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Hey girlies,
I've been reading on twitter and blogs that google friend connect might be disappearing tomorrow.
So if anybody would like to keep up to date with my blog id say the easiest way is sign up my email. That way everyday you will get my new post sent right to your inbox, also follow me on twitter at iz222 for updates and other ramblings:) x

Soap & Glory Stash

Thought it was about time i had a little sort out of my Soap & Glory products as I've got quite a collection as you can see. I couldn't quite believe how much i actually had till i lay it all out but i will start to get through it now and be reviewing it all very soon. I love their products...i find they are reasonably priced and really do what they say:)x

Test post

Test post ladies having a few blogger issues. I've lost my pictures on my blog from last year...no idea why but I'm hoping they reappear. If anybody else has had issues with this on their blogspot account please let me know how you rectified it.
Thanks x




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Carmine February Box

Ah my Carmine box has arrived and of course as always i stood there shaking it till it finally opened:) Wow Wow Wow! So very impressed with this months contents and very cheered up after the disappointment of this months GlossyBox.

Ok a break down of the contents...








Steamcream - (Full size) This is most definitely my favourite product! I see these all the time in Boots and wonder whether to buy them or not, the tins are so so cute and they retail at around £10. I am super pleased with this and it will now be a firm addition to my handbag.
Andrea Fullerton Nail Colour - (Full size) I got a creamy nude colour which is pretty, not sure its quite me but its still nice.
Balance Me Rose Otto Bodywash - Always nice to have new shower gels to try.
Diego Dalla Palma Lipstick - (Mini) I received a coral colour which ill give a go during the summer months.
White Glow Toothpaste - (Mini) Perfect for weekends away or a weeks holiday so gratefully received.
Also a fragrance sample thrown in - Yardley Peony Fragrance.
I love this months box, Carmine never fails which is pretty amazing as there are usually plenty of grumbles about other boxes *cough cough GlossyBox. I think all beauty box companies need to listen to their subscribers as there is so many different boxes out there and its so easy to unsubscribe.
Anyway i cant say ive ever considered unsubscribing to Carmine i love it and happily reccomend it to everybody...so if your umming and aaahing then dont...Subscribe Now!!!x

Macadamia oil

Anybody who is anybody has heard about macademia oil and as far as im aware there was a sample in a beauty box a few months back (before i had subscribed to any:( ). Due to this i guess ive read some rave reviews about it saying its just as good as if not better than moroccan oil so i knew i had to get my hands on it. I never actually see it anywhere but today after an impromptu visit to Junction 26 Retail Park in the East Midlands i found it in a beauty shop. This place was like heaven ladies...NYX products galore all at discounted prices, W7 nail colours, literally everything!!!
Anyway i picked up the tiny oil for £3.60 and Oil Spray for £9.95. I will absolutely be reviewing these very very soon for you x

Sunday Thought

Spring in my step!

The sun has been shining and for the first time in what feels like forever...spring is on its way. So it's time to bring out the lighter lipsticks, pink hued blushers and most importantly back to bright nails! After having lots of dark colours and a French manicure all winter I was ready to be daring...here's my look below.



A beautiful coral red coated with glitter on top. Perfect sparkley and super fresh:) x

Friday Favourite!

This little Avon Beauty has been mentioned in my blog back in the early days. Recently my skins been looking a bit dull so I reached for my old trusted friend and voila in 4 days a fresh youthful glow has returned. I love love love this serum which I use at night, it works everytime and I don't think I'll ever let myself run out of it. Definitely my saviour! Retails at about £30 a bottle however there's quite often an offer on it x
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Beauty Box Build Up

Every month i receive 2 beauty boxes from Carmine and Glossybox. Im always excited by this...brightens up the day and i think everyone loves discovering something new and fun to use...especially us crazed beauty bloggers.
Buuutttt im getting a slight build up of products, I've been pretty good and using everything up lately but I've got a carmine box now bursting with things that need to be reviewed. As much fun as it is to delve in there every once in a while and discover something i cant help but feeling...if i really wanted to use it...i would have!
Ill be continuing with 2 subscriptions...but i may be switching one. Im not sure which one yet but after this month i might give GlossyBox the chop and go for Feel Unique instead.x

James Brown Hair

My lovely mum surprised me with a little present:)



I've seen this brand James Brown London in Boots a lot and always wondered about it, just never really got round to buying any. Well now i don't have to...In this gift set is a full size shampoo, conditioner, intensive moisture mask and hair serum. I love the sleek white packaging....im obsessed with with all white packaging...i blame apple!
Ill be sure to use this all soon and review x

Glossybox - February

Ah look what landed on my doormat today?? My February Glossybox!
Ok so i ripped it open and was so excited as the last 2 boxes have been so incredible. And out fell these ever so slightly small/boring products:(
Super disappointed to be honest, there was nothing that wowed me and nothing that i "cant wait to try".



Ok a list
1. Paul Mitchell Liquid Curl Definer
2. BM Beauty Eyeshadow - Storm
3. Como Shambhala - Invigorate Body Lotion (promising to put you in an uplifting mood)
4. Dr Bronner - Magic Liquid Soap
5. Duwop Venom Gloss



So the little eyeshadow pot, now normally i don't mind loose eyeshadows but since I've had a new cream carpet and pure white bedding im avoiding these devil pots!
So just for you guys i carefully swatched it. It took ages to build up any colour on my hand, however once done it was an okay colour and super shimmery.
Not a colour ill be using to be honest.
All in all im not overly pleased with this box and hopefully next months will be better. My Carmine box should be arriving soon so fingers crossed.x

Weekend beauty bargain!

Usually im a make up snob but since cheaper brands like MUA have wowed me I thought id pick up this vintage looking beauty book in Primark at the till this weekend...very strategically placed may I add!



Opened to discover a lot of product for your money. Now I have no idea about the quality but I'll be sure to let you know. The way I see it is even if I only like one eyeshadow or the bronze/blush I got my money's worth.



The price.....drum roll please....£4!!
Review to follow! x

Sunday Thought

I'll let this picture do the talking...




X

OPI spring collection Holland!

Wow wow wow!!!
These hot polishes are most definitely on my wish list! I've seen some gorgeous swatches on blogs and I need these in my life. I'll be getting my hands on these as soon as I can. My favourite colours are on the top row far left, far right and the plum in the middle:) Have a great weekend x

Friday Favourite

Ever since I saw this River Island clutch in a magazine I have fully been lusting over it. Might just have to try and track one down this weekend. Not sure when id use this but I'm not bothered:) its so cute and the embellishments make it look classy not trash...and sometimes there's a fine line. It could be the perfect accessory all summer long!

My new love - Mac Prep & Prime

Ok so I picked up this primer on a whim when I was literally running past mac in the snow. I actually had no intention of buying it, I went in for a lipstick and mini mac fix +. Anyway I had all intentions of buying the clarins primer...which I did (review to follow) and asked if mac had a primer.
So firstly I love the packaging it's a glittery box. Inside a little bottle with a pump dispenser. I read mixed reviews about this but now its time for my opinion.
I love it!!!! It gives a gorgeous smooth velvety finish to your skin, perfect for foundation application. It's a dewy finish too so looks very fresh and pretty. I'm not keen on anything mattifying as its too doll like for me. If you have oily skin id steer away from this but for dry - normal it's a winner.
If your looking for a new primer then don't hesitate to buy this x

Loreal Lash Telescopic My Thoughts

I bought this mascara 2 weeks ago so I feel it's enough time to be delivering a true opinion.
Now after watching Cheryl on the advert blowing a pair of falsies at the camera I was excited to say the least!
The brush is plastic and hard which I don't mind, easy to work with and very good for catching lower lashes without creating a mess. However...it's a bit wet for my liking and makes my lashes very hard once dried so not the fluttery look I usually like.
For a high street mascara I'll give it a 8/10....but compare it to my YSL Faux Cils and it doesn't even come close. So if you like your high street mascaras then your in for a treat as its better than most of them, however if you are using high end brands already and think your being savvy by getting this cheaper alternative then your in for a rude awakening. It's not an alternative it's a step down x

Naughty Girl

Well firstly Happy Valentines day ladies! Hope you all got something lovely...found this picture and thought...now that's better than an ordinary bunch of flowers....



I'm all about grand gestures!



Now on to today's post....Naughty Girl! I've been neglecting my Urban Decay Naked Palette. I read lots of blogs and everyone is always saying how they reach for this daily and if im honest I haven't been. So this week I'll be making a big effort to use it and try different looks. I've been pretty boring lately sticking with really natural eye looks and using just one
wash colour. Until I use this more I wont be buying the number 2 palette...hmm an incentive perhaps x

My vintage inspired bedroom

So a few weeks ago i posted a home decor inspiration post, ive been using the app pinterest and pinning lots of beautiful bedrooms. All the rooms i pick are always fresh, white and vintage inspired.
I have currently been decorating my bedroom and heres a few of the items i have bought and thought i would share with you.
I love this frame! Ive seen so many like it over the past few months and finally got one:) (Homesense).




Beautiful candle holder, almost a lace look effect. (Home Sense).
Inner pillar candle is dark purple. (Asda).




This little display is on my bedside table.
Small smashed mirrored pot (Asda).
Vintage inspired candles (Next).




The middle of my window sill has a rattan like pot with an artificial lavender plant. Love the little cut out heart. (Next).
Thats a chinese fan behind it.




This little set just jumped out at me, its actually contains cards and envelopes but the gem on the outside is just so so beautiful. (Homesense).




These 2 wired pots are going to be used for make up storage, one side brushes and others my extensive mascara collection. (Homesense).




For me as well as being beautiful a room must be cosy and with all the white i thought it was important to introduce something with texture and that would add warmth. I picked this super comfy cable knit cushion, i also bought a matching throw which is at the end of my bed. (Both Next).




Birdcage cushion sticking with my vintage theme (Next).




I wanted some wall art, but not a canvas so this pretty heart wreath with lights on was perfect. (Next).




And another piece of wall art, i love the quote "Live the Life you love!" and it couldn't be more true. (Next).




Hope you all like the pics x

Sunday thoughts...

Another Sunday thought to share with you all.....

The verdict is out!

Right ladies ive been using these creams all week and it's time to deliver my verdict (and I'm sad they are nearly finished)! They are both amazing!!!! Especially the night cream, by the end of the day my face is pretty dry with all the heating etc and cold outside and in the morning voila fresh soft skin.
Nowwww the bad news...a pot will set you back £48 so if you wanted both that's almost £100!!!! Is it worth it?! Well the night cream is fab but maybe not £50 worth. Recieving these in the Glossybox was lovely...not sure how many people will go on to repurchase. Have a great weekend x

Friday Favourite

Officially the best hand cream to date I've tried:) and believe me I have got through a few!
I love the smell of this it's so fresh and clean...almost like baby wipes. It's also fairly thick yet absorbs very easily leaving hands soft not greasy!!
I recommend everyone heads to L'Occitane and buys this...especially as its so cold out there these days. Happy Friday!x

Murad Skin Perfecting Primer

Primers are something i hugely overlooked for years i have to say, and the first one i ever tried was the Monu Skin Perfector included in a GlossyBox late last year. The smell and feeling of it took some getting used to but i have to say i wouldnt be without primers now.
So basically until i try a handful im not settling....there might be something better out there right?!:)




This had the magic words "radiant" and "glow"...sold!!
Until i pumped it out and it was tinted....why?! We all have different skin tones....so why?!




Blended - hmm not so noticeable and not really under foundation either, however i think it gives my face a dirty look! Not keen!!




I like the glow, and yes its a good primer but not the whole tinted thing. Im afraid the Monu Skin Perfector is so much better and this one was a bit of a let down in comparison x

Carmine January Box

My January Carmine box has finally arrived! Okay...my thoughts....well they are hmmm. Theres products in here that yes i do like and will use however nothing that truly blows me away.
So whats in my box..




West Lab Himalayan Pink Salt - well this little pack claims that it will turn a 30 minute soak in the bath into a detox thats the equivalent to a 3 day fast?! Thats quite a claim and im not entirely sure how that will feel so ill be giving that a go for sure.
Eyeko Fat Eye Stick - my second Eyeko product this month, Glossybox contained a plum skinny eyeliner. This is probably my favourite product, i got mine in the colour 'Old Gold' pictured below and its perfect for my skin tone.
Eldora False Eyelashes - I dont wear falsies too often but i do occasionally and don't currently have a pair so now im sorted for that:)
Balance Me Radiance Oil - love the idea of glowing skin so this is a sure fire winner for me.
Wild Rose 24 Hour Moisturising & Brightening Cream - A teeny tiny tube that ill give a go as it contains that key word...brightening :)
Picture of my Eyeko Stick.




Ok like i said i like all the products and to be fair i will definitely use them all and review, however nothing hugely excites me....for me i was more blown away by GlossyBox this month, i thought the Clarins additions were great:)
Expect reviews soon.x

Try me Tuesday - Clarins goodies

I was more than happy to receive these deluxe sample Clarins products in my Valentines GlossyBox.




These creams in full size are pretty expensive so not sure id have bought them without trying or reading some amazing reviews.
Ill be using these all week and posting my opinion on saturday as always :)x

Weekend Beauty Haul!

So this weekend may have been all about the snow for most people...not me;) Yes i enjoyed playing in it with my nephew but it didnt stop me meeting my bestie for lunch and enjoying some make up shopping:)
A pic of my haul!




I am soooo into primers right now ever since GlossyBox included the Monu Skin Perfector a few months ago, I've used that one right up and despite loving it I've felt the need to try a few more. So I've bought MAC Prep + Prime, And Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch. Ill be trying and reviewing of course.
Theres a mini Mac fix + awww cute! I find myself constantly wanting to use it in the day but i don't carry around my big bottle so this ones the perfect handbag or holiday size. My second tube of YSL Faux Cils in Noir Radical, mine has now dried up i bought it at the start of November so its lasted 3 months. I know lots of people complain that it dries up too quickly for them and yes while 3 months isnt long i do use it every day, no other mascara quite does what it manages...and for me its well worth it. The lovely lady at John Lewis also threw in a free YSL moisturiser.
Lastly a new lipstick....i have a bit of a love hate relationship with MAC lipsticks, i buy them then get them home and decide they are a bit too bright! Anyway i read about this one on the lovely Ysis's blog and it looked fab on her as she did a Kim Kardashian inspired look...and well anything Kim related and im sold. Its a matte finish but i do apply my NARS orgasm gloss over the top and it looks gorgeous.
All in all very happy with my purchases, think ill be doing a few primer reviews too! x

Inspiration

Ok so another thoughtful sunday post.
Im redecorating my bedroom and I've been looking for some inspiring pictures, currently i have white walls, cream furniture and a cream carpet with green cushions, frames and accessories. I like keeping all the big solid stuff very neutral and introducing colour with accessories only.
I think for me and ideal bedroom is fresh, clean and simple looking. Somewhere you can chill, read, watch tv and totally relax. I don't like the idea of desks in room as for me studying areas should be kept separate.
I have picked these 3 images below of bedrooms which i love, for me now I've been looking at getting rid of green accessories and going towards the vintage theme. All the beautiful white wired accessories, cushions with birds on and big grand frames.







This is my dreamy picture....what girl wouldnt love a walk in wardrobe like this...




Happy Sunday all x

The verdict is out!

The results....




I love this mascara, it gives great curl and separation to each lash. Theres no clumping whatsoever. I have been using this as a daily mascara for now, it doesnt give the dramatic effect of YSL Faux Cils so im keeping that for night time only so i can actually feel a difference.
In short, if your looking for a fab day wear mascara or you like curl and length without anything too dramatic then id get your hands on this:)x

KMS Quick Blow Dry Spray

This spray arrived in a Carmine box some time ago and time for a review. Ok so it promised to half my hair blow dry time....hmmm it reduced it yes but halved no. Also its to be used instead of a heat protection spray or moroccan oil as it leaves your hair soft and shiny. Well not mine, it wasn't nearly as soft as when i use my usual TreSemme heat defence spray and moroccan oil. I think for those with hair in fab condition and possibly not coloured it may work a treat but if your hair needs all the help it can get (aka mine) then its not for you. I was definitely pleased to receive this in a beauty box as its something i would have always wanted to try but its definitely not something i will be repurchasing im afraid.x

VO5 revive me daily

Always on the lookout for something new and exciting to boost my locks....
Strolling around Asda i saw these cuties on offer...literally like £2 each:)
I was pretty hesitant as I've never been a huge fan of Vo5 however before me lay a huge newish looking range so i thought there cant be any harm in giving it a go:)



Im so glad i gave these a go! They are amazing:) My hair feels softer, shinier and more manageable without that gross greasy feeling cheap shampoo can leave....if anybody is on the hunt for a new shampoo id say head down to a supermarket or chemist and give these a go. Theres a huge range from looking after coloured hair, volume boosting to moisture boosts.x

Try me Tuesday!

It's time to step away from the YSL ladies and let this Estée Lauder badboy get a look in:)
Primer one side, mascara the other! Photos and verdict to follow. Will I fall in love or will my heart stay true to Faux Cils?x