Wild Card, Christmas 2012 x

Hey you all, I hope that you all had a fabulous Christmas.

I did!

Lots of moments to cherish and mementos gained. In fact, today I would like to share with you the beautiful Benefit lipstick that has defined my make up this Christmas and will always remind me of Christmas 2012.

I was lucky enough to be given the beautiful Wild Card lipstick from Benefit on Christmas day- Thanks, Sis : ) - and it has pretty much being imprinted on my lips ever since.

Now I've got to admit that in the bullet, it doesn't look terribly exciting. A very dark neutral described by Benefit as a Pomegranate. One that is almost maroon and more berry, closer to wine then some of our more well-known go tos such as Angel or Hue. Yet, despite it's individuality, in the bullet, Wild Card just comes across as a bit dark and maybe even a little bland for all us nude pink lovers.

 

 

 

Even in swatches, it comes across glossy but dense and so muddy compared to Viva Glam Cyndi from MAC and the postbox red, I swoon over but rarely wear, Frenched (also from Benefit).

Here we have from top down, Viva Glam Cyndi; Wild Card and finally, Frenched. Hmmm, I've got to say even here, Wild Card isn't inspiring me much. . !

 

 

However . . .

 

 

 

 

On the lips, Wild Card comes in to its own and is a real beauty. On mine, the hints of berry seem pretty much lost (pretty much as, just in a very, very occasional light, I see slight hints of berry and Twilight) and this lippie becomes a red, which with some unmistakable soft rosy tones, is vibrant and eye-catching. I'm the one who is usually very scared to leave the house wearing a red, Viva Glam Cyndi being the only exception I can name. However, as red as Wild Card makes my lips, it is a lippie made to be worn out of the house and it will be. Believe me, over and over again.

 

It is just so flattering and brings life to the rest of my face (which if I had a better pic you would be able to see. . . ) so that as red as this (probably a medium red for all you true red lovers out there) lipstick is, I don't really see big scary red when I look in the mirror. Yes, in my world, medium red = scary red! Instead I'm distracted and just see relatively nice make up, bright eyes and a face that looks just a little healthier and happier then it otherwise does. Instant zest, then. For me, I can't imagine a red lipstick doing better!

I love this little number and like all Benefit lipsticks, that I have tried, Wild Card feels very moisturising on my lips (even though it is one of the full finish ones not a silky) and certainly doesn't leave my lips feeling dry later after wear.

I have to admit that I've been wearing this lipstick quite casually. You know, a little haphazard application from the bullet and then some tissue staining and maybe even a little finger shaping here and there. I'm all about the technicalities, you see!!!

Despite the initial tissuing, there is a certain degree of glossiness and a 'wet paint' look for a couple of hours before Wild Card dulls to a pigment-strong but more matte stain. For a more Hollywood ready (or New Years Eve) look, I'd recommend a good lip brush and liner because I  find it quite difficult to apply this lipstick in a classic manner flawlessly straight from the bullet. This lipstick does have the traditional lipstick shape (unlike Frenched with its' flat tip). However, as Wild Card is so pigmented and creamy, it shows up every jerk on application and as I'm so cack-handed, I do find it hard to skirt around my lip flawlessly. Hence, the staining action!

Although I've only been staining this lipstick, I do think Wild Card has the potential to be a very versatile lipstick that could be dressed up and down for every occasion. I've been staining it and pairing it with the shimmery Half Baked eyeshadow from Urban Decay. I like to think that this keeps it young and funky (here's hoping!!!) but I do think that those with the inclination and talent could come up with a very sophisticated look to show off this stunning lipstick.

I'm not sure I'm so good at describing lipstick but I really rate Wild Card and hope I've persuaded you to give it a go next time, you encounter a Benefit counter where I'd imagine you can buy Wild Card. Here is a link for Benefit UK and Wild Card online.

What lipstick defines Christmas 2012 for you? Do you like Benefit lipsticks? Are you game to don a red lip?

 

In case, I'm not in touch before, Happy, happy New Year to you all!!!

 

Facebook! :)

Mission Me! is having a little makeover this week and I have some exciting plans for lots more beauty, fashion and chat which is why Mission Me! has now landed on Facebook. Yay!

http://www.facebook.com/MissionMeBlog

I'd love it if you took the time to click the link and like xx

Have you got a Facebook page for your blog? I'd love to know. Yes, five years too late, but this Facebook malarkey could well become my new obsession. I've already spent an hour or so liking a few of my favourite pages (yep, some of you are there!)

I hope your week is going well. I'm off to find my phone, I have a horrible feeling that I've left it three miles away. Darn!!!

The Zara top with the beaded collar!

So while in London the other day, I got to fully immerse myself in the Zara experience for the first time and what can I say but wow, now I know what you're all raving about! Everything appears to be of fantastic quality, stylish and feminine to a certain degree, even the more androgynous numbers.

The first little number, I spotted, was a black peplem top. . . it sounds so simple but of course, there was a twist or two. The body of the top appears to be made out of a typical polyamide, viscose mix with some lace panelling down the sleeves and the sides and then there was the leather peplem.

It looked divine on the hanger but in the changing room, it was back to reality with a bump. It just wasn't made to fit my sizing. The sleeves were too long and the lacing fell all-a-twist, the deep peplem looked enormous on me and almost seemed to turn back on itself in a manner a little reminiscent of something Lady Gaga would work.

I still highly recommend you all try this top on, it is beautiful but just don't give your heart to it until you have tried it on as this is one garment that seems to really need to fit well to work.

Such a shame as I love the design, structure and composition and kind of regret not trying on this similar dress too.

This jacquard jacket, however, is one that I found it even harder to walk away from. In fact, I tried it on three times and still think of it a little wistfully now. To start with it is black with gold embellishments, my favourite colour combination. The short length works perfectly on someone as short as me and the peplem comes across much more subtly then it did in the leather top. The cut is not as deep and the jacquard makes it all a lot softer. I see this military styled one as a budget alternative to the Prodiga coasts I've been lusting over (see here). Argh, reading what I've written and swooning over the picture again, I can't work out why I walked away from this jacket. . .

 

 

 

Finally, we have this top with the beaded collar. It is so simple but pretty and it just looks so elegant on, that I had to get it. The beads around the neck just add that subtle sparkle and the viscose shirt seems to have great shape and be of a good fit for me. I also fell in love with the cute three star shaped buttons which fasten the back. So far, I've worn it with my go to denim blue Top Shop Baxter jeans but I wouldn't mind mixing it up with some coloured jeans or maybe a pencil skirt. The only challenge for me will be trying to keep it clean longer then a hour or so, I'm so clumsy!!! Oh and note, this top is pretty sheer. I'm wearing a vest top underneath.

 

 

 

 

 

London was fabulous and indeed after seeing the Christmas lights and possibly the biggest tree ever in Covent Garden, I 'm ready to fully embrace Christmas. I had my hair cut and I'm really pleased with it, it is still long but now, it actually has some style! I'm hoping to get some pictures when I wash  and style my hair tonight and then maybe I'll try and pull together a hair post for you all.

I hope you're all having a fantastic weekend. Mine is passing in a bit of a haze as I burn my lovely Vintage Flowers candle from Next (Boo, I can't find a link for the actual candle) and immerse myself in the book, Express Make Up by Rae Morris. So far, so good and the pictures are AMAMmmmazinggg! So inspiring!!!

Have you read Express Make Up? Who is your make up icons? Have you purchased anything from Zara lately?

 

X

 

Hair brief!

So one more day of work and then I'm looking at a WHOLE week off, yay :)

And the first thing I'm doing is heading to the bright lights of London and getting the barnet sorted!

I think I mentioned a few posts ago that my natural hair is long now, not as long as my extensions or anywhere near as long as I'd like but there is some length there and really after months and months of waiting, I should be showing it off.

However at the moment, as you can imagine with just two haircuts in almost two and half years, it ain't in no state to be shown off so I'm mustering all the courage I have and going to a "top" hairdresser in London who I can only find rave reviews for. If I walk away as happy as the reviewers claim to have then I will share her details with you.

Anyhow, I have spent a little time tonight making a little list of points that I would like to bring up at the consultation (normally my mouth goes dry but not this time I will be holding tightly on to my list and I intend to use it)

The points are as follows . . .

1/ I don't want to lose too much length! Yes, I probably need to lose two or three inches right now but I really don't want to. It has took me so long to get my hair to this point. I'm not sure that I could go through all the waiting, hair pills and so-called miracle products (expensive!) again.

2/ The front needs sorting out! No hairdresser has ever perfected the front sections of my hair, the bits in front of my ear. I'm thinking it needs graduating and it has been done before by many a hairdresser but for some reason always looks disjointed. There is no hope of my hair ever looking styled unless somebody can find a way of giving the front some good shape and creating an illusion where these front sections seamlessly flow down to the baseline.

3/ I want chunky ends. I want my fine hair to look as strong as possible but sadly, I know this may not be possible unless I concede point 1.

4/ I also intend to ask the hairdresser for some advice as to colour. At the moment, I'm not booked in for anything as I know chemical colour can be detrimental to growing hair. My hair is a very dark brown at the moment which I think, makes it appear quite healthy considering its true state. However, I'm finding the dark colour, which is probably only a shade darker then my natural hair, can look very harsh in photos and I wonder what others see. It maybe that the colour will be softened once my hair actually has a cut and is more styled but colour talk is going on the agenda!

Here are a few pictures I've pinned that I may show (I always take five or six pics to the salon but I'm not sure if one has ever made it out of my bag) the hairdresser.

This is one of Rachel Bilson but I've actually pinned two or three. I really like her hair and general style.

Similar to Rachel's . . .

Something a little different, if my face is deemed not suitable for the 'Rachel'. . .

And worse case scenario, if the length has got to go then I want a long bob Olivia style but please remember (and don't worry, I will remind the hairdresser), I don't really want to Bob anything.

Hmmm, I wonder what my new hairdresser will come up with?!!

To be continued, I guess . . , eek!

What do you ask for at the salon? Do you always know what you want or do you leave it up to the hairdresser to decide? I hope you are all well.

PS I would love your pinning links. Going through a Pin, pin, pin phase at the moment! My Pinterest is here if you wanted a peek :)

X

Skylash (scraper) mascara from Collection!

So today I thought I would share with you one of my October favourites, the Skylash mascara from Collection (formerly Collection 2000).

As I've hinted in earlier posts (here and here and here and here and here and here), I tend to go for L'Oreal (Volume Million!!) or Max Factor when a new mascara is required. However lately, I've started to try and limit my make up spending. At the moment, I just feel that investing in good quality haircare and skincare products will eventually reap better rewards (though, I do need to share with you soon the new beautiful blush I purchased today. . .) and that is why after hearing/reading Louise from Sprinkle of Glitter rave about Skylash (skyscraper?) a couple of times (she did here!), I have now started a little love affair with this bargain beauty.

Skylash was just £4.99 from Boots and I believe, it is the older version of the Skyscraper mascara, a lengthening mascara that is supposed to lengthen to a degree that could 'flatten even the tallest skyscraper'.

Ok, right then . . .

Well, I'm not sure about the skyscrapers but I can tell you that this mascara does indeed appear to lengthen my lashes well and although, I'm not convinced that this mascara especially volumises (although the wand has long and short bristles. The short bristles are specifically suppose to volumise), my lash line does indeed look groomed and full enough after it has been slicked on. My particular mascara is in the shade Ultra Black and I found this shade strong, glossy and flattering. The consistency of the formula seems just right and allows the mascara to be applied easily with no mess or residue and what's more, the mascara seems to cling to the lashes lasting perfectly over a whole working day.

In the picture above, I'd been wearing the mascara for about eight hours with no reapplication and you can see, just how defined the lashes still are and how evenly the wand seems to have separated them. I like this flutter effect and feel that my lashes even have some added lift at the bottom. You can see a couple of small clumps in the picture above (darn, the detail that a Canon can pick up) but I have never noticed any clumping in real life and am tempted to draw a parallel with the Max Factor Lash Extension mascara that I posted about a long time ago here and here.

Like Lash Extension, Skylash is a mascara that can only be layered so much. Drama and false lash effects are not something that using this product could guarantee. After maybe three layers, this product fails to deliver any more. However, it is a mascara which I feel is hard to mess up and one that would lengthen and enhance any lashes naturally (yes, naturally in the way that a mascara can work naturally . . .). Yep, it's one of those where people would go, 'Ooh, your lashes look healthy.' rather then 'Ooh, I need to know what mascara you're wearing. It looks like you're wearing falsies today!' If people said such things!!!

I see that Boots talk about 'superstyled' lashes in reference to this mascara and that is actually bang on what this mascara delivers. It kind of makes the most of the lashes you've got but it doesn't try and fake anything that isn't there naturally.

For me, I'm not sure this mascara delivers enough to wear on a night out or with a full-on smoky eye but it is indeed, the one I'm turning to everyday for work and casual wear and at £4.99 would buy again and again for such use. Although, two or three weeks in, the formula seems as good as new and I don't think, I'll need to buy a new one for a good few weeks yet.

Yes, I can only conclude that this mascara is an absolute bargain! Recommend!!!

What is your favourite mascara right now? What brand do you go to for mascara? Have you tried Skylash (or Skyscraper as I believe it is now called)?

Here is a link to Skyscraper in Black on the Boots website!!
Please note that while writing this review, I got very confused between the Skylash and Skyscraper mascaras and could not clarify if they are indeed the same product or reformulated siblings etc. I'm guessing they are more or less the same product with a different name, please let me know if I have this wrong!!

*****

Away from mascara . . .

I hope you all had a fabulous weekend. The stress that inevitably accumulates during the week was wiped away in an instant for me this morning when I woke up to snow!!!  I think it would be pushing it to say that it was 'proper' snow but it was snow all the same and I couldn't help but think of a quote from Ugly Betty (remember that show, I was so addicted to the first season or so), it goes something like . . .

'The snow falls and covers up everything that is ugly and makes it beautiful!'

 

Image from Google Search result here!

I hope you all found something to make you smile this weekend. What made you smile? : )

X

The Prodiga Military Jackets!

 

 

Image from the Prodiga website here

So it seems all I post at the moment is wish lists and products I'm swooning over but it's just I like to share with you what catches my eye. I've also been quite busy this week and so longer posts have had to go on the back burner for a few days but I'm hoping to get something else (not a wish list or swoon) up tomorrow today (just noticed the time!).

In the meantime, I thought I would say hello to you all *waves again* and show you yet another winter coat that I really like the look of, this military jacket from Prodiga. It comes in two colours, white and black and both are gorgeous.


Image from the Prodiga website here

Millie Mackintosh from Made In Chelsea is the brand ambassdor for Prodiga and indeed, this is a garment I can imagine her strutting around in. As a military jacket, it seems 'on trend' and probably always will be as military is the one trend that does not seem to be passing. To be honest, I have not always found the military trend that wearable. Sometimes, I fear it bulks my top half up and swamps my bottom half but the peplum detail on this jacket is supposed to balance the silhouette out a bit more making this jacket not only pretty and feminine but also flattering. Flattering, there is an adjective that is not often used to describe a garment that also appears so warm, cosy and functional. These jackets also have crystal embellishment on the wrists which adds that little sparkle I like to see in pieces and just hints at the slightly higher end price tag that this jacket comes with.

Sigh, if only I could afford it!!!

Do you like this jacket? Would you wear it? Do you know of any high street 'dupes' or anything similar? I hope you all have a happy Friday.

 

X

Tempt me: The River Island Beaded Vests.

 

 

So I want you to give me a pat on the back for trying on these two beautiful River Island vests yesterday and then walking away empty handed!!!

Ok, pat done?! Thank you!

Now, I want you to lead me astray and tell me that I NEED to go back and purchase them because they are exactly what my wardrobe was built for.

Please!

Pretty please!!!

I really like them and nope, I just can't get them out of my head. In all honesty and as far as fashion goes, these two little numbers are very simple. Beaded vests, hardly anything unusual about that. The shops are churning them out ten a dollar at the moment, I probably try four or five embellished little tops on a month and have maybe fifteen already strewn around my bedroom floor hanging in my wardrobe but the key to temptation with these two can be found in some simple but perfect details that they possess.

Both tops are of a single colour. I do love a nice crisp white vest (esp. under the black cropped cardis that I'm so often found in), you can never deny that white brings a purity and freshness to a look that no other colour can replicate. At the opposite end of the spectrum, we have the grey. Now grey is a colour that can go both ways on me. Too light and I might as well not bother, it draws any colour I have and makes me look so feeble. Eurgh, not a good look. However, there is some depth to this grey which is only enhanced by the substance of the fabric (nothing flimsy about this one) and this warms it all up a bit and it actually seems to bring a bit of life to my face. Also grey kind of fits in with the seasonal mode (drizzly and drab, boo!) over here in England at the moment.

Both of these tops also fall at a length which flatters me, one which is not too short nor one which swamps me. They just fall below the hip in a lovely flattering manner.

And finally we have the sparkle, I love the bead detail. The majority of it can be found lying along the bottom of the vests and it has the potential to catch the eye (Crucially for me, the placement means this is true even under a cropped cardi). The pattern, remniscent for me of flowers and butterfly wings, they lie in makes the vest that little more feminine too. The beads that sparsely lie higher on the top just maintain the twinkle factor without sparkle overload. The hems are also cut out and have that whole scalloping vibe about them which just makes the vests that little bit more interesting.

Honestly you look at one of these tops from a distance paired with jeans and think, cute top then you come closer and take the top in, suddenly you think what a beautiful little piece at a fab littleish price (£18) so please, why didn't I snap one (or two) of them up?!!

Tell me, about your latest high street buys or yearnings? Is there one type of garment that you will buy hundreds and hundreds of even if you already had a thousand? I know for some this would define their obsession with shoes. Well, me, I do believe I'm obsessed with little sparkly vest tops. Have you got any more to link me to? Have you any reasons why I have to frogmarch back to River Island and buy these (pretty pretty pretty please, help a girl out!)? Do you like River Island?

The grey vest can be found here.
The white  (I say white, River Island say cream) vest can be found here.
Images from The River Island website.

X

Wanted!!!

Now and then, I thought it would be fun to show you what I'm currently swooning over.

So here we go, let's start with the fashion items. . .

* The La Lumiere Wrap Bracelet from HRH Collection here
Before the lovely Amelia got these, I was aware of Alex's blog and jewellery line but it was only when I read Amelia's blogpost, video and stunning photos after she hauled some of the HRH bracelets that I realised just how beautiful and very unique they were. The La Lumiere, an original from the HRH jewellery collection, just seems to embody exactly what the HRH collection is about and it holds the biggest, sparkiest Swarovski crystal of the lot.

 * The ASOS Suede Studded Bag here
I absolutely love this bag and think it is the perfect shopper for Christmas shopping season. I love the contrast of the suede and leather panels and obviously, I love the studs. Anything that sparkles or catches the light, I gravitate to.

* The Missguided Coat here
I saw this on Charlottes' blog yesterday and instantly fell for it. The shearling really softens the look of the khaki coat. As well as satisfying the Khaki trend, it also follows one of my favourite trends in a while, the contrast sleeve. I love this little number, it is cute, cosy and flattering. There is a good chance that this one will be skipping from my wish list to my doormat soon! : )

* The Sass and Bide Right Behind You Sequined Back Dress here
I've been keeping a beady eye on the Sass and Bide line for a while. This beauty I found on ASOS and I'm just keeping my fingers crossed that I will get invited to something special soon which will justify me buying this one.

Again, it has the two contrasting panels. Plain jersey for the front and sequins for the back. Subtle but teasing. I also like the classic shape, the sparkle and its' elegance. It's beautiful.

And now to the beauty . . .

 * Escentrics Molecule 01 here
This scent only contains one molecule and apparently, it is the important one, the one that attracts others. I'm very curious as to what this would smell like on me (apparently it can smell different on different people but is generally deep and woody) and if it would gauge any compliments. I also like the fact that others may not recognise the scent and I'd be wearing something different as I think, this is scent is not particularly well-known outside the online beauty community.

* Phylia de M, Connect here
I've been lusting after this leave-in treatment for about a month now, back around then I read an article in Vogue about big hair. Well, there is no doubt that my natural hair has finally reached 'Destination Long'. However, I'm still obsessed with my extensions as my hair just looks so thin and lacklustre without them. Apparently it takes some time to grow your hair long and then more time to grow it out in to voluminous locks to flaunt. Phylia Connect is expensive but is marketed as barnet fertiliser, a potent and concentrated treatment for your scalp, follicles and hair. One journalist claims hair was sprinting out of her head after using this concoction for a month. Given that, I think, I want this more then anything else on this list!!!

* The Burberry Eyeshadow in Midnight Brown No 21 here
Tanya Burr did a tutorial using this eyeshadow for pale skins a while back and since then, this one has sat patiently on my wish list. It is so pretty and reminds me a little of my beloved Naked from the Urban Decay palette. I think it is a little more shimmery, a bit darker maybe and dare I say a little more interesting but like Naked, I would be able to colour block it on my lid and that would be shadow done. Check out Tanyas' video here, it looks stunning!

* Prestige, My Blackest Lashes I wish it was here!!!
This is the only mascara I've ever used that gives L'Oreal, Volume Million a run for it's money and it was so friggin' cheap in Boots too, about £7 until they discontinued the Prestige line. Sad face. I miss the big, fat, glossy lashes it delivered with NO diva acts.

So that is what I'm swooning over and wishing for at the moment but to be honest, beauty is where I am at in what I actually purchase, particularly skin and haircare. Something that I read on Caroline's blog here keeps resonating in my head, 'If you would spend more on shoes, handbags, lipstick, jeans or fashion in general than you would on high quality skincare - you will be a sixty year old woman (and man) with a vintage wardrobe and a face like an alligator.'

So is anybody lucky enough to have or use any of these?

What are you currently swooonnning over?

I hope you've all had a fabulous weekend!

 

X

  

Jasmin Noir!

Hmmm, now I like to talk perfume.

A lot!

However, I have been wearing Jasmin Noir almost every day for about six weeks now but have yet to mention it here.

It is true that I've been desperate to take a photo of the very unique bottle it comes in. Black and gold, it comes across as quite classy and sophisticated, a bottle I'm quite happy to pull out of my bag and wave around for all to see admire. It doesn't look like any old perfume bottle and I'm sure many of you will agree that when presented with a bottle like this, you're just dying to know what the scent inside smells like.

Well . . , I'll tell you or rather I would if I could but I've found it so difficult to pick apart the overall scent of the perfume and pinpoint individual notes. None of the individual notes (which supposedly include Jasmin, Sambaa, Satin Almond, Gardenia and Liquorice) seem to shout out to me. All I can tell you from a whole lot of sniffing and brain churning is that it smells very woody with the occasional hint of floral (though it is deemed a floral) and that the overall result is really quite nice!

The official line from Bvlgari is that this scent 'is dedicated to a fascinating woman: it's velvety notes reflect its power of seduction, it's intense accords evoke her uncompromising position.'

Ok then I guess, we're talking one sophisticated lady and yes, this scent is sophisticated. It is as I said, a floral with an unmistakable woodiness about it. It is a very deep fragrance and one I would hesitate to wear on holiday. For me, Jasmin Noir isn't really a perfume to wear on the beach but one to spritz just before a very important meeting or under your most beautiful winter coat or and (how much do I want to do this tonight?!) to dine in front of a traditional log fire. It is a warm scent, definitely musky and although I like it, there is not a lot of fluttering (I like my perfumes to flutter or sing with different notes hitting you and catching your attention all the time. That way no note can be too much), this scent seems to know itself better then that and smells pretty much the same from the moment you spray it to the moment you wash it off. Granted, it mutes quite a lot in the first ten to twenty minutes but it pretty much smells the same just to a lesser degree. After about twenty minutes, the scent seems to take its place and nestle in to the skin and stubbornly stays there until it's washed away. It will always be there but when I've walked away from smoke or a busy road or sat along side somebody who, like me, may have squirted a little to much of her own scent, I've noticed how easily the Jasmin Noir gives in and can quickly be masked or overpowered by the opposition. Walk away though and the Jasmin Noir will still be there patiently waiting.

I don't think Jasmin Noir is a scent that could offend people but nor for me, it seems is it a scent that others particularly compliment. For a start, you have to be quite close to smell it and then I don't know, the scent is almost so sophisticated that I think, others would prefer to be quietly captivated by it rather then to try and pluck up the courage and compliment the wearer on it. I can imagine this scent drawing boundaries and it is quite a good scent for work in that way as it lets me go about my day to day business without distraction. Like Ghost, it is a perfume that instantly seems to make me feel a little more level-headed and grown up.

Bvlgari suggests that the Jasmin (one of the heart notes and the namesake) is the 'flower of the imagination' yet there is nothing flighty about this perfume. I suppose in a way, it may engage the imagination of others because it tells them nothing about me. It's not particularly fruity, sweet or oriental. It's just a really, really nice scent there in the background as I go about my business. I guess, the dark bottle reflects its mysterious nature well.

I do really like Jasmin Noir but I was surprised to hear that it is quite a new release as there is nothing obviously gimmicky or contemporary about it (although like quite a few recent releases, there is a bit of liquorice). Its class, dignity and subtle tone seems almost reminiscent of a time now passed but I've happily worn this for the last six weeks and would not hesitate to spritz it again if a new bottle just happens to find its way in to my stocking this Christmas. If you're simply looking for a lovely scent that lasts then Jasmin Noir could be it!

The Bvlgari website is here! Just how soothing is that music?! I must be getting old!!!

*****

And quickly moving away from scent for a second, I've just got to thank you all for your support. I reached 100 GFC followers earlier this week and the smile from my face can not be scrubbed off. Thank you for the follows, comments and tweets. You all seem so lovely and I wish, many of you were in my 'real' life. I hope to post a little giveaway very soon to celebrate in style(!) and to say thank you again!

Now back to the scent, what scents do you recommend? Which one are you wearing right now? What one would you like for Christmas? Have you tried Jasmin Noir? Have an amazing start to the weekend.

 

X

It's got to be 'Yes!'



Found on Pinterest!

So, a little post today. I'm sure many of you already have but just in case, you haven't then I want to urge you all to read a couple of posts by two other lovely bloggers.

I read this post by Zoe about a month ago, 'Just Say Yes' and this one from Lisette 'My 2012 half year to-do list' around the same time and I'm sure both of these posts have just given me that little push to make a bit more of life and do the things that I'm always thinking about but not actually doing.

Partly inspired by L and M from the C.S.I Beauty Blog and their 101 lists, I already had a list of what I wanted from 2012. Unfortunately come September and 3/4 of the way in to the year, virtually nothing was crossed off and then I read Zoe and Lisettes' posts and realised there was no reason to write off 2012 yet.



Found on Pinterest!

 

Since then I have . . .

* Had a small tattoo (or three teeny ones, to be precise)

* Had micropigmentation (semi-permanent make up!)

* Signed up for the London Marathon

* Thrown myself and my heart in to the blogging community and found some of you lovely lot, *waves* :))

* Completed a course of hypnosis sessions, aimed at giving me a little more zest, confidence and get up+go

* Oh and not forgetting, the Crayola "Masterpiece" (ahem, I might have another go) I've just created Milly style (see her post here).

I'm not sure how many of these things I actually would have bothered to see through if it hadn't been for the inspiration Lisette and Zoe served in their fantastic posts. They may only be little things but they've all made me smile and y'know when it comes down to it, you can't want much more from life then happy moments. :)

So if anyone wants a little shove in to living life again then I can not recommend a read of their posts enough. Just imagine what the future could hold!!!



By Claire Smillie of Creativity Rocks You can check her beautiful portfolio out and find stockists here (iphone covers, unique cushions, prints and more. )

What do you want to do, see, buy(!) right now? Hope your week has started well. Until next time . . .

 

X

Semi-permanent eyeliner!

Eyeliner has always been a bit of stumbling block for me. No matter how hard I try, I very rarely perfect it and if I do, it is usually three or four hours (and five or six tantrums) after initially plopping down in front of the mirror AND by then, my eyes are so irritated and watery that the so allusive 'perfect' line quickly becomes a black splodgy mess.

One big fat sigh!

Few things frustrate me more. I've tried so hard over the years to master some kind of lining technique but to little avail and I've got to say as far as make up can, this makes me sad.

You see, y'all know I'm a bit of a sucker for mascara. I like my eyes to look their best. To be honest, its the first thing I notice in others and I guess, I wonder if it the same in reverse. If it is, if my eyes are the first thing people notice about me then I want them looking darn good and sorry, but without eyeliner, sometimes I think my make up looks a little incomplete or as if I haven't bothered. I also think certain eyeliner looks give off a bit of a professional air and that all eyeliner makes a person instantly look more confident. As I grow older, I find this appeals to me more and more.

See, I friggin' love eyeliner, I should be showcasing flicks and lines everyday. . . if only I could apply it.

Well, I can't so I have opted for a little help . . , semi-permanent eyeliner.

Semi-permanent eye liner (micropigmentation) is similar to a tattoo in that pigment is injected in to the skin to leave a lasting mark. All semi-permanent make up procedures should be done by a qualified specialist (and not your everyday tattoo artist). My therapist is actually a qualified nurse, a fact I repeated to myself again and again as I saw the shadow of the needle heading towards my eyes! The most common features enhanced by semi-permanent make up are the eyebrows, lash lines and lips. I have opted to have eyeliner micropigmentation on both my top and bottom lash lines.

Semi-permanent make up does not tend to last as long as a tattoo. It is not permanent. In my case, I had an initial consultation (including patch tests. Note: I believe that you have to be 18+ to have semi-permanent make up in England) and it was explained to me that the pigment would be placed in to my skin during the first appointment and a guideline would be formed. Then on the second appointment, at least 4 weeks later, a little more pigment would be added and my lines would be perfected. My therapist could not pinpoint exactly how long the lines would remain perfectly in place but she strongly recommended a booster session after the first year then sometimes, the make up can last six years or so but again, it depends on the products you use, your environment and natural skin exfoliation and reactions. Annual boosters may be necessary for some.

So far, I have only had my first appointment but I'm quite impressed. I will do a full post after my second appointment but so far I can make the following points:

The look!



A photo I took on my phone a couple of hours after the treatment.

- The initial lines, particularly the top one, looked great. The pigmentation of the black I'd chosen was very strong and the colour was solid. My eyes were obviously lined but very neatly so it didn't look too much. I was advised not to wear eye make up for a while and that first night, I didn't need a scratch.

 

 

What my eyes look like now.

- Moving on four weeks and right now, if you looked at me straight on, you may see a difference in my eye make up but you probably wouldn't be able to pinpoint what it was or any obvious eyeliner.

After the first appointment, you are told that 70% of the pigmented new lines will appear to disappear in the first week (you do not lose as much after your second appointment as then there is a pigmented base to work from) and that is about right. My bottom lash line and the ends of the top lash line have muted greatly. The needle used was very thin and precise and now, my lash line just looks deeper. Although from above, you can see fine lines.

- I've got to say that even though the eyeliner is not particularly identifiable as eyeliner, my face does seem to be taking less time to do in the mornings. I don't think I look made up when I wake up or anything but I just don't seem to need quite as many layers of mascara or blush to awaken or brighten my face up. There is no doubt the lines have added something already even if you can not always see "lines".

- My therapist has initially given me two lines which follow my natural lash lines. There are no flicks or anything like that. If I want those, I can (easily?!!) add them myself. Some therapists may add these more arty touches on the second appointment. I think, my therapist would prefer not to. She sees the treatment as one to enhance my natural lash line and something I can build on further. Once you have your therapist put flicks or cat eyes on, you define the way your face and style will be for months, possibly years to come. It's a bit of a commitment as far as make up goes.


About a week after the treatment. This is what I would like the finished look to look like although I've just noted one eye still looks a little swollen.

Yes, I've go to say that I'm pretty happy with the initial lines that I've been given. I may ask the therapist just to take them in ever so slightly further to the inner and outer corners but I don't want her to stray from my natural lash line or close my eyes up. With the lines, I currently have, versatility is maintained. I can go over them with different eyeliner products and colours. I can also add to them to change the shape of the line for a special night or to indulge my latest whim or the the latest fashion. Who knows maybe if I keep tracing over the pigment, I may get the art of eyeliner in to my head and be able to do it myself, without any guidelines, by the time the pigment disappears. Yes, flying pigs!!

And 'cos I'm sure you're all wondering . . .the pain!

- The initial application did not hurt too much at the time. Though I did find it more painful then a tattoo I recently had (but then I didn't find the tattoo painful at all). The needle bit was bearable and I did not need any breaks. The therapist went over each eye four times with pigment. Local numbing products was used. It took about an hour.

- My eyes felt more or less fine for the first 12 hours after the treatment and I drove 30 minutes home with no problems. The next morning, my eyes felt very heavy and began to look swollen. Within 24 hours, they were very, very swollen and extremely sore. It took about 48 hours for this to die down. Even though, my therapist had warned me over and over about this. The extremity of discomfort those couple of days did worry me at the time and I started panicking, thinking, 'Is this normal?'. I think, I was just so shocked because they had felt so ok on the day itself.



Ouch! 24 hours after the initial treatment.

- After the initial 2 or 3 days, my eyes felt (and looked) normal again. Very occasionally, maybe 2 or 3 times a week, I have a couple of minutes where it feels as if there is something in my eye. It may be they are a little bit dry, it reminds me of how they felt when I tried contact lenses at the beginning of the year (disaster!) but passes much quicker. For the first couple of weeks, I would also find little flakes of pigments of my cheeks or face cloth.

Anyway, at the moment, as uncomfortable as the aftermath was, I'm hoping that it will all be worth it. This was just a post today to introduce you to semi-permanent make up but I will follow up with my final thoughts after my second appointment next week.

Would you consider semi-permanent make up? How do you master eyeliner? Have you had any cosmetic treatments to try and enhance your look or just make life a little easier?

 

Have a fab weekend. Until next time . . .

 

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