Now, Mac is a brand that a love - alot, but it's also a brand I can't afford to buy willy nilly! (Yes, I'm a poor, poor sole - get that violin out!) BUT when I saw that the UK was releasing the Viva Glam Miley I knew that I had to invest in the lipstick! As soon as I spotted it on the MAC site I popped it into my basket and headed straight to the checkout before I could be tempted by anything else! I used the every-so-helpful code MACTREAT which got me free delivery AND a free sample of a mascara which is amazing - I hate paying postage so any site that can give me free delivery is highly likely to receive my custom!
Anyway back to the product.... this is a total and utter beaut (you probably saw my Instagram post last week)! I do love my MAC lipsticks and it always excites me greatly to have a new one join my collection, as I don't actually buy them that often!
MAC Viva Glam Miley Lipstick
Viva Glam Miley has the iconic mac lipstick formula which I am such a fan off! A hot fushciia pink shade with amazing pigmentation and lasting power - check! This is my favourite kind of lipstick, a bold colour in a creamy formula - and it's a hot pink (my most worn of all the pinks!), I can't say anything bad about it!
(Sorry this is just a pic from Instagram so the colours are slightly edited... rubbish aren't I!)
I'm really glad I splashed out the £15.50 on this, not only is it going to be one of my most worn this year (I can feel it) but some of the proceeds goes to charity which is awesome! The only other Viva Glam I have is the Nicki Minaj lipstick which I got in New York and have used soooo much over the last few year - these lipsticks rock! Would you guys be interested in a MAC lipstick collection post? It's something I've been considering for a while!
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This time of year (and this weather) plays havoc with my skin. It's only been the last few years that it's caused me a problem and I have spoke about it numerous times here on A Yellow Brick Blog so I am always trying out new products to try and help me out!
This is where E45 has come in. Yes they may seem like your standard clinical type non-girly/fun brand but in reality they WORK - and that's all that matters right?
My problem areas are mainly my lower legs and hands.
I blame the ever changing temperature of the my surroundings for my legs - heating/air-con/ the outside! They tend to flare up at night and become really rashy and itchy, sort of like Eczema symptoms(sorry if you find this a bit gross!). I've never actually had eczema but it does run in my family - especially with my little brother.
So for my legs I have been using the E45 Moisturising Lotion. This lotion is of course dermogicially tested, something E45 are known for and pride themselves on. It is also perfume free and allergy-screened so it should be suitable for any skin type, even the most sensitive.
The lotion itself is a thin, light formula, not like the cheeky body butters we all love and rave about, but for me this makes is perfect for everyday use.
Most mornings I'm rushing around getting ready for work so a thick, creamy formula which takes ages to sink in is a no-no. With this lotion absorption is quick which is great as I can add it into my morning routine with ease. It also has no real scent so isn't over-powering if you want to apply it to your whole body.
This stuff has worked wonders for my skin, it has soothed the rashes I seemed to be getting and kept my skin actually feeling hydrated which is seriously what it needed plus it protects it at the same time!
Now on my hands. I have to say ... I think I give myself this dry skin problem, opps!
I use alot of anti-bacterial hand gel, especially throughout my days at work. This has led to my hands becoming super dry, cracked and even rashy in patches - something I haven't actually experienced before, damn me about my germophobia!
Hand cream is something I use but don't have with me at all times (which isn't very helpful) so an overnight treatment seemed like the perfect thing for me to try out.
This is actually a new product from E45, I had seen the hand cream from them in Boots but this was actually the first time I had heard of the overnight treatment.
The Repair & Protect Overnight Hand Cream comes in a handy 50ml tube and promises to boost skin cell regeneration while you sleep!
The product itself is a light cream, which rubs in so quickly it feels just like a serum.
I was worried I would be stuck with thick, greasy hands when going to sleep - which isn't great if you touch your face alot when in dreamland like me - but it really is the opposite, you barely know anything is on them!
I have to say this is a miracle worker, after just one night my dry skin and sore patches were totally gone, I am so impressed. This now lives on my bedside table and I know if I haven't used alot of hand cream throughout the day I can just pop this on at night and be sorted!
I have to say I am so, so pleased I have finally tried out some products from E45, they are brand that has been around for so many years I can't believe it has taken me this long! I also love that they are affordable, unlike so many other brand which promise so much!
I am definitely going to be lending both of these to my brother to try aswell, they've worker for me so hopefully they can help him too!
What are your must-have products from skin problems? Have you tried either of these?
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For years now I have been a fan of the Tangle Teezer - I own 3 and don't know what I'd do without them! So seeing a new product from them has got me very excited! A blowdry brush - finally! It's not the easiest thing trying to blowdry your hair with a brush that doesn't have a handle so I cannot wait to get my hands on one of these!
Burberry Rain Or Shine Blush
I've never been much of a blush person, I've said this many times on here before! But after trying a few products from Make-up Revloution and buying Nars' Orgasm - I am slowly learning to love them! This looks like such a pretty shade for spring, perfect for simple, everyday looks.
Soap & Glory Archery D-I-Y Brow Bar
My HD Brow palette is slowly starting to run out so I have been checking out what's out there on the highstreet to try and this newbie from S&G caught my eye! 4 shades and 2 small angled brushes for only like £12? I need this!
Chloe Love Story Perfume
I tried this out in Debenhams a few weeks ago and fell in LOVE (excuse the pun!).
Smashbox Primer Water
Well this a new one isn't it! I love, love, love the sound of this stuff! I'm a big fan of Smashbox' primers so I'd happily fork out to try this out.
Embroyloisse Gold Cream
Hailed the miracle from many a celeb this stuff is now available from Boots - I've heard alot of goo things about it and have gone to purchase a couple of times now.... have any of you tried it?
Fleur De Force The Glam Guide
Out of all the youtubers out there Fleur is one that I have been watching constantly for years now. She seems genuine, clever and has a real gift for what she does! I feel like this book would be right up my street - it seems mature and full of useful tips and information. I think I'll be popping this in my amazing basket on payday!
Zoeva Rose Golden Eyeshadow Palette
What can I say? This is beautiful and I want it.
Neal & Wolf SILK Blow-dry Lotion
I've been using a few products from this brands for months now and I'm kind of obsessed with the scent - I would really love to try out some more from them and this is definitely the next one on my wishlist.
EOS Summer Fruits
I cannot get enough of the 2 I already own and summer fruits sounds like a lovely scent to have for the upcoming spring months!
Whats on your wishlist right now?
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Now a few random e-mails have dropped into my inbox since I started blogging back in 2013, but this was one of those random ones that caught my eye!
A monthly box for your doggie/s - yes that's right, monthly treats and sweets for that special little pup in your life! (How cute is this!)
I was lucky enough to be sent this box for my Springer Spaniels Ubee & Bauer. (who I'm sure you've spotted on my Instagram, Twitter and Blog over the years!)
Before dishing out the goods to the eager duo I snapped a few photos for you all to see how the boxes come prepared and what I received inside!
BarkBeats January Valentine's Box*
So inside there was :-
Goodogs Yummi Treats
Ancol Comfort Toy - Dog Lips
Oh My Dog! All Over Protein Shampoo
Pet Brand Choco-holic Bar
Barks & Sparks 100% Natural Oven Baked Heart
And the results are in......
Well these treats and toys went down an utter storm with these two - the two above especially, so thank you very much Barkbeats!
If you are interested in ordering your own box then head over to BarkBeats now! You get to choose for 3 different sized dog packages depending on what breed you have and can sign up to just 1 month if you like!
If you tend to pick up new things for your dog each month anyway this is definitely a great way to find new treats and toys without even having to leave your house!
Or know someone who's just got a new dog or puppy? This is a fab little present to spoil them with!
I've also got a discount code for you guys to use on your first box which saves you a whopping £5! Just enter YELLOW5 in as a promo code!
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If you've watched my recent video on youtube (here) then you probably would have spotted this little bargain!
Yes, I picked up this up for just 50p in Primark last week and finally got to use it a couple of days ago!
It was Thursday night and I decided to have a little pamper before my night dedicated to my love - Eastenders! (Wooohooo for the 30th birthday and live week - can you believe it was Bobby!?)
Anyway before I settled down I thought it would be nice to give my hair and skin a little pamper so I whipped this out, took of my make-up and applied it thickly over my face!
I love self-heating masks, the hot chocolate and sauna masks from this brand are some of my ultimate favourites, so I was really excited to try another one from the range! If you like the scent of fudge... you need this in your life - it smells SO yummy! I plastered a thick layer over my boat race and relaxed for around 15minutes! I then hopped in the shower and washed it off! I'm not going to lie... I was a bit sad it was a beige colour - I really like having a completely random coloured face that makes you look kind of crazy haha! My skin felt soft and smooth and you could definitely see a difference in my complexion. My skin looked brighter with a slight glow! Not bad for 50p! This particular one is actually exclusive to Primark - which sucks for me as I don't live anywhere near a Primark!
Have any of you tried this one?
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Recently I was asked what I thought the most romantic city for couples was?
Yes immediately my brain flashed up images of the Eiffel Tower, Venice and pretty beaches on the other side of the world but in reality I haven't actually been to any of these so feel like I can't choose them!
Somewhere I have been is New York City and even though I went with a best friend when I went twice back in 2012, I still saw the romantic side of the city and what it has to offer for loved up couples!
New York is the backdrop to so many amazing love stories, I mean ... Ross & Rachel, Carrie & Big, Blair & Chuck - that list is definitely endless for both soapy and dramatic relationships! The city is full to the brim with amazing tourist sights, beautiful scenery, amazing shows, delicious foods - it really is like nowhere other, the buzz of NYC is something I'll never forget.
Like I just mentioned New York City is an incredible place to visit if you are a foodie couple and nothing epitomises NYC more than it's aray of foods! The amount of romantic,fun and unique meals and snacks you can enjoy is one of the best things about a trip!
Not only this but the sights and sounds they have to offer are literally like nothing you will see anywhere else - the for one skyline is breathtaking. With the amount of songs, TV shows and movies focused in NYC you really could be entertained for years by it and I think just about everyone has dreamt of going to New York.
I've been challenged by MSC Cruises to create a romantic bundle of things that, for me, represents New York and it's love story atmosphere.
LOVE STORIES
The list goes on and on for these! You must all have a favourite movie or TV show which was set in New York City.
I mean... Sex and the City, Gossip Girl, Friends, Serendipity, Maid In Manhattan, New Year's Eve, New York I Love You, Breakfast At Tiffany's. There are some pretty epic love stories there!
So these were a MUST for my bundle. There is nothing better than cosying up and watching a rom-com or love story (as long as you can talk your partner into it!).
From watching Carrie & Big finally tie the knot in the SATC movie to Blair & Chuck realising they were perfect for each other to Rachel getting off the god damn plane (thank God for the left phalange problem!) these all take place in the beautiful New York City - doesn't it make you want to have your own little love affair there?
Here's a Romantic NYC DVD marathon ...
THE FOOD
Okay, so I have invested in the greatest recipe book... ever!
New York is seriously famous for it's amazing foods - whether it's breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack off the street, New York is the home to the most iconic American flavours!
New York Cult Recipes is an epitome of awesome NY foods so, in light of it's romantic flare, me and my the boyf decided to attempt some of the fun recipes inside and send ourselves on a tantalising, mouth-watering trip to the USA!
First up the Tuna Melt!
Now this has got to be hands-down the best sandwich I've ever eaten! 3 slices of bread, cheese slices, a special tuna mix - fried to perfection!
This is amazing!!! I literally want to jump on a plane and go to every cafe in NYC.
Next - the USA's famous Sloppy Joe's! My boyfriend is called Joe so he is a big fan of this one!
The recipes in this book are super easy to follow and don't take long at all! We are definitely going to be trying alot more from this! Romantic trip to the NYC every weekend I say!
Last but not least.... my favourite - dessert!
Nothing says New York more than New York Cheesecake so we HAD to buy some! We seriously enjoyed this authentic yummy pudding - someone take me to cheesecake factory like NOW?!
THE SCENERY, THE SIGHTS AND THE SHOWS
For me when I think of New York the first thing that pops into my mind is the sight-seeing. Those iconic places like the Central Park, Times Square and the Empire State Building just shout romance too me! There's nothing more amazing than sharing an experience like that with a loved one.
I've included the pretty lights in some of the photos - because NY is famous for it's gorgeous lights throughout the city isn't it?! The skyline - full of lights, Time Square is one big light-fest, it just looks so perfect at night!
Tiffany & Co - what's more romantic than one of the most gorgeous jewellers in the entire world?! Ahhh what I would do to have a box full of their stunning jewels!
Last but not least - the shows. I am a huge musical fan - like huge! And I don't think there would be a night more perfect for me than in New York eating the incredible food and then seeing a show!
I have been to Broadway and I feel so grateful, my list of "need to see's" though is as long as my arm. Rent is a musical I've never seen so it was a must for this romantic bundle. I can't wait to have a cosy night in with the lights off pretending I'm on the otherside of the Atlantic with my loved one.
So there we have it - do you agree with me that New York City is the most romantic city in the world?! I love this bundle I have put together - it makes me super happy! I dream of the day I can go back - but for now I'll enjoy the food, movies, music and everything I love about that place from the comfort of my own home! (Next on my list.... making my own NYC pizza and cupcakes!) Thank you so much to MSC Cruises for challenging me - I've had a total and utter blast ( and Joe has too!)
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I mean this has just got to be in this post! I think if you follow me on twitter you have kind of gathered that I have been obsessed with Eastenders this week! (I do apologise if you follow me on twitter I am aware of my tweeting problem......) #HowsAdam? Anyway.... It was only bloody Bobby! After reading a few suggestions it was him over the last few weeks I wasn't was surprised as I hoped I would be when the killer was revealed! The acting on Fridays episode was so incredible - you would never think that was live! A huge well done and congrats to Adam, Laurie, Ben and Mimi! I can't wait for all the upcoming storylines.... Is dean dead? Where the hell has Kathy been?!
YouTube
Yay! I have finally started filming videos again! I still need to get some form of editing software to make them slightly more exciting but I have really been enjoying filming and I will be uploading more really soon :) I would love it if you guys would subscribe to my channel - here! It's been so lovely having your nice comments and support both on twitter and on the videos themselves so thank you you lovely people!
MAC Viva Glam Miley Lipstick
Wooo a new mac lipstick in my life! (This doesn't happen alot!) As soon as I saw this was available in the UK I ordered it straight away! It is a gorgeous fuchsia shade of pink (my fav kind of lipstick colour you know!) and the formula is just perfect! Thick and creamy, this amplified lippy is everything I look for!
Nutri-Grain Breakfast Bakes
Formally known as Elevenses these are so so yummy - it's like eating cake but you don't feel as bad about it! The raisin ones are my favs!
Mememe Flawless Concealer
I've been using this loads over the past week! Normally I use my pwoharr paint concealer from seventeen but I felt like changing things up and this was the first replacement I decided to try out! It is light and creamy and blends in so easily, if you need something not as heavy duty but something that still give good coverage I highly recommend this!
Taylor Swift Style Video
My girl Tay has released a new video! I love Style - it's one of my favourites from the album and I really like Taylor's cool mature video to go alongside it! Bravo Swift!
Simple Toner
You may have seen this in my Boots haul a couple of weeks ago, I have been using this instead of forking out for my usual Liz Earle Skin Tonic! It leaves my skin feels fresh and clean, a bargain alternative!
Blistex Lip Brilliance
My saviour of dry lips this week has been this tinted balm from Blistex! It is perfect for everyday at work, it works so well on chapped lips and gives a little colour too without being too OTT for my boring retail job! Plus it smells good too!
Bleach London Silver Shampoo & Conditioner
I have been loving these since getting my hair dyed blonder! I am a bit of a wimp with these products though as I'm scared I'm going to leave them in too long and end up with purple hair (although it would be cool I don't think work would be impressed!) I've used toning products like these before and I found they made my hair feel super dry but with the conditioner from Bleach these actually make my hair feel really soft!
Pure Beauty Magazine Jen/Feb 2015
Super exciting news (which you probably saw on Insta or Twitter like a week ago) - I'm in this month's Pure Beauty magazine! I'm so excited and grateful to be including in such a fab and informative mag AND I'm in it right next to my beautiful buddy Becky!! I'm so glad my work have let me take it home to keep - tis' one to show my mother!
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I for one, am so guilty of not doing this enough! I love having fresh, clean brushes - they work so much better and feel so much nicer! So next time I have a spare quarter of an hour I'm going to get down and dirty with my mucky brushes! I normally just use a gentle shampoo on them and then leave them to air dry for the night!
Give Yourself a Facial
Why sit on the sofa procrastinating when you can give yourself a fab little DIY spa treatment! My favourite things to use are the Montagne Jeunesse face mask sachets which average at only about £1 each! There are so many to choose from so there is literally one (or ten) for every skin type! Give yourself a pamper - you deserve it!
Download a New App
Most of the time when I'm bored I am glued to my phone - sad I know. If you are the same (don't lie and say you're not!) why not try downloading a new app to have a play around with and kill some time! Whether it's a game, an editing app or even 'Clue' the period tracker - cure boredom with a bit of modern technology! (I have a major geeky side and love playing Broken Sword.... don't tell anyone!)
Practice a New Hairstyle
Never been able to do a french plait or a fishtail braid? Get youtube up, put a mirror in front of you, watch a tutorial and get practicing! Practice makes perfect you know - you'll be the queen of the up-dos and grips before you know it!
Marathon Watch Netflix
There is no shame in sitting on your butt for hours watching the visual heaven that is Netlfix.
Super bored and have an afternoon to kill? Start a new series - it will be the best thing you do all week I bet!
My top 10 suggestions : Pretty Little Liars, Ru Paul's Drag Race, Gossip Girl, 90210, Buffy, The Vampire Diaries, American Horror Story, Breaking Bad, Orange Is The New Black & Misfits!
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Like I said in a post earlier this month I have suddenly discovered the love of Pinterest! I've had an account for a while now but it has only been the last month or so that I have dedicated my spare time morning, evening and night to making boards and pinning until my hearts content! It is brilliant for killing boredom (and time) and I am constantly thinking of new things to search and new boards I can create! I thought it would be fun to share with you guys a few of my favourite pins that I have found this past week - a nice visual post for everyone :) MY PINTEREST ACCOUNT
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