Soap & Glory Kick Ass Concealer - Review

Over the years, I have tried a multitude of concealers but never found one that I was truly happy with... until I tried Soap & Glory's Kick Ass Concealer.

This concealer is exactly as it says on the tin, "Kick Ass" - there are three separate sections: an under eye concealer, a blemish concealer and a sealing powder. I don't use the sealing powder, but I adore the under eye and blemish concealers.

The under eye concealer is a peachy shade, perfectly designed to cover dark circles. The consistency is creamy, and the concealer blends very easily. I apply this to my eyelids too.

The blemish concealer has a more yellow tone, but the same creamy consistency. I find that it perfectly covers any redness, without appearing too cakey.

Personally, I don't use the setting powder, as I apply a loose powder all over my face, but the powder is a silky translucent powder, and comes with an applicator pad. The container also comes with a little built-in mirror, for concealing on the move.

The best thing about this concealer? It's only €13 in Boots and is included in the 3 for 2 offer on Soap & Glory products (available here)

Have you tried this concealer? If so, what did you make of it?

What's in my Bag?

Hi ladies,

A short but sweet post for you today - a look into my bag/purse...

My current handbag, a Michael Kors jet set travel tote. I bought this handbag about six months ago, and I am totally in love with it <3

(from left to right, top to bottom)

a pack of chewing gum, a container of sweetener, my Ralph Lauren makeup bag, a Ted Baker body spray, a Cath Kidston umbrella, two pens and a notebook, a M&S shopping bag, a pair of gloves, a coin purse to carry my headphones (bought on Etsy - available here), a bottle of water, my Michael Kors sunglasses and sunglasses case and my purse/wallet (Calvin Klein). I also usually carry around my Filofax, but I accidentally left it in work over the weekend...

(again, left to right, top to bottom) - two hair ties and some bobby pins, a Crabtree & Evelyn handcream, a comb, a tube of Lucas' pawpaw ointment (the most useful product I own - good for chapped lips, burns, bits, cuts, spots, rashes, you name it), a bottle of hand sanitizer, a breath freshening spray, mascara, concealer, lip balm and a packet of tissues.

Hope you enjoyed this - I love looking at what people carry around!! What do you cary in your purse?

My Everyday Makeup

My everyday makeup routine is very straightforward. As I work in an office, I like to look professional but I don't want to spend a lot of time in the morning on my makeup (not when I could be sleeping for an extra few minutes!!)

My go-to essentials are:

(Left to right: Sephora 110 foundation brush, MAC Studio Moisture Cream, Max Factor Lasting Performance foundation in 105 Soft Beige, Benefit Porefessional, Soap & Glory Kick Ass Concealer, BEnefit Bad Gal eyeliner, Soap & Glory Arch de Triumph eyebrow pencil, MAC Shy Girl lipstick, Soap & Glory Thick and Fast mascara, Natural Collection clear mascara, Rimmel MAtch Perfection loose powder, Benefit Dandelion blush, Illamasqua kabuki brush).

Step 1: Prep

I start my face routine by applying MAC Studio Moisture Cream as soon as I get out of the shower, and let it sink in while I blow dry my hair. Then I apply Benefit Porefessional to my t-zone.

Step 2: Base Layer

I then apply Max Factor Lasting Performance foundation in 105 soft beige, using my Sephora foundation brush. I follow up with Soap & Glory's Kick Ass concealer. I absolutely love this concealer - it has two difference shades, one for dark circles and one for blemishes, and it gives amazing coverage.

Step 3: Powder

After applying my foundation, I apply Rimmel's Match Perfection loose powder with my (much loved, and filthy looking) Illamasqua kabuki brush, to give my foundation a more matte-looking appearance and to reduce any oiliness. I follow this up with Dandelion blush, which adds a subtle but pretty glow to my cheeks.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Lastly, I apply Benefit's Bad Gal eyeliner to my waterline and two coats of Thick & Fast mascara to my upper lashes. I fill in my eyebrows with Soap & Glory Arch de Triumph brow pencil and use the Natural Collection's clear mascara to keep them in place. Finally, I apply a slick of MAC Shy Girl lipstick, which adds a beautiful, but natural looking, shine to my lips.

Voila, makeup done... and I bolt out the door!!

Style Stalker: Kaley Cuoco

I adore Kaley Cuoco's style, both on and off the red carpet. She is the master of laid back casual, but she always manages to shine at red carpet events.

Outfit #1:

Kaley looks absolutely stunning in this gorgeous and intricately detailed blazer. Paired with a simple white top, wet look black leggings, black heels and a clutch, this blazer is the perfect choice for a glamorous evening event - Kaley looks gorgeous and sophisticated, without appearing overdone. Her hair is casually styled, adding to the understated glamour of her outfit.

 Outfit #2:

Kaley looks utterly adorable in this cutesy pink and white patterned dress. The sleeve length is very flattering and her slim waist is accentuated by the cut of the skirt. This dress would be perfect for a summer party or a racing event. The heart shaped sunglasses add a touch of individuality, and offset the whimsicalness of the dress perfectly.

Outfit #3:

This outfit is Kaley to a tee - understated and casual. I absolutely adore loose, patterned trousers. They are perfect for the summer months, paired with a tank top or t-shirt and sandals. Also, I'm loving this Romeo & Juliet t-shirt - "I left my heart in fair Verona" ❤ 

Are you a fan of Kaley's style?

My Top Five - Lipsticks

I am a massive lipstick fan/addict and I love nothing more than picking up a new shade. However, I always find myself reaching for these beautiful lippies time and time again...

Shy Girl by MAC

Shocking Pink by Barry M (I think)

Rio Rio by Topshop

Lovelorn by MAC

#110 by Kate Moss for Rimmel

L-R: Shy Girl, Shocking Pink, Rio Rio, Lovelorn, #110

Shy Girl by MAC

Shy Girl is my go-to daytime shade - wit is a gorgeous, subtle coral-nude colour and adds understated glamour to your look. The cremesheen finish is moisturising, and it applies very smoothly.

 

Shocking Pink by Barry M

I absolutely adore this ultra-vibrant hot pink lippie by Barry M - I believe it's Shocking Pink, but unfortunately the number has worn off so I'm not absolutely certain. The shade is incredibly vivid, and applies beautifully, but does leave behind a little residual colour/staining when removed.

Rio Rio by Topshop

I have reviewed this lipstick before (see here) and explained that it is a gorgeous shade of red, with subtle orange undertones, perfect for a night out and potentially my favourite ever lipstick. I adore it.

Lovelorn by MAC

 Lovelorn is a gorgeous hot pink, with slightly blueish undertones. The finish has a beautiful shine, so there is no need for lipgloss. This is the perfect girly pink.

#110 by Kate Moss for Rimmel

I have acquired a few Kate Moss lippies over the years, and #110 is my outright favourite. The colour is a gorgeous matte coral, and lasts for hours without the need to reapply. I have noticed that this shade is regularly sold out, so if you're lucky enough to spot it, pick it up!

What are your favourite lipsticks?

How I Clean my Makeup Brushes

It is incredibly important to regularly clean your makeup brushes, as oils and germs can transfer easily from your face to your brush, and then every time you use them, you spread those germs around... and this can result in nasty breakouts. Also, a lot of makeup brushes are quite expensive and you'll want to protect your investment and make sure they stay in tip top condition.

Best practice is to lightly clean your brushes every couple of uses, and deep clean them once week. 

Light Cleaning

Every two (sometimes three) days, I clean my most frequently used brushes (generally, just my foundation, powder and blush brushes) lightly with a makeup wipe to get rid of any left over makeup. 

Deep Cleaning

Once a week, I deep clean any brushes that I have used over the past seven days. I lightly dampen the brush by running it under the lukewarm water, with the brush hairs pointing down and being careful not to get any water under the handle (this can cause the glue to disintegrate resulting in hair loss - not a good thing).

Next, I squeeze a decent sized blob (see below for reference - about the size of a grape) into the palm of my hand. There are a lot of brands with dedicated brush cleaner (including Mac) but I tend to use Johnson's baby shampoo. It works just as well (I think it actually leaves the brush hairs softer) and is significantly cheaper.

I gently swirl the damp brush into the shampoo in the palm of my hand, working up a lather. My inner Monica really likes this part as you can really see the makeup washing out.

Next, I rinse the brush under lukewarm water (again, ensuring that the brush is pointing downwards to avoid getting water under the handle). It is important to ensure that all the shampoo is washed out or the residue might damage the brush hairs - if it feels slippery, keep rinsing!

The final step is to squeeze out any excess water, lightly rub the brushes back and forth on a clean, dry towel and leave them to dry overnight - I tend to roll up a towel so that the brushes are pointing slightly downwards (again, so that the water doesn't get under the handle).

And voilà, perfectly clean good-as-new brushes. Do you have any tips for cleaning brushes that I missed?

Review: Topshop Lipstick in Rio Rio and Tease

I love lipstick... maybe a little too much... I'm probably addicted... ok, I'm definitely addicted and it's a problem. 

There, I said it.

I recently purchased two new lipsticks, to satiate my addiction. Having never tried Topshop lipsticks before, I was eager to try them out. With the greatest of restraint, I selected (aka: limited myself to) two gorgeous colours - Rio Rio, a beautiful orangey-red and Tease, a vibrant hot pink. These lipsticks were about €12, from what I remember, or £8 and can be ordered online here:

Rio Rio
Tease

As these were my first Topshop lipstick purchases, I'm not sure if this is applicable to all lipsticks, but these two shades are wonderfully moisturising with fantastic colour pay-off. Overall, I find that they are very comparable to MAC lipsticks but for a much more reasonable price.

Rio Rio

Rio Rio is a beautiful red lipstick, with subtle orange undertones.

I know red lipstick can often be overwhelming, and a lot of people avoid it as a result. However, I think Rio Rio would make a perfect lipstick for those ladies looking for a starter red, as it isn't overly dramatic. 

Personally, I love red lipstick and find it great for a night out to dress up an otherwise casual outfit. However, Rio Rio is a lot more versatile than other reds, and is very wearable during the day. The shade is very flattering, and the finish is a gorgeous satin matte but the lipstick is very moisturising. I also find that the colour tends to last for hours, even on a night out with eating, drinking and dancing.

In summary, this lipstick is definitely in my top five favourite lipsticks of all time.

Tease

Tease is a gorgeous, vibrant, Barbie-esque pink lipstick.

I absolutely adore bright pink lipsticks, but I often find them difficult to wear, give the usual blue undertones and my (relatively) pale complexion. However, during the summer, when I get a bit of colour, I find myself gravitating towards them... it might have something to do with the sunshine too.

As with Rio, I find this lipstick really moisturising, the pigmentation is phenomenal, and the colour lasts for hours. It is perfect for a night out as it really dresses up an outfit, and pairs beautifully with somewhat understated eye makeup (usually, I just go with a splash of Rubenesque by MAC, some winged black eyeliner and lashings of mascara).

Unfortunately, Tease is probably going to be resigned to sitting in my makeup drawer for the next few months once my "tan" fades (damn you, Winter) but I will undoubtedly by whipping it out next summer.

Have you ever tried any Topshop lipsticks? Are there any holy grail colours that I should invest in?

Review: Sally Hansen Gel Cuticle Remover

I've recently been having a lot of trouble with my cuticles - they seem to be growing more than usual, and I'm reluctant to snip at them, so I picked up a tube of this cuticle remover from Sally Hansen. 

This product is used for step 2 in the Sally Hansen perfect manicure:

Step 1: Shape nails

Step 2: Cuticle care

Step 3: Strengthen and grow

Step 4: Colour and care

Step 5: Protect and shine

This gel claims to "quickly remove excess cuticles" by loosening them, and it contains jojoba extract, kiwi extract and wheat protein to moisturise and deeply condition your cuticles.

Directions for Use

1. Apply a thin strip of gel around the cuticle (see above right)

2. Leave for 1-2 mins (wait longer if needed, but no longer than 10 mins)

3. With flat end of pusher tip, gently loosen and push back cuticle

4. Wash away with soapy water

I applied the product for 4-5 minutes, as I wanted to see a dramatic result!! My cuticles are significantly reduced, following this treatment, and my entire nail feels more moisturised and conditioned. The smell is strong, so I would recommend using this in a well ventilated space. I won't be using this every day, as I think that would be too intense. But I will definitely use it every week or two, to give my nails a treat.

Rating out of Five: ♥♥♥♥

Haul: New Look and H&M

001. Striped Jumper, H&M - €12.95

002. Striped Tank Top, H&M - €4.95

003. Sandals, New Look - €12 (Sale)

004. Owl Necklace, New Look - €7.99 (Sale)

NOTD: Coral by Barry M

My latest nail polish purchase is the beautiful coral red colour from Barry M.

I usually wear two coats of this polish, but one coat can work too, if you apply it generously. It applies beautifully and dries quickly though, so applying two coats isn't a chore. I adore wearing this during the summer - it looks great when paired with a beautiful tan!!

What do you think? Are you a coral fan?

NOTD: Miss Minty with Barry M Nail Effects

Gosh's Miss Minty is a firm favourite polish of mine, I seem to love anything mint green lately. However, I have recently been pairing it with Barry M's Nail Effects in black. I love how these polishes look together, and people keep asking whether I got my nails done professionally!!

The directions are as follows:

1. Paint your nails in your chosen colour, and allow the polish to dry completely. I chose Miss Minty for my base colour.

2. Apply a single coat of Barry M's Nail Effects all over the nail (as you would with any other nail polish).

3. Allow the polish to dry completely... it will crackle and break as it dries!!

And there you have it... salon finish nails in an instant!!

Style Stalker: Leighton Meester

Leighton Meester oozes casual glamour and sophistication, whether she's waltzing down the red carpet, or slouching around the beach.

Outfit #1

Leighton has paired this beautiful polka dot dress with a sloughy grey cardigan, grey booties and a tan waist belt. Keeping her hair off her face, and wearing minimal makeup, ensures that focus is not taken off her beautiful dress. I absolutely love this outfit.

Outfit #2

Leighton looks cute and stylish in this cream mini-dress, which she has paired with a waist belt, sandals and sunglasses. 

Outfit #3

I think Leighton looks stunning here. Pairing a gorgeous waistcoat with a tank-top and jeans is a classic move, but one that Leighton really works, adding her signature sunglasses to complete the look.

Outfit #4

Leighton looks adorable here, pictured with her puppy. She has cracked out another pair of gorgeous sunglasses, and paired them with some washed out jeans, a grey t-shirt and a tan cardigan. Her hair finishes off the outfit, with cute little plaits keeping it off her face.

What do you make of Leighton's style? Is she a winner for you?