Collection Cosmetics Lasting Colour Queen of Hearts - a deep red lipstick for Christmas

Collection cosmetics  Lasting Colour Lipstick
in Queen of Hearts 1

Queen of Hearts 1, from the Lasting Colour range by Collection cosmetics, is a deep red lipstick - it’s a perfect shade for Christmas. Highly pigmented and extremely vivid, this colour is an occasion red. As tested, it dries and sets via a smooth and easy application to a matte finish. Queen of Hearts 1 is a reliable choice for long-lasting, waterproofed colour and this red contains blue for the tooth whitening effect. If not overly applied or applied too thickly, the effect looks quite soft. Available in ten other equally pigmented Lasting Colour shades - Pink Shock, Passion Fruit, Sugar Plum, Sweet Tart, Bubblegum, Coffee Break, Birthday Suit, Mango Tango, Valentine and Vintage Rose. SPF 15. £2.99. Great value for money. Available to buy from Boots, Asda, Superdrug and other stores online.

TOM FORD advert Model: Jon Kortajarena

TOM FORD advert
Model: Jon Kortajarena
Spring/Summer 2014  Menswear Collection
Male Beauty
***
SEE ALSO - Tom Ford Beauty Women
  "Understand the architecture of your face...
I think cosmetics should make a woman look approachable"
 - Tom Ford, Designer
Tom Ford Beauty

Helmut Lang Autumn Winter 2013 (Photo) Helmut Lang Spring Summer 2014 (Instagram)

Helmut Lang Autumn/Winter 2013
See an edit of the forthcoming collection for
Spring/Summer 2014  here - http://instagram.com/p/eFsvfeKoOT/
Press 'Play' for 15 Seconds of Fashion

Water! Drink Water

...and drink water

Drinking water at the correct time of day maximizes its effectiveness. Drinking two glasses of water after waking up helps activate internal organs. One glass of water taken thirty minutes before a meal aids digestion. One glass of water before taking a bath or a shower helps lower blood pressure. One glass of water before going to bed lessens the possibility of stroke or heart attack. No amount of moisturizer will replace a well hydrated skin by drinking. Drink water regularly. Up to eight glasses a day is recommended highly - DC

Prada Spring/Summer 2014 - the eyebrows were bleached for an alien-like effect

Prada Makeup Spring/Summer 2014

“At Prada for Spring/Summer 2014, skin was left completely bare apart from a dab of concealer wherever the models needed it. The focus was on the eyes, where the makeup artists used the Temptu Airbrush to spray-paint bright and unusual coloured eyeshadows haphazardly onto the lids – and the eyebrows were bleached for an alien-like effect”.
via Jule magazine.

See the Prada Spring/Summer 2014 runway show here. Makeup by the inimitable Pat McGrath. Hair Colourist - Josh Wood. Reflecting beauty trends to come - DC

i-D Magazine Front Cover Natalia Vodianova Fall 2013

Photography by Willy Vanderperre

Styling by Anastasia Barbieri

Model Natalia Vodianova

Natalia Vodianova wears garment by Maison Martin Margiela Couture Fall/Winter 2013

Hair by Anthony Turner

Makeup by Lucia Pica

L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Collection Privee - The Nudes Collection

L'Oreal Paris Collection Privee
Julianne Nude in Barely Peach

In time for Spring/Summer 2014 trends in beauty, the new L’Oreal Paris Collection Privee from the L’Oreal Color Riche range comes in six limited edition nude shades to suit every skin tone. The six lipsticks are linked to the names of famous women with different complexions and hair colour. This new line of natural, muted colours is represented by spokespersons Doutzen Kroes, model; actress Eva Longoria, actress Julianne Moore, celebrity Cheryl Cole, actress Freida Pinto and Ethiopian model Liya Kebede. The L’Oreal website shows you how to choose the nude lipstick to suit your own colouring. The Collection Privee colour I tested was the Julianne Nude in Barely Peach to suit my own pale winter skin and red hair. Barely Peach enhances a very fair complexion. It is a natural, softening, rich nude pink. All of the L’Oreal Nudes are neutral colours and provide a pearl, sheer finish. The matte black and gold casing adds a deluxe quality to this very fine lipstick. Available to buy now online or at Boots, Superdrug and good beauty retail outlets RRP £8.19. And, copper tones around the eyes and a moisturized, clear complexion will reflect the new nude colours when Spring arrives. One look to suit the weather!

Revlon Colorstay 16 Hour Eye Shadow

Revlon Colorstay 16 Hour Eye Shadow
in 550 Enchanted

Available in seventeen different colour combinations, I tested the Revlon Colorstay 16 Hour Eye Shadow in 550 Enchanted (pictured). This quad/four-part powder eye shadow includes a shell pink to highlight the brow and provide a base, a dark brown shade for the eye lids, a latte for accent and a contouring grey black, all providing a sleek, well pigmented finish. Including an applicator, there are numbered how-to instructions on the reverse of this compact indicating the correct place for each colour around the eye. Apply all four colours for a dramatic, contoured effect, or use each colour individually or combine just two. Apply sparingly to blend well. The ‘16 hours’ in Revlon Colorstay 16 Hour Eye Shadow refers to the promise of all day luxurious colour that doesn’t crease, fade or smudge. I certainly found it relatively waterproof, lending long enough life and a clean look. A fantastic combination and choice of  palette colours. A professional product developed for Revlon by Gucci Westman, their Global Artistic Director. Now available from beauty retail outlets including Boots and Superdrug or buy online. £8.99. Opthalmologist tested. Non-irritating. How to create a complete makeup look!

Steamcream!

Lila

Fragaria
Fragaria is the Latin for strawberry

Essential oils bound with a shot of steam, lending the name Steamcream, now one of my favourite moisturisers of all time, especially considering the price, £12.95 for a very generous 75ml. Not a complicated technology, binding the ingredients with the steam, keeping costs down, in creating a light cream emulsion bursting with natural hydration for the skin. Steamcream is instantly absorbed. Absorption is the mark of an excellent cream, one that works. Steamcream contains Oatmeal Infusion, Lavender Essential Oil, Orange Flower Water, Chamomile Blue Essential Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Orange Blossom Absolute, Cocoa Butter, Rose Absolute, Organic Jojoba Oil, Neroli Oil and necessary technical ingredients for emulsifying, making the cream. Skin brightening, moisturizing, anti-aging, antibacterial and antiseptic, Steamcream treats acne. Orange Flower Water balances sebum production so this cream is ideal for overly oily skin. There’s skin conditioning Vitamin A and Vitamin E in Sweet Almond Oil. The Cocoa Butter smoothes wrinkles and treats stretch marks. Rose Absolute is particularly effective in preserving more mature skins and Neroli Oil is also.

Invited to take the Steamcream challenge (see #SCchallenge on @STEAMCREAM), I tested Steamcream first as a gentle exfoliating face mask made with Steamcream mixed with dry oats, as in porridge oats, crushed with the back of a spoon or a rolling pin. Apply the cream and oats mixture to a damp face for five minutes and remove with warm water. The whole oats naturally remove dead skin cells to reveal a very clear complexion. I found my skin refreshed, cleansed, clear and noticeably brighter. 

The second part of the Steamcream challenge (see #SCchallenge on @STEAMCREAM) was to use Steamcream as an invigorating brown sugar body scrub made by mixing the two. To make the body scrub, start with a small amount of unrefined brown sugar and add it to Steamcream to your preferred consistency, thickening gradually. The consistency is sticky and oily. The scent is amazing! A little of the Steamcream goes a long way and the oils carry and lubricate the body-scrubbing sugar. I found my skin was exfoliated and softened by the effects of this homemade body scrub, the fantastic oils and the sugar exfoliating dead skin cells naturally. One tip – do not rub too vigorously, especially if your skin is delicate or sensitive to redness.

One other suggestion? Mix together one part Steamcream to two parts foundation cream on the back of your hand to create light, natural-looking cream with coverage and a beautiful dewy finish. Steamcream is such an applicable, inexpensive product, one you can really use. 

This multi-tasking cream for face, body and hands is completely amazing for its skincare effects. Reviews of the product reveal it as a fantastic treatment for eczema when everything else has failed. Steamcream also gently treats psoriasis. It is lavender-scented for relaxation, so it's a suitable night cream as well. Eco-friendly limited edition artistic tins you twist to shut and seal, keeping the cream in premium condition. Each individual tin design is collectable and something you will want for yourself or as a gift to give away. A remarkable nourishing moisturiser. £12.95 for 75ml. Available from Selfridges, John Lewis stores in the UK and ASOS.com. A vegan product, made from sustainable sources. Not tested on animals. Hand-made in the UK and Japan from traceable ingredients. An amazing beauty product which is also recommended by celebrities Millie Mackintosh (Made in Chelsea) and Kimberly Walsh (Girls Aloud) and key backstage makeup artists including Jemma Kidd. Suitable for all skin types including sensitive. Your skin will glow, positively glow. Buy also here Steamcream. 

Cream-ify!

Makeup by Val Garland

Cream-ify: Turn any powder eye shadows or powder blushers to cream by mixing them with a small amount of Vaseline. Use this blend also as a tinted lip balm to smooth onto lips during the winter. £2.30 for 250ml from most good beauty stockists or shop online. Cream-ify.

Revlon Nail Enamel in Pink Nude 900

Revlon Nail Enamel
Pink Nude 900 £4.99

Described as chip resistant colour that stays true with ShadeLock Technology™, Revlon Nail Enamel

did show fantastic stayability. Pink Nude 900, the colour I tested is a milky, pale pink delivering a 

natural, manicured effect. When worn with Revlon Base and Top Coat, this particular nail varnish lasts 

up to ten days. I found it looked like it could have lasted even longer, with or without the base and top 

coat. Stayability is credited to Revlon’s exclusive silk-protein shield which evens out the surface of the

nail, smoothes away bubbles, streaks and brush marks for an ultra-smooth application. The 

experts at Revlon recommend that you first apply your favourite Revlon base coat. Then apply two 

coats of Revlon Nail Enamel and let dry. Then apply your favourite Revlon Top Coat. The colour I 

tested Pink Nude 900 is a delightful, neutral pink. Revlon Nail Enamel, an ambitious product, is 

available in an additional amazing 64 shades. £4.49 14.7ml. Available from beauty stockists 

nationwide including Boots, or online. 

Topshop Lips in Brighton Rock - a vivid fuchsia pink!

 Topshop Lips in Brighton Rock

Shade Name: Brighton Rock

RRP: £8.00 GBP

Colour: Pinks

Undertone: Blue

Finish: Matte

Opacity: Opaque

See this my Guest Review on the excellent Lipcote site and on Lipcote Facebook also - 

Pink lips were big during the Spring/Summer 2014 runway shows held in September,

matching the look of next season's designerwear. Where designer goes, the high street follows with brands like Topshop, the fashion and beauty leaders. A Topshop lip colour that was available to buy previously, Topshop Lips in Brighton Rock reflects Spring/Summer's pink beauty trends perfectly. A vivid fuchsia pink, this lipstick gives an intensely pigmented soft matte finish, a texture suited to daytime or the night. This lipstick at first can be quite drying so condition and nourish your lips with a lip salve before applying. We noticed stayability is not one of this lipstick's greatest strengths, which is why we love Lipcote. Extend the life of this colour with Lipcote and for a more professional, smooth look, apply lipstick with a lipstick brush although this is not strictly necessary. Lipstick is becoming more and more a feature of dressing up, going out, and making a statement that is glamorous. Topshop's impressive array of matte colours in the Lips range certainly suits a mood that is current. Also, the blue undertone in Brighton Rock lends a coveted tooth whitening effect. The zebra stripe lipstick casing in cream is sturdy, made in Italy, suggesting the quality we expect. Topshop Lips in Brighton Rock doesn’t disappoint. It’s another success, a favourite from the Topshop Makeup beauty line! Available from Topshop stores nationwide £8.00.

Burberry Prorsum Spring/Summer 2014 - Beauty, Style

Burberry Spring/Summer 2014
 London Fashion Week 16 September 2013

"Burberry was founded in 1856 when Thomas Burberry, a former draper's apprentice then aged 21, opened his own store in Basingstoke, Hampshire, England. By 1870, the business was established by focusing on the development of attire for the outdoors. In 1880, Burberry introduced gabardine, a hard wearing, water-resistant, breathable fabric, in which the yarn is waterproofed before weaving. In 1901, the Burberry Equestrian Knight Logo was developed containing the Latin word "Prorsum", meaning forwards, and was registered as a trademark". 

via Wikipedia.com - edit.

Burberry is the British clothing label credited with invented the trench coat during World War I. The iconic Burberry check was created in the 1920's and has been used as a lining in its trench coats ever since. It's an historic British brand that is also very current. Through its use of named British models like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in advertising that's gotten bigger, and since Christopher Bailey became head designer in 2001, Burberry's profile has grown internationally.

For the Burberry Spring/Summer 2014 runway show staged on 16 September 2013 in London during Fashion Week, the Burberry look is serene in powder pink and blue pastels, cream, and beige coffee. Hair is worn long and looks deceptively simple. It is length that dictates the particular hair style. Note the shade of eye shadow worn by the model to the right in the photo - it's a rich pink plum colour enhancing the outfit and the lips are quite bare.

Love Orange?

New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2014: Nars does orange satin lips at Creatures of the Wind NARS MAKEUP ARTIST JAMES BOEHMER created RADIANCE, COLOUR AND SATIN TEXTURES

Creatures of the Wind Spring/Summer 2014
NY Fashion Week September 2013
Makeup by NARS 

Get ready for orange lips next summer, as NARS makeup artists brought this vivid shade onto the runway during New York Fashion Week September 2013 for the Creatures of the Wind Spring/Summer 2014 show. NARS Director of  Global Artistry James Boehmer created soft pastel eyes and fiery lips. "The real statement of the makeup look is the satin textured orange lip. It contrasts the colour and finish of the opalescent-textured eye". To create the look, James and his team used the following NARS products all available at narscosmetics.co.uk.

FACE
Radiant Cream Compact Foundation, £28.00
Stick Concealer, £18.00

EYES
Iceland Duo Eyeshadow, £25.00

LIPS
Red Square Velvet Matte Lip Pencil, £17.50
Timanfaya Satin Lip Pencil (New for Spring 2014, so for now try Heat Wave Lipstick, £18.50)
Triple X Lip Gloss, £17.50

Love orange? Get the look!

Preview Max Factor for Victoria Beckham Spring/Summer 2014

A S/S14 Max Factor fashion week exclusive:

the ultimate true nude lip shade makes its debut at the Victoria Beckham S/S14 NY fashion week show

‘Always Delicate’, a shade of polished perfection - the backstage story from the show with Pat McGrath, Max Factor Global Creative Design Director

Victoria Beckham Spring/Summer 2014
New York Fashion Week September 2013

THE LOOK: Ultra-polished, understated glamour. The truest of nudes on the lips – ‘Always Delicate’ directional, chic and long-lasting, reflecting the S/S14 trend for a shade that delivers a coveted, contemporary full lip look.  Modern and fresh, it is part of a new Spring/Summer collection of Max Factor Lipfinity Lip Colour shades – the ‘Ready-to-Wear collection’ - handpicked by Pat McGrath, release date Spring 2014. Lips were complemented by warm, copper tones on the eyes and radiant skin. 

“So many women struggle to find the right nude shade to recreate this signature, super-polished and enduring nude lip look – or they think they have to ditch the lipstick, which is absolutely not what this Victoria Beckham S/S14 look is about.  This is refined, sophisticated makeup.  And we have the ultimate nude – Always Delicate!  Totally wearable, for all skin tones, and on-trend, it’s a shade preview from my Ready-to-Wear Lipfinity Lip Colour collection for Max Factor – 11 gorgeous shades of long-lasting lip colour”,  Pat McGrath, Max Factor Global Creative Design Director

THE SHOW INSPIRATION: The aesthetics of modern architecture and the merging of boyish versus girlish sensibilities: the exploring of new proportions and silhouettes, streamlined and balanced shapes and lines, and the juxtaposition of masculine elements and feminine perspectives

Pat McGrath’s ‘Get the Look’:

• NEW Max Factor Lipfinity Lip Colour in ‘Always Delicate’, available in stores from April 2014.  ‘Always Delicate’ is one of 11 shades handpicked by Pat McGrath as part of her SS14 ‘Ready-to-Wear Lipfinity Lip Collection (Always Delicate: 6, Stay Cheerful: 24, So delightful: 26, Just In Love: 335, So irresistible: 338, Just Bewitching: 146, Ever More Radiant: 142, So Glamorous: 125, Stay Bronzed: 191, Eternally Voluptuous: 380)
• Max Factor Whipped Creme Foundation £9.99
• Max Factor Miracle Touch Creamy Blush in Soft Murano £6.99
• Max Factor Miracle Touch Creamy Blush in Soft Copper £6.99
• Max Factor Wild Shadow Pot in Burnt Bark  £6.99
• Max Factor Master Touch Concealer £7.99

Available from Boots stores nationwide or online.

Experimental but easy! Beauty Tip/Beauty Shot - Red Blush, Black Eyeliner

Burberry's Beauty Brush

                                                      Experimental but easy!

"Wear your blusher high on your temples and on top of the cheekbones to really lift your face in a modern way...A matte powder blusher (applied with Burberry's Beauty Brush, £30) or sheer creams (with your fingers) are your weapon's of choice. It's important to see the natural skin tone through the blusher so light coverage is key and anything loose or too shimmery can look too theatrical. Team it with...a slick of graphic black eyeliner to add definition - and stop you looking as if you've just come off the slopes!". (extract/editorial: Grazia 2013)

Hyaluronic Moisturisers For Anti-Aging Skincare (via redonline.co.uk)

Sun exposure and years of repetitive motions, such as nodding, form
creases. Use a cream containing hyaluronic acid, which traps water in the
skin plumping it up and reducing wrinkles, especially around the neck.
Hyaluronic acid boosts cellular renewal and refines the texture of the skin.

Hydrating B5 Serum 30ml Skinceuticals 

"Hydrating B5 Serum by Skinceuticals is a classic soothing serum that hydrates skin with hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 – a brilliant healing and repairing ingredient. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly and without tackiness, making it the perfect booster for dry and sensitive skins, as well as combination types (which lack moisture but not oil). After cleansing, smooth a few drops over bare skin or mix them in with your regular day lotion to lock in moisture for hours". £59 30ml Skinceuticals. 

  Lip 20 Moisture Therapy & SPF Sheer Tint
by Kaplan MD

"Lip 20 Moisture Therapy & SPF Sheer Tint by Kaplan MD is a cult formula that feels rich and nourishing, but also contains tiny hyaluronic acid spheres to help fill out thin lips. Both the sheer and the pretty tinted versions also have vitamin C and green tea, for added anti-ageing protection". £22.50 online from Kaplan MD.

Double Strength Deep Wrinkle Filler
20ml Kiehl's

"Kiehl's Double Strength Deep Wrinkle Filler is a line-filling concentrate with not one, but two different kinds of hyaluronic acid to plump out fine lines. Sodium hyaluronate spheres instantly soften the look of wrinkles, whilst tiny fragments of hyaluronic acid penetrate deeper into skin and work in the long term to keep them at bay. The result? Fewer crows’ feet and softer frown lines. Use with a potent Vitamin C or retinol anti-ageing serum for maximum results". Available to buy £30 20ml from Kiehl's stores nationwide or online.

(via redonline.co.uk)

A Sun-Kissed Complexion

Eat Fruit and Vegetables For A Sun-Kissed Complexion

Eating melons, carrots,

and apricots in abundance

 gives a sun-kissed 

complexion. The 

beta-carotene present 

in these sunshine-coloured 

fruit and vegetables 

draws out the glow 

of sun-kissed goodness 

from within. 

Topshop Blush in Afternoon Tea - a highly blendable formula in a sweet shade of pink

Topshop Blush in Afternoon Tea

The Topshop Blush in Afternoon Tea is a cream compact blusher in a

light, sweet shade of pink. Highly blendable, the cream formula melts 

easily to a very slight powder finish. Wear alone or with makeup. 

Instructions suggest you dot on cheeks - I prefer to use a sable blusher 

brush to blend, but this blush is so soft it seems almost impossible to 

over apply either with your finger tips or more professionally using a 

brush. This compact blush with mirror is signature Topshop with its 

delightful polka dot packaging delivering a quality beauty product. Love 

mine! Get yours! Also available in Flush, a rose. £6.00 for 4g to buy from 

Topshop stores nationwide or online.

Black Model Purple Eye Shadow

"You're probably a pro at blending three shadow shades on upper lids, thanks to the smoky eye obsession, but the coolest new way to combine colours is actually on lower lids, in a horizontal colour-block pattern". 
Cosmopolitan March 2013 Page 224

L'Oreal Paris Glam Shine Stain Splash - a new lip gloss that behaves like a lip stain!

L'Oreal Paris Glam Shine Stain Splash
in 102 Romy

L'Oreal Paris Glam Shine Stain Splash is a new lip gloss that behaves like
a lip stain. With a 30% water-based formula, on first application, it
feels like a splash of water filled with colour hitting the lips.
Berry-flavoured, berry scented and also hydrating, this lip gloss dries
and sets like a stain. Completely waterproof, it is totally long-lasting.
I found two to three applications deepen the colour - ideal for night
time, and you should apply this lip stain gloss one time when you refresh
the colour during the day. Available in six shades in the UK including 402
Milady, a deep blackcurrent stain, 102 Romy, a lovely light pink, 200
Princess, a gorgeous orange pink, and in Lolita, Juliet and Eve. Some of these
shades suit Afro-Caribbean complexions! The applicator wand is
the first of its kind, an invention. It is short with a teardrop-shaped
soft tip designed for easy application and exact outline, giving unusual
precision for a glossy lip gel. The entire shape of the twist lip gloss
casing is artistic in gold with a window showing the gloss. For a high
shine stain finish find L'Oreal Paris Glam Shine Stain Splash at Boots
60ml £7.99. Let me know if you like it! I did.

If You're Wearing Those Shoes, You're The Man In This Picture. Campaign Against Animal Cruelty

If you're wearing crocodile shoes, you're the man in this picture. The typical Western consumer owns a crocodile skin briefcase as well. Peta (People For The Ethical Treatment of Animals) tells you, "When you buy, you become part if it", in their latest campaign against animal cruelty in the leather and fur fashion industries. Decide for yourselves which side to take, where consumption of this kind is the unnecessary luxury. Campaign against animal cruelty.

Super Facialist by Una Brennan Rose Hydrate Miracle Makeover Facial Oil - for a super specialist double cleansed result!

   Super Facialist by Una Brennan Rose Hydrate
Miracle Makeover Facial Oil

Created exclusively for Boots, Super Facialist Rose Hydrate Miracle Makeover 

Facial Oil by Una Brennan is a specialist pre-cleansing facial oil which 

removes the daily dirt, dust, oxidized sebum, dead skin cells and residue 

from makeup, sunscreens and skincare that accumulate on the most exposed 

part of your body: your face. Deeply penetrating the skin, including 

sensitive skin, and loosening oils that clog and block the pores, the
double-cleansing skincare method gently eliminates waste and oxygenates
the tissues resulting in a glowing, vibrant skin at any age. The efficacy
of other skincare treatments is improved when the skin is pre-cleansed,
that is, cleansed with a cleansing oil and then cleansed again with your
usual product. This product's dual purpose is to deep cleanse and to
hydrate and calm dehydrated skin with it's natural blend of rejuvenating
raspberry, cucumber and carrot and vitamin-rich oils, almond and avocado.
A high performance product, it also firms the skin and encourages natural
cell regeneration.

Una Brennan is a facialist and skincare specialist whose many famous clients
include Millie Mackintosh from 'Made In Chelsea'. To use, pour a generous
amount of the Super Facialist Rose Hydrate Miracle Makeover Facial Oil into the palm
of your hand, warm and then slowly massage in circular movements. Remember,
this advanced cleansing oil dissolves impurities and open pores. I found it immediately
hydrating as I applied it and once removed, my complexion was bright and felt
freshened. Use a hot flannel to remove and follow with your own cleanser or the Una
Brennan Rose Hydrate Calming Creamy Cleanser £7.99 150ml, for a super
specialist double cleansed glowing result. There are five products in this
new Super Facialist range each one scented with aromatherapeutic rose and
geranium oils blended with marshmallow extract, cucumber, carrot and sunflower.
The range is free from mineral oils/petrochemicals and synthetic colours and
is not tested on animals. Avoid contact with the eyes. Super Facialist by Una 
Brennan Rose Hydrate Miracle Makeover Facial Oil £14.99 30ml, a specialist
treatment which I suggest you use frequently. Available exclusively at Boots stores
nationwide or online www.boots.com

Maybelline Color Sensational Lip Stain

Blushing

Described as a fresh new sensation in colour, Maybelline Color Sensational Lip Stain, is a felt-tip marker pen for the lips, Maybelline’s first pen applicator designed to glide on precisely. Available in a number of colours including Tender Rose, Blushing (the dark pink I tested), Wink of Pink, In the Buff, Plum Flushed and Shy Red, the shades appear darker on the lip than expected so choose your shade carefully. A kiss of colour for lush lips all day, the Maybelline Color Sensational Lip Stain contains a sheer wash of colour formulated from water-based pigments, the technology behind all of the current lip marker pens. Containing vitamin-enriched berry nectar, the Maybelline pen lends a juice-flavoured, berry-stained look and tints the lips with a sheer matte colour. The colour is buildable so wear a little or a lot. It doesn’t run or bleed along the lip line like lipstick so although the felt–tip pen format suggests something youthful, it suits lips of all ages if the lips are in good condition. To extend the life of this lip pen in particular, give it a quick shake and wear the Maybelline Color Sensational Lip Stain with lip salve or lip balm as lip markers need added moisture. £5.99 for 14g. Available at Boots nationwide. See the range at www.maybelline.co.uk.

Waitrose Baby Bottom Butter - an incredible find

Waitrose Baby Bottom Butter 

An incredible find, Waitrose Baby Bottom Butter, £2.89 for 125ml is a balm
formulated to prevent nappy rash. Waitrose Baby Bottom Butter was launched
by the supermarket chain in 2005 following the decision to remove
parabens, petrochemicals and colours from its own-label baby toiletries.
Discovered by mothers who used it as a daily moisturiser and shared the
secret, the product sold a 14-year supply in just 12 months. Containing
nourishing and anti-aging pure olive oil and chamomile, this vanilla-scented butter
provides fantastic, melted moisture to the face - it is refined enough not
to puff out your facial features like a body moisturiser. Melted at the
fingertips, Baby Bottom Butter can also be used to soften cuticles or as a
lip balm or as a serum for your hair. I sometimes use this lovely product
after cleansing as a moisturiser and I find it fantastic with it's light scent
and anti-aging olive oil content lending a dewy veneer. After just a few
applications, my skin is moisturised, clear, relaxed and nourished. An amazing
beauty balm. £2.89 for a generous 125ml tub. Available from Waitrose stores
nationwide or online.

Zinc-based Sunscreens

Zinc-based sunscreens reflect UV rays, while lessening aging, free-radical 

damage. The importance of zinc physiologically is especially evident 

in studies of wound healing and inflammation reduction. Dietary 

zinc deprivation causes moderate to severe dermatitis - a skin condition 

or rash. Our skin is in a continuous state of renewal, placing a high demand 

on zinc-based enzymes and proteins which direct this process.

For a moment forget aging, or smoking or never using a moisturiser, it 

is the sun which causes skin the most damage. UV filters have been
manufactured for use in sunscreen products for the past forty years.
Always apply sunscreen generously to block out both UVA and UVB rays.
Protect yourselves from premature skin aging, and skin cancer which is on
the increase, particularly in women in their late twenties. Use zinc-based
sunscreens to reflect UV rays, while lessening aging, free-radical damage.

      Badger Balm Damascus Rose Face & Body Sunscreen SPF16

The Badger Balm Damascus Rose Face & Body Sunscreen SPF16 pictured
uses safe, effective mineral Zinc Oxide in a base of antioxidant-
and nutrient-rich extracts to protect and restore delicate facial skin
in particular. This is a light, restorative, and nearly invisible sunscreen
for the face which protects from both UVA and UVB rays. Ideal for
everyday use, even under makeup. Non-Comedogenic (non-pore
clogging) and organic, it's Active Sunscreen Ingredient - Non-Nano,
Uncoated Zinc Oxide 10.55%. 25.1ml £12.49.

Tangerine, Yellow, Green, Purple Eyes For Summer - Beauty Colour Trend 2013

Tangerine, Yellow, Green, Purple Eyes For Summer
Beauty Trend
2013
     Find instructions in the following tutorials to achieve a similar Summer look -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LePss1CUG40
How to: Blend Your Eye Shadow Like A Pro

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnWGHQ9tFz8
  Deep Blue Ocean Makeup Tutorial: 88 palette

                                       

Topshop Nails - a sprinkling of multi-coloured glitter

Topshop Nails in Magpie

Topshop Nails in Magpie

A sprinkling of multi-coloured glitter, nothing too dense, Topshop Nails in Magpie is by now my Summer favourite. A delight to look at as it captures the sunlight, this nail varnish is glossy and transparent in over-all gold with green, purple, pink, blue and orange sparkling glitter. Online instructions for best results read - "Apply base coat, wear alone or apply over another colour, and finish with glossy topcoat. Always follow these three steps". You need to avoid applying one coat too many as this varnish can build, and allow extra time to take off as glitter varnishes show amazing resistance to nail varnish removal. The signature Topshop polka dot patterned cap holds an excellent short brush for trouble-free, smooth application. Long-lasting stayability is a feature of this nail varnish's success as well as its lovely, vibrant colours. Because it is a transparent glitter, this varnish looks even better if your finger nails underneath are in optimum condition, specifically including their colour. To achieve pink, healthy finger nails, lower your saturates intake. Saturates include cakes, biscuits, fries, chips and crisps. You will find your finger nails improve to a clear, pink, healthy colour, giving a French-manicured look. My Summer nail varnish favourite - Topshop Nails in Magpie £6.00. See the entire range and shop online, or available from Topshop outlets nationwide and worldwide.

Biotherm Celluli Laser with Biofibrine - one amazing product in the fight against cellulite!

Biotherm Celluli Laser with Biofibrine
for Stubborn Cellulite 400ml

Described as a "high precision anti-cellulite gel" which will track down cellulite to within a millimetre, Biotherm's Celluli Laser with Biofibrine is one amazing product. Distinguishing their approach to the fight against cellulite, Biotherm, a French beauty brand now owned by L'Oreal, recognise the role collagen fibres play in the process. Tight collagen fibres in the skin aggravate cellulite in cellulite-prone areas and accentuate the dreaded orange-peel effect which is caused by an increase in fat cells and water retention. Biotherm's Celluli Laser with Biofibrine works in two ways - it prevents collagen fibres from hardening in the fight against the aggravation of cellulite, and it stimulates the synthesis of new collagen to soften the skin's fibrous network.

The fantastic result of this incredible product is an ultra-efficiently reshaped physique, with skin smoothed and contours firmed from the waist to the thighs during the first ten days. After thirty days, the product promises, collagen fibres are softened and 'anchored' or stubborn cellulite is reduced by 1cm on the rear, 1.2cm on the hips and 1.5cm on the thighs.

I did not need a tape measure to recognise these results myself. I found the effects of this product were obvious after just two days with actual re-contouring of my thighs in particular, and the backs of my calves or lower legs - include this area! - read the enclosed instructions. The surface of my skin was reconditioned and rejuvenated with the strained look of cellulite-prone skin eradicated also. Traditional fat burning ingredients caffeine and gingko are contained in Biotherm's Celluli Laser as well as a Biopeeling Complex, moisturizing agents and an exclusive Intra-Densifier System containing silicium, centella, ginseng, and Pure Extract of Thermal Plankton - the Biofibrine formula contained in the product.

Instructions suggest you apply morning and/or evening. I applied it once daily, using upward motions to the parts of the body targeted for slimming (rear, hips, thighs) to, "facilitate drainage and reactivate micro-circulation by massaging circles on the skin towards the heart". You will find yourself urinating frequently as the product eliminates fluids trapped in orange-peel fat. Doctors, dermatologists and biologists tested the efficacy of this product on Biotherm's behalf and the result is a complete innovation and a success. A pleasant-smelling gel that you will look forward to using, Biotherm's Celluli Laser with Biofibrine contains the advanced kind of skincare and results we have been waiting for. I suggest you use this product once every two to three months as a special treatment to maintain and condition the appearance of your skin. Biotechnology at our fingertips, Biotherm's Celluli Laser with Biofibrine is one amazing product in the fight against cellulite. £44 for 200ml. 400ml is one month's supply. Available to buy now from Boots stores
nationwide or online.

GREAT! Great Lash by Maybelline 1971

Great Lash by Maybelline 1971

Maybelline, the American makeup brand, originally a mail-order company, was founded by the New York chemist T.L. Williams (1896-1976) in 1914. In 1917 the company produced Maybelline Cake eyelash and eyebrow makeup, described as, "the first modern eye cosmetic for everyday use". Maybelline introduced eye shadow in blue, black, brown and green, and eyebrow pencils in black and brown in 1929. In 1933 ‘eyelash darkener’ began to be referred to as mascara in Maybelline adverts for the first time. In 1958, following Helena Rubinstein’s introduction of the highly advanced ‘Mascara-matic’, Maybelline introduced ‘Magic Mascara’, its own wand mascara with a spiral brush. Self-sharpening eyeliner and eyebrow pencils and stick eye shadow were also introduced. In 1961, Fluid Eye Liner was formulated defining the forthcoming look of that decade. The new mascara wands caused a decline in the popularity of cake and cream forms and in 1963 Maybelline released ‘Ultra-Lash’ mascara, followed by ‘Ultra-Brow’, ‘Ultra-Line’, and ‘Ultra-Shadow’. In 1971, 'Great Lash', a water-based mascara, the one we all know, was introduced to replace 'Ultra-Lash', launching the brand into the Seventies and beyond. The Maybelline brand was renamed ‘Maybelline New York’ in 2001 by its current owners L’Oréal, USA.

Backstage Alexander McQueen Men's Ready-To-Wear Spring/Summer 2014 Show

Alexander McQueen Men's Spring/Summer 2014 Runway Show

Alexander McQueen MEN'S SPRING/SUMMER 2014
June 17 2013 16:00pm London

Designed by Sarah Burton, Alexander McQueen's former assistant and
replacement following his untimely death in February 2010, the Alexander
McQueen menswear collection for Spring/Summer 2014, staged in June 2013,
forecasts a version of the Alexander McQueen man to come. Period-looking
hair styles enhance the elegance of the garments. There is a flare in the clothing
worn by the beautiful, angular European male models, a movement that makes
sense when you see the show on film. See the venue. Observe the fluid lines
as the look takes shape - DC

"CEREMONIAL DRESSING: THE RITES OF PASSAGE OF A MAN.
COLLECTION 

Faded fabrics that feel they have been left out in the sun and tarnished gold buttons. Hems, lapels and sleeves are unfinished and frayed.  The internal structure of suiting is removed to give lightness.  The sleeves of a frock coat have been ripped away with seams and shoulder padding left exposed.  The silk lining of the suit jacket is introduced as a button-down robe or cardigan, layered over collarless bib shirts and exposed from the sleeves and hem of suit jackets.  Worn with pleated loose, long shorts or trousers cropped above the ankle.

          FABRICS

The iconic McQueen skull motif is reworked into a cotton lace.  The lace is adapted as a print.  Distressed floral jacquards.  Cotton ticking with embroidered black roses or screen-printed by hand to create a mottled photocopy effect.  Washed silk, cashmere and cotton.  Engineered brocade jacquard.

          COLOURS

Ivory. Black and white. Dark and pale oyster.

          SHOES

          Strap slippers, double strapped boots and metal-toe Derbys".
          via Alexander McQueen

Chanel Autumn/Winter 2013/2014 Ready-to-Wear Runway Show - video

Chanel Ready-to-Wear Autumn/Winter 2013/2014 runway show

For the Chanel Autumn/Winter 2013/2014 Ready-to-Wear runway show
held at the Grand Palais in Paris, France in February 2013, the set is a
globe, a globe of the world, and the circular runway, the floor, a map of it.
It's a view from the moon, a moon landing, or a moon walk and the
overhead shots as seen in the video, an approach. Presenting layers of Chanel
winter wools and tweed worn with white leather boots, the straight hair and
silver glitter eye shadow gives a pristine yet tuned-in impression, setting the
tone for the forthcoming season.

'Newest, Palest, Sheerest' - Revlon magazine advert 1968

'Newest, Palest, Sheerest' - Revlon magazine advert 1968

   
      "Announcing 'Natural Wonder' 'Un-Lipstick' by Revlon. Revlon un-invents
      lipstick! 17 of the newest, palest, sheerest, mind-bending-est lipsticks in the
      world. Bare. Shiny. As close to nothing as a lipstick is ever going to get."
      Revlon Magazine Advert ,1968.

Revlon in 1968, introducing a new product, an 'un-product' (!), in an
inventive, exciting way. Observe the vocabulary used to describe a
lipstick so similar to the current Revlon Colorburst Lip Butters.

"Revlon was founded in America in the midst of the Great Depression,
1932, by Charles Revson and his brother Joseph, along with a chemist,
Charles Lachman, who contributed the "L" in the Revlon name. Starting
with a single product - a new type of nail enamel - the three founders
pooled their resources and developed a unique manufacturing process.
Using pigments instead of dyes, Revlon developed a variety of new shades
of opaque nail enamel. In 1937, Revlon started selling the polishes in
department stores and drug stores. Within six years, the company became
a multi-million dollar organisation. By 1940, Revlon offered an entire
manicure line, and added lipstick to the collection."
via wikipedia.com

Superdry Beauty Professional Eye Pencil - delivering a jet black lick in Thunderbolt Black

Superdry Professional Eye Pencil
in Thunderbolt Black Colour

The Superdry Professional Eye Pencil in Thunderbolt Black Colour is a quality eyeliner. A black eye pencil with the Superdry graphic in silver, a pink and silver cap and a smudger, it delivers a jet black, highly pigmented lick of colour. The soft texture of this particular eye pencil ensures easy application and, with the precisely designed smudger, the popular smoky eye is definitely achievable. Eyeliner is of late the makeup essential most used by makeup artists, the professionals who define key looks for the runways in collaboration with the designers. Water-resistant and long-lasting with a non-drag, original formula. The Superdry Professional Eye Pencil in Thunderbolt Black Colour £7.50. Available to buy online or from Superdry stores in the UK and worldwide.