tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85906154753335812992024-02-07T02:50:37.561+00:00A Small DistractionUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger285125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-39673119722318893712017-08-07T11:29:00.000+01:002020-06-06T18:55:11.378+01:00Organic Beauty You'll Fall In Love With || Tropic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As anyone who has stumbled across this blog before will know, when it comes to Tropic, I'm a hard core fan. They may be a company that I partner with for reviews, but I truly use the products on a daily basis and will rave about them until the cows come home (whenever that is). </div>
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This time around the lovely team sent over some of their make up items - I know, <em>squeeee. </em>I think I might have shed a tear when I unpackaged all of this. </div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">By far, the most exciting item I tried out was the <a href="http://www.tropicskincare.com/discover-botanical-makeup/colour-click-lipstick.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ColourClick Lipstick Collection</a>*, of which I trialled three shades (in order of
swatches down below, 'In Bloom', 'Dragonfruit' and 'Poppy'). The packaging of
these lipsticks is totally unique to me, in that they literally click open and
the lipstick shoots out - I think my Mum and I spent about ten minutes when I
unboxed them, just clicking and unclicking. Its addictive, you've been warned.
Kind of like a beauty fidget spinner. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>In Bloom - a subtle peach</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Dragonfruit - a fresh, pink coral<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Poppy - a vibrant 1950s red<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As for the formula, the word 'buttery' comes to mind;
fitting, since they're enriched with oils such as avocado, jojoba and argan. I
particularly like the two darker shades, if only because they have more of an
impact than the nude, which is a given. The colour just glides on, and stays
put for hours without clumping or fading in the centre of the lips. £14 is
definitely reasonable for these little beauties, and the shade range is
beautiful! I had a hard time picking out some colours to try.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The <a href="http://www.tropicskincare.com/discover-botanical-makeup/lip-glaze.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lip Glaze</a>* in 'Pink Champagne' is another hit - I tend to be pretty picky with glosses, but this formula is just creamy enough to avoid the tackiness that I dislike. As for the colour pay off, this isn't a gloss with a high pigmentation (like the Bare Minerals Buttercream Glosses), but it is a lovely shimmer that would work well alone or on top of a lipstick, and has the texture of my favourite glosses. Again, £14 for a quality and versatile lip product is reasonable; you can't go wrong by adding one to your basket. </div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Last but not least, the <a href="http://www.tropicskincare.com/discover-botanical-makeup/correcting-cream-concealer.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Correcting Cream Concealer*</a> (£22).
This product knows how to cover blemishes, let me tell you. The idea of a face
product made from 100% natural ingredients appeals to me on a high level; it's
so nice to not have to worry what you might be putting on your face. The
texture is creamy and blendable, and considering I'm a liquid concealer girl,
this went down a treat. On the website the description mentions "oat oil,
zinc oxide and arnica extract" to fight blemishes and redness. I didn't
even know that oats could produce oil, but if they do I definitely want to be a
part of the action. A pot of this would last a long time, even with daily use. Similar to a pot of Anastasia Dip Brow Pomade, you pay a lot on the spot, but the product lasts long term. An investment make up item!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><em>*These products were sent to me to review, but all opinions
are my own.</em></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A million thanks to the wonderful team at Tropic for reaching out again and sending
these to me to trial. I had a lot of fun testing shades and adding to my Tropic collection. </span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-7883225485756519522017-07-16T15:10:00.000+01:002020-06-06T18:47:06.464+01:00Pretty, Powerful Poetry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So far this summer has consisted of doing all the things that I really truly love, and I ain't sad about it. One of those things is reading poetry, and I've been lucky enough to stumble upon two books that, if you're a poetry reader/writer (and like books such as Milk and Honey), you would adore.</div>
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'The Princess Saves Herself in This One' by Amanda Lovelace is a gem of a poetry collection, it really is. I love the personal, storytelling version of poetry, where you witness a progression of the author's life through her words. And well, the title of this book is absolutely fabulous, because we can all be our own heroes. If you loved M&H and need somewhere else to take your poetry cravings, this is a brilliant choice, and it touches upon eating disorders, a topic close to my heart and therefore containing words that resonated with me. Parental relationships, loss, and toxic relationships are all covered within this collection. Real life isn't all sunshine and rainbows, and this book is a delicate and truthful expression of that. <em>Crossing my fingers that some of you reach for this!</em></div>
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Another stunning read is 'The Chaos of Longing' by K.Y. Robinson, a book with an extremely gorgeous cover. Just sayin'. This one is along the same style, but more focussed on love and lust and the general theme of relationships. I didn't relate to this one in the same way as I did the first, but that didn't stop the recognition of well written poetry and formulated ideas. I think poetry is a journey of sorts; finding what style and topic focus works for you. I'm not a huge fan of poems that rhyme, but others thrive on that. You do you boo, you know?</div>
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I've posted a few of my favourites down below, and if you follow me on any of my social medias, you might recognise a couple of them. They're the kind of poems that give you goosebumps and stick in your mind whilst you're trying to fall asleep. <strong>Pretty, powerful poetry. </strong>And sometimes, the only words you need to hear.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-87436374777492749422017-07-09T11:17:00.000+01:002017-07-09T11:17:42.046+01:00A Summer Makeup Menu<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In theory, summer is palm trees and mojitos in the sunshine. In reality, its a full time job and juggling a million projects, am I right? That shouldn't stop us though, from living vicariously through our makeup routine, and switching out the winter products for a bit of sunshine-proof glam. </div>
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The main product I'm excited to crack out in the next couple of months is the Urban Decay Full Spectrum palette, because if there was ever a time to try out some bold colours, its now. Trying out the shade Calavera is definitely next on the agenda, mainly because it reminds me of a shade in the 'Yes Please' palette by Colourpop, that I am <em>desperate </em>to get my hands on. Even though this isn't the most compact product, I think I might have to sneak it into my Madrid suitcase later in the summer. Another bold shadow I'm gravitating towards lately is 'Flipper' by Colourpop, a beautiful orange shimmer.</div>
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Over the past few months, a strong highlight has really disappeared from my routine, but during the July/August months a golden shade is ideal. 'Gleam' by Topshop is my go-to for when I have a slight tan (emphasis on the slight, since I pretty much only burn). To complete the bronzed look, I obviously have to pull out my beloved Laguna from Nars. From the formula of the powder to the perfect bronze shade for my skintone, this powder has everything. On the sad day that I do eventually run out of this, I know I'll splurge and repurchase. It's that kind of product. A holy grail.</div>
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The Better Than Sex mascara is legendary, enough said. TooFaced have killed it with this product, and I think the majority of the beauty community knows it. For volume and length sans clumps, this is your gal. And who can resist metallic ballet slipper pink packaging? I know I can't. For me, mascara is one of the most important components of a holiday makeup look, because a lot of the time it's all that you're wearing on your face. I'm also planning on reaching for my Urban Decay setting spray a lot this summer; I know it can handle the heat and stop my foundation from melting. </div>
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Lastly, in terms of lips, as y'all probably know by now, I'm not much of a matte lip product girl. It's all about the glosses and the balms, especially in summer. But for days when a lipstick is called for, a sheer formula is just what the doctor (beauty blogger) ordered. My favourites are 'Patisserie' by MAC, a beautiful rose in the lustre formula, and my YSL lippie in the shade 44 is of the same ilk. <em>I completely forgot the word ilk existed? What a lovely word.</em></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-50405140723367548812017-07-03T14:00:00.000+01:002017-07-03T14:34:53.898+01:00The Makeup Eraser || Qwerkity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NYX26602Ix08eUZE7zumQRIJG-Sy59sSErBqJrUAU0CA2COkLDMPtiZlWB_jgb2cWewHkHTNKMypwP6a-WdGz7lB4sz8Qmccj2hMzZpyhKkMn-jOMT2XMwaFrjk75ns-BeyW-ktTz-M/s1600/eraser5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NYX26602Ix08eUZE7zumQRIJG-Sy59sSErBqJrUAU0CA2COkLDMPtiZlWB_jgb2cWewHkHTNKMypwP6a-WdGz7lB4sz8Qmccj2hMzZpyhKkMn-jOMT2XMwaFrjk75ns-BeyW-ktTz-M/s1600/eraser5.jpg" /></a></div>
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Ever since my skin said "NO" to face wipes, I've been trying to find better ways of removing my make up; methods that will fully cleanse without harsh chemicals. When <a href="http://www.qwerkity.com/gifts-for-her-deptgiftgirl/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Qwerkity</a>, a great website for sourcing unique gifts, asked if I'd like to try out their Makeup Eraser* I obviously jumped at the chance. This product retails at £17.50, which seems pretty pricey for a make up remover, but when you consider that this can be reused, that isn't a bad price at all. </div>
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Essentially, you add water to the face cloth and it works to break down the oils that bind make up to the skin. This removes foundation <em>perfectly. </em>It took a little longer to remove eye makeup, but that's to be expected, and the opposite side of the cloth exfoliates your skin (an added bonus). I think that the premise of a make up remover that only needs water is unique and efficient, considering that travelling can often be a hassle when you have a million and one beauty products to fit inside your suitcase.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTOsvA2kY5r9Wdpvxz6NBAhM9j-YQCzOTW2-laoNxl1pAHO6LJ2dzHF3z-MACh09xlowUK8YW-xCKuVNViMxCLouMNrTYEsjdqc3cPJEtmYNkck502sg5bJHmguXV1QeFb_qEQ9uBs6o/s1600/eraser2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1189" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTOsvA2kY5r9Wdpvxz6NBAhM9j-YQCzOTW2-laoNxl1pAHO6LJ2dzHF3z-MACh09xlowUK8YW-xCKuVNViMxCLouMNrTYEsjdqc3cPJEtmYNkck502sg5bJHmguXV1QeFb_qEQ9uBs6o/s1600/eraser2.jpg" /></a></div>
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My only qualm with the eraser is that it takes a considerably longer period of time to pop this in the washing machine than it does to grab another makeup wipe from the drawer. If your skin responds well to wipes I can't see many benefits of changing to the eraser - I can however see major benefits if like me, you have dry and easily affected skin. Having to wash a product is a small price to pay for clear and glowing skin. I'm so excited by the prospect of ditching chemicals and adopting a travel friendly way to clean my face at the end of the day.</div>
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If you're looking for a gift for a makeup obsessed girl, but you don't know what makeup products they already have, then this is a wonderful alternative and still incredibly relevant to their interests. For people on the search for innovative skincare approaches, then this is a fab product to send their way. I was so sceptical that this would actually take off a full face of makeup, but voila! The proof is in the pudding (I mean, the face cloths). I can't imagine a more naturally effective product for make up removal, and if you're prepared to stick with the routine of washing it, then I think you'll get on with the Makeup Eraser.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgteRsMfqKNjk12Msoo21XvXUyQgvwfY3Z4TTceAOcVP35chSHGV6UsYGP9zyjR9BTs8NJ4zr-c_N0DTREv3mVGE8-60k4VEWRLXhQXrQ5Sd2RZkrUH5zz4WZC47RFEdK3HO0m09GPjgo8/s1600/eraser6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1154" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgteRsMfqKNjk12Msoo21XvXUyQgvwfY3Z4TTceAOcVP35chSHGV6UsYGP9zyjR9BTs8NJ4zr-c_N0DTREv3mVGE8-60k4VEWRLXhQXrQ5Sd2RZkrUH5zz4WZC47RFEdK3HO0m09GPjgo8/s1600/eraser6.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK4WMlkv2y2arnABNKhrWw_LskKgPo_lg_0CXATFoYOl1PqbvSrYp-VQ9yIQt2AWKkivCBotoJDq-AZOYfWDn5oyl5Ksvw6ZS0hA2lR1UY0s6UWBpxTRImmzMl6v7SpOzNeNEfKY82p80/s1600/eraser4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK4WMlkv2y2arnABNKhrWw_LskKgPo_lg_0CXATFoYOl1PqbvSrYp-VQ9yIQt2AWKkivCBotoJDq-AZOYfWDn5oyl5Ksvw6ZS0hA2lR1UY0s6UWBpxTRImmzMl6v7SpOzNeNEfKY82p80/s1600/eraser4.jpg" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">*This product was sent to me to review, but all opinions are my own.</span></em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ-hV1msDJv81wLk_NEj1a18umD3G8MJQ2YO1_KkJl7Kbte4cwyQQmlzZfyXsCkghwOh3Su-bbs9aTlktibFeukXtqJ8sfDyXPuQ5Ig6OGu-LAXxML4vXqDwmFeUmCjhEZpFZb3UPUXjI/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="691" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ-hV1msDJv81wLk_NEj1a18umD3G8MJQ2YO1_KkJl7Kbte4cwyQQmlzZfyXsCkghwOh3Su-bbs9aTlktibFeukXtqJ8sfDyXPuQ5Ig6OGu-LAXxML4vXqDwmFeUmCjhEZpFZb3UPUXjI/s200/1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-55681805669270648862017-06-28T14:44:00.000+01:002017-06-28T14:44:28.664+01:00June.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBHzyMOfvfgowDQSmDVC6tuJCSr3P15kII8JHG1mAH31mbOtxFH7EUjM1lk_WmJmetDjU0foQWrneHV0K4lxQlavjZ_kgo2DJJ_7oMxEyX1SA7okrhiG4SWmJUAVe5h7vzGjFVtBrzO8/s1600/june1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBHzyMOfvfgowDQSmDVC6tuJCSr3P15kII8JHG1mAH31mbOtxFH7EUjM1lk_WmJmetDjU0foQWrneHV0K4lxQlavjZ_kgo2DJJ_7oMxEyX1SA7okrhiG4SWmJUAVe5h7vzGjFVtBrzO8/s1600/june1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Oh June, you've been good to me. </div>
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You followed me home to the beach and watched my hair get tangled in the sea breeze and the tip of my nose get dipped in ice cream.</div>
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You've seen me start to build up a healthy relationship with exercise again, a <em>major </em>step forward that I've been hesitant to take. The cross trainer has been a demon of mine for a long time now.</div>
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You saw a favourite night with one of my best friends, and then the ugly hangover the next morning. (Life hack: don't go to a restaurant and order chocolate treats when you're hanging. It's not a good idea.)</div>
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You've sat with me and watched a lot of Sam Claflin movies, because why not? </div>
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You waited patiently for me whilst I contemplated a four month summer, simultaneously delirious with excitement and rigid with fear for the long stretch of time. I thought for a while that I didn't like spending time on my own, and I tried to constantly fill empty spaces with people. June, you taught me I was wrong. I kinda love my own company.</div>
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You cheered me on as I picked up my work in progress and drove the process of writing my novel full speed ahead. Summer is a beautiful opportunity to dream, and I now get separation anxiety every time I leave my story for more than 24 hours.</div>
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You sat and waited whilst I had a minor freak out over all the things I want to achieve in these next few chapters of the year. And then smiled as I picked myself up and made a to-do list, because we all know that they solve everything.</div>
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You also witnessed a blogging identity crisis. Guys, you might notice a few new tabs at the top of my website - this space is now a pretty little mish-mash of topics. I couldn't love it more.</div>
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You've lazed on the grass with me as I embarked on a reading marathon to make up for all the time not spent with my nose in a book at university. Who knew we could get through so many stories?</div>
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Last night you probably laughed as I attempted my first professional cocktail in a bar; never underestimate the work behind a porn star martini. </div>
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Finally, you've watched me find another little part of myself. I feel like I say this every month, but this month has been a learning curve. I'm so happy to be on the right track.</div>
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Goodbye June, I liked you. </div>
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I liked you a lot.</div>
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<img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="691" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyhaRGomgSunczVMvJVsodY9ZMiuRScUsWOzawvLnF_TBpPUPdiSbPGmEZXiUitMB6YId27JzizpGoQ1lcWhyphenhyphenfT2w-wNJVX5JvPELgLxPrJN88j8MpcS48floqL6BUpPVOk7czjQft2kg/s200/1.jpg" width="200" /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-78748604888082731732017-06-25T11:00:00.000+01:002017-06-25T11:00:01.262+01:00The 'Fit Me' Translucent Powder <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4yX2SZecgtxtVeJqR3yTGt-_-rIfZ7POje6Jm5NbW23YXBPRKW1J2TnYZssv5BEKjtw-4LAcV3HIM48Mqlef9I03-KpuUP2Rhh-mhmVDXVcAuPWoQolvSbjxm9R0gn438Ora0hiFB1Yo/s1600/fitme5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1193" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4yX2SZecgtxtVeJqR3yTGt-_-rIfZ7POje6Jm5NbW23YXBPRKW1J2TnYZssv5BEKjtw-4LAcV3HIM48Mqlef9I03-KpuUP2Rhh-mhmVDXVcAuPWoQolvSbjxm9R0gn438Ora0hiFB1Yo/s1600/fitme5.jpg" /></a></div>
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If I haven't mentioned before how I'm kinda in a love affair with the Maybelline Fit Me Concealer, then the secrets out now. I'm not sure I'll ever become as emotionally attached to a man as I am to that product. Like, <em>dang, </em>I'm pretty sure you could party all night, get one hour of sleep, and the concealer would still manage to cover the dark circles. Boom. </div>
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So naturally, when I was browsing Amazon after repurchasing the concealer (you really do have to go to those lengths to get the pale shades, which are ALWAYS out of stock in Boots) and saw that there is a translucent 'Fit Me' powder, I had to have it. Literally had to have. To make everything even more exciting, it was advertised as a powder to make your skin look 'matte and poreless'. Squeeeee. And like the face product maniac I have become lately, I got on that Amazon Prime train and boarded the land to Maybelline Fit Me. I was not disappointed.</div>
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When it comes to powders, I'm pretty picky. Obviously, the risk that you take with a white translucent powder is white-cast, and I'm glad to announce that thankfully, you don't get any of that with this product. I'm going through a phase at the moment, whilst I nurse my dry skin back to health, of not using foundation, and when you layer the powder over only the concealer you can hardly tell that I've skipped that step. Being the sceptic that I am, I didn't think that the powder would deliver when it came to making your skin look 'poreless', but it does indeed. This is definitely up there with my Soap&Glory face powder, which isn't a title given lightly. In terms of matte-ness (is that even a word?), despite the fact that you need a top up a few hours after application, its a good egg. A really good egg. For £5.99, I can't believe the quality. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAS8ojhy1XOqETxyIm4wS3iPmiH5YzpOF4aX0Dniib1vV4rTri520rueVxhNFwEqBlKx3Qymc_L0VbjDpHgUtkiewrxMAnsdjr7aZBZgzcaXKO1zzBcF-7FKGsqefwfohUuQ0T1Qy9W8/s1600/fitme3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1194" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAS8ojhy1XOqETxyIm4wS3iPmiH5YzpOF4aX0Dniib1vV4rTri520rueVxhNFwEqBlKx3Qymc_L0VbjDpHgUtkiewrxMAnsdjr7aZBZgzcaXKO1zzBcF-7FKGsqefwfohUuQ0T1Qy9W8/s1600/fitme3.jpg" /></a></div>
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The only downside to this glorious purchase, is that I've noticed that it can slightly lighten some foundations that I do wear (on the few occasions that I've paired it with them). It seems different to white-cast, because it doesn't make your skin look white, it just alters one or two of my other skin products. And it isn't drastic. In my case, that's a bonus, considering I don't imagine I'll ever find a light enough shade, but for some of you I know that that might be an issue. So be wary, and not too heavy handed. </div>
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The product comes in a cute little compact, and although I don't think I'll ever use the sponge that's included, it would be a good way for someone to apply the powder if they're just building up a make up collection. I definitely relied on sponges like that before I got into make up brushes, and they worked well for me! Last but not least...that mirror is 10/10. I used it to touch up my face on a train the other day, and it worked a dream. Gotta love a handy mirror. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicVaIfx9Cvn75CyLV91jpkl13j_1Uxyb5TRaQ9rOFHgMQ7WR4Mc4PrxHo-FFlJsKhNLJAzEp-v29BPFdxGSe4F4DHof8p_vHlvir0epwg51IMoi3nRQ8nNLxYea5ouZES3tQBH1IrmGZU/s1600/fitme4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1170" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicVaIfx9Cvn75CyLV91jpkl13j_1Uxyb5TRaQ9rOFHgMQ7WR4Mc4PrxHo-FFlJsKhNLJAzEp-v29BPFdxGSe4F4DHof8p_vHlvir0epwg51IMoi3nRQ8nNLxYea5ouZES3tQBH1IrmGZU/s1600/fitme4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Have you ever tried the 'Fit Me' collection?</div>
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<img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="691" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitwnLuv4o10x3V4bAq8jcLfMUNx_y5EWaXCyA2IzttPRlzHPphDB_gp9-4V6wKvMNUg4vxNaaHfgotF1aSVuSW95cPlasSDUC_21aWK9601hIGADylWeAWfEFK8L26_Ixamez2H7QQ1g0/s200/1.jpg" width="200" /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-44296388017926707792017-06-21T11:00:00.000+01:002017-06-21T11:00:30.339+01:00All The Rage || Courtney Summers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hEnUf10iSJff9C_jEY0Qt__e1GQY8cZC_DCkbpP4kn4na9y463UuQOs6dOCijoJpQYrqbmYbjiD9_qev5PujBAUydZBHEQAAAwzkYVIqn_IeM3GAlqjO_XTWHg9ndXUUWCZv2hfkk3o/s1600/rage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hEnUf10iSJff9C_jEY0Qt__e1GQY8cZC_DCkbpP4kn4na9y463UuQOs6dOCijoJpQYrqbmYbjiD9_qev5PujBAUydZBHEQAAAwzkYVIqn_IeM3GAlqjO_XTWHg9ndXUUWCZv2hfkk3o/s1600/rage3.jpg" /></a></div>
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Trigger warning: All The Rage by Courtney Summers is a book about rape. </div>
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This book isn't a light-hearted contemporary that you picture yourself reading on the beach with a cosmo in the other hand. Its a book full of darkness. Its also the first book in a while that left me wanting to string my constellations of thoughts into a tangible review. </div>
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Courtney Summers is not afraid to tell the truth. A tragic irony, since the whole book is based on the opposite. Each chapter drips confession, even if Romy (the protagonist) avoids the very same thing. This book is about what its like to be a girl that has been raped. Not only that, its about what it's like to be a girl in general. How we pit ourselves against each other, and how we cower in the face of the uncertainty that, if we stand up for what we believe in, we run the risk of being just as unfortunate as those that need our help. How we walk alone at night and cross our fingers that we remain safe, and how we cringe every time a man whistles as we walk past. </div>
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The pages say horrible things, like people often do. It brings to light what so many ignore; the truth to being a woman, and the hardship of his word against yours. The tight lipped truth that if a man contradicts your story, it suddenly becomes less worthy of a reaction. </div>
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It touches upon the loneliness of education, and the aftermath of being brave enough to admit something before you are shunned. The words resonated with me not because I related to them (something that the power of literature often enables), but because they spoke so honestly and brutally that I couldn't help but open my eyes. It isn't fluffy, but neither is real life. Rape is such a taboo subject that it takes a brave author to write about it, and a brave reader to turn the last page. I read this in one sitting, and I could <em>feel </em>how important it is. </div>
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In terms of the writing, the switching from first to third person in the beginning threw me off. In fact, I almost abandoned it. Once you get about fifty pages in and acclimatise to the style of writing, it becomes clear that this is a beautifully raw piece of literature. Authors write what people are afraid to say in everyday life.</div>
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This is a story about rape. The brutality of it, the affects of it, the way people respond to it. It touches on what it feels like to be part of a community, and what happens when that community turns on you. There is nothing more heart-breaking than watching a confession be rendered meaningless, and I cannot imagine being in Romy's shoes. To go through something so raw and have not one person believe you. The story really begins when a girl goes missing, and suddenly bravery is more than a protagonist trying to save herself. I don't want to give anything away, so this review is spoiler free. Trust me though, this is a book that will make you view the world a little bit differently. One chapter at a time.</div>
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I cannot ignore fearless writing. Or the anger that it shakes up inside of me. (Believe me, you're supposed to feel that way.) </div>
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5/5 stars on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/31907111-emily" target="_blank">goodreads</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXosrkpdx6VM2S_Dx0tFHPkYhuUzVGfDLPJH8l25kkuTYSTa3w1Tjzd578Vh8dWkVoi5V-qi4rT6bVBYxGsvWPeC1FIT86yHuP8ekJ49LamD_29uB2f8pp9MnKiAujguRGcMvWwFxlu4/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="691" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXosrkpdx6VM2S_Dx0tFHPkYhuUzVGfDLPJH8l25kkuTYSTa3w1Tjzd578Vh8dWkVoi5V-qi4rT6bVBYxGsvWPeC1FIT86yHuP8ekJ49LamD_29uB2f8pp9MnKiAujguRGcMvWwFxlu4/s200/1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-15867921050560443842017-06-18T11:00:00.000+01:002017-06-18T11:00:04.122+01:00What I've Been Reaching For Lately <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQA6WxXNsLGBOvfz9wAXE2dM7yMYg0WNAGRX6Oz-aOGsuv46WKw-JWVRrpnkN6J6tJL-YWPLkeMZX-CppXVZkC1zjj72xzf2-iGZoTBu_YKQYayGHF9GTNxd91-hYH53hWYdDlCkj4-w/s1600/fave5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1180" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQA6WxXNsLGBOvfz9wAXE2dM7yMYg0WNAGRX6Oz-aOGsuv46WKw-JWVRrpnkN6J6tJL-YWPLkeMZX-CppXVZkC1zjj72xzf2-iGZoTBu_YKQYayGHF9GTNxd91-hYH53hWYdDlCkj4-w/s1600/fave5.jpg" /></a></div>
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I struggled immensely to narrow down this list of favourites; April and May were great for discovering gems. Side note: aren't these flowers gorgeous? Got to love some summer blooms.</div>
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When it came to renewing my faith in favourites of months gone by, I picked up MAC Harmony Blush a lot. I don't think I'm saying anything you haven't already heard if I tell you that this is my favourite contour shade of all time. This past couple of months I put down the others that I was trialling to embrace this ash brown contour again. No regrets.</div>
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Another love I wasn't anticipating, was to bring back Maybelline Lash Sensational. My Mum tried the mascara once, hated it, so passed it along to me, and I've been loving it for my first coat of mascara on my top lashes (before I go in heavy with the Better Than Sex), and as a bottom lash mascara. Staying with the Maybelline trend, I couldn't not include the Fit Me concealer in 'Fair', which I have completely used up in the couple of months I've owned it. I posted a whole review of that baby over <a href="http://www.asmalldistraction.co.uk/2017/05/two-new-concealer-picks.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgmnxolUakbeO0XicNYwhiw6p5xmeGKY-ee2TYKPyqo6wIEPmaRNAWE-B0DvDgarzLuS9yEj7a4W1aD4RZQYw_9U6mt1XzprmOzEYYGEWh7rv2GQPxZ_dwraDlwgI8VrIsUtPRG3gxtE/s1600/fave2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1162" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgmnxolUakbeO0XicNYwhiw6p5xmeGKY-ee2TYKPyqo6wIEPmaRNAWE-B0DvDgarzLuS9yEj7a4W1aD4RZQYw_9U6mt1XzprmOzEYYGEWh7rv2GQPxZ_dwraDlwgI8VrIsUtPRG3gxtE/s1600/fave2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Lately, I've developed texture on my skin around my chin and nose - the kind of texture that doesn't look great underneath foundation, and just generally lowers your overall mood. I have a feeling that it might be linked to hay fever, since its more of a rash than acne, but I've been using E45 cream twice a day and the texture has cleared right up. In a matter of <em>days. </em>I had to include it in this favourites, because I'm now convinced that E45 is a lifesaver. </div>
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In terms of lip products, three stood out as the only picks I'm really using at the moment. 'Cool Girl' by TooFaced is a matte liquid lipstick that I won in a giveaway hosted by <a href="http://www.alicemaysnell.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alice</a>, and I'm so grateful since this formula is the only matte liquid lip formula I will use. I don't find it drying in the slightest, and this cool brown nude shade is right up my alley. The other Liquid Lip I've gravitated towards (and by gravitated, I mean I wear it literally every time I go on a night out), is Alyssa from Colourpop. A beautiful baby/medium pink satin shade that I die over every time. I'm not going to elaborate much on the fact that I included the <a href="http://www.asmalldistraction.co.uk/2017/05/the-bare-minerals-buttercream-lip.html" target="_blank">Bare Minerals Gloss</a> in 'Flirt', because y'all know how my heart beats for that gloss. Enough said. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN7KBmIYvSGYa9PcX1OqQMHfL_FyolA0kfKbQG8Vq254Dt2oDcXSwFNcmhm4tsmQXnhb7Nst3nx_xCC_XQmwIxFm8oMOnE3C2vN4ETbWQAMNxVnILHXrTbR0RRL5BF2GDs7af-h1VdyGE/s1600/fave3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN7KBmIYvSGYa9PcX1OqQMHfL_FyolA0kfKbQG8Vq254Dt2oDcXSwFNcmhm4tsmQXnhb7Nst3nx_xCC_XQmwIxFm8oMOnE3C2vN4ETbWQAMNxVnILHXrTbR0RRL5BF2GDs7af-h1VdyGE/s1600/fave3.jpg" /></a></div>
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When I haven't been wearing acrylics, I've been wearing a Morgan Taylor nail polish in the shade 'Watch your step, sister!' (I can't say that out loud and take myself seriously at the same time). It's a pretty neon pink, that doesn't chip easily and applies like a dream. As for perfume, I've been wearing Accord No1 Floral by Zara which, as you can probably imagine, is a strong floral, feminine scent. </div>
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Finally, my Z palette has been my best pal. I even left it at home by accident when I went back to university and had to ask my Mum to send it over in the first class post. The two additions to my palette that I've used non-stop however are 'Issues', a peach nude by Colourpop that works beautifully as a crease colour, and 'Grandstand' by Make up Geek, a foiled copper/red brown that is a stunning lid shade. I'm such a convert to the single shadow lifestyle, let me tell you. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IGx5LtHzW1sx7n3SvmkOqsDIvayVgDDnmgxe1SdtegW5EmpWPBkLY46beSST3lefLhHKHrMVOGnjg81QbgGubX40KYK7qQ3If_i0t_OgcO4tdJOtxrEDS72WDoLuz7MUaodGs_CX4pI/s1600/fave4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1168" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IGx5LtHzW1sx7n3SvmkOqsDIvayVgDDnmgxe1SdtegW5EmpWPBkLY46beSST3lefLhHKHrMVOGnjg81QbgGubX40KYK7qQ3If_i0t_OgcO4tdJOtxrEDS72WDoLuz7MUaodGs_CX4pI/s1600/fave4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-8031957877765325982017-06-15T14:52:00.000+01:002017-06-15T14:54:04.829+01:00I Write For A Newspaper!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9e1255m11vt_Xy9VZCXgo0MbGoiLB3isZ0mM5YxZIb30cV4y91rmnLdJ-zb_RsJqUOsbR6yA4vOoNuuMSyh5FjTELSLT2QwRi4nb7fEirRywvSR2j8JVsjCLRBU99_C56_CLoWExeMy8/s1600/gryphon1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1191" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9e1255m11vt_Xy9VZCXgo0MbGoiLB3isZ0mM5YxZIb30cV4y91rmnLdJ-zb_RsJqUOsbR6yA4vOoNuuMSyh5FjTELSLT2QwRi4nb7fEirRywvSR2j8JVsjCLRBU99_C56_CLoWExeMy8/s1600/gryphon1.jpg" /></a></div>
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By far, one of my favourite things about university has been joining a writing society. It occurred to me yesterday that I've never spoken about it before over here, which makes little sense considering that this is just another platform I use for writing. </div>
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The Gryphon is the University of Leeds Newspaper, and I'll never get over the thrill I get at seeing my words in an <em>actual newspaper. </em>So exciting. I thought I'd add links in this post to all of my articles (since they're all posted online as well as some in print), so you can have a read if you fancy. I don't tend to stick to one genre; I write for the 'Blogs' section of the newspaper, which is essentially an opinionated mish mash of anything you're passionate about. Its ideal!</div>
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<strong><a href="http://www.thegryphon.co.uk/2017/02/10/give-beauty-bloggers-a-break/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Give Beauty Bloggers a Break!</a> (February 2017)</strong></div>
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Essentially, discussing the power of an era of beauty and lifestyle bloggers, and how we're often stereotyped unfairly. Probably the article of most relevance to my blog, and definitely one that I'm proud of. GIRL POWER. </div>
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<strong><a href="http://www.thegryphon.co.uk/2017/03/10/the-art-of-overthinking/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Art of Overthinking</a> (March 2017)</strong></div>
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I think, as writers, we're all a little bit attached to the tendency to over-think things. Here I talked about why that's not necessarily a negative thing, if we train ourselves to think of our minds in a more positive light.</div>
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<strong><a href="http://www.thegryphon.co.uk/2017/03/29/in-defence-of-paper-and-print-is-an-ebook-ever-as-good/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">In defence of paper and print: is an eBook ever as good?</a> (March 2017)</strong></div>
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I'm more than a little attached to paperbacks. Enough said. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGRg2SmBbA4Ot7lEPt5-q5e4dTS3JUhl2RFuPgGw1AA5OIqwqgq2ybP8o5U9um-b_VS-c_5YthZqOjhlM2tqYhZjkaHe1QaVd76FdX_J7xknXZ2qoW0oiJvp67fOBA-K8m6RUi_DI1bR0/s1600/gryphon3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1165" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGRg2SmBbA4Ot7lEPt5-q5e4dTS3JUhl2RFuPgGw1AA5OIqwqgq2ybP8o5U9um-b_VS-c_5YthZqOjhlM2tqYhZjkaHe1QaVd76FdX_J7xknXZ2qoW0oiJvp67fOBA-K8m6RUi_DI1bR0/s1600/gryphon3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<strong><a href="http://www.thegryphon.co.uk/2017/04/05/the-zoo-anthropocentrism-behind-a-glass-screen/" target="_blank">The Zoo: Anthropocentrism Behind a Glass Screen</a> (April 2017)</strong></div>
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The closure of the South Lakes Safari Zoo in Cumbria sparked an article surrounding the morality of zoos, and how we commoditize wild animals for our own gain. This one is a bit of rant! </div>
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<strong><span id="goog_1073445535"></span><a href="http://www.thegryphon.co.uk/2017/05/07/the-damaging-impact-of-what-i-eat-in-a-day-videos/" target="_blank">The Damaging Impact Of ‘What I Eat In A Day’ Videos<span id="goog_1073445536"></span></a> (May 2017)</strong></div>
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Without a doubt, this is my
favourite article that I've written, and if I was going to point you in the
direction of any of these, it would be this one. A controversial topic among
bloggers and vloggers, but one that needs to be considered since it has such a
direct impact, and one that is very close to my heart. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.thegryphon.co.uk/2017/06/12/why-the-us-withdrawal-from-the-paris-agreement-is-a-disastrous-decision/" target="_blank">Why the US withdrawal from The Paris Agreement is a disastrous decision</a></span> (June
2017)</strong><o:p></o:p></div>
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As a geography student (and a
human), Trump's withdrawal from the climate agreement wound me up. This is my
first attempt at a political article, something I was hesitant to write,
considering I'm much more of a non-factual, opinionated writer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I plan to keep updating you guys
on my articles if you fancy reading them, either by renewing this post, or
sequential posting. I'm so excited to continue writing for the paper in my
second year, especially as I'm the online editor for 2017/18!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-17984006854319587562017-06-12T12:02:00.002+01:002017-06-12T12:02:38.144+01:00A Limited Edition Morphe Treat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzbs5YOG9-FxVOC-4bUFnxO1my1bK45Gb6mK3NKuIUck_tKRNXyWsJU3mJ8EEWCZvwFHOcwuDyiJXayI6_RrtMpJ5gzYgum_jawJax_XCFZT8DJ3DvSGiqxGdjyWuaZwneRAcX2n0nlc/s1600/morphe5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzbs5YOG9-FxVOC-4bUFnxO1my1bK45Gb6mK3NKuIUck_tKRNXyWsJU3mJ8EEWCZvwFHOcwuDyiJXayI6_RrtMpJ5gzYgum_jawJax_XCFZT8DJ3DvSGiqxGdjyWuaZwneRAcX2n0nlc/s1600/morphe5.jpg" /></a></div>
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When Beauty Bay announced that this palette was back in stock, I think I might have squealed. I've been on a beauty spending ban during the last couple of months, and considering I didn't buy a single item during that time I thought it was justifiable to pop onto BB and buy the Limited Edition <a href="http://www.beautybay.com/cosmetics/morphe/25bbronzedmochaeyeshadowpalette/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Morphe 25B Bronzed Mocha Eyeshadow Palette</a> (£19). </div>
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I was drawn into this palette mainly because I think the style and packaging of the product is gorgeous; the transparent lid means that you can easily see the shades inside, something that I also love about my holy grail Z Palette. There's just something undeniably jazzy about transparent packaging, am I right? I would however be a bit wary of travelling with such a heavily plastic product - the thought of a suitcase disaster like that practically brings a tear to my eye. </div>
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The square layout of the 25B is different to the usual large Morphe palettes and more compact, which I think I prefer - 25 shadows for under £20 is a bargain that I just couldn't pass up! Particularly now that its Summer, and I get the opportunity to wear make up more often since I'm not stuck inside a room revising (hallelujah).</div>
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<em>This isn't a Beauty Bay review, but I couldn't not mention that this arrived the morning after I clicked 'order', despite only selecting standard delivery. Now THAT is customer service.</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie268nILvBKsge-VpVNohwJkzp_JHBynwufbFDdlEkvMVWMHTCabR40lcH9as3yzJw-fFM6Mhtse8kstb_LnFtUSxkxt_4JBQk7Km4LweuY8FWUgyDWlzBzSFaWb8c4EY8AUDnyHuD1Ak/s1600/morphe4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1249" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie268nILvBKsge-VpVNohwJkzp_JHBynwufbFDdlEkvMVWMHTCabR40lcH9as3yzJw-fFM6Mhtse8kstb_LnFtUSxkxt_4JBQk7Km4LweuY8FWUgyDWlzBzSFaWb8c4EY8AUDnyHuD1Ak/s1600/morphe4.jpg" /></a></div>
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The other option for these limited edition palettes is Copper Spice, and I may have to pop back online to pick those copper shades up later in the Summer, but for now I just couldn't resist this collection of deep browns and purples. When I was swatching the shadows for this post, I think I sat there for a good two minutes just staring at the pigmentation. Hooooly moly does this palette have pigment. (And I'm talking opaque colour pigment. Swatches at the bottom of the post!) </div>
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As always when it comes to these kind of palettes, the shimmer shades are the goldmine in terms of colour payoff, but I was pleasantly surprised by the range of mattes. The only way I can think of describing the formula is <em>buttery</em>, as the shadows are smooth to the point of just gliding onto the eyelid. Morphe consistently impress me with the quality of their palettes; I've never tried one of the larger products, but everyone raves about them and if they're up to the standard of this 25B, I can see why. </div>
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I can't wait to play around with this and see what looks I can create - my only qualm is that the shades don't have names, so I can't show you my current favourites (but think all of the shimmers and brown mattes). I've been waiting months to get my hands on this, and I'm pleased to say that it does not disappoint in the slightest. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHdUlYlfQwDAaGdQkRgoXwfxnI19q-rl3RR7CXRYXJSs-IwGxFPT_O2gsQo35qXRUdIUnjKg2hiQj-gyh7nSn_bjBo9C8rsPW4IU4Rqs7c4NLnXcqcMJ6bRT0GOtj0m3WyHS4Mo1Szb6o/s1600/morphe2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1188" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHdUlYlfQwDAaGdQkRgoXwfxnI19q-rl3RR7CXRYXJSs-IwGxFPT_O2gsQo35qXRUdIUnjKg2hiQj-gyh7nSn_bjBo9C8rsPW4IU4Rqs7c4NLnXcqcMJ6bRT0GOtj0m3WyHS4Mo1Szb6o/s1600/morphe2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxAg4AAT59RCKAZ6u0j3IrNUK9xczmlqmrUIGJylaAO31K1jV_bu_m6rWlL1uLQwi6dOHY9zZBbeYW5Lenx2XX1RtYXjF1R4UpRuNFsrKLBUIE3szXORuRkpEqSPcjWMbRA1EyNSB5vyI/s1600/morphe6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1148" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxAg4AAT59RCKAZ6u0j3IrNUK9xczmlqmrUIGJylaAO31K1jV_bu_m6rWlL1uLQwi6dOHY9zZBbeYW5Lenx2XX1RtYXjF1R4UpRuNFsrKLBUIE3szXORuRkpEqSPcjWMbRA1EyNSB5vyI/s1600/morphe6.jpg" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-23133453292676690202017-06-03T11:00:00.000+01:002017-06-03T11:10:28.376+01:00Staying Calm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4mNeYDmb-0wmmBNrgc5JLefEr9IYBWrdnbxHrExahNyYn2rhSk_w3XVJ3OVvrdHevtv-aspeBnrlpGfBuzRdztxwOu28kOzPp5DYtRZGK1xLJFrG6uw-WqP57QdHT__xyvq518S3OW4/s1600/calm5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4mNeYDmb-0wmmBNrgc5JLefEr9IYBWrdnbxHrExahNyYn2rhSk_w3XVJ3OVvrdHevtv-aspeBnrlpGfBuzRdztxwOu28kOzPp5DYtRZGK1xLJFrG6uw-WqP57QdHT__xyvq518S3OW4/s1600/calm5.jpg" /></a></div>
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If there's one thing that I will spend my life trying to accurately master, its the act of staying calm. I'm a truly positive person in general, and get excited about the littlest of things, but the other side to me is one of worry. Part of growing up (some may call it adult-ing), is learning what soothes you, and calms your nerves. Throughout my teenage years I think I've near enough perfected my list, so I thought I'd share the wisdom, because there ain't nothing worse than that panicky feeling in the pit of your stomach. </div>
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<strong>Writing</strong></div>
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I don't think there's anything in life that writing can't solve, honestly. I'm assuming that this might be a mutual feeling, since a lot of us write on our corners of the internet - sitting down with a notebook and filling it with thoughts and fiction has always been a kind of solice for me. There's something about expressing your thoughts that lets the negative ones seep away. <em>Side note: writing with a hot chocolate gives you bonus points. </em></div>
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<strong>Therapy Balms</strong></div>
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This is a new one for me, and I recently wrote a post about my favourite therapy balm brand <a href="http://www.asmalldistraction.co.uk/2017/05/scentered-natural-remedy.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Focusing on such a strong scent takes my mind off the long list of worries in my head, and for at least a minute, I let my mind become a clean slate. (Sometimes, a minute is all you need. For me, panicking happens very quickly, so a minute of calm makes a world of difference). </div>
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<strong>Poetry</strong></div>
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Most of the time, reading in general settles me in about five minutes flat. Occasionally though, I'm too restless to shift my attention to a novel, so snuggling up in a blanket and reading a couple of poems gives me enough time to divert my attention. I received 'Milk and Honey' for my birthday in April, and its a goodun'. Wholeheartedly recommend. Rupi Kaur has a gift for phrasing thoughts so beautifully and eloquently. </div>
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<strong>Making lists</strong></div>
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This method is an old one. I vividly remember my Mum telling me to make lists in my mind when I couldn't get to sleep/calm down back in my younger days. When I was in primary school, we used to sit together every night and make a 'worry list' of all the things that had cycled around in my head that day, and I guess the habit has stuck. To-do lists are my favourite to focus on; feeling organised never fails to calm me down and the practice of handwriting a list can also be a real gem when it comes to settling.</div>
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<strong>Keying into your senses</strong></div>
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I've seen this circling around the internet in the last few months, and I've been trying it out a lot whenever I begin to feel anxious. Essentially, think of all the things you can smell/see/taste/hear/touch, and again (like the other methods) it shifts your attention to a different task. That's the theme around here; moving away from the stressful thoughts and towards anything else that you can grasp, is what really helps. I know that for some people TV is effective - personally the consistent noise unsettles me and I prefer silence, but its all a learning curve to find what works for you.</div>
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If you have any methods of your own, I'd love to hear them in the comments! I hope you're enjoying the slight shift away from a purely beauty based blog; I still adore writing about my glosses, but lifestyle is a genre I want to incorporate more and more. Particularly with mental health, which I've kept silent about in the past but finally feel comfortable talking about.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4D55d26Gr_Qpg8TqI6lD0-ttdImyxwt0QxMsecDSfWBhnQYxp7QzJ7Oa1aBgGoVTjpCnexGDxM-GYYxdjMim35ggLpNHA85WBxYHRyv4IMX-nwyTdSvGXEpAFEKwwZWIUbZ35weB2JT8/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="691" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4D55d26Gr_Qpg8TqI6lD0-ttdImyxwt0QxMsecDSfWBhnQYxp7QzJ7Oa1aBgGoVTjpCnexGDxM-GYYxdjMim35ggLpNHA85WBxYHRyv4IMX-nwyTdSvGXEpAFEKwwZWIUbZ35weB2JT8/s200/1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-3094440470684935122017-05-30T16:00:00.000+01:002017-05-30T16:00:04.500+01:00The High End Products I Have No Trouble Justifying<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2XdmLLicIrXgMmTuzL9-TqEnFpCDJyhAe-ImjngNBkokqVz5ajEURw0Xy8_xAlpcFFkmve3p7kPd7OPypz0n-MU5L_nX8GKRkkKIVTjprR8p_shl-8R46Hbw3EKdEFOilbf3tqYhDHI/s1600/high2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2XdmLLicIrXgMmTuzL9-TqEnFpCDJyhAe-ImjngNBkokqVz5ajEURw0Xy8_xAlpcFFkmve3p7kPd7OPypz0n-MU5L_nX8GKRkkKIVTjprR8p_shl-8R46Hbw3EKdEFOilbf3tqYhDHI/s1600/high2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Happy Tuesday!</div>
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I'm currently writing this in my dressing gown with a huge mug of mocha, watching Leeds from my window on the 17th floor. Isn't life peachy?</div>
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There are some products that I turn to time and time again when it comes to High End, and even though they don't always make it into my ride or die everyday makeup bag, I have no trouble justifying the $$$ I spend on them. Sure, the drugstore has a lot of gems that I would never stray away from (maybe that can be a future post, who knows), but isn't it a lovely feeling walking away from the luxury counters with a spontaneous purchase? I know this can't just be me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfazwPn-FRCxez3TdSpEPCrccBJ3SnO9TzCi11M5kSzdzpjDteWojteN_c3FjvAcH3OwHkBNc04y6AtKk1RX1_JvUb8RCqkRxfBXsCjOmsHQZ9nh5WqsXiAU12dliBVROw7BJS7L4S3BU/s1600/high4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfazwPn-FRCxez3TdSpEPCrccBJ3SnO9TzCi11M5kSzdzpjDteWojteN_c3FjvAcH3OwHkBNc04y6AtKk1RX1_JvUb8RCqkRxfBXsCjOmsHQZ9nh5WqsXiAU12dliBVROw7BJS7L4S3BU/s1600/high4.jpg" /></a></div>
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My NARS Multiple in 'Orgasm' is immediately what I think of when I try and list my favourite high end products. I use this as a duo cream blush/highlight combo, and the "sheer warm pink with golden shimmer" is absolutely gorgeous in summer, let me tell you. Nothing beats that sleek matte black packaging; gimme all that NARS lovin'. This is £29, but if you're feeling spendy and you want a memorable product, this is your one.</div>
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When it comes to liquid lips, I am unbelievably picky. If it isn't comfortable, or even slightly drying, then its out of the equation. The Jouer liquid lips are stunning when it comes to formula and shade range - I own two of the metallic shades in 'Snapdragon', which has a whole post over <a href="http://www.asmalldistraction.co.uk/2016/09/snapdragon.html" target="_blank">here</a>, and 'Citronade Rose', a beautiful ballet slipper pink. These feel as soft as a cloud (lets just pretend I do actually know what that feels like) and stay put for a good few hours. And £15 is not astronomical for a good quality liquid lip.</div>
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Preeetty sure you've heard me bang on about the MAC Mineralise Skinfinish a couple of times already, but if you haven't heard me say it, listen closely. I know this is typically a face powder, but the medium/dark shade is a <em>lovely</em> light warm bronze for pale skin. £24.50 is a lot to pay for a bronzer, but this is a high end product post, and I wouldn't hesitate to repurchase this. I find that MAC products are usually my favourites when it comes to bronzer/contour *cough* Harmony blusher *cough*. </div>
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The Urban Decay De Slick setting spray has been a regular in my collection since day one, the early makeup years. I literally wore this in a desert and my foundation didn't slide. Urban Decay, you the real MVP. I bought this mini version recently for £10 and it is the cutest size to pop in your handbag to top up throughout the day. </div>
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Last but not least, my top find of 2017. Bare Minerals Buttercream Glosses, ILY hunnies. £17 is pricey but believe me, I cannot stress enough the perfection in this formula. I did a whole post about these a couple of weeks back that you can read <a href="http://www.asmalldistraction.co.uk/2017/05/the-bare-minerals-buttercream-lip.html" target="_blank">here</a>, where I sing their praises on a whole new level. I would buy so many of these if money would allow, and have not a single regret. 100% justified, all day every day. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-2463658232106967072017-05-26T12:53:00.001+01:002017-05-26T12:53:29.417+01:00Scentered || A Natural Remedy*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I feel invested in every collaboration I choose to partake in, but this one guys, this one is pretty close to my heart. <em>This post contains anxiety-related content: trigger warning.</em></div>
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For me, the first sign that the day is going to take an unwanted turn in terms of my anxiety, is a heavy feeling in my chest that I can't seem to shift. This is usually accompanied by a fast heartbeat and a click in my mind that begins to tell me that its going to be difficult to continue to breathe. Although panic attacks rarely affect me as much as they did when I was sixteen, feeling it creeping up on me every now and again is still one of the scariest moments I find myself encountering. I'm pretty good at breathing exercises (you can find a lot of these online!), but I've found a natural remedy that instantly helps to soothe me and clear my airways - even if they were most likely clear already, it eases my mind.</div>
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When I attended #CarnLIVal a while back, I received a 'Scentered' therapy balm; you apply this product to pulse points in times of stress, inhale, and hopefully the scent will bring you back to a calmer reality. I have to admit I'm a cynic, and I was unconvinced that a 100% natural balm had the ability to do, well, anything. Determined to persevere with the product, I used the 'Love' balm (Rose, Patchouli and Cedarwood) in the middle of the night when I woke feeling anxious, and holy moly this stuff is incredible. I am <em>unbelievably impressed </em>with these balms - regardless of whether the effect is psychological or physical, I continue to be amazed when these calm my mind. </div>
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Obviously, this doesn't promise to immediately and consistently rescue you. It would be a miracle if it did, and if the antidote to panic did actually exist, I'm sure I wouldn't be first to discover it. However, focusing on such a strong scent manages to detract focus away from other thought processes, and anything that might help a little is worth looking at, right? I contacted the team at Scentered after keeping the 'Love' balm in my handbag for a couple of weeks, to let them know how much I appreciated the product, and they were kind enough to send over two other balms for review. The 'Be Happy' balm (Grapefruit, Lemon Myrtle and Spearmint)* is described as 'sunshine in a stick', which I think is adorable. The 'Stress Less' balm (Chamomile, Neroli and Mandarin)* is definitely a balm I was grateful for in the last week during my first year university exams. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNySWi-sJFrbIQHCysaGtYhQuf7wlyj3Q6M-4sNEn8tXVh8JP3WuHv4zgCcu2voaYciJZ9iGms8aEh63-IsFDuZpI5mTAqMWsFQC5nBMXmAg9RJdmaJPfBeuUWQqO8I9Lj6m1fTOPBGgU/s1600/scent5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1183" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNySWi-sJFrbIQHCysaGtYhQuf7wlyj3Q6M-4sNEn8tXVh8JP3WuHv4zgCcu2voaYciJZ9iGms8aEh63-IsFDuZpI5mTAqMWsFQC5nBMXmAg9RJdmaJPfBeuUWQqO8I9Lj6m1fTOPBGgU/s1600/scent5.jpg" /></a></div>
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The balms retail at £14.50, and you can browse the range of natural remedies<a href="https://scentered.me/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> here</a>, and over on their <a href="https://twitter.com/iamscentered?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">twitter</a>. If you have a friend or family member with anxiety it can be really tough to know how to help them; mental illness leaves a lot of people feeling powerless. I think this could be a lovely pick me up to give someone to help them through a tough period of life; I wouldn't recommend a product that I don't truly believe in, particularly when it relates to issues like this. </div>
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Thank you to the team at Scentered for such a comforting product, and I hope some of you benefit like I do from this natural anxiety aid.</div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">*These products were sent to me to review, but all opinions are my own.</span></em></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-57329815814504021712017-05-16T17:00:00.000+01:002017-05-16T17:11:17.408+01:00The Bare Minerals Buttercream Lip Glosses || Lip Swatches<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If there's one beauty find that I've been ecstatic about in the past few months, its definitely the Buttercream Lip Glosses by Bare Minerals. I know what you're probably thinking; <em>there is no way that she can be devoting yet another post to glosses. </em>But here we are, and yes I am. Believe me when I say that these glosses? Life changing. </div>
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I'd wanted to try these ever since Jaclyn Hill and Kathleen Lights started raving about the shade 'Groovy' (way too light for my liking, but I was obsessed with the idea of a non-sticky, pigmented formula. For those of you who've read my heartfelt dedications to the Colourpop Ultra Glossy Lips, you might recall that that particular formula is the definition of right up my street.) For £17, they aren't the cheapest product, but if you're someone like me who prefers gloss over any other lip category, its well worth a try. I liked the formula so much that I went back and purchased a second shade!</div>
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The first shade I picked up back in April was 'Flirt' - a beautiful mauve gloss with no shimmer, just high pigmentation and an unreal finish considering that these aren't sticky, <em>at all. </em>Obviously, the universal lip gloss rule still applies, if it's a windy day, don't wear your hair down and pop this on and hope to avoid chaos. It is a gloss, after all. The formula is thick and long wearing, and the colour pay off is so beautiful. I'm not sure how well the paler shades would look (I'm not a fan of the milky lip gloss look), but they've got rave reviews from high profile gurus, so I would probably be assured in the fact that they look just as lovely as the darker shades I chose.</div>
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The second shade I bought was a bit of a risk considering I usually stick to mauves and brown nudes; 'Heartbreaker' is a dark pink, a step up from the traditional mauve but not yet gravitating into hot pink territory. And surprisingly, its my favourite. It makes my lips look healthy and hydrated, whilst being one of the prettiest pink glosses I've ever laid eyes on. The only thing that doesn't deliver with this product is the "subtle vanilla scent", which must be hella subtle, because I'm just not getting it. It would have been nice to get a buttercream scent that lives up to the name, but we can't fight all battles at once. </div>
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I would highly recommend these, even when taking the price into consideration. As always, the quality of Bare Minerals packaging is 10/10, and if you leave the disappointing scent out of the equation, I'd give the glosses that score to match. They definitely rival my Colourpop favourites; currently on my makeup shelf at university I have all my essential glosses lined up, and the Bare Minerals/Colourpop combo is all that I need. I know without a doubt that these babies are going to make it into my 2017 roundup.</div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Flirt, Heartbreaker</span></em></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-78522276196816941402017-05-11T17:51:00.000+01:002017-05-11T18:08:58.353+01:00A Little Bit of Truth || Mental Health Awareness Month<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As you can probably tell from the ominous title and the non-descript photo, this is going to be a rambly, personal post. Welcome. One of my favourites to write but definitely my least favourite to publish; I've never been the bravest fish in the sea.</div>
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It bugs me how social media can make life look a lot more shiny that it actually is, and I'm well aware that the nature of my posts portray my everyday life as a series of new lipsticks and planned instagram shots. In reality, those moments exist, but they're a tiny fraction of my life and it isn't all sunshine and rainbows, all the time (particularly when you live in the North). In the spirit of Mental Health Awareness Month I thought I'd write a little something real, a little something true. There's been an ache within me lately to transition mental health writing onto this blog, so I guess we'll start here. With me. And hopefully, it might help.</div>
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Christmas was a tough time, I'm just going to blurt that out and hope for the best. Putting things in writing often clarifies them for me, and the truth is, I was extremely close to not going back to University. For those close to me that might read this, I don't think you'll ever understand just how close. As a girl who spent most of high school thinking about university and how I couldn't wait to be surrounded by likeminded people, finding it to be tough was a little bit heart breaking. When I chose my accommodation, I was immediately drawn to self-catered. I'm a picky eater, meat isn't always my best friend, and it just made sense. Until it didn't. During significant periods of my teenage life, food has been my most difficult, toxic relationship. I've had the heartbreak of a manipulative boyfriend, but nothing compares to the manipulation you can force upon yourself. And pushing myself into a new situation, completely in control of my own eating habits, brought some pretty ugly thoughts back to the surface. There's nothing quite like sobbing on the kitchen floor at 9pm because of a bowl of pasta. It's hard to understand, I know. But Mental Health Awareness Month is here, so let's all try, shall we?</div>
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It's extremely easy to deny mental illness; to push it away and try to "be brave".<em> </em>For a long time, I blamed my food issues on other things. And its true, low points in my life in other areas, do bring out the worst in my mind. Addressing the issue head on, however, has been a huge part of the last few months. Going back and sitting alone in my uni bedroom on that first day of semester two was, I think, probably the bravest thing I've ever done. Bouncing back from a shatter of confidence is not an ideal situation to deal with, but sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do. And I know that dropping out would have been my biggest regret in the long run. Now, when I look back at the December/January period, I don't even recognise the girl crying on the kitchen floor, and thinking of how much I nearly gave up scares me. Things aren't perfect (is perfect even real?) but putting yourself on the right track is just as important as reaching the end of it. </div>
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Don't get me wrong, I still have bad days/weeks, and despite the fact that I'm an extremely happy/excitable person, I still lie in bed at night and deal with a <em>lot </em>of thoughts. And that's okay. I'm prepared to get there, and I realise now that I'm never alone, even if those close to me struggle to understand what my mind conjures up when I least expect it. If you're reading this online confession, and thinking, hey, this sounds familiar, <strong>you aren't alone either. </strong>Tell someone, anyone. A doctor, a friend, maybe even start with your cat. Talking helps, I promise.</div>
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These past few months have not been easy, but they've taught me a lot about my own strength. *Cue Whitney Houston* I might be small, but I am mighty. And believe me, you can be too.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-10352533019331304192017-05-09T11:30:00.000+01:002017-05-09T11:45:52.574+01:00Two New Concealer Picks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7vB1eAqNCdFP2T7Z5B4D4OOS7QHDHcNXygP4KZAXDdyENQC6lZvu3pbHon0LcZe0vGIuLJ7bH5qorY2H2BbUjNsowCI0CG76H3UhPkgmrtplbdrW81mAvBdZHYRkI1vYEGmVU4TnWLWY/s1600/concealer9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7vB1eAqNCdFP2T7Z5B4D4OOS7QHDHcNXygP4KZAXDdyENQC6lZvu3pbHon0LcZe0vGIuLJ7bH5qorY2H2BbUjNsowCI0CG76H3UhPkgmrtplbdrW81mAvBdZHYRkI1vYEGmVU4TnWLWY/s1600/concealer9.jpg" /></a></div>
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And I'm back!</div>
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Getting into the swing of things again at university has been time consuming and I haven't had a lot of time to sit down and write, but I thought that after trialling these two new concealers for about a month now, it was time to give them a review.</div>
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Concealer is my number one essential when it comes to make up, and whether you have blemished skin or not, its a lifesaver for those days when you wake up and those under eyes make it seem like you haven't slept in weeks. The new pick that I'm most excited about is definitely 'Fit Me' by Maybelline - a product I've heard lots about but never managed to pick up in my shade before this. I bought it from Amazon for around £5 in the shade 'fair', for porcelain skin. I don't know if you've noticed, but my skintone is as pale as you can get, and this concealer does the job.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaG6tz3Yu0dGpRLMOGqdpZwKMARSjH9TAh_UoqftaTxGNfWDOC1YtmKYQzhfypYL01orgzKg6Tno2ovcVTcl6G3EoPCDbl4iDJ0yFbaVMuiECzS-U59xY-ns2Xxbv7GtK_xQzsK_wFYXQ/s1600/concealer10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaG6tz3Yu0dGpRLMOGqdpZwKMARSjH9TAh_UoqftaTxGNfWDOC1YtmKYQzhfypYL01orgzKg6Tno2ovcVTcl6G3EoPCDbl4iDJ0yFbaVMuiECzS-U59xY-ns2Xxbv7GtK_xQzsK_wFYXQ/s1600/concealer10.jpg" /></a></div>
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I absolutely <em>adore </em>this concealer. The coverage for such a simple product is incredible, I regularly skip foundation and just use this to even out my skin. It blends perfectly with a make up sponge (I'm honestly not sure what I did in my life prior to using a sponge to blend out concealer), and stays put all day long if you set it with a powder. My personal favourite combination is the Maybelline Fit Me Concealer and the Soap and Glory translucent powder, which is quickly becoming my all time go-to. £5 for a concealer that applies easily and covers any blemish is a win in my eyes, particularly when the finish is matte.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjJBsO-O9yn19dBUXhQgsrw6kYaV3BR-WaSAGcAUiV_D89Q8WZhK61IEVRA33rQhdXdTGNNN2EStK2508ZUvzbNNlfaTDaT2MrBFjsB8ViR1lw5auMVQ2gMfGrYHfeoPSsKEvj2UiE5E/s1600/concealer11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjJBsO-O9yn19dBUXhQgsrw6kYaV3BR-WaSAGcAUiV_D89Q8WZhK61IEVRA33rQhdXdTGNNN2EStK2508ZUvzbNNlfaTDaT2MrBFjsB8ViR1lw5auMVQ2gMfGrYHfeoPSsKEvj2UiE5E/s1600/concealer11.jpg" /></a></div>
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The Liquid Concealer from 3ina however (you can check it out<a href="http://www.asos.com/3ina/3ina-liquid-concealer/prd/7596619?iid=7596619&clr=100cream&cid=25941&pgesize=36&pge=0&totalstyles=56&gridsize=3&gridrow=11&gridcolumn=2" target="_blank"> here</a>) is a different story entirely. When I took a trip to London I visited the store and the make up artist tried the concealer on my skin, and at the time I was completely convinced that it was a product that I had to have. I bought the shade 101, which is a light concealer with yellow undertones to counteract the redness in my skin, and although the shade is ideally matched, I'm not a fan of the consistency or formula of this product. The applicator applies the make up in a patchy, feathery way so that not enough concealer is transferred, and the finished look is rather cakey. I think we all know that that isn't quite what we're looking for when we cover up our dark circles. </div>
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I'd be interested to try more from the brand regardless of this one minor fail, because you can't judge a new company based on one thick concealer - which reminds me, if you're a fan of thick and creamy concealers, you might actually be on the right track with this one. The saving grace for this purchase is that the packaging is very simple and chic; matte black does things to me like no other make up design can.</div>
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Let me know what you thought if any of you have tried this, I'd be intrigued to know if anyone else felt the same about either of these concealers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJZnvwQF9rMToPtGjoCM3dBVKvjbjn6V0JkVSx9CyUO34DObc1qBg2JO7tC3UeJ1vM1nRiPTWk46JPHQfL9t5mQM9qJR5ybuAB2LKmocq1yt0hdpXkomFyX1T-uBtJNnq4l7WpyiK15Yk/s1600/concealer12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJZnvwQF9rMToPtGjoCM3dBVKvjbjn6V0JkVSx9CyUO34DObc1qBg2JO7tC3UeJ1vM1nRiPTWk46JPHQfL9t5mQM9qJR5ybuAB2LKmocq1yt0hdpXkomFyX1T-uBtJNnq4l7WpyiK15Yk/s1600/concealer12.jpg" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-50637166716137852442017-04-25T17:50:00.000+01:002017-04-25T17:51:23.044+01:00A Few Thoughts On 13 Reasons Why<em>I realise that this post doesn't have flashy photography or the most light-hearted of topics, but some things just need to be said, you know? </em><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’re a regular on Netflix, then it’s likely that you’ve stumbled
across or heard about the newest viral TV addiction; 13 Reasons Why. Primarily,
the buzz surrounding the show might have been related to Selena Gomez being the
producer, but now that eyes have turned to the production itself, the focus has
changed. It’s a teenage suicide storyline, and one that I have my doubts about
the safety of.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When I was sixteen, and my high school conducted mock interviews, I
remember sitting there, hands shaking a little, when the interviewer asked what
my favourite book was. Finally, a topic that I felt I could talk about for
hours. The answer came immediately to me, I had never read a book as poignant
as 13 Reasons Why (written by Jay Asher), a book that taught me the power of
words and the consequences that you think nothing of in the split second it
takes you to act. The TV show, clearly aiming to do the same thing, seems like
a misguided attempt in my eyes. A creation made in support of the vulnerable,
without actual thought for the vulnerable audience watching.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am all for raising awareness about mental illness; it’s critical
that we step up and address the issues that affect such a large proportion of
the population. There’s a difference however, between raising awareness, and
completely missing the issue at hand. 13 Reasons Why portrays Hannah’s suicide
as a mystery; who will the next perpetrator be, the next tape? Teenage suicide
is a subject often skirted around, so it makes no sense that when a team
decides to address it head on, it’s treated like a
game. There is also an extreme lack of attention paid to mental illness itself,
the basis behind such realistic storylines lost in the revenge plot. If you're a member of the audience, watching in the hope to better understand mental illness, I don't think this is the best platform for it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My main dislike for the adaptation manifests itself in a few, key
scenes. Mental health organisations have expressed concern for the audience
watching episodes containing suicide, self-harm, and sexual assault, all of
which are intense. And graphic. Awareness is important in today’s society, but
surely some elements should remain subtle. Trigger warnings are included, which
is one saving grace for the show, but the graphic content still remains an
issue. Not everyone that should listen to trigger warnings, do. That vulnerable
audience, sitting in their bedrooms and relating to Hannah, being presented
with a glorified instruction list, need to be protected. If you identify with
the classmates that added to her justification for death, you’re likely to walk
away slightly more conscientious. If you identify with Hannah, there is a
potential to leave with something a lot more dangerous. A justification for
your own.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s clear when you press play that this was a movement with innocent,
and well-intended, motives. For the majority of people watching, it has likely
had a positive influence – left room for thought, and time to consider the way
in which we treat our peers. For those like the protagonist, I am left with the
fear that the programme may have inspired the opposite of what they set out to
do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><em>I would love to hear your thoughts about the programme; talking about this is something that should be encouraged, not shied away from.</em></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-36947108738023836932017-04-23T13:00:00.000+01:002017-04-23T13:00:20.830+01:00The New-In Drawer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHpNOU3eBVKrWXnpffRWKSGA3Ig362k7T-r18lebhopTLh36BD35lWjceoHpqP-T1GEGasoM4mHkjzrTFuH-W5g-YWL2QQThP7EDznFfLRSxcFKnlWANZ9AdsL0StjCbM_Rf9h_gdL2I/s1600/newin8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHpNOU3eBVKrWXnpffRWKSGA3Ig362k7T-r18lebhopTLh36BD35lWjceoHpqP-T1GEGasoM4mHkjzrTFuH-W5g-YWL2QQThP7EDznFfLRSxcFKnlWANZ9AdsL0StjCbM_Rf9h_gdL2I/s1600/newin8.jpg" /></a></div>
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If there's one task I turn to if I want to chill myself out, its re-organising my Alex Drawers (I've only just realised how sad that sounds, but I'm sure some of you will relate). During my latest therapeutic sort-out, I decided to incorporate a 'new-in' drawer, since I constantly have new products that I need to trial and review, and shoving them in the back of other drawers occasionally leads me to forget about them. I thought it might be interesting to show you a few items from the drawer, as a little sneak peek of what I'm currently trying out, and what might feature over here during the next few weeks.</div>
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First up is a repurchase, but I know that the product had a rebrand, and let me tell you, I'm kinda in love with the revamp. The Urban Decay setting sprays cannot be beaten in terms of keeping your make up in place, I remember reviewing one a couple of years ago after I used it in Death Valley (one of the hottest places on Earth), and my makeup <em>didn't slide.</em> I know. This time I went for the travel size; the spray lasts forever and it seemed more economical to just buy the small version for now. So far, I love this just as much as the large version, and this only set me back £10. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfm1RkVu-IER92N6gD2q2SBJfv3tVtYcAf4XM3NP5LIP7O8vi8XUDUYxxNak_TDER1-e72bv4g2ahqN7yiq9aYRo75m0Gkz6CdMfKPLr0nJ0nKOmiaGPhp-qoUMUv5PQVjqaXTKnvNEs4/s1600/newin6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfm1RkVu-IER92N6gD2q2SBJfv3tVtYcAf4XM3NP5LIP7O8vi8XUDUYxxNak_TDER1-e72bv4g2ahqN7yiq9aYRo75m0Gkz6CdMfKPLr0nJ0nKOmiaGPhp-qoUMUv5PQVjqaXTKnvNEs4/s1600/newin6.jpg" /></a></div>
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Next up is the bareMinerals Gen Nude Buttercream Lip Glosses, which I won't talk much about considering I have a lip swatch and review post scheduled, but man these are beautiful. Formula, colour range, pigmentation, you name it, this product has it. So much so that I went back and bought another one. You know how critical I can be of glosses, but these just hit the spot.</div>
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The Tropic 'Spotlight' highlighter was sent to me to review, and I have been absolutely loving it under my foundation for a light, natural glow. You can read my full thoughts on this product (and another Tropic Limited Edition summer addition) over <a href="http://www.asmalldistraction.co.uk/2017/04/tropic-shimmer-collection-summer-2017.html" target="_blank">here</a>. As someone that usually gravitates toward powder highlights, I was surprised at how easily I took to this. I'm keeping it in the new-in drawer however, so it doesn't get lost in the chaos of my highlight drawer, which is a hot mess.</div>
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The Makeup Geek Plush Matte Lip Cream in Daredevil is a liquid crème lipstick that I was gifted at a blogger event, and when I saw how bold this colour was, my heart sank a little, as I don't usually stray much from the nude/mauve spectrum. I was also given a bright pink, which sadly is way too bold for me to pull off, but I tried Daredevil a couple of days ago and its a <em>beautiful </em>lilac. Not too neon or bold to be wearable; I am over the moon to have found a lilac that I feel comfortable wearing, so this is staying in my trial drawer for the foreseeable future. </div>
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Finally, for my 19th I received the Real Techniques Blush Brush, something I've had on my wish list for a long time. The Real Techniques brushes make up the majority of my collection, and since I don't own any other brushes that cater specifically to blush, this seemed like a good choice for an addition. So far I really like the way that this applies blush, but I still need to play around with it as I don't quite have the blush technique down. One thing I will mention though, it that this brush is incredibly soft, a factor that I find makes it much easier to apply a light layer of product. </div>
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What products have you got lined up to try next?</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-48303739164447748062017-04-19T15:35:00.002+01:002020-06-06T18:57:14.765+01:00Tropic Shimmer Collection || Summer 2017*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FWIdRCmOgQCzluLvXgoipTvsnaCBo3GMBpsyVIK8Gm6cFADI-9FXYZrrXS7VL2uQXDwasnQ9mE5eEWn_UosL5E14vAivCwIMVCcP5k5F2xpPZl1ihBFz7MMOuWSsy2Pwsb-8VJxQSOs/s1600/tropic13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FWIdRCmOgQCzluLvXgoipTvsnaCBo3GMBpsyVIK8Gm6cFADI-9FXYZrrXS7VL2uQXDwasnQ9mE5eEWn_UosL5E14vAivCwIMVCcP5k5F2xpPZl1ihBFz7MMOuWSsy2Pwsb-8VJxQSOs/s1600/tropic13.jpg" /></a></div>
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You all know how much I adore my Tropic <a href="http://www.asmalldistraction.co.uk/2017/01/tropic-skincare.html" target="_blank">skincare routine</a>, so when their PR contacted me to ask if I wanted to try out the new Summer launch of products, I practically jumped at the chance. I was sent the 'Spotlight' Cream Highlight* and the 'Summer Goddess' Shimmering Body Oil*, but I also know that they've released some sun protection products and deliciously scented shower gels. If summery products tickle your fancy, you can check out the whole collection over <a href="http://www.tropicskincare.com/discover-botanical-makeup/cream-highlighter.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Let's start with the cream Highlight, which retails for £18 and is described on the website as a "soft shimmer highlighter to brighten and illuminate your complexion, while enhancing cheekbones and creating a dewy glow". I'm usually much more of a powder highlight girl, I find them easier to apply and sometimes I find that cream/liquid highlights are too intense for the natural look that I prefer. Spotlight is perfect for pale complexions, a pale pink shimmer that looks beautiful underneath or over foundation for a soft glow. I like that this works well under my base if I want a natural look, as a lot of creams don't blend into foundation well. This is an expensive highlight, but you don't get any texture (it contains Vitamin E for moisture) which is a major bonus, and it feels lovely on the cheeks. I would label this as a less intense and more wearable version of High Beam by Benefit, and although it isn't it's primary use, this also looks gorgeous dabbed onto the eyelids!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzsXBQACG46d0I3nVCXiah0PjPomITdzWNBJ7aR9nx1umkhVet8v4GqBh-eAH_dVkQEPNqPs9INjpf6SHx_xrXPe0M-iMFhbI7VEYwOIp3sbGXK1vgT2RqlY64Hr43xa6-o6Q2u4ghVw/s1600/tropic3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzsXBQACG46d0I3nVCXiah0PjPomITdzWNBJ7aR9nx1umkhVet8v4GqBh-eAH_dVkQEPNqPs9INjpf6SHx_xrXPe0M-iMFhbI7VEYwOIp3sbGXK1vgT2RqlY64Hr43xa6-o6Q2u4ghVw/s1600/tropic3.jpg" /></a></div>
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The Shimmering Body Oil (£28) is by far what I was most excited to try out, considering I've never played with a product like this before. You apply the body oil onto your skin and massage until the oil sinks in - I was worried that this might give my arms and legs the glittery disco ball effect, but in reality it just leaves a gorgeous summery shimmer that looks amazing for a night out or on holiday. A little amount goes a long way, which is ideal since the price is quite high, and it smells <em>incredible. </em>The oil has "scents from Tahitian and bourbon vanilla", and whilst this isn't sickly, it does leave a subtly sweet scent on your skin, like the summery sun cream scent you associate with the beach. Another element that I love is that it doesn't leave your skin feeling tacky or oily like some body oils would, but just adds moisture so that you can get away without your typical body butter/cream. This product would make a lovely gift for someone spending time in the sun in the upcoming months, and you need to catch it quick as this beauty is a limited edition product.</div>
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Thank you to the team at Tropic for giving me a glimpse inside the new summer collection; I'm so impressed, particularly as I've never trialled their makeup range before. If you're looking for a couple of new additions to your routine to spice things up for summer, then I'm confident that you'll love these items.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRV1aaGdNkH6KCjbNC13hx86HcK_KKUJ-NVNNcyWunU2syySCkJF2JAKQhzU-2C0nARv78KrnZ_bfJfEUhcU0W5eH0mDCO4NJBWac_dTr2HU050zTmkwbXLPabuZRD_zWzjoCWisYym7Q/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRV1aaGdNkH6KCjbNC13hx86HcK_KKUJ-NVNNcyWunU2syySCkJF2JAKQhzU-2C0nARv78KrnZ_bfJfEUhcU0W5eH0mDCO4NJBWac_dTr2HU050zTmkwbXLPabuZRD_zWzjoCWisYym7Q/s200/1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">*These products were sent to me for review, but all opinions are my own.</span></em></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-55982429742205662622017-04-15T13:12:00.000+01:002017-04-15T13:12:20.058+01:00Birthday Colourpop Haul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When my Mum asked if I wanted to make a Colourpop order for my birthday, I jumped at the chance (quite literally, if I remember correctly). If you've been keeping up with my posts over here during the last few months you'll know that I'm on a one way track to becoming a Colourpop hoarder, so I can't wait to show you the newest additions to my collection. Even with customs I think this brand is amazing quality for the low prices; I personally don't think the Satin and Gloss lip formulas can be beaten by any other brand. </div>
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Okay, surprisingly, one of the items I'm happiest with is the shader Brush - <em>perfect </em>to apply the Super Shock shadows onto the eyelid. The fact that the brush is so flat and firm means that shimmer can really be packed on, ideal since normal eye brushes don't pick up the pigmentation of those particular shadows. For $6 you can't go wrong, and its baby pink as well, which just completes the package.</div>
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Moving on to lip products (the crème de la crème when it comes to Colourpop), I chose two Satin finishes. Alyssa, from the Kathleen Lights collection, is a dreamy muted pink that was a bit of a risk considering light shades of pink sometimes wash me out, but one that I'm happy I took. The Satin formula is so much more comfortable than the matte, and this is a lovely everyday pink. Baracuda is a "warm, deepened rose", which just sounds comforting, don't you think? I can't wait to wear this on a night out when I get back to Leeds.</div>
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From the Nectar collection I decided to get one of the Lippie Stix, which are even more creamy with the new formula and just glide onto the lips. The shade I popped into my basket was 'Faded', a rosey coral lipstick that is going to suit the summer months perfectly. Although I do prefer the packaging and formula of the satin lips, when it comes to comfortable colour this collection is a close second.</div>
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Now if you've seen any of my other Colourpop rambles, you might have noticed that the Ultra Glossy Lips are my holy grail product; I don't think I could live without them at this point. I spend my beauty blogger life trying to find the best glosses, and the formula and pigmentation of these ones are to die for. For $6 I would recommend them to anyone! Weirdly, I added a backup of 'Aquarius' (the ideal pink-nude gloss) to my basket, but then lost my original, so when this birthday package arrived I could have cried with happiness. You don't know how much you depend on a gloss until its gone. </div>
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The other two shades I went for were 'Finders Keepers', a mid-tone mauve in a crème finish that has just a hint more blue in it than Aquarius, but is definitely on the same spectrum. Love love love, another favourite in my Colourpop collection. 'Tight Fit' is a peachy pink metallic that I know I'll reach for a lot in the upcoming months; I don't like the metallic finish as much as the crème but this is still a lovely, everyday gloss. It would look hella cute over a nude lipstick to jazz it up a bit.</div>
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I also picked up two of the pressed shadows to fit into my Z-palette, in the shades 'Made to Last' (a matte, neutral mauve), and 'Come and Get it', which is a gorgeous duo chrome rose gold. So far I'm impressed with the formula of these shadows, up there with Make Up Geek quality with just a little more fall out, but that's forgivable. The colour pay off of these applies well with any brush, unlike the super shock shadows.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpdl0hl_8rSPdFafDjBFAj8Dfz7WM745Uz7WxXLmGrH20N-OJwcl1spWqYuk7TGp4PNk9DHSEYkXfhMSPQzWs0Y-8ble_3DYpk4Ee3-0CYHg5Rzb9_oWFrM5taPJ_DzuaTaleIen_lEHE/s1600/colour7.jpg" /></div>
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Speaking of super shock, I of course had to add to my running total. The Spring Nectar collection introduced a shadow in the shade 'Flipper', something completely different to my usual neutrals but one that I immediately fell in love with. It's described as a "soft tangerine with silver glitter" and I just think its beautiful, and a subtle way of going bold. This one looks really pretty with 'Come and Get it' when combining pinks and oranges in an eye look. The other shadow I picked up was 'Nillionaire', a bronze with pink and gold glitter that I haven't tried out yet but know is going to be right up my street. I can't wait to see how it applies with the shader brush.</div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Top to bottom: Faded, Baracuda, Alyssa, Finders Keepers, Aquarius, Tight Fit.</span></em></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-14505510581803111312017-04-11T17:00:00.000+01:002017-04-11T17:00:18.992+01:00CarnLIVal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MU9RtaA5Ht7UhiAUBF7UG0VcUQCkXn91KjZ7Aa63kWNerS2vpgLOXLuBLwKM5jSgQWv5i2Zvcb7kUKth5RgSASBztYvG1oH4Ozn1XAjxjsr6sE_tbpdrB6tjMmuME2R3AZcM2eITMkI/s1600/carn14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MU9RtaA5Ht7UhiAUBF7UG0VcUQCkXn91KjZ7Aa63kWNerS2vpgLOXLuBLwKM5jSgQWv5i2Zvcb7kUKth5RgSASBztYvG1oH4Ozn1XAjxjsr6sE_tbpdrB6tjMmuME2R3AZcM2eITMkI/s1600/carn14.jpg" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Credit to Hannah at <a href="http://hxanou.co.uk/">Hxanou.co.uk</a>, who is one of the nicest people and a top notch photographer.)</span></em></div>
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If you keep up to date with blogging events in the North West, I'm pretty sure that you'll have heard of #CarnLIVal before. <a href="http://www.thelilacscrapbook.com/" target="_blank">Katy</a> and <a href="http://www.littlefickle.com/" target="_blank">Sam</a> organise fantastic events for bloggers and brands to connect and network, and every event I attend of theirs just gets better and better. How they are going to top the event held in <a href="http://www.hopestreethotel.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hope Street Hotel</a> on the 8th of April I do not know - the venue was beautiful, the brands were amazing, and the company was pretty great too. One of my favourite things that has come from my blog is getting to meet likeminded people; girls who feel most at home taking photos and writing page after page of rambles to post on the internet. We're a special breed.</div>
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Hope Street Hotel is hidden just past Bold Street, and the balconies look out over the city, making for some gorgeous shots of Liverpool. It also seemed like the perfect place to stay for a trip to Liverpool, FYI. The sun was shining, it was my 19th birthday, and everything just felt a little bit like magic. I'm so impressed with the work that the girls did to make this event a possibility, and the hard work that must have gone into recruiting brands and PRs so that both sides of the story benefitted as much as possible. It was also cool to see so much going on for charity; you may have seen on the news lately that truancy rates are high in schools where young girls don't have access to sanitary products - to see so much being done for them was inspiring, and I'm glad to have contributed to that movement.</div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Credit to Hannah, who I loved seeing again! You can visit her wonderful blog <a href="http://pull-yourself-together.blogspot.co.uk/p/about-me.html" target="_blank">here</a>.)</span></em></div>
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As for the gift bag, the girls know how to wow. 10/10. I haven't emptied out the entirety of my bags for this photo but I have picked a few of my favourites to show to you. Brands like Makeup Geek, No7 and Kiko Milano are some of my favourites, so to receive lip products from them as well as a stunning indigo lipstick from Illamasqua was such a nice surprise. Haircare brands like Toni&Guy and Lee Stafford got involved, and I've shared out the hair items between my family members, since my little sister's favourite thing as a dancer, is hairspray. Sharing is caring. </div>
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I'm really excited to try products from DermaV10; I've never put effort into my skincare routine until this year so I can't wait to see how using a night cream affects my skin. There were so many products on offer from this brand, and they all looked worth checking out (which you can do right <a href="http://dermav10tech.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>). Other brands that I was over the moon to see in the bags were Body Fantasies, Zuii Organic and Fentimans, who I've worked with before and really respect as a brand. </div>
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The 8th was such a success in every sense of the word and I can't wait to attend the next event that Katy and Sam pull together. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-3319265281264511392017-04-05T19:05:00.000+01:002017-04-05T19:05:00.233+01:00Products on Trial #3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've come to the conclusion that this series of blog posts is my favourite to photograph and write; I have so many products sat in my drawers waiting to be tried out, its nice to finally talk about them! I'm typing this post up in Starbucks with a white chocolate mocha (if you haven't had one, do it, this is an order), and life is feeling pretty good. Gotta love Sundays - although I think this is going up on Wednesday, so you gotta love them too. </div>
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<strong>Amika 'The Shield Style Extending Spray'</strong></div>
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The first product I want to discuss I am SO excited about. In my Birchbox last month I received a small bottle of the Amika heat protectant, and I think I'm in love. You guys know that I have to adore a non-makeup item to write about it over here. First of all, the design of this bottle is so beautiful (some might say, groovy), and the design means that it sprays evenly, a fine mist. I subject my hair to a <em>lot </em>of heat, which means that I'm always on the lookout for a good protection mist - this one smells out of this world delicious, with notes of Sea Buckthorn and Berry, and can be used on dry or damp hair. When I used this for the first time I ran into my sister's bedroom so that she could feel the softness of my hair, I am literally obsessed with this. The full size is £20, but I would definitely be prepared to pay that for the results of this product.</div>
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<strong>Soap&Glory Mother Pucker Lip Gloss in 'Spun Sugar'</strong></div>
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I've wanted to try this for a while now, since I heard that its a non-tacky formula and that this shade in particular, is a gem. This set me back £9 (but Boots always has some sort of deal running), and I have to say that this took me by surprise with how much I liked it. I've never tried a plumping gloss before, and it takes a while to get used to the feeling, but this is a beautiful sheer, shimmery gloss that makes your lips look super-kissable - just saying. </div>
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<strong>Benefit 'They're Real' Double the Lip in 'Lusty Rose'</strong></div>
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These new lipsticks from Benefit are usually £16.50, but I received a smaller sample in my Birchbox to try, and for me, this isn't really up my alley. The lipstick claims to be a lipstick and liner all in one, but I feel like it just acts as a two toned lipstick. The shade is pretty, and I will wear it, its just that the liner isn't as 'liner-like' as a good old pencil, and I would struggle to justify paying so much for this had I been out to buy this myself. Maybe if I play around with this a little more I'll learn to love it, but it lacks the initial wow factor that I had set my expectations for. </div>
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<strong>Balance Me, Instant Lift Primer - £22</strong></div>
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If you like the look of dewy skin, then this is 100% a primer that you're destined to like. It claims to be blemish and pore minimising, which I did notice to an extent, but the main thing I have to say about it is how anti-drying it is. I tend to go for the matte look with my foundation, so I'll most likely pass this along to my sister, but I won't pretend that this isn't a great product. My skin looked brighter and it kept my foundation in place all day, so I'd consider that a win. If you have super dry skin and want your skin to have a dewy finish, I'm pretty sure you'd do well with this product.</div>
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<strong>Sephora Blush in 'Heated'</strong></div>
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I remember hauling this last year (or the year before, I can't for the life of me recall the exact date), but it hasn't been until recently that I've rediscovered it and given it a fair shot. I now remember why I adored this so much when I first picked it up - this blush shade is so similar to Orgasm by Nars, but without the overly chunky glitter look that I'm not the biggest fan of. Its a beautiful shimmer pink-peach that would look amazing in summer, and it takes a lot for me to admit that I like a blush considering my deep-rooted fear of clown blush syndrome (that I just made up, not a real thing.) This cost £11, and for Sephora I think that that is pretty great.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-24486380776573362372017-04-02T10:30:00.000+01:002017-04-02T11:02:11.163+01:00Charlotte Tilbury Lip Lustre<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If there's one thing I'm sure of at this point in my make-up collecting existence, its that my weakness, my kryptonite, is gloss (doesn't take a genius to work that one out, does it?) I think its one of the easiest products to get so very, very wrong; when I find a good one, its reason enough to hang onto it for dear life. <em>Side note: I actually just lost my favourite lip gloss, so maybe I'm not clinging tight enough. </em></div>
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When I took a trip to London a few weeks back, which was actually a huge deal for me in terms of overcoming anxieties, I decided to splurge and get something luxury, to commemorate the step - any reason to buy beauty products, am I right? The Charlotte Tilbury Lip Lustre claims to be a "luxe colour, long lasting lip lacquer", and I purchased the shade 'Ibiza Nights' to put that claim to the test. The shade immediately stood out to me as something I don't already have in my collection, a gorgeous bronze shimmer that would look absolutely perfect during the summer months. </div>
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The first thing I will say about this gloss (£16.50), is that when it says it brings shine, it isn't playing around. That mirror-like shine is <em>intense. </em>The product also contains Lotus Flower extract, which is "an anti-oxidant that protects, hydrates and soothes lips", and I have to admit, my lips do feel moisturised after wearing this, and only a few glosses in my make up bag can boast that. Sadly, on the sticky scale it doesn't perform as well as Colourpop or Smith&Cult, and there is a tackiness that would cause major issues on a windy day if you had your hair down. I can't say it bothers me to a high extent however, since the tackiness is on the low side and the rest of the qualities balance out the one thing that I wish it didn't have. We all have our faults.</div>
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Usually with a lip lacquer, I'd be expecting quite an opaque layer of pigment when I apply, which is why I was surprised that this one was on the sheer side. For me, that's an added bonus - I like sheer glosses and they're what I gravitate towards the most, but if you are looking for something a bit heavier, then I'd look at the other colours in the collection or steer away from this particular gloss. The shimmer in the shade 'Ibiza Nights' is the ideal balance between nothing-ness and in your face glitter particles, I like that the shimmer is subtle, but visible enough that it adds to the shine. All in all, I'd say that this is a pretty good gloss (not as good as my Ultra Glossy Lips, but I think I need to stop holding lip glosses up to that standard, its getting unfair). This luxury gloss is definitely one to watch out for in the upcoming summer months.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-13283332248916908802017-03-30T10:58:00.000+01:002017-03-30T10:58:19.268+01:00March Favourites<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfqgNMXCk-vLAeycl5AozZL7DCQoA7G3S_HeAjNRCgs5GD2KwhzpZNeAxgwGaF5-56APk0Ay1pnPuTEbY8stABQFmZGdiWiJCnHN9m5tskZizSj7vCmMiPFO-atu-PmFVu8MZIkjNdTOI/s1600/faves5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfqgNMXCk-vLAeycl5AozZL7DCQoA7G3S_HeAjNRCgs5GD2KwhzpZNeAxgwGaF5-56APk0Ay1pnPuTEbY8stABQFmZGdiWiJCnHN9m5tskZizSj7vCmMiPFO-atu-PmFVu8MZIkjNdTOI/s1600/faves5.jpg" /></a></div>
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It excites me on a high level to have brought back the 'favourites' series to my blog; there's nothing that makes my beauty blogger heart flutter more than adding a product to the top of my Alex drawers in the knowledge that it's going to make it into this post. There's something about the little things like finding an item that works <em>just right. </em>Speaking of things going just right, there's definitely room on my blog for a chatty post in the next couple of weeks. Keep those eyes peeled.</div>
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Ever since I hit teenager status (almost six years ago now like what), my go-to face powder has been the cliché Rimmel Stay Matte. Aside from a traumatising drift over to a Max Factor alternative that smelled, well quite frankly, like crap, I've stayed faithful, mainly due to fear. In a sporadic moment of spontaneity I picked up the 'One Heck of a Blot' face powder from Soap and Glory, and holy moly this stuff is delightful. It doesn't have a strong scent (thank goodness), and mattifies my skin to a point that other powders never have. I like the sleek packaging, and I barely have to top up throughout the day. From start to beginning, this has been a dream. LOVE.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-EmVZuk23undh9RcF1dIBmjKkGL4U8ol9zWJhagvCku0eu78Xs2G-mzd6FbH8T6S3Mu8LCIkD5SBwTIF2dkCq59OhgIZhgC2HQ60co5Zv7ByDNMMrTwKFarehrGJ78fTEjayH0GYiLSQ/s1600/faves1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-EmVZuk23undh9RcF1dIBmjKkGL4U8ol9zWJhagvCku0eu78Xs2G-mzd6FbH8T6S3Mu8LCIkD5SBwTIF2dkCq59OhgIZhgC2HQ60co5Zv7ByDNMMrTwKFarehrGJ78fTEjayH0GYiLSQ/s1600/faves1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Obviously a periodic shoutout to the only moisturiser I trust on my skin is in order now and again - Olay Beauty Fluid you're an absolute gem and I'd be a little bit more lost in this world without you. <em>No really, I do feel this strongly about a moisturiser. </em>My Mum bought this for me a few years ago and I must be on my fourth bottle right now. If you want a light daily moisturiser but nothing that clings, this is your gal, and its so darn affordable as well.</div>
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Sticking to the theme of moisture, I've been loving my vanilla EOS lip balm, which has a seriously cool shape to it and a knack of completely reversing the dry state that my lips often find themselves in. I had an allergic reaction around Christmas and I did think for a while that this was the product to blame, but I've ruled it out so its back to business in my make up bag.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_wKs9cUq5qoJJOWbtBqHkK5L4n1NqBJi0vssMBOevlhcqiq80PTTyEX8mibDdFlt6j3LbXJHA8VsDN6UfxOCIXnIo1Z09wTe-a92UeSg6wHZi8KrwQI745X2o8MNyHfKzoBWa4yX1wsk/s1600/faves3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_wKs9cUq5qoJJOWbtBqHkK5L4n1NqBJi0vssMBOevlhcqiq80PTTyEX8mibDdFlt6j3LbXJHA8VsDN6UfxOCIXnIo1Z09wTe-a92UeSg6wHZi8KrwQI745X2o8MNyHfKzoBWa4yX1wsk/s1600/faves3.jpg" /></a></div>
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It will come as no surprise that the Colourpop lip glosses are on here; I've been using them every single day (I kid you not), and its becoming unfair on all the other lip products in my drawer. My top three are 'Sugar Lips', 'Fairy Floss' and 'Aquarius', with Aquarius being my favourite gloss <em>of all time. </em>I adore the non-sticky formula of these, and this particular one is the perfect everyday nude pink gloss. I will rave about these for as long as I possibly can, and they're definitely the top product in this post.</div>
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Lastly, I received a marble eye brush from Spectrum in a Birchbox last month, a brand I've known about for the longest time but have never tried. I love the design of these, the brushes are so chic and the ideal shape to blend shadow when I'm creating a smokey eye. I don't talk about brushes a lot over here, they aren't a product that necessarily excites me, but I'm 100% a Spectrum convert after trying this. It also didn't lose its shape when I cleaned it, which is a biiiig bonus. Nothing worse than a limp, lifeless brush.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3VeLT2784kqI3YpM1xtdMqwqD76_HbL_6n4cFzYTbZNqf57RbD-Blceac44qXmXhf1fdupXtGixyAlgHNlIiNMuU3MJ91VJU_4LLDteIa0vDWzjrwWnOTJojrsvUPXu2WU5Acyh285PM/s1600/faves2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3VeLT2784kqI3YpM1xtdMqwqD76_HbL_6n4cFzYTbZNqf57RbD-Blceac44qXmXhf1fdupXtGixyAlgHNlIiNMuU3MJ91VJU_4LLDteIa0vDWzjrwWnOTJojrsvUPXu2WU5Acyh285PM/s1600/faves2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8590615475333581299.post-79082172111313768772017-03-27T19:54:00.000+01:002017-03-27T19:54:15.066+01:00The Single Eye Shadow Edit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgScgSF581wjnkQClRzzYSUcYYqcwuE7AS5tOxvV7aJT7sjNzVWNlLVRVUi4QqXekOWAOIep7fzqMb3rQ02qXEsLot-q0RNqhMDSf29Qtp7vJOcSDmeQzNHCz_RpLHWl0WZ7CaYan4wsiA/s1600/single1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgScgSF581wjnkQClRzzYSUcYYqcwuE7AS5tOxvV7aJT7sjNzVWNlLVRVUi4QqXekOWAOIep7fzqMb3rQ02qXEsLot-q0RNqhMDSf29Qtp7vJOcSDmeQzNHCz_RpLHWl0WZ7CaYan4wsiA/s1600/single1.jpg" /></a></div>
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It feels so good to sit down and write this post; the last couple of weeks has definitely included neglect of my blog and social medias. Semester two of university has just come to an end for me, so things have been pretty crazy and its been difficult to find time to sit down and tweet/write.</div>
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When it comes to shadows, in the past year I've been completely converted to the world of single eye shadows, rather than relying on one palette. There are a few shades and brands that completely knock it out of the park when it comes to eye shadow (particularly building your own palette), so I thought I'd recommend my favourites. There's also a real variety of prices here; I don't think cost necessarily equates to quality in the world of single shadows.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsi6SslqMqYctH4YgbbPRzJp_HcZm6H2jfomTo93q6WrPd_ekgpYitE1a9aUbgSSRECv4ZqS3emG5QG6ffuyX7qaq1qpHIClf1yhYJbz5z50fyZYR5QSVfUqKgLlvWBgl3aXOx-QqQId4/s1600/single2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsi6SslqMqYctH4YgbbPRzJp_HcZm6H2jfomTo93q6WrPd_ekgpYitE1a9aUbgSSRECv4ZqS3emG5QG6ffuyX7qaq1qpHIClf1yhYJbz5z50fyZYR5QSVfUqKgLlvWBgl3aXOx-QqQId4/s1600/single2.jpg" /></a></div>
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My number one go-to brand for single shadows has to be Makeup Geek - as if you aren't tired of me harping on about this brand already. I think the formula of the shadows is faultless, if you want buttery eye shadow that blends easily and has high pigmentation, then you can't beat them. They also fit nicely into the z-palette, which is perfect. I get mine from Beauty Bay (£6 or £9.25 for foiled), and my top shades are Barcelona Beach, which is my holy grail shadow from any brand ever, Charmed, and Homecoming. </div>
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Next, it will come as no surprise to most people that the Colourpop Super Shock shadows ($5) are up there on the single shadow A-list. These are so beautiful as they apply like a cream to powder formula, and the pigmentation is <em>intense. </em>The shade 'Kathleenlights' is quite possibly the most pigmented make up product I've ever come across. I also love the shade 'Catnap', which is a shimmery dusty rose - I think its incredibly commendable for a brand to acknowledge the need to raise money for animal charities, so when I saw the campaign I had to pick one up.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4eFa7q36mX9U1CmTW876rP0B2wP-6GLSA-cxlZVsmwCr2ma2psrVzBONrl52KAv4SUE3ea6v25U-zljnrAlWeIS2I6N7zdDDJz2UPR6TSFuyEGPQXR-9zSPBLz_U6nb3odQdAq0Gzwo/s1600/single3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4eFa7q36mX9U1CmTW876rP0B2wP-6GLSA-cxlZVsmwCr2ma2psrVzBONrl52KAv4SUE3ea6v25U-zljnrAlWeIS2I6N7zdDDJz2UPR6TSFuyEGPQXR-9zSPBLz_U6nb3odQdAq0Gzwo/s1600/single3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34y5PxpFKJhYojzy6Xx0DcJ_L86WXfzBkictyW5ripsp530hM8LOIOHJ-2Ak3YE-0L6FW089Kjh8mIfnS4oEjmUp3m8VlHEtirPoVwjYvo2cuXXJ4WVcHG6QlThyF49ObuJORpHQFYVk/s1600/single4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34y5PxpFKJhYojzy6Xx0DcJ_L86WXfzBkictyW5ripsp530hM8LOIOHJ-2Ak3YE-0L6FW089Kjh8mIfnS4oEjmUp3m8VlHEtirPoVwjYvo2cuXXJ4WVcHG6QlThyF49ObuJORpHQFYVk/s1600/single4.jpg" /></a></div>
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MAC shadows (£13.50), whilst not being up there with the best, have a few shades that just get it spot on when it comes to formula and colour choice. 'Mythology' and 'Woodwinked' are gorgeous shimmer shades that I reach for time and time again. Another shimmer favourite is the Stila Cream Shadow in the shade 'Kitten', the ideal champagne lid colour that you can pop on in a rush for a quick and easy make up look. I always get asked what this shadow is when I wear it!</div>
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Lastly, the NYX single shadows (£2.50) that fit into a z-palette are well worth looking at when you come to building your own palette. Some of the shades can be a bit hit or miss, but I know I can rely on the neutrals, particularly the shade 'True Taupe', a taupe that I use for my outer corners.</div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Top to Bottom: Kitten, Barcelona Beach, True Taupe, Homecoming, Woodwinked</span></em></div>
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