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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 :)

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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.
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Friday, 2 October 2015

My Everyday Contouring Duo

Contouring has been talk of the make-up town for at least a year now and although I'm no Kimmy K when it comes to shaping my face, I do use a couple of products in my everyday routine to give me a little definition, colour and shimmer.

These two have been a solid make-up favourite and in my make-up bag since the day that I got them. It was literally love at first use and I know I've talked about them a fair few times already on here but I do feel like they deserve another mention! 
These two are both from the ever-growing cosmetic brand theBalm - on the left the Mary-Lou Manizer highlighter and on the right the Bahama Mama bronzer - and I cannot rant and rave about these enough.

The highlight is a gorgeous pinky silver shimmer highlight which gives a gorgeous sheen and glow to the skin and the bronzer is a fantastic matte tan shade, which I always find hard to get hold of (For under £25 anyway!) - together they are a dream team!

I start off my doing my usual base of make-up - primer, concealer and foundation. I then use my Zoeva Sheer Luxe Cheek Brush to sweep the bronzer into the classic '3' shape from my forehead round to my cheekbones and then down towards jawline. At this point I look a bit OTT and ridiculous but that doesn't last long.

I then use the other end/side of the brush to start of the highlighting.
 With the Mary-Lou I usually pop a bit alongside/above the line I had made along my cheekbones, then down my nose, a tad on my forehead and a little on my cupids bow and chin.
Then it's time for the blending - I use my big fluffy Real Techniques powder brush to buff it all together in small circular motions, blending away those harsh lines and creating a soft, subtle and wearable bronzed and highlighted look.

As you can see.... these are running thin and I'm already panicking about running out! Even though I'm trying to save money this next year these will have the be a re-purchased as I really can't see me living without them anytime soon.

What are you favourite bronzers and highlights? Have you tried either of these?
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Sunday, 20 September 2015

Current Beauty Favourites

YAY! Beauty talk once more here on AYBB - I've missed it!
Time to chat all about my current go-to's in my crazy stash of beauty goodies (I really need another clearout ya know!). These are my current favourite products, everything from primers to perfumes, so sit back, relax, maybe even grab a cup of tea and settle down to my ramblings!
First up - my ultimate perfume pick of the moment! Yes I've spoken about this a couple of times already so I won't chat for too long, it's Estee Lauder Modern Muse Le Rouge
I'm in love with this stuff and I'm already sad about the thought of it running out!
I've been getting so many compliments on it and even a few of my friends have popped it on their christmas lists already! 
Next up Rimmel's Good To Glow highlighter. This is such a bargain and gives the perfect shimmery glow under or over foundation! If you like a good shimmer this is the stuff for you, you only need a tiny bit aswell which helps it last for ages. I've had this for months and months and I don't even think I'm half way through yet.

2 Products from theBalm now. The Nude'tude eyeshadow palette and the Bahama Mama bronzer - two of my most used products of the moment.
The bronzer has been in my daily routine since the day it dropped into my lap, it's such a gorgeous matte shade and I've found it perfect for contouring - plus... cute packaging right?
The eyeshadow palette is also a delight to the eyeballs isn't it! I love all the cute names and the netural colours are perfect for me and my un-adventurous eye make-up style!
Another Rimmel product I have been using daily is the Lasting Finish concealer. I pop this in a triangle under my eyes, around my nose and on a couple of blemishes to help cover all those dark and red areas! I love this just as much as my Seveteen Phowarr Paint I used for so long, it really does cover and last.

I recently stumbled back across a few Benefit minis I had stashed away from Christmas and I thought it was about time I put the to good use. The Porefessional primer is my ultimate favourite primer (like ever), using this for Bestival was a life saver (I tend to save it for when I'm wearing a full face of slap) - it really does makes an incredible base to pop everything onto and helps to keep it on alot longer than others I've tried!
The Stay Don't Stray primer is also something I have been using alot! Years ago I never used to bother with eyeshadow primers but they really do make a world of difference, this tiny pot has lasted me for weeks now so I can imagine the full-size woud go a long, long way.

Another primer (yes another one guys!) which I have been using daily is the Laura Mercier Foundation Primer. This is what I have been using for everyday work days and it is a beaut. It's very creamy which is great for this weather change we are having as my skin has been getting really dry, it helps to keep it hydrated! My dry skin and make-up is never a good mix.

Mascara now and I'm going to link you directly to my review on this one - here!
 After a month of using the L'oreal Volume Million Lashes Feline I am still a fan and I think I might actually repurchase this one (which when it comes to mascaras is almost unheard of with me!).

Last but not least my favourite lip liner (a god send in pencil form). Whirl from MAC is incredible - that is all you need to know.
 I pair this with Velvet Teddy for the ultimate nude lip to suit any skintone, hands down one of the best purchases I've ever made from MAC.

What have been your favourite beauty products lately? 
Got a blog post request? Let me know!!!


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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, 19 August 2015

6 Products That Give Me An Instant Confidence Boost

As a normal 25 year old female I am overcome more or less daily by my insecurities, but I mean.... we could have a whole other post about that... today I just want chat about a few particular products that make me feel better about myself. Easy peasy instant confidence boosters... because who isn't interested in those?!

Yes, there are a few things out there that in my mind 'up' my glam game and give me that confidence that I'm otherwise lacking. 

From fake lashes to tanning lotions here are my favourite things to make me feel a bit better about myself :)
1. Fake Eyelashes
I can't actually remember the last time I went on a 'night out' without a pair of fake eyelashes on. I think I've been wearing them ever since I went to Ibiza in 2009.
For me, these are a MUST when heading out the door on a girls night out, I have THE shortest, stumpiest lashes and really small eyes so without them I don't ever feel like my make-up is finished or anywhere near as good as it could be.
Favourites :  Eylure Eylure Eylure- I love 101's and 107's ALOT and I do struggle to use other brands I'm not going to lie! I really want to try out Fleur De Force's new range aswell - maybe even the individual ones as I've heard they can stay on all weekend which would be amazing for Festivals and trips away!

2. Highlighters

The world (and my face) would be a sad sad place without a good highlighter! I think I have a slight obsession, I don't think I will ever own enough. Ever since buying the makebelieve skin lmizer as a teen I have be striving to find products that give me that dewy glow that all the celebs rock with ease!
Favourites : theBalm Mary-Lou Manizer, Seventeen Skin Wow!, Rimmel London Good To Glow, Benefit High Beam & Victoria's Secret Illuminating Powder.

3. Tan Tan Tan

Not only do these products stop me from looking like a pale whale they also help to tone the look of the skin - a good tan can make you look a whole lot skinnier you know, I just wish I had more time (and patience) to use it more!
Favourites : Anything St. Moriz.
4. Razors
What feels better than freshly smooth legs? Seriously though - smooth, soft legs are the best - a major confidence boost in just a few swipes!
Favourites : Venus Sensitive Embrace

5. Instagram
Yes I'm saying it and you may think it's obnoxious and vain but in all seriousness - a good filter and a bit of editing can make me feel better about myself and I know a lot of you girls feel the same.... so don't act like I'm being fake and self-centered haha - you all love a good selfie!
Follow me @ Kirstielouises

6. Blonde Toners

Last but not least.... this is a big one for me when it comes to confidence.
 I am blonde, but I'm not a natural blonde, so I am always paranoid about what shade my hair colour is looking. 
My hairdresser is amazing and everytime I had my hair coloured I fall in love but after about 6/8 weeks I can see my colour fading and becoming dull - and sometimes even.... yellowish #booo! BUT there are products that can fix this and I have become a slave to them!
Toning shampoos are totally and utterly fabulous and after getting over my initial fear of using them (I was paranoid I would have purple hair if I left it on for longer than about 45 seonds) I have realised how much they can help and if I feel like a pick me up this is one of the first products I reach for!
Favourites : Pro:Voke Touch Of Silver Twice A Week Brightening Shampoo & Intensive Treatment Conditioner.


What are your favourite confidence boosters?

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Wednesday, 1 April 2015

March Favourites 2015

 Another month down, another monthly favourites post for you all to see what I have been loving and obsessing over for the past 4 weeks! From eyelashes to naughty treats - here's my round-up of my favourites things from March!


Shane Dawson - I Hate Myselfie
Wooo I read a book this month - and it was bloody brilliant! I have been a fan of Shane's for years now and his inappropriate humour and hilarious persona's are right up my street. This book had going from laughing out loud about Shane and his awkward swimsuit experience to shedding a tear about his dear Grandmother. All in all this 'collection of essays' is downright awesome, if you are a fan of Shane I highly recommend it!

Katy Perry Killer Queen Perfume
I mentioned this earlier on this month about how much of a bargain it was! Just over £13 it worked out as for a 100ml bottle - you don't get bargains like that often! I love the scent and it really lasts - I've been using it round my home aswell as on myself alot this month.

Rimmel Lasting Finish Concealer - Ivory
A new concealer from Rimmel, and I have to say I have used it every single day since purchasing it! It is fab for covering my dark circles and lasts all day.

Bounty's
Oh dear.... it's true - I have been addicted to this chocolate and coconut treat! They are just so yummy and only £1 for 4 in co-op.... too tempting! 

Barry M Waterproof Khol Eyeliner
I got this for my birthday back in February and have been loving it! Khol pencils are the best for me when doing my lower lash line - I try not to over-do eyeliner as I have really small eyes already and feel like it makes them even more teeny tiny! This stays on well and isn't too hard to get off either.

Eylure 101's
My favourite eyelashes at the moment - I have gone through lots of these this month with my trip to Germany and girly nights out! Perfect for my smaller eyes these give me the long eyelashes I've always wanted.

Ginger & Co Coconut Lipbalm
This stuff smells. so. good. - this new brand is killing it! I have a trio of these balms and this has to be my favourite. It's smooth and keeps my lips hydrated for ages!

Fake Bake Beyond Bronze Shimmer Brick
My baby! I have had this for about 4/5 years now after seeing Billie Faiers talking about it and it is now near enough empty (boo hoo!). I love it and I'm praying I can find a new one and it hasn't been discontinued! 

MAC Velvet Teddy Lipstick
I am so so happy that I finally got my hands on this! I have been wearing it constantly this month and have had so many people ask me what shade it is! If you can get your hands on it then do it, you won't regret it!

theBalm Bahama Mama Bronzer
Contouring has taken over my life and I've found this is the perfect bronzer for me! The packaging is super cute and it's easy and compact which I like, theBalm have sooo many awesome products, I love the names they give them too.

No7 Airbrush Away Primer
This has been my everyday primer for a while now, I'm even onto my second tube. It leaves my skin feeling smooth and silky, ready for the rest of my make-up. I'm dreading it running out as I don't want to have to pay full price for it! (I got both tubes on Black Friday with a voucher so they were less then £5 each! - the usual price is £19.50)

E45 Overnight Hand Cream
The cure for my overly dry and slightly cracked hands. This stuff is a god send, it honestly works so so well, especially on my knuckles.
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Monday, 30 March 2015

Quick & Easy Look : Ashley Benson - Pretty Little Nude

Products Used : 

Remington Waving Wand
Laura Mercier Foundation Primer
Rimmel Lasting Finish Concealer
Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation
Rodial Contouring Powder
Nars Orgasm Blush
theBalm Mary-Lou Manizer
Rimmel Eyebrow Pencil - Hazel
HD Brows Palette
Make-Up Revolution Iconic Pro Palette
Eylure 101 Eylashes
MAC Velvet Teddy Lipstick


What do you think about these simple and quick posts? Up your street or do you prefer something a little more detailed? Please let me know below!
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Sunday, 22 March 2015

This Week I'm Loving... #12

Kacey Musgraves - Biscuits
I am a huge fan of Kacey and have been since she released her first album (which is one of my favourite albums ever!)! Everytime she brings out a new song I download it before I've even listened to it in full - always know I'm going to love it and this is no different. Biscuits is amazing and I hope it brings her the success she deserves especially over her in the UK!

Once Upon A Time
I've been watching this show for years and a couple of weeks ago I thought I would try and catch up (I was a few episodes into season 4 when I was last watching)! So after watching a couple online Netlfix decided to add OUAT to it's collection of awsomeness! YES!! They have every single episode and upload the new one every week after it has aired in the US (just like PLL!) so I'm now upto date and waiting for the next episode!

Shane Dawson - I Hate Myselfie
Book time! I have been waiting for this to be available for months now, I'm a huge fan of Shane, I've been watching him since 2009 - he seriously knows how to make me laugh! I've just finished it and was so, so impressed ith how good it is! It's a "collection of essays" so like short stories from his life but not in any order - which is great! It never lost my attention and had my peeing my pants laughing to holding back the tears! I really hope there's more where this came from.

Katy Perry Killer Queen Perfume
You may have seen that I got this as a total bargain a couple of weeks ago! Just over £13 for a 100ml bottle - amazing right? I love the scent and after seeing KP last week again it's made me love it even more!

Cift Easy Lift Anti-Bac Wipes
Hahaha am I actually featuring these on my blog? Yes, I am! After going on a major cleaning mission this week I fell in love with these. I bought them when they were on offer and they are great! If you like handy wipes for around the home these are for you!

Benefit High Beam
The original highlighter in my life. I have so many of the miniatures bopping around my make-up dresser that I might aswell have a full sized one! I love this stuff, a gorgeous pinky pearly highlight, probably my favourite product from Benefit.

Tangle Teezer Blow-Styling Brush
Anything to make blow-drying my hair easier is a winner in my eyes - here's everything I have to say on it --- here.

theBalm Bahama Mama Bronzer
Contouring has become a day-to-day occurrence for me and this bronzer is one of my go-to products to help me create Kim Kish looks. (okay so I contour 0% like Kim K but it's the trying that counts right?) Anyway this matte bronzer is one of the best I've come across and not the most expensive either! 

Nivea Raspberry Lip Butter
This little beauty is living on my bedside table at the moment. I slap a load on before I go to sleep, smells yummy and keeps my lips for feeling dry and chapped.

What have you been loving this week?
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Monday, 9 March 2015

50 Mothers Day Gift Ideas Under £50

15th March 2015
SensatioNail Starter Kit - £45 (was £69.99)
Sanctuary With Love Gift Set - £22 (was £45)

YSL Black Opium - Prices starting at £43.50

Embryolisse Lait Creme Concentre Moisturiser 75ml Gold Edition - £22


Wicked Tickets - Prices start at £25
Moroccanoil Treatment 25ml - £13.45
Downtown Abbey Series 1-5 - £30
Enjoy The Little Things Plaque - £3.45
Microwavable Bagpuss - £9.99
 Soap & Glory Sexy Mother Pucker Lipgloss - £9
The Girl On The Train - Paula Hawkins - £6.49

No7 Illuminated Make-up Mirror - £24.99 (was £49.99)

Ghost Deep Night 50ml - £16.50 (was £33.50)

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