Latest in Beauty YOU Box: first impressions

Good Afternoon Lovelies,

With only 30 minutes until my next lecture, I'm sitting here eating a sammich with Dairylea and drinking coffee. Don't worry this post isn't about my lunchtime activities but rather a very exciting discovery box from Latest in Beauty titled "20 Years of Beauty Greats". All the products were selected by Jo Fairley, a contributing editor for YOU Magazine. You can read her article about it  here.  Personally, I found it quite interesting and surprising as I would have never guessed the ages of some of the products mentioned. 

Reminds me of GlossyBox, heh

I thought it'd be something different to post a "first impressions" and then later on, once I've used the products, actually write a detailed review. This way I can make comparisons which is always fascinating as sometimes products aren't always what you expected. "Don't judge a product by it's bottle?..." or something like that.

So, what does the box contain?

Liz Earle Cleanse + Polish (30ml + muslin cloth)

It's the famous beauty staple! I've never used this before. Shocker! So, I'm looking forward to giving it a go. I'm expecting great things seeing as it's rated so highly. :) 

Sisley Global Anti-age (5ml pot) 

Launched in 2000 at Harrods, this looks insanely posh. I've never used an anti-aging cream before but this one is for day & night so I might give it a try. I've heard some scary things about how much this costs though and if you read the article I linked above, you'll have spotted that' it's a whopping £243 for 50ml!

bareMinerals Original Foundation (10 days supply + brush)

Another brand I've heard so much about but never tried. Launched in 1994, I'm surprised at how old this product is. BareMinerals has always felt so new to me. Another product I'm excitied to try out especially after liking their new campaign and the idea of giving "make unders". I chose the shade medium beige which I hope is going to work for me. Also, I'm kinda assuming that a little goes a REALLY long way here as the pot hold quite a tiny amount which is supposed to last 10 days. Either way, the brush is adorable! ;)

Dr Nick Lowe Oil Control Day Cream (20ml tube)

This is perfect for my skin type. I've just started using a new product on my skin so this may have to wait in the queue for a while. I don't want my skin to hate me. 

Lanolips 101 Ointment (2 weeks supply)

For chapped, dry lips. Something to add a little moisture. This will be useful especially with the new cold, dry weather we've just received. My sister has her eye on this so I'll be handing it over. ;)

Bamford Body Set (Body lotion 50ml, Body wash 50ml, Bath oil, 30ml)

This is a new brand of body care products from their Geranium blends which includes lavender and peppermint. The scent is quite fresh yet calming and a little herbally. I quite like it! I've already used a little of the body lotion and it was good enough for me to go check the full size price. £20 guys... it could be worse. Haha.

In total this box is worth £55 and I'm not disappointed with any of its contents. Another win for Latest in Beauty and a big thank you to Jo Fairley and her good choices. :)

Did you manage to get your hands on this box?

Have you tried any of these products/ brands before?

Toodles.xo

Highland mist

Sometimes, I think too much thought goes into deciding what to purchase with your No7 voucher. I paced the aisles, swatched the lipsticks, stared intensely at the skincare products. In the end, it was this nail polish that caught my eye. Highland Mist is a brownish, pinky, "on the fence about being in the neutrals range" kind of nail polish. I absolutely love it! It applies smoothly and quite thick.You could definitely survive with one coat (for those in a rush).

It's supposed to dry with a glossy finish, which it started to do. However, and rather interestingly, I decided to try out this less conventional way of fast drying my nails. I've heard youtubers speak of it often enough. Putting your freshly painted nails into ice cold water is supposed to dry them faster. Who knew? I placed each nail in turn under running cold water for a few seconds. This actually worked! Best of all, it made the finish of the polish more matte. Say what now? It's like magic!

What's your latest No7 voucher purchase?

And your most effcient way of fast nail drying?

Toodles.xo

there's a million other girls who do it just like you

dress - Lovestruck clothing

cardigan - New Look

socks - Primark? 

shoes - Iron Fist

I've turned into a girly girl.

Pink, frills and bows.

For a limited time only!

Have a lovely Sunday everyone! Looking forward to #bbloggers tonight. ;)

Toodles.xo

Cover up chaos with glitter

After two weeks of playing it cool and not wearing any nail polish, I finally decided it was time to get my act together. There's a part of my brain that is fixated on nude/neutral nails with perhaps a splash of glitter but I'm not well equipped for that at the moment. Instead, I decided to play on some pale pink and my favourite glitter mix. This was a bit of a disaster (in my eyes). ELF "Light Pink" needs something close to FOUR coats to become reasonably opaque. Not only that, it doesn't suit me and yet I still chose to wear it. (Idiot). 

However, I managed to savour something of the time spent layering on the pink by slapping on some "Lights, Camera, Glitter" by NYC. I need to invest in some other glitter polishes before you all get bored. Haha.

What's been your most memorable nail disaster?

And do you actually like this combo? ;)

Toodles.xo

Botanics skin calming cream

I've tried a good few products from the Boots Botanics range but I think this cream is my favourite so far. Setting the tone for this review; yes, it's going to be a positive one! Years ago, their Sensitive Oil free moisturiser (in the pump bottle) used to include marshmallow extract which I felt really helped to calm and soothe my skin. Unfortunately, they changed the formula of this and now it includes sweet gale. 

Naturally, I was gutted (as was my mummy) but then I saw this moisturiser with marshmallow and decided to give it a try. It comes in a lovely jar which I prefer as you can get every last ounce of product out and then reuse it afterwards. The moisturiser itself has a slightly thicker consistency compared to others such as the Blemish Prone Pore Perfecting Day Moisture Lotion (what a mouthful!). However, it rubs into the skin easily and doesn't leave your skin feeling oily or greasy. I've been using it for three weeks now and although it doesn't reduce the appearance of acne (not that it claims to), I feel that it has helped slightly with the redness in my skin. 8/10 times when I apply moisturiser it leaves me pretty red faced but with this, that doesn't happen. 

SPF15, that's always a good thing! It also doesn't compromise the application or results when using a primer and/or foundation. On a final note, I like that it's a crisp white cream. It just radiates the impression of something pure and cleansing. In addition, it has the standard moisturiser classic scent, which personally, I find comforting.

Overall, I've been liking this product as it's given my skin a break from some of the disasterous products I've tried in the last two months. There are a few others on my list to try but either way, I'm sure I'll be seeing this jar through to the end.

If you have sensitive skin then I would highly recommend trying this out!

RRP £6.12

Boots.com / instore

Currently on 3 for 2 offer within the Botanics range.

Have you tried any products from the Botanics range?

Toodles.xo

how soon is now

dress - New Look

long blazer - Miss Selfridge

Morning studying at home and then rushing to uni for labs.

I would also like to apologise for the "floor viewing" in the second photo (textbook + fluffy socks) 

and the cat hair on my blazer. haha 

Hope you all have a lovely day!

Toodles.xo

Lazy snooping: what's in my bag?

I'll start by saying, that if you're reading this post then you're probably as nosey as I am when it comes to bags. The funny thing is, I have no desire to see inside the bags of people I know or see out in public, just you lovely bloggers! Most of my days are spent darting to and from Uni so my normal bag contents could be considered school bag-esque. I haven't left anything out! So from whenever I repacked my bag last, this is the contents.

[Bag is from Blanco]

acer netbook

When I needed this they no longer had the black in stock. Instead I ended up with the Ferrari version. You have to squint when you look at it, I know. Sometimes I carry my charger too. 

A.I notes

The only printed notes I own for modules this term. Studying computer science, you forget how to write on paper...and what paper is. 

fiorelli purse

I love this! It holds my 101 cards and has lots of compartments to organise receipts, vouchers etc.

pens

Just in case, I do carry pens. :)

oyster card & student ID

Which I won't show you for obvious reasons. My MOS card holder is still rockin' out strong after 2 years. Thank you freshers freebies.

music

This is my MP3. It is tiny and 5 years old. Kudos to Zen for making such long lasting products!

spiderman aka my phone

This is my super-duper-awesome phone sock. It actually took me a while to realise that I do have a thing for Spiderman.

random

A button which recently fell off a cheap cardigan I bought. Unfortunately, it happens whilst I was walking around a LV store. Embarassing much?

(oh yeah, and the pennies...)

fun stuff

I always carry a mini hand towel, tissues and painkillers for the stress of life. 

makeup bag

This is my awfully embarassing makeup bag which is dying. This has been around for 6 years so a new one is in order. When I do finally make that purchase, I'll be doing and updates makeup bag post. Teehee. 

spaceNK Laughter

Used for Friday spritzing. 

hand food

Don't forget to feed your hands!

And there we have it. Exciting stuff? Perhaps not but I hope it curbs a little of our secret snooping tendencies. 

If you've done a similar post or video you know I'd love to see it so leave a link in the comments. :)

P.S Scout would like to say hai!

Toodles.xo

cosy prisons

Evening Lovelies,

It's been awhile, I'm sure. How is everyone? I decided to attempt another OOTD as a way of testing out my new tripod. It took a while to figure out how to use it but after my sister and I bashed around with it for 10 minutes, all became clear. Still though, Hama, Y u no put instructions in box? T___T

I would like to get a remote soon too. If you have a Canon camera, let me know what remote you use. :)

Now onto my "it-could-be-more-exciting" outfit of the day. I was just mooching around with coursework at home but it's been a tad colder today and I like my layers. Also, excuse the lack of face. When it looks abit less shit, it'll make another appearance. haha

lace dress - YUMI

knitted waterfall cardigan - New Look

rose ring - Kukee

Have you been layering it up for winter?

What are your favourite winter styles?

Toodles.xo

Kukee Jewelry

This is probably the first time I've ever spoken about jewelry.I've never been much of an accessory person but in the last year I've really warmed to the idea. Last week, I placed an order at Kukee. They have some lovely jewelry designs ranging from cute to sophsitcated as well as a selection of vintage pieces. 

For a slow but steady ice breaker back into the world of jewerly I decided to purchase two rings (both £3.99 each). Kukee leave you spoilt for choice but I opted for these cuties. They came in an adorable spotted box with ribbon. Each ring individually packaged in plastic.

When I first spotted this one I knew we were meant to be! Dramatic, I know. The playing cards are cute, quirky and ultimately remind me of Alice in Wonderland which is one of my favourite Disney films and stories in general! It is on an adjustable band, although, I don't know how much small I will be able to make it. (Unfortunately, I have very spidery/lanky fingers and most rings don't fit me. :( ) Luckily, I do have a thin gold band which does and I use it as a "stopper" so that these lovely things don't fly off. The cards are of medium size and sit elegantly. You can also purchase this in gold.

Next, I opted for a kitsch gold ring. In the past I've developed a slight attachment to the lightening bolt ring and necklace that Topshop were selling. However, I never purchased them. Now I had a chance. This ring is non-adjustable and is definitely too big but the "stopper" ring I mentioned fixes this. It goes well with all my burnt oranges, browns and auburn shades of clothing and I enjoy wearing it. The lightening bolt is long so it sit nicely against the length of your finger. I think this has been my favourite as I've worn it the most. :)

Lastly, I was happily surprised to find I'd recieved a "thank you freebie" ring. This silver rose is pretty and dainty. I think my mummy liked it best. It's also the only one that fit me without my "stopper aid", haha. I haven't worn this one yet but I can see it being a cute addition to a little tea dress. 

Overall, Kukee provided lovely service (with FREE UK postage), adorable jewelry and cute packaging. (I am using this box on my dressing table now!). It's nothing short of wonderful and I will be repurchasing in the future, but perhaps a necklace instead. A new collection is in the making and I have my eye on one of the necklaces. You can preview what's to come on the Kukee blog. 

Website: www.kukee.co.uk

Blog: http://blog.kukee.co.uk/

Twitter: @ilovekukee

Have you purchased from Kukee before? 

If not, have a look and let me know some of your favourite pieces! 

Toodles.xo

Spiced Pumpkin Showers

Autumn has come and gone. Not many golden leaves and burnt orange scenery left in sight. All the trees are bare here but no sign of snow. Just a few frosty days. Today in particular, it's been bitterly cold. You know, where it feels like the air is actually biting at your cheeks?

One way to make your bath/shower cosy when the heating just isn't enough is The Body Shop's Spiced Pumpkin shower gel. This came out around Halloween as a limited edition product. I couldn't find any in my local store at the time but now they have them well stocked and on sale! £2, guys and gals. Bargain! Smelling it in store it immediately reminded me of the pumpkin spiced cupcakes I love making at home. (Recipe and photos  here.) This was enough of a reason to buy it. Sentimental shower gel, anyone?

It lathers really well and with the hot steam of the shower, envelopes you in a nice, cosy spiced hug. It smells sweeter at first but the scent changes to a more spicier one which I liked but was quite surprised by. It teams really well with Soap & Glory's The Breakfast Scrub; if you're looking to pull out all the stops! :)

If you're into spicier scents or just want to try something different then snap up a bottle before they disappear!

Now £2.00 

The Body Shop  online  & instore

Have you tired this shower gel?

What's your favourite Body Shop shower gel?

Toodles.xo

So long, and thanks for the salmon!

Hello lovelies,

Can I first just make a soppy/gushy comment about how wonderful you all are? 

Yes, you sure? 

Okay, then I will!

108 followers! Each and every one of you are amazing! As are every lovely person who leaves a comment or reads my blog from a hidden corner of the internet. It really makes my day. Blogging is my favourite thing to do at the moment. Fun, relaxing, productive, interesting; it's all of these things and I hope it only gets better in the future. :)

Don't worry, I didn't title this blog post wrongly. Here's my salmon-y nail of the day. I call it "nude gone wrong meets salmon fishcakes" because this is definitely not a neutral shade, it's too pinky. It's ELF "Champagne". However, I really would like a REAL nude/neutral shade specifically OPI "Barefoot in Barcelona". All in good time, I guess.

Tips are again, done by dipping a liquid eyeliner applicator into some black nail polish. I was going back for my gold and black but decided it was best to use up some older nail polishes before they turn into gloops-ville. 

What do you think of this combo?

What's your favourite nude/neutral nail polish colour?

Toodles.xo

News, Updates & Strange Places

Hello Lovelies,

Don't worry I'm not trying to write a "filler" post. I have some confusing and slightly annoying news. Due to naming confusion and thus an identity crisis for my blog, "allthatjazz" has permanently moved to "pretty.not.included". Unfortunately, "allthatjazz" was taken as a domain name. Oh, crabsticks. Either way, same content, same style but I think this new name matched with the little description on the side better portrays my thoughts on the world of beauty and image.

Being the bringer of bad news, although probably more so for myself, ALL previous comments are GONE. Seriously, IntenseDebate sort out your exporting shizz! Starting fresh with Disqus. Although I didn't have THAT many comments, they were still important to me especially because I know that a lot of you take time and effort in writing them. I can only hope you all want to continuing commenting in the future. :) 

I hope that this confusion doesn't last for long and that you all like the new blog name. A newly designed header will follow shortly. I was going to take vote on a new name but then I decided that if we all encourage each other to blog about things that we like, surely the same would apply to names. 

Hope you're all having an awesome end to the week. Just waiting for my last lecture whilst wishing the guy in Costa put more tea in my cup. >__<

Toodles.xo

Rockalily Roulette Red

Alliteration. You know it's going to be something good.

Monday morning blues isn't a term I have familiar experience with but this Monday was particularly bad. 

Work related stress, uni starting back and people leaving. 

But then...

An intriguing black envelope arrived for me in the post and with the font alone I instantly knew where it was from. Rockalily put a little spark into my morning! And that wasn't just because I decided to sport this red lip on a whim.

I love the styling of the packaging and won't dare to part with the box. Something so simple and yet I can't seem to get over is the small circular hole at the bottom of the box so that the lipstick name can peek through. Love it! The lipstick bullet itself is sleek, black and decorated with the pretty Rockalily font. There were also a few postcard-esque leaflets inside; of the vintage kind. I will be checking out those websites too. 

I was having trouble choosing between Rockette Red and Roulette Red but I'm glad I chose this shade in the end. It's the darker of the two and it's just what I needed! The previous red I had been using was too bright for me. Now, I don't have to mess around with 101 lipsticks to "create" my shade because this is purrfect. 

Do take a moment out of your time, to stare at the virgin lipstick which is yet to be swatched. Intense.

After the cruel joke of Urban Decay's Iconic lipstick smelling like a dessert (it smells and tastes bitter to me), I had to smell it before anything else. It doesn't smell of dessert or chocolate or anything edible but reminds me of cocoa butter with a hint of sweetness. You can't smell it once you put it on but it's a nice touch.

I still remember colouring with crayons as a child. Their texture so soft and almost creamy on paper. That's what this lipstick reminds me of when applying. It's amazingly soft and moisturising and yet it doesn't just melt off as the day goes by. Very long lasting! I was hoping for a lipstick marked photo on my tea mug but it didn't transfer. I found that after 3/4 hours it starts to fade away but by no means did my lips look washed out of colour. Of course, if you're rocking an intense look, then by all means you should re-apply. :)

One of the best lipstick formulas I've ever had the pleasure of using. Although slouching in uni lectures don't call for statement lips, I look forward to wearing this more in the future. 

These lipsticks can be purchased here at £14.00 each.

If you're going to own a red lipstick, then make it one Rockalily style!

Toodles.xo

Punch me something pink

That first sip of tea in the morning is one of my favourite feelings in the world!

Gave the dark shades a break this weekend and took a few steps over to the pink side. Usually, I would say that I'm more afraid of trying to pull off a pink lip rather than a red but it really all depends on the brightness. This is a much darker pink lip combo featuring Barry M lip paint "152 - vintage rose" and MUA lip gloss "shade 4". For just £1 I'm surprised at how nice the formula of this MUA lip gloss is. Not sticky or gloopy and has a very nice deep pink pigmentation; much more than I'd expect from a lip gloss!

What sort of shades would you like to get comfortable with this year? 

Let me know. :)

Toodles.xo

Collection 2000 Extreme Felt Tip Liner

In an attempt to start experimenting with different every day looks for a new year, I had a tiny downsized "shop of the stash". I found this felt tip eyeliner which, when I first purchased, had quickly put away because I lacked the skill to use it. Over the Christmas break, I've had a chance to practice and in the end I've grown quite attached to the winged eyeliner look. 

The Collection 2000 Extreme Felt Tip Liner is basically a pen much like the Barry M Wink Marker. However, its thinner body and ever so slightly thinner tip makes it easier to control and produce sleeker and more subtle looks for everyday wear. I've been able to use this pen to create small flicks but you can also produce more dramatic and thicker wings with a bit of shaping and shading in. 

I've had this pen for at least 3 months now and it has shown no signs of drying up. It's still very pigmented and even though quite wet when you first apply it, it has a fast drying time. I like the wetness of it because it means that when i make a mistake, a little water and some tissue allows me to wipe it away cleanly and start again. With pencil eye liners I find that there's a lot of smudging and I end up having to scrub away to some rather bruised looking eyes.

Thankfully, this pen doesn't have a high smelling scent like some others and mascaras do. The tip also hasn't frayed or split like you sometimes see with drawing marker pens. My only issue with this product, and a small one at that, is that I have a lot of trouble getting the lid off every time! Perhaps, I'm just a weakling? Haha

Although I still love my MUA intense eyeliner pencils, this Felt Tip Liner is perfect for winged looks or anything that requires more detail and precision. I'm finally getting comfortable with it so I shall be sticking with this pen for awhile. :)

RRP £2.99

From Superdrug or Boots 

Purple, teal and blue shades also available.

What are your thoughts on this or any other felt tip liner?  

I'd love to know!

Toodles.xo

{All reviews and comparisons are my own honest opinions. They are not fact unless quoted from a given source.}