Bourjois Healthy Balance Compact Powder

One of my year-round must haves is a face powder. Why? Because having oily skin not only means that my skin can become very shiny as the day goes on. So even when using skincare products to prevent shine and regulate oil, the only way to make my skin look presentable is layering it with a thin veil of face powder. 

The compact powder that I've been using for the last year (or even longer) is the Bourjois Healthy Balance Unifying Powder. This product, part of the Healthy Mix face product family, is meant to boost radiance and even out skin tone, as well as hydrating the skin and controlling shine. 

The texture of the Healthy Balance Powder is very fine and light on the skin. When using a brush I find that the powder doesn't go everywhere and it's very easy to apply. I also like that the packaging is very compact and includes a mirror, and even though it's plastic, it doesn't feel cheap or flimsy.

It mentions that it lasts 10 hours but it definitely does not, or at least in my case, it would need re-applying to benefit from its mattifying effects. Nonetheless, since this powder looks very natural and evens out my skin tone without settling into pores, notoriously oxidising or leaving a patchy look on my face, I would say it does a very good job and would recommend it if you're looking to try a new powder. 

Find Bourjois Healthy Balance Powder in Boots and Superdrug.

xo

Pink Cashmere

H&M Cashmere Jumper // Primark Skirt // Pretty Polly Tights // New Look Shoes

(Similar: Jumper, Skirt, Shoes)

Today's being one of the hottest days of the year, but no this is not what I wore on this exact day obviously, I know I said I'm always cold, even in the summer but that's only when it's under 20 C.

On other news, I've been enjoying of yet another cold/sore throat for the last couple of days - one of the disadvantages of working with small children is that they sometimes might just sneeze or cough without any previous warning right in your face, thus leading you to contract whatever bug they might have. 

On a different note, a great advantage is that I will be enjoying of the same amount of holiday time as school children, unfortunately not all of it paid, but still there's some holiday pay which I will definitely not complain about. 

Other novelties include the fact that we'll be going to Blackpool in August and I'll spend my birthday over there, and that I've trying to slowly but surely de-clutter my wardrobe and be more mindful when shopping for clothes & beauty products.

Do you have any plans for the summer?

xo

Affordable Outerwear and Bags at Ericdress

I know, now that it's finally warm here I am talking about outerwear but hold on, because if you live in the UK you will know that even though we are having a heat wave at the moment, in the evening it can get a bit chilly, so a lightweight coat or jacket is always a good idea, especially if you will be spending most of the day outdoors. Ericdress is a website where you can find lots of cheap coats online (here) so you can have more outerwear options without breaking the bank. 

           

This denim jacket is a really great option if you are going to a festival, as it's not only stylish but it will keep you warm as the temperature goes down along with the sun at evening time. It has an oversized fit, 4 front pockets and distressed details that make it stylish as well as comfortable. 

Also if you will be staying overnight you will obviously need something to pack all of your essentials in, and a backpack is an excellent choice as not only there's enough room for everything you need but also it's easy to carry as it has the classic double straps on the back, as well as a top handle. This hot pink backpack features a white polka dot print, a front pocket with a zip besides the main compartment and 2 side pockets where you can perfectly fit an umbrella and a water bottle. On the Ericdress website you can also find more options of cheap leather bags (here) if backpacks are not your thing. 

Find many more fashionable options on http://www.ericdress.com/

This is a sponsored post.

xo

PS. Because it's intu Lakeside Shopping Centre's 25th birthday there's lots of activities going on today until 10 pm and tomorrow all day including live performances, arts & crafts projects, free popcorn & candy floss, food sampling and a Live Lounge Festival music area. Find out more on intu Lakeside's website.

A Rose Scented Affair

With the warmer summer weather finally here, strong scents can feel a bit heavy, which is why I love switching to a lighter and fresher smelling fragrance and skincare products. Currently I'm loving:

InstaNatural Rose Water Toner*: I've used it as a toner, but another way to enjoy the gorgeous Moroccan rose scent found in this product is adding a bit to your bath water, which I've been doing.

Avon Romantic Rose Bubble Bath: A nice bath can be a really relaxing and enjoyable experience, this bubble bath smells fantastic and produces a good amount of bubbles. Also love the watercolour illustrations on the packaging.

Paul Smith Rose: Great for after that indulging bath, this perfume is the perfect way to top it off. After all who doesn't like smelling like freshly cut roses all day long?

The Body Shop Wild Rose Hand Cream: Not only does this hand cream smells amazing, but leaves your hands soft without feeling sticky, with the added benefit of SPF 15 to avoid sun damage.

Do you like rose scented products?

xo

Nivea Powerfruit Fresh Shower Gel

One of my favourite things to try are different shower gels, this one I received last Christmas (along quite a few more, so they'll last a few more months) I'm going through them slowly but surely and this time it was the turn of Nivea Powerfruit Fresh Shower Gel.

This shower gel is described as having a delicate acai berry fragrance, with blueberry antioxidants that gently cleanses the skin leaving it soft thanks to its Hydra IQ moisture technology and it being pH skin balanced.

Nivea is a brand I like for it's functional and affordable products and this shower gel is no exception, it's gentle and doesn't irritate my skin, it leaves it feeling clean but not dried out, it also has a nice faint berry scent which I like, lathers well and is easy to wash off without leaving any residue.

Do try out Nivea Powerfruit Fresh Shower Gel if you like affordable shower products (currently £1 in Boots) that smell nice and won't dry out your skin.

xo

The Strokes at Hyde Park

Photo: Dave Hogan 

The Strokes ❤

A video posted by msvanille (@msvanille) on Jun 19, 2015 at 11:20am PDT

On Thursday we went to Hyde Park for the British Summer Time music festival to watch The Strokes.

We had tickets for the premium section, but still wanted to get there early to be right at the front, so we left about 12:00 to catch the train at half past. After a couple of train changes and a bit of a walk we made it to the premium gates, which opened at 2:30.

We did get to be at the front but I felt like it was still a bit far from the stage, so any pictures taken didn't come out that well.

We saw Syd Arthur, then Future Islands, then Beck and finally The Strokes. They went on at around 9:00 pm, after a 6+ hour wait.

They played songs from every one of their 5 albums (Is This It, Room On Fire, First Impressions of Earth, Angles and Comedown Machine). The set list was:

'Is This It'
'Barely Legal'
'Welcome To Japan'
'You Talk Way Too Much'
'Someday'
'Heart In A Cage'
'Hard To Explain'
'Automatic Stop'
'Vision Of Division'
'Last Nite'
'Reptilia'
'Machu Picchu'
'Under Cover Of Darkness'
'One Way Trigger'
'New York City Cops'

Encore:
'Juicebox'
'You Only Live Once'
'Take It Or Leave It'

It was the 3rd time I've seen them live (1st for my hubby) and even though I'm still tired and with sore feet and legs I enjoyed very much.

The only thing I regret is not noticing that Alex Turner and Miles Kane were dancing in the crowd behind us (!).

xo

Spring & Summer Fragrances for Every Budget

With the temperatures steadily rising (finally), a strong perfume can feel a bit heavy or even sickly to wear in the spring and summer. These are a few of my favourite options of lighter fragrances:

Avon Naturals Scented Spritz in Jasmine: It has a nice and refreshing smell, which reminds me of gardenias (I suppose those and jasmines smell similar). The plastic packaging makes it very travel friendly and you get a lot of product for your money - 100 ml for just £3, making it a really affordable fragrance, though most of the time you can find it on offer so it's even cheaper.

Paul Smith Rose: A feminine fragrance with white peony, white musk and sandalwood. Smells like freshly cut flowers without being overpowered by the woody element of sandalwood at all. Depending where you buy it, a 100 ml bottle can range from £25 to £57 so I would say this is an excellent priced option if you can find it for less.

Chanel Chance Eau Tendre: A beautiful and delicate scent that is a mix of grapefruit, quince, jasmine absolute and white musk. A long lasting fruity and floral fragrance that's very distinctive and feminine. Soft and almost powdery while remaining always young and innocent. At the higher end of the scale at £54.50 for 50 ml but if you would like to treat yourself I would definitely recommend it. 

What is your favourite summer fragrance? 

xo

Navy & Stripes

H&M Jacket // Topshop Jeans // H&M Top // Adidas Trainers

(Similar Jacket, Top)

Going to see The Strokes later this week, so quite excited about that, even though it's the 3rd time I'll see them haha.

Are you doing anything exciting this week?

xo

Father's Day Gift Ideas Under £50

Eau de Lacoste L 12.12 Blanc £29 // Aston Martin DB5 Model Kit £10 

RJR John Rocha Leather Wallet £23.60

Pringle Socks Set £10 // Baylis & Harding Citrus & Lime Gift Set £12.50

Father's Day is in just over a week so if you haven't got your gift all ready and wrapped yet then here are a few suggestions, all under £50.

xo

New In: May 2015

Orla Kiely's book Pattern, I got it in The Works for just £5, and a nail polish in Rose Paradis by L'oreal from the £ shop. 

Trousers from H&M, Venus Fly Trap growing kit from the pound shop, Olay Day Lotion. 

Another item from H&M, getting ready for the warmer weather I got a striped t shirt and a denim shirt from Uniqlo for £9.90 down from £29.90. 

Flower seeds and Rimmel Scandaleyes liner from the pound shop, The Body Shop Rose Hand Cream as I had a discount so only paid £3 for it, 3 bottles of Skin Hair Nails vitamins from Boots as it was cheaper than to get the bigger 90 capsule bottle because it was on 3 for 2. 

Botanics All Bright Serum to try when my current serum is finished and a copy of Glamour Magazine. 

And last but not least, my new phone, the LG Spirit which I'm quite excited about.

Did you do any shopping last month?

xo

Organic Cotton Beauty Products

Recently I received a pack of Organyc Cotton Pleat to try out and review, which was great timing as I was running out of my current cotton wool that I use normally.

Organyc is a brand that offers a range of organic and natural feminine care products, including maternity, sanitary and baby care, made using organic cotton wool for softness and comfort in their products. Organyc does not contain parabens, synthetic ingredients, perfumes or super absorbent polymers. 

 The Organyc Cotton Pleat I'm using mainly to apply toner as well as removing face masks as part of my facial skincare routine. I do find this cotton pleat to be very absorbent and soft but there's only one downside: it's very fluffy so it can leave a bit of a mess when you tear it apart, but other than that I'm very pleased with this product. 

If you are looking for organic cotton products to use in your everyday skincare routine, be sure to check out Organyc. 

xo

White Jumper

 

New Look Leather Jacket // H&M Wool Jumper // Topshop Leigh Jeans // Primark Sunglasses // Topshop Suede Boots

(Similar: Leather Jacket, Jumper, Boots, Sunglasses)

This week went by so quickly! How? I don't know but yay for the weekend. I really want to get Elie Saab L'eau Couture but my local Boots doesn't have it in stock argh! Gonna have to wait until we can go to Lakeside or somewhere else to find it. I'm also still on the lookout for that Paul Costelloe bag though there's one thing ticked off my wishlist: the LG Spirit. 

xo

Garnier Skin Naturals Makeup Remover

On our most recent visit to Mexico I had a reaction to the Simple Wipes that I brought with me so I had to look for an alternative and since I had my eye on the Garnier Skin Naturals Makeup Remover for a while, decided to purchase it since it was also available over there.

The Garnier Skin Naturals Makeup Remover, also known as Clean Detox, is a 2 in 1 cleanser that can be used on the eyes and face. As it is a bi-phase product you need to shake it prior to use, but doesn't need extreme shaking to mix the 2 phases unlike the Nivea Eye Makeup Remover. 

This makeup remover claims to remove even waterproof makeup while being soothing and suitable for even sensitive skin since it contains rose water, pro vitamin B5, has no alcohol, no perfume and you don't need to rub your skin with the product in order for it to work.

I've used this cleanser/makeup remover for a while and I quite like it, as it is gentle and effective, easy to use, affordable and has an almost imperceptible scent. It does indeed remove waterproof makuep so I would recommend it if you are looking for a new makeup remover to try.

Find Garnier 2 in 1 Makeup Remover in Boots and Superdrug.

xo

Cute Stationery Haul from The Works

You probably know about my love for stationery if you saw my post about BornPrettyStore stationery, so it's no wonder that one day randomly browsing on The Works when they had free delivery I ended up purchasing some cute items. 

The first thing I found which triggered the must-purchase-now instinct were these £2 apple sticky notes. I really like the style of the illustrations and they sort of reminded me of Orla Kiely patterns a little bit. 

Then I found the office sticky notes, which are reduced to just £2 down from £8! I thought I'd get them as well to pretend I'm being more organised haha.

And last but not least, I also got this jammy cookies notebook for £1.99 (was £8), which I'm currently using for blog matters as well as notes and ideas that need to be written down (which I usually decorate with my sticky notes, aka the grown up version of stickers).

So in total I saved £15 including delivery which was a really good deal in my book.

Will you be heading over to The Works to do some cute stationery shopping?

xo

Get Summer Ready With Tidestore

With summer just around the corner and the days growing longer and warmer, it's only right to think about what to wear if you are going on holiday or even if you are staying at home. 

At Tidestore there are hundreds of options available when it comes to summer fashion, from maxi dresses, sandals and even bathing suits, you'll be able to find everything you need and be ready for any occasion. 

                    

What I like about this cute polka dot maxi dress, besides the feminine pattern, is the v shaped neckline as well as the delicate straps that form a pattern on the back. It might be fitted on top but the fact that it's sleeveless and has a slit on the side of the loose skirt will keep you cool when the temperature rises. 

If you have plans for the evening, the blue maxi dress dress will be an easy way to get your outfit sorted. It has an delicate wrap design with a ruched bodice and a sash under the bust to define your waist. This dress also has a slit on the side but does cover the arms with a sheer fabric with lace details on the sleeves for a more elegant look. 

                

To complete the outfit, these gorgeous sandals with a bow detail will keep you fresh and looking cute. The gold design elevates your look and the fact that they're adjustable at the back makes them more comfortable. 

And if you're lucky enough to be heading to a warm beach destination, then a bathing suit or bikini is a must have for you. This bandage strappy bikini comes in a classic black colour and a fun, edgy design that will get you noticed. 

Find more affordable summer clothing at http://www.tidestore.com/Wholesale-Womens-Clothing-c1-100121/

Will you be going on holiday soon?

This is a sponsored post.

xo

Super Facialist Daily Brightening Cleanser

Always on the lookout for new skincare to try I decided to purchase the Super Facialist by Una Brennan Neroli Firming Daily Brightening Cleanser when on offer. 

This cleanser helps to make sure skin is "left feeling renewed, smoother and more youthful-looking" as it is formulated with antioxidant Mango Seed Oil and Hibiscus extract to deliver optimum cleansing benefits.

It also contains a tightening Polysaccharide combined with Hyaluronic Acid, known for its hydrating benefits, which further boost this gentle yet effective cleanser. Other ingredients include: grape seed oil, sweet orange peel oil, bitter orange oil and lemon peel oil.

The first time I used it was with my morning routine and come night time I noticed my skin was really soft as I cleansed it again, and that after only one use. It also smells really nice and has a gel like consistency that doesn't foam up but removes makeup, oil and dirt effectively.

Do try Super Facialist Daily Brightening Cleanser if you are looking for a gently exfoliating cleanser with no sulphates. You can find it in Boots.

xo

The Spring Summer Wishlist

Here is my current wishlist, hopefully I will be getting my hands on these beauties soon:

LG Spirit: I've been thinking about getting a new phone and this one is quite affordable at only £130. It has an 8mp camera and 4.7" screen, so it would be great for using my with favourite app, Instagram. Plus on pay as you go it's 3p a minute, 2p for texts and 1p for a mb of data!.

Nikon 35mm Lens: I love the shallow depth of field that can be achieved with a bigger aperture and this sounds like a good option. If you're looking for a new lens check this one out as at the moment it has £20 cashback.

Elie Saab L'eau Couture: As the days are getting brighter and warmer, it only makes sense to start wearing a lighter and fresher fragrance. After sniffing out a few samples I think this is the one I will be investing my £50+ Boots Advantage card points on. Love the fruity floral notes and the vanilla and almond base. 

Paul Costelloe Triplet Bag: After seeing the Celine Trio bag around so much, I fell in love with it but not so much with the price tag. This Paul Costelloe alternative is a great dupe at only 1/10 of the price and has a removable strap so it can be worn as a clutch as well. 

Light Wash Skinny Jeans: I've been looking for the perfect pair of light wash jeans for so long and so far I haven't been able to find them. These ones from ASOS look quite nice but I'd need to see them in person as I'm not that big on online shopping and prefer to browse in the shops. 

Ikea Micke Desk: I love stationery as well as painting, so a desk's a necessity and this one's tiny so it could fit anywhere. Really like the minimal design and the concealed storage, as well as the fact that you can get other pieces from the range for extra storage. 

Minimal Dressing Room (not pictured): I would love to have a dressing room or closet like the ones I pictured in my last post. To have all my clothes, shoes and accessories organised like that would make it so much easier to get ready in the morning and it also makes the space look amazing. 

Will keep you posted on any wishlist breakthroughs. What's on your wishlist?

xo

Building an Affordable Dressing Room

Ikea Clothes Rack £8 // Argos Bamboo Clothes Rail £55 (Long Version £70) // Wilko Shelf Kit £12 // Dunelm Sheepskin Rug £39 

Ikea Chest of Drawers £70 // Ikea 2 Drawer Insert £20 //  B&Q Shelving Unit £65

Homebase 3 Cube Storage £25 // Argos Full Length Mirror £26 // Wayfair 2-Way Storage £45 

Pictures: Modern Legacy, Stylizimo and Ikea.

Inspired by some pictures I've seen on Pinterest, I decided to look for similar items (even found some exact matches) to achieve a minimalist and clean dressing room/area or walk in closet using affordable pieces. Follow me on Pinterest for more dressing room inspiration. 

What does your ideal wardrobe look like?

xo

PS. Take a look here if you are looking for ideas on how to create an affordable Home Office.

Updated: 23 June 22, 18 March 21, 2020

Cute Bags for Any Occasion

One of my favourite things to buy are bags, even though I already have enough (or do I?) so I'm always looking for a good bargain. At http://www.shoespie.com/ they have a many shoes (duh) but also a wide array of bags for ladies online. With so many choices it's hard to pick a favourite, but these 2 options below I really liked. 

 

I have been looking for more spring and summer friendly clothes and accessories to wear for the next couple of seasons and pastel tones are something that I think would be perfect. The bag on the left features a lovely pastel pink tone with a twin handle and also a long strap to carry over your shoulder if you like. As a little extra it has a small satin ribbon attached in the form of a bow to the base of the handle. If you like cute bags, definitely consider this one. 

The bag on the right is perfect for a night out, party or special occasion. It is a small clutch bag embellished all over which makes it look very sparkly. The black base fabric makes it great for any occasion as it will match with everything. What I love about this bag is the gorgeous decoration on the top with faux diamonds that looks so elegant. Have a look on the Shoespie website as they also have leather clutch bags.

A bag is an accessory that can make or break your outfit, so big or small, sparkly or plain, you are sure to find a bag to your liking in Shoespie.

For cheap shoulder bags check out http://www.shoespie.com/C/Bags-c1-106150/

This is a sponsored post.

xo

Monochrome Stripes

H&M Blazer // Dresslink Bag*, Top* and Wallet* // Uniqlo Jeans // Topshop Boots

(Similar: Blazer, Boots)

After an intense week (got called for work 4 out of 5 days), shopping and then a 60th birthday party on Saturday and going down the pub on Sunday I was very tired Monday morning but I had work again and then we went to see Mad Max in the afternoon, not before a quick nap though. I'm constantly tired, just love sleeping too much haha. I'm wearing the top and bag I got sent from Dresslink, be sure to check out their website here as they have really affordable clothes and accessories.

xo

Why I had to stop using The Body Shop's Vanilla Flower Perfume Oil - Not For Me

Being a fan of vanilla scents I decided to try The Body Shop Madagascan Vanilla Flower Perfume Oil when I was given a little money off voucher just outside The Body Shop one day. 

This product is a concentrated perfume oil infused with Madagascan Vanilla Flower and is described as a warm, sensual blend of floral and oriental accords inspired by the tropical island. It also claims to be long lasting and alcohol free. 

When I first tried this perfume oil I was delighted, as it offers a lovely warm vanilla scent and it is very long lasting. Unfortunately it made my skin very itchy and I developed tiny red bumps all over the areas where I applied it (my wrists, mainly) which was a shame as I initially enjoyed using this perfume very much.

Find The Body Shop Madagascan Vanilla Flower Perfume Oil in store and online.

xo

Garnier Intensive 7 Days Nourishing Lotion

When it comes to body care, I don't follow a strict regime as I do with my facial skincare, which is not ideal but I'm working on that.

A couple of years back I received some samples of the Garnier Intensive 7 Day Body Lotion and was quite impressed by it, so I really wanted to get a full sized bottle of this product.

Garnier Intensive 7 Days Nourishing Lotion is from a body care range powered by L-Bifidus for intense hydration that "can be felt even after 7 days after application". 

L-Bifidus reinforces the skin's natural protective barrier to decrease evaporation and maintain longer lasting hydration. It's also enriched with almond oil, which soothes and protects. 

On the back it mentions that it must be used twice a day for several weeks in order to have skin that feels hydrated even 7 days after applying, which is a bit misleading, but I must say skin does still feel softer and supple a couple of days after application.

So because of that and its affordable price and wide availability I would say that I really like this product and would recommend it if you are looking for an efficient body lotion that won't break the bank.

Find Garnier Intensive 7 Days Nourishing Lotion in Superdrug and Boots.

Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner

Liquid eyeliner is one of my all time favourite makeup products and the Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner is a product that I really wanted to try. 

This eye liner has a 0.4 mm precise tip meant to apply smooth and even lines, ink technology that keeps pigments super saturated, a spring cap to keep formula fresh and intensely long lasting.

Having tried this eyeliner for some time now, I can say that it is indeed very precise and easy to apply; it also has very black ink that is not watery and doesn't fade, flake or smudge, even though it doesn't mention to be waterproof. 

If you are looking for an affordable eyeliner that's precise, has truly black ink and will not run then I would recommend the Master Precise eyeliner. 

Find Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner in Boots and Superdrug.

xo

Monochrome Checks

Shirt: H&M // Cardigan: GAP // Jeans: Topshop // Boots: Topshop

(Similar: Shirt // Cardigan // Boots)

TGIF! It was actually quite fun today at work, the children had a little tea party at snack time with cucumber sandwiches and mini cupcakes and on the tables they had little teapots with milk, it was too cute! They have a couple of cameras to take pictures of the children, so I said I like taking pictures and asked if I could take the photos and they seemed to really like the ones I took.

xo

Food: Macarons

Hello everyone! hope you had a nice holiday weekend.
This is a picture of a couple of macarons that I got for Christmas. If you like it you can buy some stickers, postcard size print or an A3 poster here (prices start at just £1!).

xo

PS. Last chance to enter my Black Ice giveaway here.

Uniqlo Sale Picks

Sweat Pullover £12.90 // Polka Dot Pencil Skirt £14.90 // V-neck Cardigan £9.90 

Down Quilted Blouson £49.90 // Modal Linen Striped T-Shirt £9.90 // Pleated Mini Skirt £7.90 

Cashmere Cardigan £59.90 // Crew Neck Sweater £9.90 // Long Sleeve Stripe T-Shirt £9.90 

Cotton Long Sleeve Shirt £14.90 // Denim Shirt £9.90 //  Cotton Cashmere Sweater £14.90 

You know how I love a good sale and I've been getting into uniqlo lately as I find their pieces good quality basics that can be turned into lots of different outfits. Also I forgot to add a couple of pictures to my new in post, find out what else I got here.

xo

PS. Enter to win a copy of Black Ice here, ends soon!