Archive of ‘Makeup and Beauty’ category

Red Shimmer and Fuchsia Shock (Screw you Winter)

Karen Murrell Fuschia Shock Red Shimmer

Karen Murrell Fuschia Shock Red Shimmer

This month has been a rough one, anyone else feeling the struggle that is August?! I don’t know what it is about this busy month that makes me want to hermit away and sleep in a fort of fluffy blankets, bad TV shows and expiring chocolate, but it does.

One thing that makes life a little better is a couple of bright lipsticks to wear in spite of our dreary weather. I know that we are supposed to stick with demure nudes and deep burgundies, but for some reason these in-your-face, brighter tones are making Winter a lot easier to deal with.

I raved about my first ever Karen Murrell lipstick and so when two more ended up with me I was excited to see how they fared. Karen Murrell is a brand I am so happy to support and use on a day to day basis, as her lipsticks are vegetarian and made from the most hydrating, natural ingredients to care for your lips. And when your lips have been whingeing as much as mine have they need as much TLC as they can get.

These are my favourite formulas in a lipstick; moisturising, lasting and pigmented. Tick, Tick, Tick. They aren’t as long lasting as a matte lipstick from MAC but I find that they wear away so evenly that I feel a lot less worried about keeping an eye on them.

Fuchsia Shock Karen Murrell

First up I was given Fuchsia Shock to try out, a beautiful, bold barbie pink that simultaneously terrified and intrigued me.  Also can I just make a quick complaint about how annoying Fuchsia is as a word to spell, if I ever want to become the worst parent possible I will name my poor, innocent child Fuchsia and laugh as I watch her spell it wrong every. single. time.

This beautiful bright pink is a great shade, it’s bold but wearable and the perfect anti-winter colour. Having said that, I’m not super confident that I suit this shade (unless there’s a 90s party happening). I tend to go more towards berry pinks rather than barbie pinks. It won’t be one I keep in my bag at all times for emergencies, but it’s still a stunner. Red Shimmer Karen Murrell This wee beauty is Red Shimmer (which confusingly is not really shimmery at all as far as I can tell), and it’s my new favourite lipstick. If you scroll through my Instagram feed I am wearing this in 99% of my selfies from the last couple of months, and that’s because I think its incredible. I am a sucker for bold red lipsticks, so it was not a big surprise that this was one I was excited to try. 

Karen Murrell Red Shimmer

Seeing so much of my face is a little unnerving. Especially when you realize that my expression is exactly the same in each one…. I promise I’m not secretly a very confused and unproductive robot.

What was a surprise was how this orange toned red seems like an easier wear than any of the rich, blue-toned red lipsticks I thought I suited most. Orange toned are two words I generally avoid, and yet this red is perfection. It wears down to a gorgeous red-coral which I love almost as much as the original colour. Overall this lipstick embodies an attitude where I’m gonna keep on trying to face each day with a strained smile, even when my self-sabotaging mind seems determined to stay home and watch The Bachelor whilst binge eating twisties (I’m doing a great job guys).

Karen Murrell Fuschia Shock Red ShimmerIf you are driven to go buy some new lipsticks (I won’t blame you…I have a full trolley as we speak) you can get them online from Karen Murrell for NZ$30 each.

Which one is your favourite?

*These were both provided to me which I am eternally grateful for as otherwise I think I would have abandoned make up altogether. This hasn’t affected my opinion, and this post is 100% my sleep-deprived thoughts. Cool? Cool.

 

Review: Violet Mousse (the lipstick, not a floral dessert) 

Karen Murrell 05 Violet Mousse


Taking photos of my face is something I am not used to. So please appreciate my efforts. 

 

I’m going to preface this review with two disclaimers (possibly three, I’m quite tired – wait that was one of them). Firstly, I don’t do many makeup related reviews, but lipstick is the one thing that I spend more money on than I should. I care more about lipstick than other less interesting things, like what product I will use to cover up the evidence of how tired I am or how I can disguise the unwanted blemishes moving in on my facial real estate.

If I could choose one makeup product only to use for the rest of my life, it would be lipstick. I therefore thought it would be fun to share some thoughts on the first ever lipstick by Karen Murrell that I was happily surprised to find on my doorstep.

Second disclaimer is that I have an awkward face. It smiles awkwardly (somehow in the exact same way every time) but I wanted to show the lipstick on … because that’s how its intended to be used and photos are what I like to see in a review myself. Okay, so it wasn’t really a disclaimer, more a slightly pointless ramble. Sorry. Read on for the important stuff.

Karen Murrell 05 Violet Mousse

What is it? I may be the last person in NZ to try a Karen Murrell lipstick, but in case I am not, Violet Mousse (05) is the newest lipstick released in this popular line of vegetarian lipsticks, made with natural products to seal in moisture whilst adding a pop of colour. This addition to the range is a warm mid-tone pink, formulated with things like avocado oil, evening primrose and other good stuff for your lips.

What I liked: Okay so I’m just going to lay down everything and declare my love for this lipstick. Firstly, the formula is ridiculous; Its balm like in texture and feels moisturising on the lips, is glossy enough to look natural and fresh and yet somehow manages to last through me eating a three course meal without looking less amazing. Usually if I want staying power, I go with a balm stain or a matte lipstick, and with a lighter shade like this, even then I don’t have much luck. Secondly, the colour is so flattering and natural, it completes the perfect minimal makeup look, bringing just enough colour to my face to help me look like a functioning human who didn’t get only 4 hours sleep because she got lost on the internet. Its a lipstick I can wear every day, for pretty much any occasion, and its low maintenance so I don’t have to check for lipstick on unwanted parts of my face every hour. In summation, I was impressed (and in love).

What I didn’t like: I didn’t like the fact that I only currently have one. Not to worry, I tend to remedy this rather quickly. I honestly can’t really think of anything I would change about this lipstick. The packaging is nothing incredible but its good quality and looks smart…that’s almost a criticism right? (Okay, not really, I’m just trying to be somewhat balanced in this review and its not working). The scent is definitely strong, so if cinnamon isn’t your thing, be wary. If, however, you are a fan of delicious scents that don’t think twice and hand over your credit card.

The details: You can pick this up for yourself for a pretty reasonable NZ$29.95 from selected pharmacies and health stores, you can find a full range of stockists here.

Karen Murrell 05 Violet Mousse

My face again…this time outside (this photo probably didn’t need this caption)

I was sent this product to try out, but I was not asked to review this, or paid for any opinions. As per always, the thoughts above are 100% my own and when I say I love this lipstick, its because its amazing. 

Morgan Taylor and Monaco making our nails happy

Hey Guys!

Happy Monday and cheers to another crazy week trying to manage 5 million things at once! Today I bring you a much overdue post about a Nail launch I attended a couple of weeks ago. When I got the invite I must admit I was very excited, the chance to play with beautiful nail polish and chat with talented nail technicians was my idea of heaven. The evening did not disappoint.

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The party was held to welcome Morgan Taylor nail lacquers into the New Zealand nail industry, hosted by their wonderful New Zealand distributors Monaco Nails and Beauty. The launch was held at the rather beautiful Devereux Boutique Hotel in Remuera.

We were welcomed in with glasses of Lothlorien wine (which is one of my all time favourite New Zealand wines, so much so that they were a big feature at our wedding!) and got chatting with the wonderful Monaco staff who were bubbly (like the wine) and full of knowledge about Morgan Taylor and what they have to offer.

COLLAGE 1

We then had the opportunity to get our nails done with a Morgan Taylor colour of our choice…and there were a lot to choose from! I couldn’t think of any colour or finish that was lacking from their impressive collection, so of course choosing was nearly impossible. All of their colours were pigmented and glossy and the metallic shades were full of incredible shimmer and glitter.

I finally decided upon the gorgeous “Water Baby” after seeing Katie from The Dizain Collective get her nails painted this beautiful baby blue colour. Even better we got to take our chosen colour home so I think I know what I will be painting my nails from now on.

We were treated to delicious nibbles prepared by Al from Al’s Deli which is becoming a firm favourite of mine. There were delicious vegetarian mini bagels and amazing mini cheesecake bites. Yum

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We all had such a wonderful time! Thank you to the wonderful Monaco girls for giving us such perfect manicures (mine lasted forever!) and to the generous sponsors. Check it Monaco Nails and Beauty on Facebook and while your at it, take a gander at Morgan Taylor and their beautiful new range.

If you want to treat yourself with a Morgan Taylor manicure head to Monaco at Ellerslie or book an appointment through Penny on 09 574 5573. You won’t regret it, although make sure you allow plenty of time to decide on a shade to adorn your nails with, its not an easy decision.

If you want to see evidence of their wonderful work with these wonderful polishes go and check out their Brand Ambassador Meagan who is always posting drool worthy manicures.

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February Favourites

Hi All,

Happy March! February is my favourite month of the year as it includes lots of my favourite things; Valentines Day, my wedding anniversary and my Birthday. Couldn’t get much better than that. The only downside to all that awesomeness is that the month is also super chaotic and leaves little time for blogging.

So to start off March, I thought I would cover a few of the things I enjoyed using throughout the last month (and more).

DSC_62371. Makeup Forever Diamond Shadow

I don’t know if I am missing part of this eye shadow’s name but regardless I love it. This single eye shadow has been one that I constantly pull out to add a little shimmer to a basic eye look. Its a shimmery nude/gold shade and looks gorgeous with some darker matte colours in the crease. The pigmentation is pretty good and even better when layered on top of a cream base. I have no idea how to buy this in NZ as I had this brought back to me from the USA a while ago (thanks Mum!).

2. Dot by Marc Jacobs

I swear Marc Jacobs perfume can do no wrong. I got a couple of these smaller sized perfumes for Christmas and they are perfect for throwing in the handbag and using as a top up throughout the day. This has been my favourite this month, with a fruity floral top note (think juicy berries and honeysuckle) and a more musky, vanilla and coconut undertone. It’s fresh and perfect for the warmer weather. Wear time isn’t ages (a few hours or more) but with this little guy that isn’t really an issue for me. I am definitely eyeing up the 100mL

3. Revlon Balm Stain in Honey

I have had this in a favourites post before but I can’t help but mention it again…considering it is one of the first lip products I have ever finished and repurchased without any time in between. I love this balm stain, it is definitely my go to lip product and is a constant feature in my handbag. Easy to apply (no mirrow required), moisturizing, minty and the perfect my lips but better colour. I couldn’t ask for more.

4. Pure Fiji Hydrating Body Lotion in Guava

Pure Fiji are a skin care brand that I can’t get enough of, all of their scents are mind blowingly delicious and they are super hydrating. This body lotion is my emergency stash that I keep in my handbag for when dry skin attacks (which is more often than I would like). The scent is delicious and fruity and the texture is moisturizing without being greasy. These gorgeous products can be bought online here and I have my eye on the Coconut Sugar Rub next.

5. Mac Lustre Lipstick in Sweetie

Obviously this month was a bit of a sucker for a good “my lips but better” shade as this new purchase from Mac has been another great contender. It was my first Lustre finish by Mac and I love the subtle shimmer that brings this neutral pink/mauve shade to life. It is a slightly purple toned pink that works perfect with any makeup looks. Lasting time is average as it is a bit on the sheer side but it is such a breeze to reapply that I don’t mind too much. The other thing I love is how light it is on the lips (doesn’t feel like you are wearing any lipstick at all).

6. Rose Jam Shower Gel by Lush

So I saved my favourite product of the month for last. I have already used up one lot of this shower gel and luckily was able to move on to a big back up I bought at Christmas time. Unfortunately, my favourite shower gel by Lush is a Christmas only affair, but here is a 10 month pre-warning for you to pick it up as soon as it comes back. The scent of creamy vanilla and rose are a combination made in heaven. I use this every night before bed and it makes me feel like I am wrapped up in Turkish Delight (mmmm sticky). Seriously good stuff and you need some in your life. Also lathers extremely well which I appreciate as it means I can ration it out for longer. Oh and did I mention that this is awesome used as shampoo…I don’t know if it is supposed to but sometimes I can’t resist lathering my hair up in its delicious scent and the next day my hair feels better than ever. They don’t have this in stock at the moment (sob) but try any of their other shower gels and I doubt you will be dissapointed.

So February was a good month, not only did it feature some of my favourite dates of the year, it was also a month of appreciation for some holy grail products that I know I will feature a lot in the rest of 2014 (which is speeding along terrifyingly fast). What products have you been enjoying lately?

Lizzy Xx

Hit Me With Your Best Shot…at a pink lipstick.

Hi All!

Well it has been a little while since my last post but what better way to get back into it then by showing you my new favourite pink lip!

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What is it?

Hit Me With Your Best Shot; a bright pink Natural Lipstick by Antipodes NZ. One of their natural mineral range that claims to be creamy, pigmented, matte with a slight shimmer (sounds contradictory but save your judgement for a moment).

DSC_6203What did I think of it?

I won this from Fashion Pas’ beautiful blog and was excited to try makeup from a skincare brand I love. Straight off the bat I was in love with how pigmented this hot pink came across in one smooth, single swipe of my lips.

The formula is creamy and feels lightweight which I love.  The best part of the formula was how it felt hydrating and moisturizing all day long and I didn’t experience any of the dreaded dry-lip syndrome.

The colour is a perfect hot pink for me. Not too warm, not too cool but a great tone that suits a natural look (aka I forgot to wear any other makeup, hence the sunglasses) but would also look smashing with a smokey eye.

The finish was kind of confusing, but in a great way. Like the branding claims, it does settle to a pretty matte finish however there is a tiny bit of very natural shimmer that keeps it looking fresh and playful.

Lasting time was surprising to me as I thought it would wear quickly judging on how moisturizing it felt on the lips. I reapplied this once during the day, but even that was mainly out of habit. I ate, drank, talked (a lot) and yet although the colour lost some intensity it wore in a very natural way and remained bright on the lips.

Lastly, but importantly for some the packaging. I like the simple packaging of Antipodes’ lipstick range. The simple smooth, matte tube was pretty standard but sturdy. It looks like a premium lipstick without seeming over the top. There is a cute bird design at the top of the tube which helps me pick it out quickly although if I owned a few more of the same brand it might get a bit tricky (think along the lines of trying to find a particular Mac lipstick).

How do I buy it?

Buy it from one of their stockists in New Zealand or Australia (mainly) or pick it up direct from the website.

How much will I pay?

NZ $34 which is not the cheapest but for a premium brand like Antipodes I was expecting to pay more.

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The Good:

  1. The beautiful pink colour that is flattering and easy to wear but still bright and fun.
  2. The lightweight, moisturizing formula but the long-lasting power.
  3. The rather unique matte/shimmer finish that looks natural and fresh without making the lips look dry.

The Bad?

  1. Being pretty picky here but when first applied it has  a bit of transfer. Although if you can find me a lipstick with zero transfer I will love you forever.
  2. Some will think the price is a bit high, but for me the quality is as good if not better than some of my Mac lipsticks so I think it’s worth it.

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Would I buy it again?

Okay so technically I won this and didn’t pay a cent. Without ever trying it out I wouldn’t have given it a second glance, I save my splurge lipsticks for the Mac counter. Now that I have tested it out and realized that this could very well be my new go-to pink lip I would happily pay every cent to repurchase (or to buy a couple more…I have this dusky, vintage pink shade on my current wishlist).

Overall a big winner in my book and a new makeup bag staple for when I need to add a bit of colour to my day.

Lizzy X

New Year, New You with Bobbi Brown

Hi All,

Happy end of the week! I hope you all have a nice relaxing weekend lined up. We have a flat inspection coming up so I don’t see much relaxing in my immediate future.

Today I am sharing with you some information on the new releases by Bobbi Brown. On the 3rd February (have I mentioned February is my favourite month?) Bobbi Brown released a collection of wonderful new products.

Despite not being able to attend their wonderful press release event last month I was sent two of their new products to have a look at and get a taste of what these new collections have to offer. I have had pretty much zero experience with Bobbi Brown makeup before and so the chance to get to know their makeup was really exciting!

I can never say no to chocolates.

I can never say no to chocolates.

1. Nude Glow Collection

First off is the Nude Glow Collection, a flattering, lightweight combination of products in a variety of pinks and golds.

I am always a sucker for lip products and so I was excited to try out their Sheer Lip Colours (RRP $54). Think a product along the lines of a lip butter; lightweight, easy to wear and adds a beautiful touch of colour. I was expecting these to be super moisturizing and I wasn’t dissapointed, thanks to all the luxurious oils and butters that these are formulated with.

As with a lot of lip butters or tinted balms I wasn’t imagining these to be super pigmented however the one I was sent was rich in colour with one single swipe. Out of the trio I tried out the darkest shade (Pink Rose) so maybe the others aren’t so pigmented but regardless I was very pleasantly surprised. The colour is a mid-toned pink with a slight mauve tone to it. Its rich but wearable and perfect for transitioning into Autumn.

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Sheer Lip Colour in Pink Rose

In this collection there are other trios despite the Sheer Lip Colour, featuring nail polishes, eye palettes (I have my eye on this one) and a Brightening Finishing Powder which looks beautiful.With just the perfect amount of pinks and luminous metallics as well as some flattering nudes this collection is sure to feature something for  everyone and would be especially beautiful for a glowing bridal look.

2. High Shimmer Lip Colour

Wait, wait, I know what you all are thinking (or at least what I was thinking). High shimmer lips? No thanks. One thing that scares me is going out in public with an overly shimmered up lipstick that makes me look 40 years older and makes my lips feel gritty.

Luckily this is not what Bobbi Brown has achieved with their new High Shimmer Lip Colours (RRP $54). By contrast, the shimmer in these lipsticks is much more natural. Bringing a glow to any makeup look and keeping you looking youthful and fresh. There were 12 shades released with this new multi-dimensional effect that aims to stay wearable and moisurizing.

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High Shimmer Lip Colour in Pink Gold Shimmer

The colour I tried out was Pink Gold Shimmer and to be honest it is a peach nude shade that I would not normally reach for. Out of curiosity I wore this a few times and although I don’t think the colour is super flattering for me I often reach for it when I want something to brighten up a makeup (or lack of makeup) look.

The shimmer took me a little while to feel comfortable wearing but eventually I got used to the fact that you can wear a little shimmer on the lips and still look natural. I think Bobbi Brown have done a good job treading the very dangerous line of shimmer in lipsticks. Similar to the Sheer Lip Colour this lipstick was moisturizing to wear which is a must in my book.

The lasting time for such a natural colour wasn’t super long but it is easy to apply and doesn’t cake around my lip lines or dry patches. I would love to try one of the more berry toned colours in this range.

Both of these collections bring a luminousity to your makeup which I appreciate. I like the fact that these are also both easy to wear and comfortable on the lips. The Sheer Lip Colour was my favourite as it is the perfect colour and pigmentation whilst feeling like a lip balm. I can see this easily becoming a staple in my routine.

If you want to check out these products in person head on down to the wonderful Bobbi Brown store at Britomart.

Have a great weekend!

Xx

Note: These two lip products were sent to me to try out however this blog post contains my opinions and my opinions only.

November’s Sample Bar

Hi all!

So on this busy Wednesday I bring you a quick post sharing what I received in my November Sample Bar Glam Pack. But first:

There are only 28 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS!!!

So this month’s Sample Bar Glam Pack was focused on the transition from Spring in to Summer and some versatile products that may be useful in this time.

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What I Got

1. Organic Rosehip Oil by Essano

I liked the cleanser I received last month so was happy to receive a sample of the rosehip oil from the same brand. This is certified organic and is a gem for reducing wrinkles and uneven skin tone. At the moment I have been loving my Trilogy rosehip oil but this will make a handy handbag spare. It doesn’t have too strong of a scent and sinks into the skin relatively quickly however my favourite thing about this rosehip oil is the affordable price. These can be picked up full size (20mL) from the supermarket for a pretty reasonable $22.99.

2. Model Co Cheek and Lip Tint

Most likely the product I was most excited by at first glance was this cheek and lip tint by Model Co. I love the idea of tints but haven’t tried any out. This one is  a berry pink colour and blends out on the cheeks relatively easy. I didn’t have much success using this on the lips and in future see it more as a quick and easy blush however I love the idea of a multipurpose product. This was a half size of their 10mL product which retails for $24.00.

3. Vital C Hyrdrating Repair Creme

This rather expensive creme ($109.70 for 60mL) is supposed to be great for sensitive skin so I was happy to receive a small sample pot to try out. Apparently its high price tag is due to the level of vitamins ACE but I don’t think I would rush out to buy it. Interested to see if it is any better than my Dream Cream by Lush which I am loving.

4. Avene Extremely Gentle Cleanser

Another product suitable for sensitive skin which was great to see. Also good to see a relatively large 20mL sample (those tiny sachets drive me insane). This cleanser is soap free and has a neutral pH to thoroughly cleanse whilst also calming and avoiding irritation. Free of fragrance, perfume and parabens. Definitely happy to try this out and see how well it works. Full size (200mL) is $43.70.

5. Holistic Hair Sea Spray

Another product I was excited to see was this hair spray. For someone who avoids all hair care this was a rare moment but I like the idea of this natural spray, with lime and essential oils (and of course salt!) to add texture to curls and create beachy waves. The scent is pleasant and its another good size sample so I was pretty happy all round. Full size of 250mL comes with a pretty reasonable $22.45 price tag and can be bought online.

6. Daylong Sunscreen

The sixth and bonus product was three sachets of sunscreen. I hate sachets but at least these kind of make sense and are easy to pop into your wallet for those times we forget sunblock. This sunscreen in SPF 50 and is supposed to be light and non-greasy which is always good to hear. It also lasts 8 hours which means one application should last you most of the day. This swiss sunscreen goes for $34.99 (150mL).

The Verdict

Overall I thought the products in the box were all well chosen and none of them were ones I wouldn’t be able to or willing to use. With a lot of sensitive skin care and a couple of season specific products I am excited to try most of these out. My one main negative is that I wish there had been a full size product however the decent sample sizes weren’t as small as usual. Not my favourite box, but not a bad box either. Excited to see what Christmas brings!

What did you think this month?

Xx

 

Tuesday’s Top Ten: Lush Lusts

Hi All, Happy Tuesday!

For this weeks Top Ten post I thought I would do a quick round up of the ten Lush products that I am currently lusting over (by which I mean each week I got into their store and investigate then leave wishing I could buy them all). I have recently gotten more interested in Lush and I think it is because my skin just doesn’t seem to react well to much any more and so natural products have become more appealing. I also love Lush as a brand that is cruelty free and vegan (and the ladies at the Queen

Street office are super nice too!). To be clear, not affiliated or sponsored anyway, as per usual. Just a little obsessed…

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1. Dream Cream: Top of my list and a product I plan to buy ASAP is this soothing body lotion for sensitive skin. A best selling product and after being given a sample last week I now understand why. Filled with good stuff like chamomile and lavender this smells good but feels even better. Not cheap which is why I put it off but a little goes a long way so I think it is probably well worth it. $37.90 for 240g

2. Dreamwash: Another product that I have a sample of and have already enjoyed briefly is this shower soap that is, once again, soothing and suitable for dry, red skin. Full of all my favourite things like chamomile, calamine, lavender, aloe vera and essential oils I am a big fan. A little bit expensive for a shower wash, at $28.90 for 250g  so not something I would straight away shell out for.

3. Rose Jam Shower Gel: Staying on the tune of shower products, this shower gel is a gorgeous new Christmas product, scented with rose and lemon. I originally was lusting after snow fairy but after comparing scents I much prefer this slightly more subtle rose scent and find snow fairy a little sickly. $22.50 for 100g, other sizes also available.

4. Santa’s Lip Scrub: I already love the lip scrubs and am currently using the Mint Julips one (which smells amazing) so naturally I was drawn to the limited edition Christmas lip scrub which tastes of cola. Although this is a relatively simple product, at $12.50 it isn’t too expensive and would make a great gift paired with the lip tint below…

5. Santa’s Baby Lip Tint: A red tinted lip balm that is perfect to use after a little scrub and provides a moisturizing red tint with the flavour of a cola. A great combo with the scrub above, and at $12.50 is a nice treat or gift.

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6.Aqua Marina: This is another sample of a popular cleanser that I have yet to try. A pink mousse wrapped with seaweed it is definitely unusual but contains calamine and aloe vera to make it suitable for sensitive and irritated skin, soothing and cleansing. Excited to try this. $18.90 per 100g.

7. Sexy Peel Soap: I love Honey I washed the Kids but this strong citrus scent still outranks it as my favourite soap at Lush. I haven’t bought any but can’t wait to try it properly as the scents of lemon, grapefruit and lime are perfect for waking up to face the day. Yum. $7.49/100g

8. Angel’s Delight Soap: On the tangent of soaps, my favourite new soap is this sweet, colourful one. With cents of tangerines and gardenias the result is a sweet, floral and citrus scent. But mainly I just want it cause its pretty. $7.50/100g

9. Lemony Flutter: I don’t why I don’t own this product yet. This is a popular thick cream that is mainly used for softening cuticles but can be used basically anywhere dry. I love nail creams and seeing as this one is citrus scented (notice a pattern) I am a big fan of this one. At $19.90 for 50g it may seem experience but I know a little goes a long way (I always sample this when I pop into the stores).

10. Vanillary Solid Perfume: Ending with something quite different, I have been umming and ahhing over the Lush perfumes as I do tend to react a little to normal perfume and the idea of something organic and natural is very appealing. This little solid perfume is scented of, you guessed it, vanilla as well as jasmine. The end scent is a warm and grown up vanilla perfume, perfect for winter (but not so much for the season we are just entering). At $10.90 for 12g its not a huge commitment and so may be worth a try for those who like vanilla/burnt caramel scents, as I do.

Whew, I would happily go broke to own all ten of these (edd may not so much). What are the Lush products you lust over?

Xx

October Sample Bar Glam Pack

 

Hi all!
So on this Thursday after a day off work due to relentless migraines/headaches I feel a little like the guy below but don’t look quite so cute. The beginning of this week was less grim with the Auckland book launch for Laura’s amazing cookbook. Meeting her was awesome and spending the subsequent evenings pouring over her cookbook was great. If you haven’t checked out her blog or her cookbook, hungry and frozen,  then do!

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 Today I also bring you my October glam pack from Sample Bar and the goodies inside. This month’s box came a week or so ago so I am a little delayed but better late then never. This month’s box was actually pretty great and well worth the $25.

DSC_34991. Rosehip Gentle Foaming Cleanser by Essano. I received two 30mL bottles of this soap-free cleanser which contains rosehip oil and other nice and natural ingredients to both cleanse and moisturize the skin without drying it out. I have high hopes for this and am thinking that due to the oils and the natural ingredients it won’t irritate my sensitive skin but I will have to just wait and see. The smell is strange and sweet but not in an unpleasant way, just not what I expected. A full size 140mL will cost you a pretty reasonable $14.99 and can be found at supermarkets which is pretty handy.

2. Dots Laundry Powder. So before we get annoyed that they sent us a washing powder in a beauty sample pack this was a bonus product, so not a part of the 5 proper makeup/beauty samples. Am I super excited by this….no, but it might come in handy.The price for the normal packs range from $6.99-$13.99 at supermarkets.

3, Youngblood Vixen mini lipstick. I love the idea of mini lipsticks so to get a beautiful red one that I can keep in my purse if I decide to pop on a red lip half way through the day of after work before going out is great! This is a blend of natural oils and vitamins which sounds good and is a beautiful true red that is sort of matte. A great product for a sample box in my opinion. These retail for $43.50 for a full size which is pretty expensive for my little wallet.

4. Matte Eyeshadow by Couleur Caramel. Another awesome product this month was this matte eyeshadow that is a beautiful light natural brown colour that would make a great base shadow. Doesn’t seem super pigmented but is buttery and the colour is one I know I will use often. I don’t know how much these eyeshadows retail for but their range of products ranges from $20-$50 approx. I would love to see what some of their other vegan, cruelty free products are like. All of their makeup is also chemical free (not sure how that works) and fair trade. The recyclable packaging is great too!

5. Angel Orange Flower Shampoo and Hairmask. I have never heard of this hair brand (but that isn’t saying much, hair care is not my strength) but am looking forward to trying out these two products. Only downside is that they are for coloured hair so I may have to wait until I have a colour to try and lock in. I hope they smell good… These are $39 each.

6. Pure Fiji Hydrating Guava Body Lotion. Last up we received a small sample of a body lotion from Pure Fiji which is a brand I adore. The best thing about this is the amazing scent which I love about any of these Fijian products. The guava and coconut are a beautiful combination and this will be great as a moisturizer to keep in my handbag for any dryness. The full size moisturizer is $350mL and will cost you $49 which could potentially be worth it just because it smells divine. Yum.

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So all up one of my favourite boxes and what I wish every month was more like. A great range of different products and most of them well suited for me.

Hope you guys are having a great week! I shall leave you with a photo of Callie who was pretty interested in what we were doing and wanted to do some modelling of her own. Such a beautiful girl and who doesn’t love a little chiaroscuro.

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September’s Glam Pack by Sample Bar

Hi All!

Yay for Tuesday…. Or not. Who knows, Tuesday’s are a bit random. Last night I had a lovely time at the Miss Career launch which I was invited to by a lovely friend. Lets just say there was a candy bar and a goody bag. With tea. Yup, I had a good Monday. Right now I am drinking (or rather eating with a spoon when no one is looking) some Turkish apple tea and catching up on Australia’s next top model (a guilty pleasure). Hope you guys are all having a lovely week too!
Today I am showing you a very late Sample Bar Glam Pack. I haven’t posted about the last couple of boxes and to be honest there was nothing to rave or write home about. September’s box was not a bad box and was themed around Spring and the change in season. So lets just see what was included!

DSC_18511. Evolu Protective Day Cream: This may be my favourite product this month and is the only one I have already got stuck into using pretty much daily. It is slightly fragrant but not too much so. It has SPF 15 which is great for Spring where there is a bit of sun around and about. Its also rich but not enough to be annoying for a day cream and works perfectly for my dry skin. The full size of this is 75mL and is a whopping $54.99. I have a sad feeling that once my sample runs out that will probably be it for me and evolu.

2. Maybelline BB Cream: I have been very keen to try the new BB creams by Maybelline and so was happy to receive 7 sample sachets. What was a little frustrating is that the 7 samples we received were for the normal BB cream with Salicylic acid which is pretty useless for me and my sensitive dry skin. If they were sending a number of sachets I am not sure why they didn’t include both this formula and their dry skin formula. I will definitely try this but would have preferred the one more suited to my skin tone (which was specified on their website and so is part of my beauty profile). This is a reasonable $19.99 for 30mL.

3. Nimue Purifier: This thing looked cute but to begin with I had no idea what it was. I’m still not 100% sure but it says something along the lines of a day or night product that can be used o reduce oiliness for cleansing the skin. Again considering my skin is anything but oily I am unsure how useful this will be for me personally. Its a pretty high end product coming in at $81.00 for a 50mL size product.

4. Batiste Dry Shampoo: I hear so much about dry shampoo and yet have never branched into this area of hair care. My hair isn’t oily and lasts really well between washes so I wasn’t super desperate but will definitely try this handy handbag sized sample out and if I like it purchase the one specific for brown hair. The price for this ranges from $7.99 to $15.99 depending on size.

5. Yon-Ka Ultra Protection SPF 20 Sunscreen: Next up we received a 5mL sample of this anti-aging sunscreen. I am always happy to try new sunscreens and was intrigued by this brand I have never heard of. The packaging of the sample looks a little like medicine/ointment but I have tried this out to see what it was like. The formula was thick and a greyish white tone which makes it feel like an effective sunscreen. Although it was thick it wasn’t uncomfortably thick once it settled into the skin. What I found the most off putting about this product was the intense lavender scent. Now I am a big fan of lavender unlike a lot of people I know but to me it is more of a night time scent and not something I would slather on before a work day or a day at the beach. Strange. This sunscreen is $49.90 for 50mL. I think I would stick with my trusty Neutrogena.

6. Broadway Real Life Nails: Last up and worst of all is this last product. I don’t even want to talk about it because I would never wear them and I wish I had gotten pretty much anything else. These are fake, self-sticking nails and although I have nothing against fake nails I would never wear them and if I did they would be coloured, not cheap looking french tips. Yuck. Not a fan and don’t think I could even pass these off to a friend. These are an overpriced $21.99.

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So there were a couple of products here I will try but all in all Samplebar disappointed in terms of paying attention to our personal beauty quizzes that you can do on the website and sent me too many products that just don’t match my profile. If you don’t want to personalize the boxes then don’t ask for people to give you the information. Do I sound bitter? Oops. I plan to stop my boxes after October so lets hope we end on a high!

Did any of you receive a box this month? Did you get the same things and how did you find it?

Xx

 

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