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Wednesday, 30 December 2015

2015 Beauty Favorites

With the final countdown to 2016 upon us (yes it is nearly here!) I decided it was only right to fulfill my bloggering duties and put together a favourite beauty list of 2015 for you all!
Yes... totally predictable and totally cliche but hey - the end of December wouldn't be the same without one now would it?

So here they are.... my favourite beauty bits from the past 12 months - including everything from hair to eyelashes!

Eylure 101 false eyelashes have become my go-to lashes - I've talked about them so much on here and over my other social media channels for so long now. For someone who has fairly small eyes and can't rock a huge pair of fabulous lashes these are the perfect size for me. I used to wear 107's but they changed the design slightly so they were way too big for me to wear so I thought I'd try these and they are the best - I love buying the trio packs!
Mascara fav of the year has to be L'oreal's Volume Million Lashes Feline. I decided to try this on a whim when it first came out as the brush looked similar to Benefit's Roller Lash which I had tried and loved but couldn't afford to invest in!
Such a great dupe for Roller Lash and I've already repurchased it once or twice, girls this is awesome if you have short stumpy lashes!

Two MAC favourites now - Velvet Teddy lipstick & Whirl lip pencil have to be my two most worn lip products of this year! I'm on the last couple of uses of VT now and not too sure what I'm going to do once it's gone, I'm just going to have to splash out again as to be honest I don't think I can live without this shade! Whirl is the perfect lip pencil to wear alongside it and as much as I've worn it I still have so much left, brilliant value for money!

theBalm are the brand that have taken 2015 by storm and these two face powders I've used nearly every single day. Bahama Mama and Mary-Lou Manizer have been raved about throughout the blogging world and they are two of my favourite products I own (which says alot when you see the ridiculous size of my make-up collection). The perfect matte bronzer and gorgeous shimmer highlight are my favourite duo for both everyday and 'night out' make-up! (Full post about the two - here.)

Lush is a store which, I'll be honest, I don't pop into that often. Mainly because I live on the Isle Of Wight and we don't have one haha but when I am in a town with one I don't always even bother going in. (As a blogger I know this sounds ridiculous but I've never been overly excited about it..... maybe I just need to try more products!) 
Something I had always wanted to try however was the Bubblegum lip scrub and back in June whilst in Victoria train station I decided to treat myself. I have been using it non-stop ever since. I am prone to dry, flakey lips - which is gross - so this is the perfect product for me to keep on my dresser and use most days! (It also tastes amazing!) 

Perfume of the year for me has to be Estee Lauder Modern Muse Le Rouge. Oh my lord I've been obsessed, so obsessed that I have actually in fact I have none left. Which is so sad.... but I'm thinking I may treat myself for my birthday (less than 6 weeks to go!) .... plus I did just get Alien and Angel for Christmas so I'm sure that will keep me going for a while!

I can't believe I only have on hair product in this years favs but there we go! Aussie's 3 Miracle Oil has been my go-to oil, especially over the last few months. I love the scent, it's not too heavy on my short hair, it lasts for months on end plus it's affordable! So yeah.... go and try it!

Last but not least is something that seems to be in every favourite, holy grail and skincare post - but I STILL haven't found anything that I like better and that's the Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish. I love this stuff, it's the only product that I use that actually makes me feel like I have removed all of my make-up and it leaves my face feeling clean, fresh and totally bare.
If you are still yet it try it - get it on the top of your list for 2016, you won't regret it!

So there we have it. My 2015 beauty favourites.... what have been yours? I'd LOVE to know in the comments below :)

Shop my favourites :


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Saturday, 21 November 2015

A Very Disney Christmas

It wouldn't be a 'holiday' without Disney.

Every season, every event - there's always some fun Disney bits and bobs to go alongside and make it that little bit more fun - Christmas obviously being the BEST time.

I love Christmas and I love Disney so what better than Christmas themed Disney stuff - I've found the best of the best and popped it all into a post right here for you guys..... I know you guys love these! 


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Wednesday, 18 November 2015

30 Stocking Fillers & Secret Santa's Under £5



30.  Gold Musk & Chocolate Velvet Candle

(At the time of creating this post all of these items under £5 or under - these prices may change before Christmas day.)
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Sunday, 15 November 2015

Kirstie's Christmas Wishlist 2015

I love to be organised and what better than a gorgeous Kate Spade diary to keep me and my plans in check for the year ahead!

My favourite scent right now and my bottle is on it's last legs... I'm too scared to use it at the moment! This gift set is gorgeous, I love the mini bottle that comes with it, perfect for my handbag.

Beauty & The Beast Pyjamas
My favourite Disney movie + my favourite type of clothing = win win.

Michelle Visage - The Diva Rules
I have loved Michelle since first seeing her on RPDR. I listen to her and Ru's podcasts regularly and it literally feels like therapy. Listening to her thoughts and advice is just addictive, this woman is so wise and has such an amazing and confident attitude, I cannot wait to read this.

Kate Spade Cedar Street Racing Stripe Lacey Wallet
I've been needing a new purse for months now, I love my Ted Baker beauty but it is slowly falling apart from being over-loved so I have to say new one is top of my Christmas list! I LOVE Kate Spade purses, big heart eyes, shame about the price tag....

Disney Genie Mug
One of the greatest Disney characters ever? I think so. I love this mug, so cool and unique, plus a lovely little nod at the legend Robin Williams. Dying to get this before it goes out of stock again.

Letter K Cushion
I know I've shared this on here before but I just love it.... and it's such a bargain! The whole cushion range from ASDA is amazing, their Christmas picks are so, so cute.

Rosie For Autograph Luxury Dressing Gown
I've looked at these longingly for months and months now, they just look so comfortable and soft. I mean if it's good enough for Rosie, then it's good enough for me. I like the idea of black.... less chance of staining it with make-up right? 

theBalm The Manizer Sisters Trio
The Mary-Lou Manizer highlighter from theBalm is my FAVOURITE so when I saw this trio set I squealed with excitement! All 3 Manizer sisters in one easy palette, it's a must.

MAC Lady Danger Lipstick
This is one of those MAC lipsticks that I've never owned but it's always been on the wishlist. Such a classic red, I can't tell you how many times I've complimented someone on their lipstick and it's been this shade, it's definitely needed in my collection.
Shop the wishlist :


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Monday, 26 October 2015

Barry M Flawless Original Primer

My everyday primer ran out.... and Barry M released a brand spanking new product - coincidence? I think not!

Yes, I was in need of a new primer and seeing this newbie out on the high street made the decision oh so easy - let's try it out.
I'm a big fan of Barry M but when it comes to face make-up they aren't the first brand that pops to mind.
 Nails and lips, yes - primers and foundations, no. So I thought I'd bite the bullet and give it a chance.

I'm not overly fussy with primers, I have my favourite (POREFessional) but it's just not in my budget right now to use daily so I only use my miniatures of it when I'm heading on a night out and want my make-up looking extra special.
I've tried alot of what the high street has to offer over the last few years and am always keen to try something new when it's released.

This is one of 3 primers Barry M has added to their collection. There is the Original, the Colour Correcting and the Brightening - something for everyone!

Smoothing and mattifying this white cream feels amazing, creating a lovely base. It's silky and soft (plus it's oil-free) and has my skin feeling ready and raring for my foundation in seconds. 

I've really been enjoying using this and it's become a well-loved member of my daily make-up routine already. My foundation looks better than it has done in a while and lasts all day long which I'm really impressed with.

The primer is priced at only £5.99 which is alot cheaper than other drugstore brands attempts that I haven't liked as much! You can find it here on Boots.com.

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Thursday, 22 October 2015

Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Hand Cleansing Gel

Well.... this is a product I have been waiting months and months for.

After seeing new sprays, lotions and hand creams in my favourite Soap & Glory scent I was hoping and wishing that a hand gel might be next on the list AND look - it's here!
As soon as I saw this announced on twitter I was buzzing like a bee to get my hands on it! I ordered it via Boots.com and had it sent to my local store for free - so easy and I had it within 24 hours, perfect!

Anti-bacterial hand gels are a MUST for my handbag, I can't live without them, I'm such a germophobe when I'm out in public.
This is obviously fabulous, I LOVE the Sugar Crush vanilla and sweet lime scent, the non-drying formula  is a bonus during this time of year and the packaging.... cute as always!

Big thumbs up for Soap & Glory, other product from them that I will be using daily.

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Wednesday, 21 October 2015

Sensitive Teeth Rescue With Sensodyne

So it was the end of last month when I ventured to the dentist to have a dreaded filling. It sucked, I hated it, but I couldn't help but laugh when I left the dentist chair and checked my e-mails.

I mean what were the chances of me having an e-mail from a huge dental brand haha, it did make me giggle!
Sensodyne are one of the countries biggest dental brands and I have been a fan for years.
I've suffered with sensitive teeth on and off since I was a child so being offered to try out one of Sensodyne's Sensitivity SOS packages put a huge smile on my face. (Even if it was wonky from the anesthetic!)
Sensodyne NEW Cool Mint Mouthwash*, Sensodyne Repair & Protect Toothpaste*

The mouthwash is the newest product bought out from Sensodyne and I've completely fallen in love with it.
Alot of the time I am put off of mouthwashes due to the strength, I've used so many that just feel like they are burning my mouth and I can't stand using them for more than a few seconds!
Targeted for sensitive teeth this twice a day mouthwash has a lovely refreshing cool mint flavour which helps keep my mouth feeling funky fresh for hours on end and isn't overly strong in anyway so it is actually bearable for the 60 seconds of swishing!

The Repair & Protect toothpaste next and this is a must have if you suffer with sensitivity!
This toothpaste repairs, strengthens and protects your teeth continuously and the minty fresh taste leaves your total mouth feeling fresh and clean.
I've been using this at least twice a day for the last few weeks and have been loving it and I've noticed a slight change in sensitivity aswell which is a brucie bonus!

What are your favourite dental products at the moment?

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Sunday, 27 September 2015

New Lee Stafford Bleach Blondes & Arganoil Releases

I am all up for trying out new products and when it's from one of my favourite brands I'm all the more excited!
Lee Stafford is a brand/guy I have shouted from the rooftops about for years and years - I'm such a lover of his stuff and each new range he brings out just seems to get better and better.
I've used products from both of these ranges before, so too see new additions have me excited and intrigued!
Bleach Blondes GOLDen girl Oil*, Bleach Blondes Tone Correcting Conditioning Spray*, Arganoil Nourishing Miracle Mist*, Arganoil Night Repair Serum*

First up lets talk about the new products in the Bleach Blondes range.
 As you all know, I'm not a natural blonde (sorry for spoiling the illusion) and trying to maintain a good shade of pretty blonde whilst keeping my hair in good condition can take a few products. 
Because I have bleached hair I really do try to keep it healthy and strong especially at the ends and number one on list list is always - oils.
GOLDen girl OiL is an oil said to be a 'kiss of life for bleached hair' something I desperately need after a few blow dry and straightening sessions! Before I had my hair cut into a lob the ends were so thin and straggly and I really don't want my hair to be in that condition again this time round! 
This oil can be used on wet or dry hair and has a lovely weightless, non-greasy formula. The scent is the classic LS scent which I love and I've been using this when my hair is damp and then again once it has air-dryed from the mid-lengths to the ends.
GOLDen girl OiL hydrates thirst quenching hair, amplifies shine and helps to neutralise brassy tones - perfect for us blondies!

Next up is the Tone Correcting Conditioning Spray. This actually surprised me, I've seen sprays like this before and they are normally something you spray in your hair before showering but this stuff is for afterwards - not to be washed out.
Another violet toning product to help get rid of those brassy/copper tones but also a conditioning spray to keep your hair strong, soft and moistoursied. Genius!

Now.... onto those Arganoil newbies!
The Nourishing Miracle Mist has slowly become my favourite new hair product in my routine! It reminds me a bit of the Ubuntu Oils Repairing Mist which is used daily when I had extensions, it's light and not greasy in the slightest! It has transformed my dry, processed ends into softer and more mangeable locks. LOVE LOVE LOVE.

Last but not least is the Arganoil Night Repair Serum. I love a product which can get to work while I'm getting my beauty sleep - no leaving on for 15 minutes and then rinsing out, this stuff you can pop on and just head to bed - lovely jubley!
This overnight miracle treatment is a moisture infused lotion you pop on your mid-lengths to ends before bed - but don't worry this stuff is easy peasy and absorbs quickly so won't leave a nasty mark on your pillow! In fact.... I'm about to comb some through my hair right now!
Leaving your hair feeling protected and regenerated this is the perfect weekly beauty treat.


Well there's another 4 Lee Stafford products to add to my ever-growing collection - you can find them all on boots.com and in store now :)
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Thursday, 10 September 2015

I'm Loving... #23

As I decided not to put up a monthly favourites this month because I felt like it was alot of the same stuff I'd previously posted, I thought I'd just carry on with my "I'm loving" posts here and there!

MTV Ex On The Beach
Oh my good god, how on earth have I never watched this show before? It is literally so bad it's good! I cannot believe how some of these people talk, it is outrageous and I can't help but find it hilarious! Cami and Kirk's entrance argument has to be the highlight so far - could not stop laughing! 

Travalo Milano
I spoke about this last week on here. This brand new Travalo is bloomin' marvellous - the new design is slick, luxorious and the new spray action is incredible- read more about it here.

I stumbled back across this the other day when doing my eye make-up and searching through my primer draw! I only have the mini size as I got in in the Benefit advent calendar last year! This is brilliant and has been my go-to primer when doing a full face of make-up, I think I'm going to have to invest in a full-size!

Even though I own countless palettes I always seem to float between the original Naked palette and this little beauty! theBalm is one of best new brands I've stumbled across since I started blogging and their products are securely placed into my daily routine, this is a fab investment!
WAGs on E!
Yes...... I have been drawn in to yet another trashy American reality show about nobody's. But... I just love them okay! This is all about US WAGs, I'm loving the glam and drama so much already, it's on E! on Tuesdays, check it out!

Little Mix - Hair
My favourite song at the moment! I loveeeee Little Mix and cannot wait for their album to be released later this year.

St. Moriz Fake Tan Mousse - Dark
With Bestival starting (today) I have been desperately trying to glam myself up a little after a summer of working indoors! This is my go-to tan and I'm hoping I'll have a slight glow (that isn't white based) for the weekend!

This has been my number one concealer for the past few months, with the amount of early morning shifts I've had recently I've had to have something half decent to cover those big bad bags under my eyes! This works a charm, so so good for the price tag!

UnReal
Another TV show I have been obsessed with is UnReal.  On Lifetime this is a show about the behind of scenes of a show called 'Everlasting' (basically The Bachelor) and it shows the producers manipulating the cast and all the drama that unfolds, it has just finished it's first season but if you get the chance to watch it I highly recommend. It really makes you wonder what really happens on these real 'reality' TV dating shows.......

Mac Lipliner - Whirl
This has got to be my favourite lip liner that I own. I pair it with Velvet Teddy for that awesome KJ look, soooo worth the money  as I know it's going to last months and months. This is a must for the perfect nude lip.

What have YOU been loving recently?
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Wednesday, 2 September 2015

7th Heaven Pulped Papaya Rescue Masque Review

7th Heaven Pulped Papaya Rescue Masque*

Like most of you girlies (and maybe guys) reading this, I love a good old pamper.
 I probably write more about pampering and cosy nights in than anything else at the moment - I'm getting old before my time I tell ya!

On the top of my list of things to do when having a good old pamper is a hair mask. I love jumping in the shower for a relaxing 15-20 minutes and treating my hair and scalp to a thick and creamy treatment mask.

7th Heaven are always my go-to brand for face masks, at only £1 each and with something for every skin type you can't really go wrong, so when I heard that they were now creating fabulous sachets for hair I couldn't wait to try one out!

This is the Pulped Papaya Rescue Masque - a fabulous blend of potent botanical oils and papaya fruit that help to moisturise the roots and hair shafts.
 Plus the creamy formula tackles dullness and frizz, transforming your hair back to its full shiny, healthy glory.

I'm going to start with the one negative comment I have... and that is that, for me, there wasn't enough product. To have my hair covered root to tip in an even amount I would have needed just a little more than what was in the sachet. So if you have long hair you may need more than one sachet.

I squeezed out as much product as I could, covered my hair root to tip and left it while I went about my shower business for about 4 minutes.
The scent was lovely, a real strong fruity smell which lasted even after the mask had been washed out and my hair was dry.

Afterwards my hair felt so light, clean and knot free - I could even run my fingers through it straight after hoping out the shower.... this does not happen alot haha!
I really did notice an extra shine to my hair and an improvement with the dullness - which is something I'm really struggling with the moment as I'm waiting for it to be coloured next week!
I'm so pleased with the results from this mask, for £1 this is the perfect pick me up and I cannot wait to try out the others from 7th Heaven.

Check out the mask - here - it's a barry bargain!
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Tuesday, 18 August 2015

I'm Loving... #22

Total Divas
Being a reality TV show whore I cannot believe I haven't started watching this sooner - I am obsessed. Like crazy obsessed! This show is awesome - I am currently watching season 1 and season 4 at the same time and I'm sure it won't be long until I'm totally caught up! I LOVE the Bella Twins - girl crush overload!

Holly Madison - Down The Rabbit Hole
I've mentioned this a few times over the last few weeks. I was a huge fan of Girls Next Door and a big fan of Holly - I met her in Vegas and she was lovely! As soon as this book was announced I was counting down the days until I could get my mitts on it! It is soooo interesting, you really do see the other side of Playboy and the famous mansion! I haven't finished it yet, purely because I don't want it to end so I'm making it last for a little while longer! If you want to know all the inside goss I suggest you go grab this while you can! I got my hardback cover from Amazon :)

Estee Lauder Modern Muse Le Rouge Perfume
You may have seen my post yesterday about this new perfume in my life! New signature scent - I'm in love! (Review here!)

L'oreal Volume Million Lashes Feline Mascara
Ooooo something else I've done a review on recently! I have used this every single day since buying it - it is brilliant for my short stumpy lashes and used alongside my eyelash curlers this really does help to make a big difference! (full review here)

Touch Of Silver Hairspray
After trying out some new do's recently (like here) I've been using alot more hairspray than usual! I want to start wearing my hiar up more so that it grows faster - last time I grew my hair avoiding heat was the best way! This hairspray is amazing! It feels so light and smells amazing (a little like Aussie) - everything I try from this brand is just perfect for my hair!

Ru Paul  What's The Tee? Podcast
I have become a total lover of podcasts and Ru Paul's What's The Tee? has been making my journeys to and from work a whole lot better! Not only do Ru and Michelle make me full on LOL whilst walking down the road but they have such much wise life advice that I love taking in!

Crunchy Nut Chocolate Granola
Jesus Christ someone needs to take this stuff away from me. I honestly think I could sit and eat the whole bag in one sitting.
Disney Pixar's - Lava
If any of you have been to see Inside Out yet you would have been greeted with this super cute Pixar short before the film began. I fell in love with it - the song makes me so so happy.


Simple Illuminating Radiance Cream
I've been using this stuff for the past couple of weeks instead of a primer and I have been loving my skin! It works just as well as a primer and leaves me with a lovely - non-shiny/greasy glow! IT's still half price at Boots at the moment - try it out girls you won't be disappointed!

New Look Platform Sandals
Did someone say new shoes? You may have spotted these in my OOTD for the Southampton Bloggers meet up on my Instagram (here) - they were literally the most comfy shoes and even though I felt a little tall compared to some of the girls in flats I loved how they looked with my skirt and top combo... and the best thing?! They are only £12 in the sale - here!

What have you been loving lately?


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Tuesday, 11 August 2015

Simple Skincare Haul

When I saw that Boots had the whole of the Simple skincare range at half price last week I thought it would just be plain RUDE not to invest in a few bits for myself.
I love Simple and have been using it on and off since I was probably about 14- alongside Nivea they have got to be my favourite drugstore skincare brand.
Being on a bit of a budget for the next year ( you can read about about that here) I will be splashing out less on more expensive high end products/brands and sticking to barry bargains which I know work well!
I picked up 7 products from the range and wanted to tell you all about them as I have been so excited about how cheap they are right now!
L2R : Facial Wash, Facial Toner, Facial Scrub, Light Moisturiser, Illuminating Cream, BB Cream & Handwash.


Simple Refreshing Facial Wash Gel - Was £3.39 Now £1.69
This is a product I've used before, but not for a long while! I have to have a facial wash in the shower for every morning, something to wake both me and my skin up and prep my skin ready for my morning skincare routine and make-up!

Simple Soothing Facial Toner - Was £3.29 Now £1.64
This is always my back-up when I run out of my Liz Earle Skin Tonic. This is something I use every morning and every night - I feel grotty without a toner!

Simple Smoothing Facial Scrub - Was £3.39 Now £1.69
I'm a scrub addict. Especially during the summer months when I feel I can notice build up so much more! For the price this is a total bargain - great to keep in the shower and use 1 or 2 times a week!

Simple Protecting Light Moisturiser - Was £4.35 Now £2.17 
I'm such a naughty girl when it comes to moisturising... after trying out a few thicker creams and my skin not reacting well I have become very distant from this everyday step. I used to use this as a teen and I thought for this cheap price - why not try it again! (So far so good...)

Simple Illuminating Radiance Cream - Was £6.59 Now £3.29
I have wanted to try this for so long, but my stingy self has refused to pay out the missley £6.59 for it haha! My Mum bought this months and months ago and said how much she liked it and I'm really glad I have finally bought it as it is lovely!

Simple Perfecting BB Beauty Balm - Was £6.29 Now £3.14
Again... I've wanted to try this since the day it came out! BB/CC creams are a favourite of mine for this time of year and I'm looking forward to using something a little lighter than my usual high coverage foundation. The only thing that worries me is that from what I saw there is only one shade... I haven't tried it yet so I'm hoping it will be okay!

Simple Handwash - Was £2.10 Now £1.05
Last but not least something for the kitchen/bathroom (which ever one runs out first!) I wash my hands alot so having something which is kind to skin is really good for me and for half the price I thought it would be a nice treat!

Do you use anything from Simple? What are your favourite products?

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