Spring/Summer Essentials Series: Beauty

Even though we aren't exactly blessed with great weather in the UK, yesterday was an unexpectedly warm day, and got me thinking all about summer and what I'll be wearing and using over these next coming (hopefully sunshiney) months. I thought I'd put together a few posts detailing all these essentials, ranging from fashion and beauty. Today I'm talking beauty, and as I rarely find products I reaally love, I can't wait to talk about them, so lets get started..

Scholl Express Pedi Velvet Smooth

I've had this for about a year now and despite worrying I might have to replace the little roller, I've had no such problem. Did I mention I'm super lazy? This really is the perfect product for that, and when it's not always convenient to get a pedicure, or you're making the transition from winter to summer, its so easy for transforming your feet ready for summer time.

Bliss Lemon & Sage Body Scrub

ANY body scrub is usually on my summer essentials list simply because I love to have fresh, smooth skin before I get in the sun. I received this as a gift in a set for Christmas, and it hardly looks like I've touched it! I love the fresh, yet not overpowering scent, and the fact that it isn't harsh or abrasive like some body scrubs.

Essie-Mint Candy Apple Nail Varnish

I'm a huge fan of all things Essie, and this colour is no exception. My go to colour in the summer from any brand, is usually mint green, I literally can't get enough. This Essie one is perfect, lasts for ages and gives the most gorgeous glossy shine. It also looks extra pretty with a top coat of glitter.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream

This is my number one essential all year round, its a necessity for me in summer just as much as it is in winter. The sun can sometimes dry my lips out, and this is the NUMBER 1 lip product that lasts forever, moisturises them and just works wonders. It's also great for general dry patches and little burns, perfect for the summer months.

EOS Lip Balms

For the days when I'm taking a super small bag, or clutch, my eight hour cream isn't the most practical, so when my lips are in pretty good condition, EOS lip balms are my go to. This 'Summer Fruit' one, smells just like that, a mixture between melon, fresh berries and fruity drinks. It smells yummy I almost want to eat it.

Liz Earle Deep Cleansing Mask.

I definitely suffer from the dreaded increase in oily skin over the hotter months, and whilst I try to control it by wearing minimal make up, cleansing well and exfoliating on a regular basis, I definitely need this deep cleansing mask to keep the problem at bay. Even just applying it to my t-zone only leaves my skin looking a lot clearer, fresher, and just more even, so this is definitely a summer staple for oily skin sufferers.

MAC Lustre Passion Charge Lipstick.

When the warmer weather hits, I'm definitely more of a balm and a gloss person, but if I had to choose a staple summer lipstick, it would be this. It came in my cute little 'All about coral' set I got for my birthday, with a similar matching gloss, and both of them are perfect for day time, giving just the right amount of colour, but nothing to matte and over the top.

Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Moisturiser.

Another Liz Earle product perfect for the summer months and #oilyprobs. I love thick moisturisers, but come summer I like something a little more light that doesn't leave my skin feeling overly greasy. It's still important to moisturise so my skin doesn't produce even more oil, but I definitely prefer a lighter consistency like this one. 

I'm keeping these spring/summer series' coming over the next few weeks, make sure to check back for more of these, alongside regular posting again! 

What are your spring/summer beauty essentials?

X

P.S apologies for any blurry pictures, I think Blogger is having a few pic problems! x

Weekly Favourites..

Due to the end of year dread that consists of finishing all my uni work on time, blogging has taken a little bit of a back seat *slaps wrist* but armed with a new blog layout and some new favourites from this week, I couldn't wait to start writing again. The first product I've been loving is Benefit's 'They're Real' mascara. This definitely isn't a new product, and it's made its rounds among the blogosphere many a time, but after a slightly disappointing Dior mascara purchase, I wanted something different. I didn't want to opt for the new 'Roller Lash' just because of the mixed reviews, so I went for this one. Having never tried a Benefit mascara before, I'm seriously hooked, it gives volume AND length, and whilst it's a teeny bit hard to get off, it's nothing good old Bioderma can't fix...

Finishing a semester of Uni often results in me reading a lot more than I normally do, so I love including a book amongst my favourites at any time. 'Me Before You', by JoJo Moyes, has definitely proved why it's a bestseller and has warranted an upcoming film adaptation. For me, it was more of a slow burn than a hooked-straight-away type of read, but it was amazing nonetheless, and had me shedding just a few tears after it was over..

 Sometimes I find it disturbing just how lazy I am when it comes to beauty, and hair in general. I'm too lazy to want anything other than a quick fix, and this Macadamia Deep Repair Maque is definitely it. I'm in quite a desperate need of a hair cut, so this product is definitely getting me through this particularly difficult time until I accept defeat and go and get the ends chopped off. I've had this masque for a loooong time now, and I haven't even used a quarter of it. Even applying a generous amount to the ends and it doesn't even look like I've touched it. Throw the most heavenly smell, and it's a must have product, especially for long locks like mine. It's not the most affordable brand, but there's always a product or two lurking amongst the shelves at TK Maxx, which is where I initially picked this beauty up..

Did I mention I like quick fixes? This is another one for the lazy people out there like me. I used to lust over this product when I was younger, simply because I love Bliss products in general, as well as their quirky names. Lack of exercise and too much chocolate *guilty* isn't exactly kind to my thighs, neither is my super sensitive skin and eczema. I finally got this in a little set at Christmas, and since I've started body brushing again, when I apply this, I can definitely see a difference. I'm not saying it's a miracle cure for the dreaded c, but it definitely leaves my skin feeling smoother, softer, and diminishes the awful bumpy dry patches I tend to get, which is good enough for me.

This Lyn Harris perfume has been a firm favourite of mine for a while now. I think it's a little better suited to the Autumn/Winter seasons because it's quite a strong, deep scent with notes of tuberose, gardenia, musk, and my personal favourite, vanilla. I always get compliments on this scent and find that it has amazing staying power, I can still smell it the day after, (it lingers in my hair!) and I'm still going to be wearing it come summer, because the smell is so divine. I also own the candle too, which is just as amazing, as are sets of this brand available in M&S.

I can't wait to post my next weekly favourites.. What are some of yours?

 x

Weekly Favourites..

 Daughter book. Author: Jane Shemilt.

I couldn't wait to write about this first simply because I haven't been able to get it out of my head since reading it. Thrillers are probably my favourite genre in books AND film and this book was no exception. I found it was a thoroughly well written book with a point and an important message, rather than a typical thriller that sometimes uses gimmick, gore and suspense. This focused more on family secrets and problems, and I'm still thinking about the end even now. 

Embryolisse Hydra-Masque

Aside from using copious amounts of baby oil, another way to get baby soft skin is to use this little gem of a mask. If you're a fan of French beauty products or you've watched a pharmacy haul or two then you've probably seen this brand before. I almost wish my skin was dry more often so I could use this, (unfortunately its normal to combination/oily). There's no faff or complicated appliance with this, you simply squeeze some out and smooth it all over your skin. It goes on very smoothly with an oily consistency, and when you wash it off thoroughly after about 15 minutes, your skin will be hydrated in no time :)

  Prague souvenirs and trinkets 

When I think of souvenirs I'm usually the typical keyring and fridge magnet girl (which I still purchased from my trip to Prague) but these perfume bottles and detailed jewelled mirrors that could be found in all of the souvenir shops around the city were too cute not too purchase. They give off a really vintage vibe and I think they'll look impossibly cute on a dressing table. 

Lush 'Fluffy Egg' Bath Bomb

I am SO glad I've recently rediscovered Lush, I was such a fan when I was younger and an impromptu trip the other week led to me filling my basket with various goodies and treats. This was one of them, and like many of their other products smells amazing. If you're not a fan of sweet scents this might not be for you, but the mixture of candy floss and palma violets is perfect for me.

 MAC Cinderella Lipstick in 'Royal Ball'

Aaah, who doesn't love the packaging of a freshly bought MAC lipstick, especially when it's limited edition and part of the new Cinderella range, and lets face it, who doesn't love anything Disney princess related? This 'Royal Ball' colour is actually different than I imagined, it's more of a frosted nude pink with sparkle, so I think I'll be wearing this over another lipstick so I don't look too much like I'm going for the snow queen look, however I can't resist a bit of sparkle, so it's definitely a happy purchase :)

Weekly Favourites..

When I started this blog it was with the intention of it being predominantly fashioned based, however there's nothing more I love than reading some lifestyle bits, travel posts and some yummy food rambles so that's what I want to do on here at least once a week, included amongst the outfit posts. There's always little things that make us smile whether it's once a day or once a week, and I want to turn this into a little weekly post to document the things that make me smile. They can be anything from a candle to a chocolate bar. I love reading other peoples, so here are mine...

'Hoppity Boppity' Lush Bath Bomb

Having been a lush fan for many years when I was younger, I find it quite shocking that I can't actually remember the last time I went in and purchased something. Having ended our little break with each other by going in today after a good few years, I was delighted to see all of the new Easter and spring treats, and picked up this little cute bunny bath bomb, among many others that I'm thinking of doing a detailed post on soon :)...

Gillian Flynn's Sharp Objects book, by Gillian Flynn.

 Having read Gone Girl during that summer when it was EVERYWHERE, and seeing the film at the cinema (amazing) I'm well over due in reading Gillian Flynn's other book. I've just started her debut novel 'Sharp Objects' and I'm already hooked. Despite the flawed and usually troubled central female characters, I can't help but liking them, and as soon as the last page has been turned, I'm on to 'Dark Places'...

 Jo Malone- Sweet Almond and Macaroon Candle.

I've been a candle addict for a long time now, and despite always sniffing them in Selfridge's, this is the first Jo Malone one I own. I'm a fan of any scents, including spicy, floral, and especially sweet, which this one is. The almond scent really comes through but I don't find that it's too sickly or overpowering, which is always a bonus.

Dior Lip Glow & Lip Maximizer Collagen Activ

Having tried the famous 'Lip Voltage' lip gloss last summer, I vowed to purchase one and ultimately never did. Partly due to being lazy with make up and partly that I just err.. forgot. However, I had seen this on a couple of vlogs and decided to treat myself at the airport in January. The Lip Maximizer Collagen Activ is definitely worth the price and the hype, it gives a nice little minty tingle but that's it, no crazy stinging at all like lip voltage, and I love the look of this on my lips. The Lip Glow isn't anything spectacular and I don't find that it adds much colour to my lips, but if you're looking for a typical pinky nude/natural every day lip, it makes for a good base with the maximizer over the top.

Fuji Film Instax Mini

The fact I finally managed to get my hands on one of the cutest cameras ever made me smile, I was debating over yellow or pink when it came to it, but blue was the one I originally wanted to I decided to go for it. It's a lovely deep pastel shade, easy enough to use and I can't wait to print lots of memories instantly with this :) ...

My Top 10 Autumn/Winter Lip Products..

Lip products are first and foremost my favourite beauty/make up product. I could leave the house without a scrap of make up on but I always need to have something on my lips, be it a balm or a simple gloss. Despite the fact that I have the driest lips in the North West (I believe), I don't feel complete unless I have something on my lips. I also feel like lip colours are the make up product that compliment outfits the most, you can have a simple piece on but it can be lifted instantly with a bright red lip or a coral coloured gloss. Now that the cold weather has officially hit, I'm finding myself reaching for deeper and darker tones, as well as my trustworthy lip balms, and while rooting through my make up drawer, discovering last seasons party lipsticks I forgot about. I HAD to write a post about my top 10 lip products that I favour during the autumn and winter season, especially when they compliment so many of my favourite ensembles at this time of year. So whether this post inspires you to step out of your comfort zone and try a deep berry shade, you want a new Christmas party red, or your lips are in serious need of some TLC, I hope this post helps..

Natasha xxx

(PS. Please excuse any spacing or line problems in this post, I'm looking into this problem ASAP!!)

1) Nuxe Paris 'Reve de Miel Lip Balm..
First up is one of the best lip balms I have ever used. Fellow beauty readers/obsessors will recognise this cult product as I often see it appearing on various beauty blogs,but there is a reason. I often find lip balms to glide on easily to only then slip off a second later, but this is the exception. It is thick, nourishing, smells ABSOLUTELY lovely, (a mixture of honey and lemon, I would strangely describe it as!) and has amazing staying power. I am not one to usually love hyped products but with this one, it is absolutely worth all the love and praise it gets. Your new winter lip saviour.

2) MAC Lipstick In 'DIVA'   
This lipstick is the newest addition to my make up bag. I own various shades of reds and pinks,     some that will make an appearance in this post, but I have been on the hunt for a deeper berry shade that will see me through the current season. This colour is absolutely beautiful and I find when I am wearing clothes in similar shades this lipstick enhances the outfit and compliments them. The colour looks very dark but as seen on my hand, it actually appears a very wearable (in my opinion) berry shade that has become one of my favourite EVER MAC lipstick. If you're looking to step outside your comfort zone with a deep dark lipstick this season, go for this one.

3) Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet In 'Hot Pepper'
Up next is another product that gets its fair share of attention in the beauty world, which is the Rouge Edition Velvet Lip Product from Bourjois. I.have included this because again, I love the wearable element to this product. If you don't want a full on lipstick during the day but you still want some colour to elevate things, I think products like these are perfect. I don't find these drying at all, they really do live up to their name sake, giving a very 'velvety' soft feel on the lips, however I sometimes find I have to apply a few coats to really build up the colour. Despite this, the affordable price and the gorgeous colour of this product make it one of my winter must-haves.

4) MAC Lipstick In 'Rebel'
Here we have another old faithful MAC product of mine. Like 'DIVA' I discovered this when wanted a new party lipstick for the A/W season last year. While similar in terms of the matte finish, deep bold colour and staying power, this is a blackcurrant/purple berry tone that is perfect for someone who is a fan of bright lipsticks and is looking for a new shade. As you can see on the swatch, it definitely has hints of a deep fuchsia to it as well, so for those who are attached to their trustworthy pinks, slowly step away and give this a go.

5) Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick In 'FICTION'
Aaah Chanel lipsticks. I would have to say that these 'Coco Shine' lip products are up there with my favourite lipsticks EVER. Whilst I appreciate the matte pigments from MAC, and their staying power, I appreciate these equally for how subtle and beautiful they are. As previously mentioned, I have extremely dry lips, I often find myself applying a bit of lip balm before putting on a lipstick to stop my lips getting dried out. However with these, not the case. They glide on perfectly, are so wearable, particularly for the day time when I want to make effort but not be too over done, and excuse the pun, but they really give the most amazing shine. The shade 'FICTION' is another beautiful berry tones, yes you might realise the running theme of berry tones within this post, (sorry haha) but this had to be included because of how wearable they are. If you're looking for an alternative to a matte lipstick, or you want to start of slow and steady in the world of berry colours.. this is for you.

6) MAC Satin Lipstick In 'MAC RED'
Making a move away from matte purple/berry tones, here we have a red satin lipstick from MAC. Fans of satin products and something a little more understated will appreciate this, as it offers an alternative to the other cult red MAC products such as 'Ruby Woo' and 'Russian Red'. I would describe this shade as a lovely cherry red, it is appropriate for any occasion and as is often the case with MAC products has great staying power. This is in my top ten for this time of year because I know if I need a red lipstick for any occasion, day to night, this is the one.

7) Borjois Colour Boost Lip Crayon In 'Plum Russian'
 Another of Borjois cult beauty products here, the 'Colour Boost' lip crayon. I have these in various  shades, however I must say that Plum Russian is my favourite, which is perfectly appropriate for this time of year. I keep this in my every day make-up bag as whenever I need some colour on my lips, these products are my saviour. They are the main lip product that I keep in my bag and wear on a daily basis, they don't dry my lips, glide on easily and look beautifully glossy. The Plum Russian also has the best colour and pigment in my opinion, and really is a lovely plummy berry shade. A make up must have for £7.99.

8) NARS Lip Pencil In 'Red Square'
I'm not usually one for lip pencils, not only because I'm very lazy but.. well just because I'm very lazy! I'm a huge Nars fan and remember seeing this in a video with Miranda Kerr's make up artist talking about which products she used on her. I had been seeing her working some lovely red lips so I decided to go and purchase this one. I was not disappointed, mainly because the colour is a lovely deep orangey red, but also because I can really use this all over my lips. Because of the slightly chubby pencil, I find it very easy to apply, and again, my dry lip problem doesn't arise because I don't tend to find this too drying. It's a really great product when I want something orangey toned and for my lips to look SUPER defined. I've also added other deep reds on top of this colour before to make it look even better.

9) MAC 'RIRI Holiday Collection' In 'PLEASURE BOMB'
Here I start with a little apology in regards to this product, not only because some of you might be sick of MAC lipsticks by this point, but this is my top ten picks, and most of my lip collection is MAC, so I have to be truthful! But I also have to apologise because I believe this product might be unavaible to purchase now due to it being part of a limited edition 'RIRI HOLIDAY COLLECTION' which Rihanna does with MAC. It is a beautiful MATTE shade called 'Pleasure Bomb', and I just had to included it because of the colour. I picked this up at a discounted cosmetics store in Chesire Oaks shopping outlet (they have one in Bicester Village too, I advise you to go, some hidden gems in there!) which tend to sell discontinued, discounted, and sometimes past season collections, which I think is how I managed to get my hands on this. Enough of the chit chat, I basically had to include this because it is the perfect raspberry pink shade to wear at this time of year, it is described as a bright fuschia, which is obvious from the swatch, however it has a lovely raspberry shade to it. I think this is the perfect autumnal alternative to a bright pink lip. Try 'Girl About Town' by MAC for a similar effect.

10) Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream
I believe I have saved possibly my favourite, and the best product until last. Before I found, Nuxe 'Reve di Miel' this was the ONLY lip balm that I used and that worked for me. It probably isn't anything surprising or new to cult beauty readers but for newbies who are looking for a new lip balm to soothe their lips, look no further. This is moisturising, soft and can be used on anything from dry patches to burns, and from eyebrows to your lips. It really is a product that lives up to its popularity, and one thing I have to say is that I LOVE the scent. It is a very distinctive smell that believe some people would not care for, I however like it, and only realised how much when I got the fragrance free version recently! A must have product.