The Eye Edit

I think it's safe to say that I have a slight addiction to eye makeup. Approximately half of my makeup collection is made up  of various eye products, and it's crazy how just a quick swipe of eyeliner or a neutral eyeshadow can change your appearance completely. One of my favourite ways to switch up my everyday makeup is to mix and match with different eyeshadows (all neutral of course), and if I'm having a bad skin day I even throw on some winged eyeliner to detract from my skin crisis. 

Eyeshadow // I never really used to wear eyeshadow because I never understood what you could really do with it. But then entering the world of beauty I learnt all about cut creases, inner corners, and blending out. Throwback to five or six years ago and ask me about eyeshadow, I'd probably have no idea about the words that were coming out of your mouth. All I needed back then was a liquid eyeliner (and lots of it), but now... eyeshadow has taken over and its all I ever really wear. My usual go-tos are the Charlotte Tilbury quads (particularly Dolce Vita and Vintage Vamp), and the Maybelline The Nudes Palette. 

Eyeliner // I've had a love affair with eyeliner for the last nine years or so. It all began with a brown eyeliner pencil from Claire's, and I gradually moved onto liquid eyeliner. I've tried a fair few over the years, but my current go-to is the Soap & Glory Supercat Eyeliner. I really didn't think I'd like it when I got it as I've never really got on with felt tip style eyeliners, but shockingly I fell in love with it!

Mascara // Again I've been using mascara for the best part of 10 years. It began by being clear, then I switched to brown, then electric blue (circa 2008), and then black in the latter years. I had a longstanding obsession with the Soap and Glory Thick and Fast Mascara, and although I still use it occasionally, I discovered ones I enjoyed using more. On a more day-to-day basis I use the Charlotte Tilbury Full Fat Lashes 5 Star Mascara, and for more special occasions I use the Max Factor 2000 Calorie Waterproof Mascara as it helps hold more of a curl.

Tools // I've been using an eyelash curler ever since I heisted my mum's aged 12. And although that one is long gone, I've only ever owned two since. I bought a No7 one from Boots when I was about 15, but when that broke I upgraded to a NARS one that is now my holy grail. I've had it for three years now(??), and it still looks (and feels) as good as it did when I first purchased it. In the last five years or so I've also gotten really into makeup brushes, and I swear by the Real Techniques collection. They sell every brush you could ever need, and I own very few from other brands.

What is your favourite eye product?

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Currently Trying

 I've been a bit naughty and bought a couple of new beauty bits recently, and I've been trying them out over the past month or so. I haven't really bought any beauty product for a while, but after running out of a few bits I decided to try something a bit different. Some of which I'm loving, and some of which I'm not completely sold on. 

            

After months (possibly even years) of deliberation, I finally took the plunge and purchased the Nuxe Rêve de Miel lip balm. At £9.50 a pop, I had to find out whether it was worth the price before I picked it up. I really wish I'd bought it earlier as it is hands down the best lip balm I've ever used. It feels so luxurious to apply, and isn't at all sticky. I like to apply it when I do my skincare routine before I go to bed, and by morning, my lips are like new. I'll will definitely not be switching back to cheapy chapsticks! Speaking of not cheap, I had a bit of a skin crisis and went browsing the internet for anything, and I mean anything. I found a couple of blog posts about the Estée Lauder Clear Difference Advanced Blemish Serum, with people noting that it has completely altered their skin. On a whim, I bought it and to be completely honest, I won't be repurchasing it when mine runs out. Don't get me wrong, I wasn't expecting it to work miracles, but I hoped it would do something. I'm used just over half of it, and I really don't think it has done anything for my skin. It feels nice to use, but if there are no visible benefits I don't see the point. 

Another product I'm not too sure on is the Aveda Botanical Kinetics Toning Mist. I bought this after Viviannadoesmakeup mentioned it on her Youtube channel, and I was sure I would love it. But I don't think I do. I'm not too keen on the smell - it's very 'botanical'. As long as a product doesn't smell like vomit, I don't usually mind what it smells like - but I really do not like this particular scent. Similar to the Estée Lauder serum, I'm not sure it actually does anything. I'll keep trying it, but again, I don't think I'll be repurchasing. Something I will most definitely be repurchasing is the NYX HD Studio Finishing Powder. This is the first loose powder I've ever tried, and my oh my I love it. Besides being one of the messiest products I own (seriously it gets everywhere) it wears well and looks flawless. It minimises shine in the most natural of ways, and most importantly keeps things exactly where they should be. 

Have you tried anything I've mentioned? What are your thoughts?

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Currently Loving

I'm trying to stay away from the more traditional monthly favourite style posts, so I thought I'd do a currently loving kinda series, with posts as and when I feel like them. I mean, how on earth is one expected to have so many favourites each and every month. Like I mean I only own so many things! It's been a quiet few months for me recently, being confined to four walls for the whole summer (read about that here) has meant I've worn the very basics in the makeup department. I mean I don't really want to be turning up to physiotherapy looking like Ru Paul now do I? 

So face-wise, I've been sticking to light bases like the Liz Earle Sheer Skin Tint. It gives quite a medium coverage, but looks and feels so natural - like you're not wearing anything at all! In terms of shade, I have 'Bare' which according to Liz Earle 'suits most alabaster complexions', and I think it's safe to say that it would suit most low maintenance vampires. Speaking of vampire suitable products, I've been setting the skin tint with the NYX HD Studio Finishing Powder. I've not tried a loose powder before and I'm so mad at myself for that! But then you could say I was waiting to meet the man powder of my dreams. And it's safe to say I have! The first time I applied it I just couldn't help but stare at myself in the mirror - it left my skin looking so smooth! In terms of staying power it lasted as long as my usual powder, which has pretty decent longevity fyi. 

After having a massive beauty clearout, I've been expanding my Essie collection because yanno Essie. The last time I was browsing the aisles of Boots I picked up the shades 'Eternal Optimist' (dusty pink shade) and 'In Stitches' (brown toned pink). Both of which have been alternated on my toes since the day I bought them #obsessed. I currently have on 'Eternal Optimist', and it has received compliments from all who have had the pleasure of seeing my feet. 

What have you been loving recently?

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Making A Statement

Generally, on a day to day basis, I like to keep my makeup quite simple. Although it's not minimal, I tend to only wear basics. After all, who has time to apply a smoky eye and all that jazz at 6am on a Monday morning (#notme). But every so often I like to reach for something that makes more of a statement. Even when making a statement I like to keep it simple, by wearing a brighter lipstick or adding winged liner. It's very rare that you'd get me doing something that requires much effort, I'm a fuss free kinda gal, so here are my statement beauty essentials for the lazy girl.

Lipstick // Lipstick is one of the easiest ways to make a statement, and with so many brands to choose from, there is a shade and a formula to suit everyone. Personally I think the best statement making formula to opt for is matte. It doesn't matter about the shade, but there is something classic about a matte lipstick. Mattes are making a comeback and there are so many formulations, so even if you think you can't wear matte - there is one out there somewhere. If your lips are on the drier side, try out a products along the lines of the Nyx Soft Matte Lip Creams or the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipsticks. 

Eyes // Again, it is super easy to make a statement through eye makeup. There are so many options - eyeliner, eyeshadow, false eyelashes, mascara etc. I've written this before on my blog, but I hate (and I mean hate) false eyelashes. I just can't apply them properly, and although I can apply them to a decent standard, I just don't find them comfortable. My go-to eye look when making a bit more effort than usual, is a shimmery brown eyeshadow, built up on top of another shimmery brown eyeshadow, complete with winged liner and enough coats of mascara to make even an eskimo sweat. 

Cheeks // I have a rather new found love for throwing a bit of blush, bronzer, and highlighter on my cheeks. It just helps you put a bit more put together, and is such an easy way to make a bit of a statement without being too cliché. My current favourite blush is the Japonesque Velvet Touch Blush in 'Shade 3' - it is such a gorgeous pink shade and is perfect for summer! In terms of bronzer and highlighter, my obsession with the Charlotte Tilbury Film Star Bronze and Go duo still continues and I highly recommend for all those fellow pasty faced girls. 

Nails // You don't have to paint your nails bright red in order to make a statement. Even a simple nude polish can make a statement in it's own way. Dusky pinks, greys, mauves are my go to for standard day to day wear, and if I'm completely honest I can't always be bothered to repaint them just to make a statement. When I can be bothered and really want to make a little more of a statement I will go for a classic red or some non-descript berry shade. My favourite polishes for all occasions come from Essie and my current go-tos include 'Eternal Optimist', 'In Stitches', and 'Maximillian Strasse Her'. 

How do you like to make a statement?

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Current Faves: Nyx

I've been a fan of Nyx for years, long before I'd even tried anything from the brand. Years ago I received a set of Nyx nail polishes as a gift and I was left highly disappointed. People were still raving about the brand, so I wasn't sure if I just received a faulty product. With this in mind, I was a bit skeptical about buying anything else from the brand, but early on this year I decided to give them another chance. I was right to give them a second chance, because I have fallen in love with their products. I love how affordable and high quality they are! 

First up is the gem that is the HD Studio Finishing Powder. As I mentioned in Sunday's post, I've never tried a loose powder before, but this one caught my eye whilst roaming the aisles of Boots. As soon as I opened it, powder flew everywhere (and I mean everywhere). Once the cloud of powder had settled, I applied my usual foundation and concealer, and then used this in place of my usual powder. Words cannot describe how much I loved this powder! I literally could not stop staring at my face once I'd applied it - my makeup looked so smooth! A few hours went by and my makeup still looked fresh, and everything was still in place. By the end of the night, I could probably have done with a touch up, but my makeup still looked decent. So it clearly has longevity! 

Secondly are the Soft Matte Lip Creams. I've mentioned these a couple of times, but I think they really deserve being written about. I have the shades Prague (dark raspberry) and Antwerp (mid-toned pink) and they are both extrememly wearable. They are not as matte as some of the other matte lipsticks out there, they have a softer appearance and texture. They don't dry out your lips, and are so creamy. The doe foot applicator is tapered and cushioned, making it quick and easy to apply - leaving a crisp, clean finish. There are tons of different shades to choose from and I only have these two as I found the selection quite overwhelming! I've been eying up Stockholm and Copenhagen, amongst a few others, so I may have to take a little trip to Boots sometime soon!

Have you tried anything from Nyx? What are your thoughts?

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Pretty In Pink

I have had an obsession with pink beauty products for quite a while now, and I thought it only fair that I share my current favourites with you today. I know it's traditional to write a pink themed beauty post at the start of spring, but you all know me - I don't like to play by the rules. 

I'm starting off with with the Charlotte Tilbury Cheek To Chic Blush in 'Love Glow' as it is too gorgeous to deny first mention. I bought this as a little Christmas present to myself last year, and I have loved it ever since. I love that is has two different shades. You are supposed to use both shades together, but I have also been using one or the other as well. It makes it a handy product to travel with. I know Charlotte Tilbury is an expensive brand, but believe me when I say that they are worth it and more. They are exceptional in quality and this blush is no exception. It applies so smoothly and blends perfectly, I really want to try out some of the other shades available. Speaking of availability, NYX has become more readily available here in the UK. I picked up a couple of their Soft Matte Lip Creams a couple of months ago, and I have been loving wearing them! I have the shades Prague (dark raspberry) and Antwerp (mid-toned pink), and they are both extrememly wearable. The lip creams have a matte finish as the name would suggest, but don't underestimate the presence of the word 'soft'. They have a creamy texture that softens the effects of a usual matte lipstick so they are a lot more wearable. 

I've recently fallen back in love with the Essie nail lacquers (did I ever even fall out of love with them), and I've added a few new shades to my collection. I'm really into more neutral shades at the moment, and the shade 'In Stitches' has been my go-to this month. It is a gorgeous shade, and is not too dissimilar to another shade in my collection. It is a darker pinky nude, and is perfect for both everyday and evening wear. The Essie polishes are my all time favourite as they wear so well on the nails. It takes them ages to start chipping!

And last but by no means least, I have been loving the NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in 'Bahama'. I'm really into matte finishes (if you couldn't tell with three being in one post ha!), and these ones are gorgeous! They are more matte than the NYX lip creams, and have a more velvety feel (obvs). Bahama is quite a cool toned nude, not as warm toned as you would expect. That being said it still looks absolutely gorgeous and is a must for any lip product addict. 

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Recent Beauty Buys

I love a good beauty haul, and it's been a rather long time since I last bought anything beauty related. When I noticed I was running a little low on my moisturiser and my everyday perfume was getting dangerously low, I decided to have a little browse through Feelunique, and restocked on my moisturiser, picked up a new perfume, and generally treated myself to a few things (with my student discount obv). As I'm recently getting back into blogging, I thought this post would be nice and simple to ease my way back into things. So here we go!

Firstly, I picked up my beloved Liz Earle Skin Repair Moisturiser for Normal/Combination skin. I've used this nearly everyday for the last 2-3 years, and I can't live without it! I usually purchase the monthly deal from Liz Earle's website, but I was only low on the moisturiser so I just thought I'd pick this up. I know it works out more expensive in the long run, but I've been really trying to use up all my products and just keep what I enjoy using. Speaking of enjoying, I received a little 'try me' sample of the Juicy Couture I Am Juicy Couture perfume a while ago, and I immediately fell in love. I wouldn't usually buy something from a brand like Juicy Couture, but the perfume speaks for itself. Yes the packaging is a little too tacky for my taste, but I'll probably lose the lid in a week anyway. Plus the 30ml bottle was on offer for £18.50 so it was a win win really. 

Since we have started getting the odd few days of sun, I thought it important to pick up an SPF designed specifically for the face. I have recently read Pretty Honest by Sali Hughes, and she says it is vital that you wear a facial SPF, so after consulting with my fave beauty blogs, I picked up the La Roche Posay 50+ Anthelios XL. I have fair skin and burn like crazy, so I thought I'd take better care of my skin this summer to avoid looking like a lobster. If I do end up catching the sun a bit too much I bought the Aveda Botanical Kinetics Toning Mist. I heard Vivianna Does Makeup talk about it in a skincare video or something or other, and I thought it sounded perfect for my skin! I've used it a couple of times already and tbh save your money. It doesn't smell too nice and doesn't have any noticeable effects. #sozaveda

And finally, I caved and bought the Nuxe Réve De Miel lipbalm, and HOLY SMOKES IT'S GOOD. It is some sort of miracle worker that gives you new lips overnight. The price was the only thing that put me off but seriously, put the Vaseline in the bin and buy a pot of this - you will not regret it. I promise! Plus it looks cute on your bedside table, and tastes delicious if you're into eating lipbalm.

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My Makeup Collection: Primers & Concealers

For the final installment of this series, I thought I would combine both primers and concealers as they are both base products, and I don't have many of either to warrant separate posts. These particular areas of my makeup collection are rather small as I have spent the last few years trialling different products, and managed to find the ones that work best for me and the ones I enjoy using. 

I'll start of talking about concealer as it is a pretty important product in my makeup collection, as it covers a whole multitude of sins - from breakouts to tired eyes, it gets me through the day looking less like an acne-prone zombie. Like I said, I have spent YEARS trying out different products, and now I think I have managed to find the best ones out there that work well with my skin. My all time favourite concealer is the Collection Lasting Perfection Ultimate Wear Concealer. This is the concealer that I always have a backup tube ready and waiting for the day I run out, as it is a staple in my everyday routine. I have been using this concealer on and off since I was about 12/13, and it has been an everyday staple for the last 3 or 4 years. It boasts a 16 hour wear, and I can definitely agree that it lasts a hell of a long time. I can put this on at 6am, and it will still be pretty much intact by the time I'm taking my makeup off at around 8pm. It is super-high coverage, making a perfect option for me and I know I will use it for years to come!

A more recent addition to my collection is the Rimmel Wake Me Up Concealer. I think this is an excellent all-round concealer, and is perfect for covering up the signs of a late night. I wouldn't say it was the best in terms of coverage, but it is pretty good! This is my favourite product to take with me on the go - I always have one in my car AND in my handbag for those little touch up emergencies! I honestly couldn't be without it! The Soap and Glory Kick Ass Concealer is another that is great for on the go touch ups. The handy little compact comes with two different concealer shades, a mirror, a setting powder and a powder pouffe. The concealer itself is pretty heavy duty and is the one I turn to when all else fails.

In terms of primers, I'm not too fused. I mainly apply them to keep my makeup on longer. So whatever the claims of a product I'm not too fussed. I own the Body Shop All-In-One Instablur and the Body Shop Tea Tree primer, but my favourite by far is the Benefit Porefessional. It is slightly tinted so I feel it offers a bit of coverage (which I seriously need atm). But if you're on a budget then the effects of the Instablur are pretty similar!

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My Makeup Collection: The Setting Powders

I've been putting off this post in the series as I think powders are soooooo boring. Although I use them on a daily basis I don't tend to bother splashing out so they are pretty similar, and aren't really too interesting to write about - but I thought I can't not include them as they occupy a whole drawer in my collection. Plus, some of you may be in the market for a new powder so this post is mainly here for you to browse. I have a couple of powders as I keep one in my handbag, one in my car and then have the ones I apply at home when I'm getting ready. I've used various different powders for years, one of the first makeup items I started wearing as a teen was a little powder compact from Boots to keep that shine at bay. Despite having used a ton of powders of the years, I only really repurchase the ones in this post as I deem them the best for my skin type at this moment in time. From illuminating powders, to mattifying marvels, I have a couple to show you - and here we are...

For a quick fix I like to use the Rimmel Stay Matte Powder, I have a couple of these in slightly different shades and these are the ones I generally take out on the go. They aren't really practical as they don't have a mirror or anything, but I like this for touching up throughout the day. I've been using it for nearly six years so it has to have something good about it right? If I'm going somewhere and want a mirror in my bag as well, I use the Soap and Glory One Heck Of A Blot powder. I freakin' love this powder! It is one of my all time favourites. Nowadays I tend to sway towards more translucent powders as in my opinion they give a much better finish and look less cakey on the skin. Plus it's super lightweight so your skin can breath making it a perfect fit when wearing makeup over the summer.

If my skin is looking a little lack-lustre, I like to use the Sleek Luminous Powder as it has a slight shimmer running through it. Nothing major - it won't leave you looking like a unicorn or Edward Cullen, but it does give you a little glow that can be well appreciated in the winter months! And as for my everyday go-to face powder, the Maybelline Matte Maker powder is my all time favourite. It used to me known as the Dream Matte Powder, but they changed the name and packaging last year. I find it gives the perfect amount of mattifyingness (yes I know that's not a real word), without looking cakey or unnatural.

What is your favourite powder at the moment?

Thanks for reading!

Love Charlotte x

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A Beauty Detox Revisited

Around the same time last year I shared with you my tips on how to give your beauty collection a little clear out (here), and so many of you really seemed to relate to the post as I got tons of tweets telling me you were going to have a spring clean! When the winter season starts transitioning into spring, I religiously have a big clearout. My wardrobe has a big sort through, I clear out all unnecessary tat, I even review who I follow on social media as I simply don't have the time for annoying or negative people in my life (*goodbye to the girl who I spoke to for approximately 30 seconds during freshers week and have never seen again*) - I basically just like to take the time to declutter my entire life. SO! I thought I'd do a slightly updated version of what I told you last year and share with you some quick tips on how to declutter!

Pull everything out of one drawer/cupboard. The only way to assess the situation, is to take one drawer out at a time and empty the contents onto the floor. There is no point getting all of your possessions out at once as you will just get overwhelmed and give up before you've even started. The best thing to do is to have a little sort the things from the drawer and divide into three separate piles. One of things that should actually go in that particular drawer, one of things that belong in another places, and one of stuff to get rid of/donate/sell. Do a quick (or thorough if you have the time) clean of the drawer and put the things that should go in that particular drawer back in. 

Put a load in your car to take to charity/take rubbish outside. If you’ve bagged up a fair amount of stuff to go out, chances are it's starting to take over an area of your room. So take a couple of minutes to take the stuff out to the car so when you are next going out, you can drop it off and get rid of it. By doing this you will have more space to carry on clearing out, and it will stop you rummaging through stuff and changing your mind!

Pick up 10 things, and find a place for them. These should be things that you actually use, but that you just put down because you don't have the time to put them away properly. Like when you are doing your makeup on a morning and you leave your products tipped out on the bed because you have to dash off to catch the train. If you don’t actually have a place where these things belong, you have to find and designate a spot for them. Having a place for everything makes you much more likely to put something away after you've finished using it - trust me!

Clear everything off a surface. For example a bedside table, is there a mug from last night's cup of tea? Clear off everything possible, except maybe one or two essential things like a candle or your lamp - give the surface a quick clean, and arrange it nicely. While you're at it you can even give the ornaments a quick clean too!

Look at each item individually and decide whether or not you need it. Looking at each thing one at a time makes you more likely to make a better decision when deciding whether you want to keep it or not. With each item, ask yourself whether or not you actually need it - and if not give it away to charity or someone who will make proper use out of it!

Will you be having a spring clearout this year?

Thanks for reading!

Love Charlotte x

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My Makeup Collection: Highlight and Contour

Although this series has taken a bit of a back seat with all the christmassy posts that went on at the end of last year, it is back in full swing with the rest of my makeup collection coming up over the next few weeks! Out of all the products in my makeup collection, bronzers and highlighters have to be the latest editions. Until the back end of 2014, I hadn't heard of highlighters and I avoided bronzers like the plague thinking they'd all make me look completely orange! Although I don't have many of either, what I do have get used on a daily basis, where I mix and match depending on what other makeup products I'm wearing. As I don't have too many of either, I have combined them into one post, and unlike the rest of the series, I will talk about each of the products instead of just my favourites. 

In the run up to Christmas 2014 I bought a little trio of Benefit sample size products to try, and I fell in love with all of them. One of the items in the trio was the Benefit Hoola Bronzer (my first ever bronzer). I immediately fell in love with it and I wear it on a regular basis now. I thought maybe I'd given bronzers a bit of a hard time and so I took to Twitter to see what people recommended for those just starting out with them. A few people mentioned the Charlotte Tilbury Film Star Bronze and Glow Face Sculpt and Highlight and I decided to go for it after reading the incredibly reviews! I won't go into too much detail as I'm pretty sure have a separate post dedicated to it, but the powders are so buttery and blend really well! I'm still sort of angry at myself for spending so much money on it, but I certainly have got a lot of use out of it and love wearing it!

As for highlight, I have a couple more to choose from on a day-to-day basis. If I'm feeling super lazy and can't be bothered to rummage through drawers to find what I want, I'll just use the Charlotte Tilbury duo as it has both a highlighter and a bronzer in one. I must say that the highlighter is one of the best highlighters I have ever used. To say it's a powder it leaves a gorgeous dewy finish and doesn't look at all caked on! A highlighter that definitely isn't cakey, is the NARS Illuminator in Copacabana. It is a liquid highlighter and one of my favourites for a night out - giving that natural finish whilst still saying ‘hello I’m here’. It isn't one of the cheapest options out there (although it lasts forever!) so if you're on more a limited budget you may want to take a look at the No7 Skin Illuminator Radiance Boosting Beauty Fluid which is a good dupe at an even better price.  Being creamy textures you can easily blend it out, but for me these are more of a daytime highlight as they look a lot more natural.

And finally, the Soap & Glory Glow All Out Luminizing Powder, which I haven't really used in a while. It was one of the first highlighters that I bought, and at the time I thought it was amazing. But since trying a few others I've neglected it, and although I'll end up using up - I probably won't repurchase it in the near future.

Thanks for reading!

Love Charlotte x

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Is Multi-Priming A Thing?

We've all heard of multi-masking, the phenomenon that hit the blogging community over 2015 and became popular with beauty mavens from all over the world. But has anyone ever tried multi-priming - the process of applying different primers to different areas of the face? I'm pretty sure I've made this up (yay for originality), but I do it on the regular as my combination skin means that different parts need specific attention. There is a primer for pretty much any skin concern whether it be for lines, blurring pores, mattifying, hydrating, smoothing - there are so many products available that can help you achieve your desired look.

I've never really given it much thought or questioned my actions as it is something that I do naturally. A mattifying primer down the T-Zone, a blurring primer around my chin and blemish prone areas, and a tinted primer for around the eye area to cover any signs of dark circles or late nights. There is no explicit rule that you can't apply multiple primers, and if truth be told I actually find my makeup looks and lasts much better when I make the effort to mix and layer a concoction of different priming potions. My favourite primers to mix/layer up currently are the Benefit Porefessional, The Body Shop Tea Tree Mattifying Primer, and the Benefit Puff Off eye primer. 

Have you ever tried multi-priming, or will you be trying it out now?

Thanks for reading!

Love Charlotte x

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January Favourites

How has January been and gone already? It only seems two minutes since we were popping open the bucks fizz at the start of the new year. But with the new year comes new beauty products, so there have been a few new bits I have been enjoying using - mainly skincare, but there has been a few other things (including a book) that I have loved throughout January!

First up is a skincare product that I have used at least once a week throughout January. I'd never tried an overnight face mask before, but I'd heard incredible things about it so picked it up halfway through December. The Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Face Mask, has become somewhat of a staple in my skincare routine, and even though my skin isn't dry - I am prone to dehydrated looking skin that refuses to absorb anything to help sort itself out. Whilst I have been using this on the regular I have noticed that my skin is a lot smoother and hydrated, so I think that it is worth checking out if you suffer with dry skin or if the winter weather is wreaking havoc on your face. One thing I don't like about it is the smell - it has that sort of fake fruit smell that I find quite sickly with regular usage, but I can look past it for the brilliant results! Another skincare item that has been working wonders on my skin is the Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate. This face oil feels so nourishing on the skin and it feels as though your are treating your skin to pamper evening without having to go through the effort of washing something off later on. I really want to get the daytime version to apply alongside it in the morning, but we'll have to see what my student budget will allow for in February. 

Last Sunday, my post talked about 'The Life Changing Magic of Tidying' book by Marie Kondo and how it had well and truly changed my life. Of course I had to include it in my favourites post for this month as it has well and truly been a favourite. Although I technically finished it at the start of the month, throughout the first week I was excited to pick it up and read another section, and the effects of reading it have lasted since picking it up at the end of December. It has changed my outlook on living and has made me kept my bedroom clean and tidy for an entire month!! That is absolutely unheard of for me and the only explanation must be this book! At the beginning of January a follow up book called 'Sparks Joy' was released by Marie, and I'm enjoying that just as much! 

For lips we'll start with  new NYX Soft Matte Lip Creams that have swept the UK like a storm over the last month or so. In my last post I mentioned that NYX has become more readily available in the UK and you can now buy it in Boots and on Feel Unique amongst a few other places. I picked up the shades Antwerp and Prague, and have been wearing them both quite regularly throughout January - but my favourite has to be the shade Prague as it's a gorgeous berry pink shade that is perfect for winter. They'd be ideal for those of you who like the idea of a matte finish but don't want anything to feel too dry on the lips, as they appear matte but feel incredibly creamy on the lips. There are tonnes of different shades available, and I absolutely love how they are all named after capital cities! I have also been enjoying wearing the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Love Liberty, and even though I mainly bought it to wear on Christmas Day, I have transitioned it though into the start of 2016. I adore the shade and will most definitely be wearing it regularly throughout the year! 

What have you been enjoying this month?
Thanks for reading!

Love Charlotte x

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The Beauty Haul

I love the excitement that comes from buying new things probably way more than I should. And whilst feeling a little sad about having to return to university after a long christmas break the other week, I decided one of the only things to do that would lift my mood was to treat myself to some new beauty products. There was a few new bits that I wanted to try, plus a few things that caught my eye whilst I was browsing the shops. 

If you haven't guessed already, I have a bit of an addiction with lip products and they are by far my favourite item. Since NYX has recently become more available (Boots, Selfridges, Feel Unique, Very), I picked up the Soft Matte Lip Creams in 'Antwerp' (mid-toned pink) and 'Prague' (dark raspberry). For years beauty bloggers have raved about their products, and after trying some of their nail varnishes a couple of years ago I was left extremely disappointed. One of the most talked about makeup products by far are the lip products, so I picked them up hoping they'd be a lot better than the nail varnishes. I'm pleased to report that they are miles better, and they are fast becoming a staple product. Not only are they cheap as chips, but the formula is really impressive as well. They have a matte finish like the name would suggest, but they aren't as matte as I thought they would be. They look matte, but they feel so creamy (hence the name lip cream duurrrrrr) and provide long lasting colour!

Again with the lip products, for months I have been searching for the Rimmel Exaggerate Full Colour Lip Liner in 'Eastend Snob', and it always seems to be sold out everywhere. But whilst in Boots, I spotted 1! It was the last one and was mixed in with another shade, so I was extremely happy when I finally got my hands on it! It is a gorgeous shade of warm pink, and I know a lot of people use it as more of lipstick instead of as a lip liner, and I had been dying to try it out. The shade is gorgeous, and looks beautiful by itself and when paired with a lipstick. I've been enjoying wearing it all over the lip and underneath my Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks.

Whilst I was breaking the bank in Leeds, my sister texted me asking her to get a couple of things from The Body Shop. Whilst I was in there I noticed there was a 3 for 2 offer on, so I cheekily picked up the Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil. I've been looking at buying a few different face oils, and after receiving the Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate at Christmas, I have been searching high and low for some alternatives. I tried the Body Shop one the same day of purchasing and I have fallen head over heels with it! I applied it underneath the Origins Calm To Your Senses overnight face mask (can you do that?) and my skin looking ahmazing when I woke up! It looked so refreshed, calm and hydrated! On days where I haven't used an overnight face mask, I have been using the Vichy Idealia Skin Sleep Night Cream. I've never tried anything from Vichy before, but I received a mini sample in with a bit of shopping and I loved it! It is quite a thin formula, quite like a lotion. and like nothing I have ever tried before. It is targeted at tired looking skin as it includes caffeine to reduce signs of fatigue to reveal a fresh, radiant complexion. 

Bought anything nice recently?
Thanks for reading!

Love Charlotte x

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Treating Myself: More Charlotte Tilbury

It is no secret that I am a massive lover of Charlotte Tilbury products. Everything about her products just screams luxury. One particular evening in November, I was searching the internet for Christmas gift ideas for one or two friends and for some reason or another, I ended up on the Charlotte Tilbury website. I was eying various products up, popping them into my basket for future reference. Then whoops. I slipped and fell on my keyboard - resulting in this very expensive treat.  Now I'm all for treating myself (and you guys probably know it), but this was ridiculous even by my standards. I honestly spent about an hour hovering over the 'checkout' button, and I'm still asking myself why I did it. But nevertheless! It's done now, and I can't go back even if I wanted to (well I could have returned it but what's the fun in that?). When it arrived, I told myself I wasn't going to open it - and for once, I stuck to my guns! I wrapped it up all fancy and hid it on top of my wardrobe to be opened as a big little treat on Christmas Eve. Obviously, having ordered it over a month prior to opening it, I couldn't exactly remember what I'd ordered. So unwrapping it felt like such a treat (even if it was a slightly guilty one)! Plus I got to wear lots of sparkly new products on Christmas Day!

First up, I ordered the Matte Revolution Lipstick in 'Love Liberty' (£23). I have a fair few red lipsticks in my lipstick collection, but this is a little different from my usual go-to reds. I did write a post talking about the red lipsticks I might wear on Christmas day, but in the end I opted for this one as it looked so gorgeous! I love the formula of the Matte Revolution lipsticks as they have such incredible staying power and are perfect when you are going to be eating a meal. Keeping on with the lipstick train, I also ordered the K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in 'Bitch Perfect' (£23), after Rhianna (from Robowecop) wouldn't shut up about it on her social media. I've only tried this on a couple of times as of yet, but it is the perfect everyday pink-nude! I'd not tried any of the K.I.S.S.I.N.G lipsticks before, but I knew that if it was anything like her other lipsticks I just knew I would love it!

I got the lipstick in a lip and cheek kit alongside the Chic to Chic Blush in 'Love Glow' (£30) which is a perfect berry-pink toned blush. The Chic to Chic blushes each have two different shades so you can 'swish and pop' as Charlotte calls it. You swirl your brush round the outside of the pan and blend it onto the apples of your cheeks, and then you finish off my dabbing your brush into the centre of the pan and dot the darker shade on the high points of your cheeks. Alongside the slightly shimmery formula, the two shades of blush give incredible depth to the face and make you look so much more awake! With my order I also got a free travel sized sample of the Wonderglow Primer  (Full size is £38.50), which goes perfectly with the blush! Charlotte Tilbury has suggested many ways to make use of this product, and my favourite is to use it on my cheekbones, browbone, and my cupid's bow as a highlighter. You can also use it under or mixed with your foundation to create gorgeous glowing skin!

Onto eyes, the main product I wanted to order was the Colour Coded Eyeshadow Palette in 'The Vintage Vamp' (£38). I have the Dolce Vita palette and loving wearing it on a regular basis, but I had been eying this one up to alternate with. The shadows are so rich and creamy, with intense pigments and blendability. I have been enjoying teaming it with the Full Fat Lashes 5 Star Mascara (£22) as the pair compliment each other perfectly. The mascara gives wonderful curl, volume and length to the lashes, and I have been wearing it every time I've left the house! On Christmas day, I wore them both with the Rock n Kohl eye pencil in 'Barbarella Brown', which was the perfect dream team! Continuing with eyes, another duo that made it into my shopping basket was the Nocturnal Cat Eyes To Hypnotise (£29) set featuring the Rock n Kohl eye pencil in 'Amber Moon' and the Nocturnal Cat Eyeshadow in 'The Huntress'. Both together look incredible and you can create a gorgeous smokey bronze cat-eye look.

Have you treated yourself to any new makeup recently?

Thanks for reading!

Love Charlotte x

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My First Experience With False Eyelashes

My eyelashes are alright. They are pretty long, dark and are naturally slightly curled. And they are one of the only things that I don't have problem with. But somehow I have managed to get through 19½ years of life, and almost 2 years of beauty blogging without trying out false eyelashes. I know right? How is this possible?! So as you can imagine, I was thrilled when Harvey Nichols asked me if I would like to try out some lashes from the brand Threads. 

Over the last 7/8 years I've watched a lot of YouTube videos, featuring beauty mavens who can apply false eyelashes in a matter of seconds. Thinking it would be super easy (due to the amount of videos I'd watched over the years, and how others made it look so easy), I picked up the tweezers, opted for the Celestial lashes and whipped out the eyelash glue. And what did I end up doing? Gluing my own eyelashes to my eyelid. Don't ask how I managed this, the honest answer is I have absolutely no idea. About an hour later (after I realised I will never be attempting this again), I pretty much managed to get them on. They were slightly wonky and you could tell they were fake as I wasn't able to seamlessly blend them with my own lashes no matter how coats of mascara I applied over the top.

And what did I learn from this experience? I'll tell you...

1. I will never, I repeat never be attempting to apply false lashes ever again. (Probably will though).

2. "Do I leave the glue on for 30-40 seconds? Closer to 30 or 40? 35?" #Helpme

3. Once I applied them, they actually looked gorgeous - and I 100% recommend the Threads brand as they felt reasonably comfortable. If only I had my own personal makeup artist to apply them for me.

4. Eyelash glue is very sticky, and you should be more careful when trying to apply it (or you'll glue your eyes together).

5. If you have failed to pay attention to point 4, make sure you invest in some industrial strength eye makeup remover to unstick your eyes once fused together.

6. If you ever decide you want to give eyelashes a go again, buy a magnifying mirror as you are ocularly challenged and it makes it difficult to see where you are applying said lashes.

Have you ever tried false eyelashes? What was your first experience like?

Thanks for reading!

Love Charlotte x

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The 'Celestial' eyelashes (RRP £9), the 'Sex Kitten' eyelashes (RRP £9), and the Illuminata Brow Pencil (RRP £15) were kindly sent to me by Harvey Nichols for the purpose of a review. All thoughts are my own and you can read my full disclaimer policy here.