10.09.2015

10.02.2015

New In From Pixi by Petra #2



Happy Friday all! I hope you're looking forward to the weekend ahead (I know I am!). So last week a pretty snazzy parcel landed on my doorstep, courtesy of the amazing, Pixi by Petra. If you're a regular round these parts, you'll know I'm a huge fan of the brand, and was lucky enough to be sent a package full of skincare (and chocolate!) back in the summer. This time round I was treated to a range of the A/W Pixi cosmetics, and holy guacamole, they.are.serious.


The item I was most giddy (yes, giddy) about when opening the box was this gorgeous Mattelustre Lipstick. Plum Berry* (£14) is a deep berry red (as the name would suggest) and the perfect shade for this time of year. Rock with a bare face, a strong brow or even a smokey eye, it's capable of complementing a whole host of  different looks. Though it's on the cool side of things, it's one that'll suit pretty much every skin tone. Long-lasting, matte and pretty packaging to match - basically, I'm in love.


If brighter shades are more your thing then you will seriously dig the Mattelustre Lipstick in Pure Fuchsia* (£14). Again a matte formula, this one's ideal for days you're not looking your best to really add some life back into your face. Throw on a pair of shades (how awesome is this weather though?), your best pout and you're good to go. 


A gal can never have too many eye products in her stash, and this Cat Eye Ink* (£12) is well worth a mention. Not only is it a seriously intense black, but the slanted felt tip makes application easy as pie for liner noobs like myself. Just make sure you have a waterproof makeup remover at hand come bedtime as this stuff doesn't.budge.


Finally, it's time to talk brow. Though I religiously reach for my Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz, I get through it pretty swiftly. Luckily for me, the Endless Brow Gel Pen* (£14) is all kinds of awesome. I use the shade, Medium, a neutral ash brown which matches my hair rather accurately. A lot of brow products fail to get the whole ashy tone right, but this manages to get it spot on. The gel-textured pencil gives just the right amount of product and lasts all day. If you're looking for an extra boost through any unruly sparse areas or are after a fuller brow, this is your BFF. 


Are you a fan of the Pixi by Petra? I'm very excited to say that as of this week it's now stocked in Marks and Spencer!

If you fancy reading up on what the brand has to offer when it comes to skincare, head to my previous post, here, however if you're after snapping up some beauty goodness for yourself, head to the Pixi website, here.

Will you be sporting a berry lip this season? I'd love to know your A/W makeup recommendations!

Liked this post? Come follow me over on Bloglovin'!
SHARE:

9.30.2015

Current Skincare Saviours.



If you're a regular visitor to my wee blog, you may remember my recent 'Haircare Heroes' post. So, with the whole 'hair' side of things covered, it's time to talk skincare. You may have seen the above featured in the past on Bryony Laura, however after really relying on my skincare regime as of late, I thought I'd post a quick refresher spilling the details on why you should add them all to your shopping basket.

If you're entirely new to Neal's Yard, head here for the 411 on their Award Winning Skincare Kit (a total bargain at £20), however if not, stick around while I sing this serums praises. Scientifically formulated to support your skin while you sleep, using this is not only a total treat thanks to its calming scent, but I find that daily use keeps any unwanted blemishes and redness at bay. Also, dry, dehydrated skin will love this.

Ah, Origins, will you ever release a duff product? It appears not. A long-time love, this moisturiser is reserved exclusively for night time use in my regime (following the NY Beauty Sleep Concentrate, naturally). Rich in consistency, the product nourishes deep into the skin, leaving it soft and hydrated come morning. Like all Origins lotions and potions, you only need the smallest amount per use, making the admittedly steep price more bearable. 

I'm pretty picky when it comes to exfoliators. Too grainy, it's an instant no-no. Too gentle, kind of a pointless process, no? The Bee Good Honey & Camelina Facial Exfoliator however, gets it spot on. A recent addition to the Bee Good brand, this moisturising treatment sloughs away the dreaded dry skin leaving a soft and radiant complexion.

I've coveted this serum for well over a year now, so if you're a fan of more in-depth reviews, head over here to hear my full thoughts. Holding up to 1,00 times its weight in water, Hyraluronic Acid is something of a cult ingredient in the beauty world, and, unsurprisingly, packs a serious punch in the hydration department.

Have you tried any of the above? Have I tempted you? What are your top skincare recommendations? 

Liked this post? Come follow me over on Bloglovin'!
SHARE:

9.21.2015

5 Minutes With: Ellen McCrimmon.


A couple of months ago, somewhere among my daily internet scrolls, I came across the exceptionally talented Ellen McCrimmon. Ellen is an artist and illustrator originally from the Isle of Wight, and boy is she damn good at what she does.

Using a combination of charcoal, paint and pencil throughout her work, she creates everything from sea creatures and puppies, to people and avocados (and who doesn't love avocados?).

I was lucky enough to be sent a few of her stunning pieces (which will be flaunted up on my wall soon as I find some snazzy frames) alongside the chance to have a little chat about all things art...


So I’ve gotta ask, when exactly did you realise how bad ass you are at drawing?
Haha! Well I’ve always loved drawing and painting since as long as I can remember. I liked the idea of being able to produce something that wasn’t there before. I’m super critical of myself and the work I make however, so I don’t accept compliments easily. It’s something I need to work on more. 

How did you get into illustration?
Well I was originally going to do art at uni, but after stressing out about the thought of more education after A-Levels, I took a gap year and decided to do primary school teaching instead. Turns out I wasn’t actually into it very much and started to get bored of the course. So in my spare time I just started to draw again, mostly charcoal sketches to get back into the swing of things. I put a few pictures of what I did on instagram and I was surprised by the kind of response I was getting. This motivated me to draw/paint more often, and I eventually started a separate instagram account for my work and it kind of went from there. 


What motivates you? Where do you gather your inspiration?
My biggest motivation is other artists, and not just the works of the ‘famous’ ones, but more so just ordinary people who spend their time creating amazing things! I’m actually part of a group called ‘artists of instagram’ which has a whole bunch of lovely people in it from all across the world where we take part in an art trade each month to help promote each others work. They’re all so talented and seeing the work they do helps me to stay motivated. 

What are your favourite things to capture within an image?
I really enjoy painting animals, and recently I’ve been inspired by the sea, it’s beautiful range of colours and the creatures within its depths! I’m originally from the Isle of Wight so I’ve grown up by the sea, and I like to use this theme within some of the things I create. 

What are your must-have art pieces? 
Ahh there's just so so much out there that it’s hard to narrow it down, but for me, I have to have a decent watercolour paint set, as well as my ‘Spectrum Aqua’ watercolour pens. They are a DREAM to work with and they have such a range of beautiful vibrant colours. They are pricey, but totally worth it. I also use a normal water brush to blend the colours together. This alongside a good pad of watercolour paper and you’re good to go! 


What advice would you give to gals and boys looking to get into illustration?
So it’s really good if you can identify your work with a certain style, this will help people to recognise your work without it always necessarily having to be labelled with your name. Also networking! Get yourself a separate instagram or facebook account for whatever to use as a primary place to promote your work. As silly as it sounds, sometimes having a ‘theme’ to your feed really helps. I mean this in terms of how you present your work and the colour schemes etc. It just means people are more likely to look through if your feed leaves a good impression. Also finding other artists and liking their work, and annoying as it is, but hashtags haha!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years time? Do you think your art and its focus areas will have changed significantly?
Oooh I have no idea. I want to experiment more with the types of art I do, to help develop my own work and move it forwards. Though I’m already struggling to find time to do illustrations within a 9-5 job, so it can be really tricky to stay motivated when you’re tired! But I love doing my art, and I would love to be able to make some kind of money off what I actually enjoy doing. So we’ll have to see I suppose!

What’s next for Ellen McCrimmon?
Haha who knows! What I can say is I have a few exciting art related things potentially on the horizon… so I guess just watch this space! 

Thanks so much to the lovely Ellen for taking the time to answer my questions, and of course, sending over her lovely work! Will you be snapping up anything from her site? Head here to go check it out and be sure to take a peek at her Twitter, and Instagram pages.
SHARE:

8.28.2015

The Beauty Brands Worth Investing In (& What To Buy) #1


With so many new beauty brands and products cropping up every week, it can be a little hard to know what to spend your dollar on. So, if you're one to get just a little overwhelmed when walking down the aisles of Boots, you may wanna keep reading. Allow me to share my go-to brands (& their kick-ass products) well worth trying.

Ah, Bumble, my one and only hair-shaped love. I've probably tried around 50% of their products and loved every single one of them. Slightly pricier than the likes of L'Oreal and Aussie, but well worth the investment. Not only are their formulas spot on, but you only need the smallest amount per use, meaning your bottle/tube/whatever, will last you forever (which I must stress, is definitely not a bad thing). Whether you're curly haired, fine or poker straight, Bumble will have a product to tame and treat your locks. Click here to be met by approximately five thousand Bumble-themed reviews - told you I dig the brand.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to buy: B&b Surf Spray for effortless, surfer gal waves, B&b Surf Creme Rinse Conditioner for added texture and grit, B&b Sunday Shampoo for  a squeaky-clean scalp, and 


Who doesn't love a bit of Lush in their life (answer: no one). A mention of this brand is unlikely to be a major surprise, but, on the off-chance that you've never experienced one of their bath bombs, then get 'yo little self over to Lush and stock up, stat. Check here for some serious, Lush-heavy reviews.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to buy: Dream Cream for silky soft, sooth skin (and perfect for those with KP), Mask of Magnaminty for a cleansed, gently exfoliated complexion, and Popcorn Lip Scrub for a perfect pout. Come Christmas, however, it's all about this bad boy...

Neal's Yard is a fairly recent beauty discovery for me, but by golly am I obsessed with their products. My b-e-a-utiful Momma snapped up the Award Winning Skincare Set from John Lewis (check my full review here) a little while ago, and I was blown.away. I'm not one to go over-board when buying cleansers, but god damn, the brands Wild Rose Beauty Balm is just perfection in a tub. As soon as I've finished my mini size I will 100% be running out to buy a 50g. If multi-tasking products rock your world, you will seriously dig this. If you fancy reading up on my review of the Award Winning Skincare Set, head here.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to buy: The Wild Rose Beauty Balm (obvs - see above), White Tea Facial Mist for a refreshing quick-fix, and the White Tea Enriching Facial Mask for serious nourishment and redness relief. 


Origins.
Onto a long-time love, we have Origins. Basically, is there anything this brand can't do? High quality, natural and long-lasting skincare (oh, and makeup and haircare, of course). Not only are their products glorious, but every order comes alongside some pretty generous samples meaning a stock-up is even more worthwhile. Expensive, but worth it. Check here for reviews.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to buy: The Ginzing Energy Boosting Moisturizer, for, well, a moisturising energy boost (who'da thunk it?), Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask for clear pores and Make a Difference Plus Rejuvenating Moisturizer to banish dry, flaky skin.


Bee Good.
I first came across Bee Good earlier in the year thanks to their Honey and Wild Water Mint 3-in-1 Micellar Water*. If you fancy reading up on the brand and their philosophy, click here for my reviews, but otherwise, their products and natural with only the finest ingredients. 
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to buy: The Honey and Wild Water Mint 3-in-1 Micellar Water* for a refreshing, easy-peasy cleanse, and their new, Honey & Camelina Facial Exfoliator* to wave buh-bye to a dull, congested complexion.

Ok so before this turns into a mini dissertation on beauty & skincare goodness, I'm gonna wrap this up and save the rest for a second post (next Sunday to be precise!).

Are you a fan of any of the above brands? What are your go-to beauty stores? Do you have any products that you can't live without? I'd love to know your recommendations!
SHARE:

8.10.2015

5 Minutes With: Danny Defreitas.


Celebrity makeup artist, Danny Defreitas could undoubtedly be defined as 'the one to know' when it comes to the beauty industry. Boasting an impressive career, the guru is known for his skills at not only making clients look beautiful, but feel beautiful, too. Combine this with the artist's bubbly, engaging persona and you can grasp exactly why he is one of the industry's top names. We caught up to chat must-have products, beauty mishaps and mastering the art of contouring.

What advice would you give to those interested in becoming a make-up artist?
It's taken me a long time, and a lot of hard work to get to where I am in my career at the moment, but if you are truly passionate about something you should definitely pursue it. What people don't realise is the sheer amount of work that goes into it. I truly believe hard work pays off. Stay passionate and be the best you can be. 

How, and what, influenced you to get into the industry?

I started my career in the hairdressing industry and got so inspired through doing session work along with shows and window displays. The level of creativity and the fact that you had to work alongside so many other teams of people within different industries fascinated me. 

Where do you gain your inspiration?

There's always inspiration around you but as a visual person I would have to say social media really inspires me at the moment, I use social media to keep my finger on the pulse with what other amazing creatives are doing. 

What is your ultimate piece of beauty advice? 

As a Session Make Up Artist I am all about skin. Who doesn't love flawless, glowing skin. I truly believe that skin prep is key and just as important if not more than the actual foundation application. You'll be amazed at how you can make someone's skin look even before any actual make up touches it. 

What make-up and hair looks do we need to be rocking this S/S season?

This season is all about sexy, volumed beach hair, I love to use Bumble and Bumble Thickening Hairspray along with their Sea Salt Surf Spray to create this look. CLOUDNINE also do these amazing tongs for naturally soft bouncy waves. Make up wise it's all about a matte lip and soft colour placements in the eyes - washes of earthy colours to suit and bring out individual peoples focus features. 


What five things do all women need in their beauty collection?

My current essential must haves are: 

- Primer: Tom Ford do a great skin Illuminating one.
- Moisturiser: Most make up artists I know can't get enough of EMBRYOLISSE. 
- Night cream: I love how rich Nip+Fab products are for night time. 
- Concealer: NARS do really creamy ones that blend beautifully. 
- Lipstick: You Just can't beat one from MAC

Which beauty looks do you feel look amazing on women of all ages?
Everybody loves glowing, fresh looking skin. This is definitely something that can be incorporated for all ages. Don't forget as skin ages it needs more moisture for a soft supple look. 

Are there any beauty mistakes you often come across?

Make up in my mind is the interpretation of the eye. I am always looking to help individuals by advising and educating them on a product, which has to be suitable for them in terms of skin type, what you are trying to achieve, and also the best way to apply it. 

Contouring has taken the beauty world by storm over recent months, any advice or products you’d recommend to pull it off successfully?

Everyone who knows me, knows that I love a contour. With so much out there and lots of YouTube videos, there's so many ways to do it. Remember, blend, blend, blend! Tom Ford Shade & Illuminate is my ultimate favourite at the minute. It comes in two colours and has a dewy highlighter and an amazing shading cream colour. 

What items are always in your stash when you’re on a shoot?
In my kit I always have some Burberry pieces, their range is all about adding that glow that I love creating. Also their BB creams and foundation powders are amazing. I also always stock up on Eldora lashes, soft fluffy and natural looking lashes just to add a feminine touch to the eye. I also go no where without some Rodial Skincare, like I said it's all about prep! 

You’ve collaborated with numerous famed faces, publications and events from the likes of Rita Ora, Rihanna For River Island and Sky television show, The Face. It’s most likely you’ll be unable to choose just one, but do you have a standout moment of your career so far?
It's so hard for me to pick and I always get asked this. I still get so excited and nervous sometimes when doing some jobs, but I pride myself to treat every job with the highest efforts and professionalism. I will say though that I will never forget the moment I had to talk to Rihanna about hair...she's great to work with. 

Finally, what’s next for Danny Defreitas?

I am currently focusing on lots of new projects and collaborations that are coming up for the next few months. I love working with amazing people, it's all about bouncing off positive vibes off other creatives. 


To keep upto date with Danny, be sure to check out his social channels below:

Website: www.dannydefreitas.com/
Twitter: @Danny_Defreitas
Instagram: @dannydefreitas
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DANNYDEFREITASMUA

*image links 1 & 2

Will you be snapping up any of Danny's recommendations? Are you a fan of this seasons beach hair?
SHARE:

5.31.2015

The Bathory Personalised Bath Salts.


OK, you got me. Major blogger sin, I may have got a little too excited with this product and used it before taking pictures... oops.

Whilst this isn't something I wanna get into the hang of doing, on this occasion I guess it highlights my true love for The Bathory*, no? So, if you dig baths, nice smells and those chilled, chilled evenings, keep on readin'.

The Bathory don't do things by halves. Hell no, you just need to look on their site to see their bold claim. 'The best bath of your life' - my expectations were subsequently high.

I have peaked early in life, I'm officially a granny at (almost) 22. Invite me round for a Dominoes, Netflix sesh and bubble bath and you're officially my perfect human being. Ok, maybe not the bath part, may be a tad awkward, (?) but my point here is that I bloody luuurve a good bath. 

If you enjoy a good scrubba-dub-in-the-tub too, you need to hit up The Bathory, stat. Not only does their bad ass claim make it perhaps the most appealing thing you will ever hear in your life, but the concept is amazing. Personalise to suit your mood, um, yes please.

Simply rock on over to The Bathory, and let the magic begin. D'ya wanna 'Bask', 'Soothe' or 'Detox'? The possibilities...

With that delightful decision aside, it's then time to select from a whopping ten essential oils. If the likes of lavender or sandalwood are your thing, so be it, however The Bathory lets you choose up to three.


That done, all that's left to do is wait for your gorgeously packaged treat to arrive.

When that day comes round, you've got one last, very difficult, decision to make. Give into the 'best bath..' claim, or use sparingly so to prolong the goodness... I opted for the latter, spreading into three soaks, and I have to say, it was three glorious evenings.

Squeezed into my evening routine, not only did I emerge from the tub with smooth, beautifully smelling skin, but on all occasions I had a seriously great nights sleep.

So what did I opt for?

I can't lie here, it took me a good 20 minutes to settle on a combination (I take my baths very seriously I'll have you know). In the end, I opted for 'Bask', designed to draw out toxins, soothe the body and improve sleep. When it came to the essential oil side of things, Bergamot, Sandalwood and Frankincense were my combination of choice.

 It was ahhh-mazing, seriously. The bath (x3) that dreams are made of.


At £18, you may not be so keen to use the stuff in one go, however the bath salts would make a wonderful gift, or even just an occasional treat for those with a deep love for cleaning their bodies..

Now the baths are sadly behind me, my relationship with The Bathory is far from over. Oh no friends, my empty jar has gained a prime spot on my desk as an exceptionally pretty makeup brush holder. Winning.

I would 100% recommend trying the personalised bath salts for yourself, however if I've not managed to fully persuade you, I'm sure the dreamy site will.

Have you tried The Bathory
SHARE:
Blogger Template Created by pipdig