Stores) they currently have 1/2 price off of their body washes, soaps, hand washes, body creams, hand creams. My mum kindly brought me the body wash and I brought the hand wash both of which are lovely!

I'm just waiting for my diffuser in my room to run out and then I'm buying the Boux Avenue White Chiffon reed diffuser, room scent and candle! (yes I'm going to town!... although it will cost me over £50.... as the diffusers are £20 each) but its so worth it!

Baby Foot Update

I took my booties off after 2 hours (with the help of my helpful Fiance) and then washed my feet off. They felt all wrinkly like I'd sat in a bath too long.

I've taken before photos and will take photos each day something happens (ie when they start to peel) my main concern with my feet is my big toes as they have mega hard skin at the side where my feet rub on my shoes so hopefully this will sort my feet out.

Right foot on Day 1 straight after washing the Baby Foot gel off

Close up of right big toe and the hard skin I want to get rid of

Left foot on Day 1 straight after washing the Baby Foot gel off

Left big tow with hard skin.

The Packet of Baby Foot

Nails Inc - QVC Purchases - Update

My Nails Inc polishes came 2 days after ordering them and I was very happy with the colours. All bright and one dark brown one.

My sister currently has the pink shade (Strawberry Hill) as she is borrowing it.

I've so far now worn all the colours apart from Strawberry Hill as I gave it to my sister the day I got them.

This is Haymarket and is a nice bright plum colour.

Sorry photo is from my iphone so its not really bright on the photo and I have the living room light on as it's dark. I gave my mum my camera to take to Rome with her so sorry for the bad quality photo.

The other day I wore the green, Spring Mews, to work and its a brightish minty green and on co-worker said how bright it was! It certainly is brighter on your nails under bright lights.

This pictures is more like the actual colour. I quite like this colour and was looking for a colour like this for ages.

I really love these colours and have been wearing Nails Inc Soho Silk under them with Brixton topcoat which makes them nice and shiney.

The wear on them is usually 1 - 2 days with a bit of chipping and a lot of chipping if I wash my hair (strange but true). Although yesterday I wore the brown shade (Maple Street) and it chipped within a few hours :( and it was very noticable as its very dark brown, almost black looking in dull lit areas. I think it's mostly due to wearing the Soho Silk though as I find although it strengthens my nails, my varnishes slip off and peel quicker.

Really loving this set though, and for £19 it's amazing!

Baby Feet - foot peel system

So I'm sitting here in my maxi dress and lees socks.... I'm trying out baby feet, a foot peel system where you wear plastic booties filled with a special liquid, you wear them for 2 hours and then about a week later the dead skin peels off to reveal smooth baby smooth feet.

I LOVE Boux Avenue!!! (yes I love them even more since I won something from them!)

I love my Lee jumpsuit I purchased from Boux Avenue in April. It's a pale blue jumpsuit for lounging/sleeping in. I brought it mostly for Wednesdays when I'm off work and have lots of deliveries so I can jump out of bed and answer the door, or sit around and wait for the Ocado man to come before I jump in the shower (they always come earlier if I'm in the shower!)

I didn't think my fiance would really like it but he did (I was worried it would look like a romper suit!)

I don't wear it all the time but I must admit the first few days I had it, it would be put on as soon as I got in from work (when Lee was in the shower) so Lee would only see me in the jumpsuit lol. I did wean myself off of it, but it is lovely to come in from work and chuck on. The only downside is if your chilly and put a dressing gown on top on over it, you get a bit chilly if you need the loo as you have to take that off to take the straps down on the jumpsuit.

I thought this would be great for when we get married, as I can have my hair and make-up done while wearing it and not worry about ruining my hair when I take the jumpsuit off!

It's also great if Lee needs a lift to work, I just chuck ugg boots on and a hoody and no one is any the wiser! It just looks like I have jogging bottoms on!

A few weeks ago I saw that the jumpsuit was coming out in a new colour! I was tempted to buy it but wasn't sure if I should really spend £74 on 2 jumpsuits in a month..... (they're £32 each) but then saw a competition on twitter from Boux Avenue and thought I'd give it a go.... and I won!!!!

My new grey mix Lee boyfriend jumpsuit is in the post and on it's way to me! I'm hoping it comes tomorrow when I'm off... if so I will be wearing my blue jumpsuit to great the postman!

Not sure i can get away with going out in it since my new one is leopard print but definately will be wearing it when I get home Thursday night (if it comes tomorrow lol)

When I'm not well I SHOULD NOT watch QVC in bed....

QVC should also not have an iphone app which makes it so easy to buy items from either!

I had a migraine yesterday and was sick today :( so got back in bed and had a snooze then turned the TV on and flicked through and saw Bare Escentuals on QVC. I was fine and enjoyed watching how to apply mineral make-up etc ... but then Nails Inc came on.... I told myself NO.... then I saw a set of 5 polishes for £19! All colours I liked and I'd been wanting a pale minty green and a lilacy/cornflour blue for ages in Nails Inc or OPI and they were in the set!

Pretty happy with my purchase, some lovely colours and a great price! Can't wait until they arrive!!!!!

The set contains

• Springs Mews (green) 10ml
• Devonshire Row (purple) 10ml
• Maple Street (pink) 10ml (looks more like a brown)
• Strawberry Hill (raspberry) 10ml
• Chalk Farm (lilac) 10ml

I just looked online and its waiting list only! So glad I got it!!!

Essie Polishes

I usually use OPI or Nails Inc polishes, and the odd Avon polish (I'd use more but there are no base coats available yet).. but anyway a few weeks ago a blog had a sale and I saw a lovely minty green colour polish (I've wanted a minty green for ages!) and it was Essie, not a brand I'd used before but thought I'd give it a try.

The first time I used it I used it with OPI Nail Envy Base and a OPI top coat but it didn't dry after a few hours and although touch dry, when I rubbed it it folded up and just came off. I took it off and tried again (I was watching the Royal Wedding at the time and had nothing else to do) and used no base coat, and a Sally Hansen topcoat and it was fine.

I'm trying it today with Nails Inc Soho Silk base under it as my nails need a bit of TLC and I'm hoping it will dry.

I find that some nail varnishes dont like other varnishes but when I mention it to people they think I'm strange..... I know for a fact they menitoned it on QVC once when they use to sell Special FX polishes and they would only work with their own kind, but I find it very strange!

I may buy an Essie 3 in one base, treatment and top coat but I'll see as I only have this one Essie polish at the moment and it's ok but I find the brush a bit thin and the polish reminds me of tippex as it's quite thick and goes on streaky so I have to do 2 coats but it may be my technique and not having the proper Essie base coat.

Fingers crossed this dries..... Lee wants to watch a film and I've not put a top coat on yet but will wait for this to completely dry first!

Molton Brown Hydrating Gel

Love the Molton Brown Vitalising Vitamin AB+C Body Hydrating Gel! Moisturisers don't seem to sink into my legs but this does and isn't oily or sticky, just light and smooth! Kind of like aloe vera gel and a little goes a long way!

Got it on my legs today and with the pump it's easy to get the amount you want without wasting or spillage!

Reminds me, must epilate tonight! Maybe fake than too as I have random strap tan marks on my feet from going to the park with my sketchers on!

Hope it's warm today as my tights broke while putting them on so bare legs for me! (yes I could have put trousers on my I love my M&S dress)

Sent from my iPhone

Nail Varnishes that don't work together

Not sure if it's just me but I find certain nail varnishes don't work together. I use OPI mostly and Nails Inc. I brought an Essie polish via a blog sale and put it onto my nails which had dried OPI Nail Envy on, then put Sally Hansen top coat on, 1 hour later and I touched my nail and the varnish was all soft! Tried it again and same thing! Today I put the Essie polish onto bare nails then put Sally Hansen top coat on and it's fine! Essie must not work with OPI or at least Nail Envy.

Had this happen before with other polishes and it's so annoying! I now try and stick to one make but had to get the Sally Hansen topcoat for use with my Avon polishes as they don't yet do a top coat.

Heyho happy I finally have my mint green nails sorted!

Sent from my iPhone

Love Love Love Boux Avenue!

Not tried my purchases yet but the Lakeside Store is amazing! It's really pretty inside and the sales assistants are really helpful.

Must make sure I don't go there too often but wasn't bad getting free knickers with a bra! Would have been £40 but the offer took it to £28 and it looks much more than that!

Lovely nightwear too! Shame my birthdays just gone :(

Christmas List.... Boux Vouchers!

Sent from my iPhone

Its like putting my make up on blind when I'm not wearing my contacts but can't be bothered today! Did put some Avon Smooth Minerals powder foundation on but not good idea while wearing a black top! It looked good until I put my glasses on then saw a patch of foundation on my cheek obviously where I first put the brush onto my skin so got another brush out to frantically even it out.

I think I'm quite liking it but not 100% sure yet.

Hey-ho off to work I go! Then trip to lakeside tonight to spend my £5 voucher after donating clothes to Oxfam (M&S stuff) hope they have the Lisa Snowdon dress in M&S in my size!

My OPI Katy Perry Nails

My New Blog!

I already had a blog on here which I started specifically for Avon products, offers etc but it's now starting to get most and more posts which are non-Avon related so.... I've started this blog to run alongside it!

This blog will probably contain a lot about my nail varnish obsession (mostly Nails Inc and OPI) and other stuff.

I'm now having to wait to post this blog as 'my toolbox fell and hit the trip switch in the electric cupboard'.... Lee's just fitting a new electric meter that came today. By the way it was my toolbox otherwise known as my Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream make-up bag full of floral tools! (Lee recently got his own tool box but it isn't pretty like mine!)