Friday, 24 October 2014
My Little Box October Edition Teams Up With Diane Von Furstenberg For A Exclusively Designed Box
My Little Box by Diane Von Furstenberg is a box exclusively designed by the famous American fashion designer best known for her wrap dressed.
The box which is sturdily designed has a cute image of a lady wearing a leopard print dress chatting on the phone. No stone has been left unturned and even the sides of the box have a fantastic zany black and green pattern.
Inside we firstly come across a illustration from Diane advising that we should be the woman we want to be. It shows what I believe is a depiction of Diane sprawled across a desk in front of some of the worlds most famous sky scrapers. Wise words from a wise woman.
October's magazine which is themed around fashion and the iconic wrap dress gives you a exclusive interview with Diane, a glowing makeup tutorial,tips on how to give body to your hair and even a tutorial showing you how to wear a scarf.
So now you've got a little insight about what October's box is all about here's a glance at what treats are in store.
Leopard print scarf
Diane Von Fustenburg's influence reigns heavily on this box, and none more so then in this exclusive leopard print scarf. This gorgeous scarf is packaged so carefully in its own little box and includes a diagram on several different ways to wear and use the scarf.
A Kiss from Diane
If you love your accessories this cute little kiss pin will take pride of place on your coat. This bold lip pin is bright enough to draw a few eyes but small enough that it can be easily hidden away if need be. It's a cute little bit of jewellery that's actually quite different to what you would find on the high street.
Eau Micellaire Demaquillante My Little Beauty 'Micellar water'
You've had a long hard day, and been hard at work for most of it. Now you've dragged yourself into the bathroom an see in your reflection that you haven't even taken your makeup off yet. It may be a pain when the last thing you want to do is wipe your makeup off but spending one minute with My Little Beauty's Miscellar water will actually remove your makeup, and use its orange and aloe vera properties to smooth even the most sensitive skin. It's refreshing and easy to use and so much nicer then piling into bed with your makeup still on.
L'Occitane Vanilla Hand Cream
You may not realise it but you probably use your hands all. day. long. Whether you're typing, holding your shopping bags, touching your phone, clapping or even doing your buttons up you're using your hands. Your hands do so much for you and it's about time you gave something back. The lovely vanilla scented cream helps to nourish and restore your hands, leaving them soft and supple. Perfect for preventing your hands cracking in the cold weather that's yet to come.
Go full size for £8.00 at L'Occitane
Keratase Paris Lacque Noire Fixing Hairspray
Like your clothing and your makeup having good hair speaks volumes. To get hair that's just on trend Lacque Noire hairspray offers extra strong hold that's versatile and dries quickly and
invisibly, keeping your hair in place.
Go full size for £12.80 at Look Fantastic
Final Thoughts
October's Very Paris themed box is great for reminding you of the great products to hail from our nearest neighbour. Whilst the box is very cute and packaged beautifully I have to say the products didn't really set my excitement alight. I have to say I am disappointed, especially compared to last months launch box but every beauty box can be hit and miss. It certainly has great potential and is definitely a box to watch.
Goto My Little Box to subscribe.
Wednesday, 22 October 2014
My Little Parisienne Box Is One Of The First My Little Box To Hit UK Soil
My Little Box is the brand new beauty box that comes all the way from France.It began life 5 years ago as My Little Paris, on the rooftop of a building close to Montmartre. The newsletter which was originally sent to a few friends, spread the word about secret Parisian addresses, the idea spiraled and word soon spread building up a community of 1.5 million readers. From that point the brand didn't stop and after writing three books, they launched My Little Box. With 80,000 subscribers already in France My Little Box have finally launched in the UK. The beautifully illustrated boxes include must have beauty products including those from their own in house beauty range My Little Beauty, fashion and lifestyle accessories, my Little World magazine, illustrated goodies by Kanako and lots of other surprises.
I first saw this box on someones blog and loved how cute they looked. You can subscribe for £11.00 a month plus £3.95 postage and packaging which is a little bit more expensive then our UK friends but it depends on what you're looking for in a box.
My Little Parisienne Box is one of the first My Little Boxes to hit UK soil. The box is themed around the romantic city of Paris, including a array of treats straight from the imaginations of the creators Fany and friends. Featured on the box's imagery is a lady enjoying a coffee in a cafe with a copy of a French newspaper.
So what's inside?
Stickers!
The surprise gift is a set of Paris themed stickers that give you a bit of Paris to stick everywhere, be it on your phone, your fridge, your notebook, window or even your computer. The male sticker almost looks like a certain Robert Pattinson, would you agree?
Notepad
My Little Carnet is a cute little notebook that not only tells you the story of the brand but it also gives you room to jot down your dreams to your hearts consent. It even has a ribbon to keep it tightly shut.
Geek is the new chic laptop case
This cute polka dot themed laptop case is perfect for giving a fashionable new home for you to transport your laptop around. Whilst the material isn't exactly strong, as long as you don't go bashing your laptop around (which I'm sure you don't!) it'll be perfectly safe.
Encased in a adorable bow themed drawstring bag were the following beauty products:
Laura Mercier Foundation Primer
This award winning primer is just what I was hoping to see in a beauty box. The primer is the perfect compliment to your foundation, allowing your foundation to be applied properly and avoiding any embarrassing makeup lines. Even if you don't want to wear foundation you can wear the primer alone to give a fresh and natural glow to your skin. Perfect if you're running late and don't have time for your morning makeup sesh.
Go full size for £29.00 at House of Fraser
Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil
Parisian women are famed for their gorgeous silhouette and glowing skin. The secret to their style is actually a lot closer to home then you might think - it's all down to Huile Prodigieuse Multi-purpose dry oil.
The oil which has a unique and sensational smell can be used on your hair, hands and anywhere else to give it a silky feel and not to mention a gorgeous scent. The secret is no more, you better snap it up before everyone else does!
Currently on ofer at Essentual for £18.28! (RRP £28.00)
Stylo Lumiere My Little Beauty
This cute little pen packs a lot more power then you might think. Encased within is a complexion brightening formula that can be used for a foundation quick fix, eyeshadow primer or even a boost to your tired 6pm complexion. Its velvety texture will ensure it applies like a dream.
Available for £11 from My Little Beauty.
Final Thoughts
All in all my first impressions of My Little Box are good ones. Beauty boxes often have a lot to prove when they first launch with the pressure of many existing brands with thousands of followers. With a existing backing My Little Box is proof of its success and I can only see that rising in the UK. The items in the box are super cute and I can see myself actually using them, especially the complexion brightener and primer. Tres bien!
Monday, 20 October 2014
October's Birch Box Supports Coppafeel In Aid of Breast Cancer Awareness Month
In today's modern world we're only too aware of the number of cancers affecting young women all over the country. This month is breast cancer awareness month and what could be a better time for Birch Box to raise awareness of the fantastic charity Coppafeel, set up to raise awareness of breast cancer.
Whether you've been personally affected by breast cancer or know a family member or friend who has I'm sure you all realise how important it is to raise awareness of this horrible disease. If you don't know what symptoms to look for, Birchbox include a check list on what changes to look for in your boobs which might just save your life.
Along with the usual bite sized treats, October's box includes a cute pink lipstick pen and a 14 day planner to set and achieve goals, try new things and tips on using this months products. It's all about working it and being motivated to tackle whatever these Autumnal days bring.
So now I've given you a insight into what October's box is all about I bet you're dying to know what's inside!
All is revealed...
Cattier Pink Clay Face Mask
This face mask is packed with aloe vera to illuminate your complexion and soften skin. To use simply apply a thick layer over your face and neck for 10 minutes, making sure that you avoid your eyes and lips.
Go full size for £4.25
KMS California Hair Play Playable Texture Spray
Do you love playing with your hair but can never get the style you desire? This multi-functional spray can be used to prep, style and set your finished look. You can use it on wet hair as a prep spray for blow drying or styling or on dry hair to add volume and restyle.
Go full size for £15.50.
Shaveworks The Cool Fix
We've all woken up the next morning to find horribly inflamed razor bumps or ingrown hairs caused by shaving. This ingenious cooling gel helps to treat ingrown hairs and razor bumps helping to reduce redness after removal. You can use this AM and PM until the irritaiton completely fades.
Go full size for £11.00
Pixi by Petra Shea Butter Lip Balm
This little lip balm not only nourishes lips with the infused shea butter, it also gives you that litle hint of colour that you so desire. Apply to your lips from the bullet and to build colour simply layer it up and work it.
Go full size for £8.00
Meaningful Beauty Glowing Serum
This product is the brain child of Dr. Sebagh and Cindy Crawford and is designed to add the radiance back to your complexion. It also helps to reduce ageing. Win, win I say! Use in the morning before moisturising or anytime for a quick pick me up.
Birchbox Lipstick Pen
Love your lipstick? Now you can even write with one! This fun, lipstick shaped pen can be easily popped in your handbag or makeup bag to tick off your goals one by one.
If you don't have one, you can buy one online for £2.50.
If you liked any of these products you can get their full sized counterparts at Birchbox. You'll get free shipping on this months brands as long as you spend a minimum of £10.00.
3 Ways You Can Support CoppaFeel!
1. CoppaFeel want you to share a image of you 'copping a feel' with the message I copped a feel! #coppabirchbox @coppafeelpeople @BirchboxUK. By taking part Birchbox will donate £1 to CoppaFeel! Just think if you can get all your friends and family involved you'll be raising so much money for taking part in a little fun.
2. You should check your boobs every 14 days, ideally after your period as your boobs are less lumpy then. It only takes 5 minutes to check but if you need a reminder text BOOBS to 70300 for a free reminder every month.
3. If you're aged 18-35, have been diagnosed with breast cancer or had a breast cancer scare and would like to help young people become champions of boob health by sharing your story you can become a CoppaFeel Boobette. You'll get to tell youngsters what happened at schools, work places, youth groups and more. Visit coppafeel.org/boobettes for more information.
Saturday, 18 October 2014
Top tips on how to be a savvy shopper!
Cashback
You've probably all seen the adverts in the magazines offering you cashback when you buy products online. You might think it's just a ploy or a scam to get you to spend money and fear you won't actually get anything in return. I can confirm it's all genuine, and you really can get paid just for doing the shopping you need to do.
Sites like Topcashback and Quidco offer money back on food, fashion, insurance, travel, hotels and lots more. Top offers include £168.00 to kit your home out with the complete Sky bundle, £105.00 for Plusnet broadband and lots more.
When I was struggling with paying for the vital things in life getting cashback gave me the opportunity to set a little money aside and use it for special occasions like birthdays or Christmas which I couldn't otherwise afford.
Voucher codes
I've always hated having to pay full price for things and when I found there were actually regular voucher codes available to help soften the blow I couldn't believe it. Nights out to restaurants like Zizis and Beefeater were suddenly affordable as I could get 10% off or one main meal free. The codes even worked online and what would be a £100.00 shop got transformed into £80.00. The extra money I saved went a long way and helped to fund a luxury holiday to Greece for the whole family.
I found the best sites were Voucher Codes and Money Saving Expert
Competitions
You may wonder how competitions fits in with being a savvy shopper but I can assure you it does have some logic. There are many free competitions available on the internet, and even on your tub of butter that gives you the opportunity to win a product you could never afford or a holiday to Florida you could only dream of. Having entered competitions for several years now I can only vouch for the positiveness it has brought to my life. Free ipads, trips to Paris and Ireland, shopping vouchers and even a movie premiere bring so much happiness to my life and my families, but also helps me to save money I would have spent otherwise. Instead of saving months for that Ipad I won it, and it only spurs me on to try and win more. If I don't need the prize I can sell it on Ebay and use the funds to feed my family, or even put it aside for some treats for them.
The best sites to try are The Prizefinder and Moneysavingexpert
Surveys
Companies all over hte country are dying to get your opinion and there's no better way to do it then through survey panels. The surveys which are completely free give you the opportunity to tell companies what you think of electricity, water, beauty products, food and so much more. Every survey you do gets you points or money which you can put towards shopping vouchers, gifts or a monetary value through Paypal. Every reward is a treat for my family, whether I can buy them new clothes or put the money aside for Christmas or their birthdays.
Since the birth of the internet I have managed to save so much money and really become a savvy shopper. At every corner there is a opportunity to save a bit of money with a voucher code or even make some with a easy survey. It's so easy to do and is so rewarding in the long run.
Friday, 17 October 2014
Sure Compressed Cotton Ultra Dry Antiperspirant review
The Gloss
Sure Compressed antiperspirant uses motion sense system to compress 250ml of product into a 125ml can. The product is dermatologically tested and alcohol free to allow for comfortable wear.
Designed to last for 48 hours the Motion Sense system helps to protect you when you move.
The lowdown
I have used quite a few of these compressed antiperspirants before and I'm still on the fence as to whether they last as long as their bigger counterparts. It has quite a fresh smell and didn't leave any white patches when applied. Later that day I still smelt fresh and didn't experience any wetness the entire day.
A excellent antiperspirant that really does the job by keeping you sweat free and smelling good all day.
I give it 5/5
Advantages
There's currently a offer on where you get 2 Sure deodorants for just £4 at Boots
- Keeps you dry all day
- The product is long lasting and I still smelt fresh later that day
- Small handbag sized product which can be easily whipped out on the move
Disadvantages
- None that I can see
Wednesday, 15 October 2014
Sure Women Maximum Protection Anti-perspirant Deodorant review
The Gloss
Sure Women Maximum Protection Deodorant is a dermatologically tested TRIsolid cream that is scientifically proven to reduce wetness. Using innovative body response technology it contains three important components which include:
The Lowdown
Normally I use spray deodorants as they're simple to use and can be quickly sprayed when in a rush. The Sure Maximum protection anti-antiperspirant deodorant is innovative as it is unlike any deodorant you may have seen before. Unlike deodorants that reduce bacteria and add fragrance to masks smell, the antiperspirant deodorant helps to eliminate sweat in addition to preventing odour. The product is kept fresh with a silver seal to avoid any contamination and to avoid any bacteria getting in. To get to the product you need to twist the bottom which pushes the powder towards the top. It wasn't the easiest product to maneuver and I found that only a small amount of the cream reached the top which reduced the amount that could be applied. On first impressions I felt the product itself looked quite unusual as I have never seen cream used as a deodorant before. It has a very strong smell which I have to admit is quite off putting initially, however it's not as strong once the cream is applied.
With a enclosed leaflet that gives guidance on the product and answers any questions I felt it was a excellent way of introducing people to the product and giving insight into how it works.
The product advises to apply the night before for the most optimal results as it is designed to work over a 48 hour period. The cream was pleasant to use and didn't irritate my armpit area even after shaving. The next day my armpits still smelt fresh and despite doing some heavy duty shopping that afternoon my armpits remained dry. The products scent certainly faded over the course of time but I didn't detect any bad body odour which suggest the product was still doing its job.
Overall, a innovative antiperspirant deodorant that works over a long period of time, helping to keep your armpits dry and odour free.
Buy this for only £4.99 in Boots and get a free sample (online only)
I give it 4/5
Advantages
Sure Women Maximum Protection Deodorant is a dermatologically tested TRIsolid cream that is scientifically proven to reduce wetness. Using innovative body response technology it contains three important components which include:
- The maximum wetness protection from Sure
- Odour fighting technology
- Skin moisturising ingredients
The Lowdown
Normally I use spray deodorants as they're simple to use and can be quickly sprayed when in a rush. The Sure Maximum protection anti-antiperspirant deodorant is innovative as it is unlike any deodorant you may have seen before. Unlike deodorants that reduce bacteria and add fragrance to masks smell, the antiperspirant deodorant helps to eliminate sweat in addition to preventing odour. The product is kept fresh with a silver seal to avoid any contamination and to avoid any bacteria getting in. To get to the product you need to twist the bottom which pushes the powder towards the top. It wasn't the easiest product to maneuver and I found that only a small amount of the cream reached the top which reduced the amount that could be applied. On first impressions I felt the product itself looked quite unusual as I have never seen cream used as a deodorant before. It has a very strong smell which I have to admit is quite off putting initially, however it's not as strong once the cream is applied.
With a enclosed leaflet that gives guidance on the product and answers any questions I felt it was a excellent way of introducing people to the product and giving insight into how it works.
The product advises to apply the night before for the most optimal results as it is designed to work over a 48 hour period. The cream was pleasant to use and didn't irritate my armpit area even after shaving. The next day my armpits still smelt fresh and despite doing some heavy duty shopping that afternoon my armpits remained dry. The products scent certainly faded over the course of time but I didn't detect any bad body odour which suggest the product was still doing its job.
Overall, a innovative antiperspirant deodorant that works over a long period of time, helping to keep your armpits dry and odour free.
Buy this for only £4.99 in Boots and get a free sample (online only)
I give it 4/5
Advantages
- Innovative design
- The antiperspirant deodorant helps to prevent odour and sweating
- Works over a 48 hour period so it is not essential to apply in the morning if you feel the product is still working
- The product is quite different to a typical deodorant and some people may find the unique design a little off putting and tricky to use.
Tuesday, 14 October 2014
My blinging shopping haul New Look, H&M, Miss Selfridge, Accessorize
This Saturday the plan was to go to Chessington World of Adventures as I had won tickets quite a while ago and wanted to use them before they expired. Unfortunately the M25 as always got in the way, and as Junction 5 was closed me and my mum decided to goto Maidstone instead. Here's a quick look at what I bought:
5. New Look Crystal flower necklace £3.99
6. New Look 3D Deco necklace £12.99
7. New Look Pearl gem necklace £9.99
8. H&M white vest top £12.99
9. Accessorize delicate stud set £5.00
10. Accessorize Ruchi circle pendant £7.00
11. Accessorize Madeline flower bracelet £15.00
1. Miss Selfridge white dress £35.00
2. Black dimante jacket £10.00 (random shop, sorry!)
3. Miss Selfridge white blouse £21.00
4. New Look embedded shell top £19.995. New Look Crystal flower necklace £3.99
6. New Look 3D Deco necklace £12.99
7. New Look Pearl gem necklace £9.99
9. Accessorize delicate stud set £5.00
10. Accessorize Ruchi circle pendant £7.00
11. Accessorize Madeline flower bracelet £15.00
Labels:
h&m,
necklace,
new look,
shopping haul,
shopping haul maidstone
Monday, 13 October 2014
Get energised this winter with Radox citrus shower gels: Mandarin and Lemongrass tried and tested
The Gloss
Radox has unleashed 4 fresh new citrus flavours which help to bring back memories of summer. The four citrus variants are themed around improving your mood and awakening your senses:
- Revive Mandarin and Lemongrass
- Uplifting Grapefruit and Basil
- Energise with Key Lime and Peppermint
- Invigorate with Lemon and Rosemary
The Lowdown
The bright orange packaging of the Mandarin and Lemongrass shower gel will ensure you'll spot it when you step bleary eyed into the shower in the morning. It has a uniquely shaped bottle that is designed so it's easy to grip. The fresh Mandarin and Lemongrass scent is strong enough to awaken your senses but not so overpowering that it's off-putting. The gel does lather although not so much that you look like you're sprouting bubbles.
After showering there a slight scent that lingers for a few hours on my skin. I love how fresh this shower gel is and how the gorgeous smell invigorates the senses.
A great buy that will help you to feel bright and energised all day.
I give it 4/5
Grab yours whilst it's on offer for only £1.00 at Boots
Advantages
- Gives a fresh invigorating feeling
- Lovely Mandarin and Lemongrass scent that helps to wake you up in the morning
Disadvantages
- None that I can see
Wednesday, 8 October 2014
It's all about the jewellery shopping: October 3 Shopping Haul featuring New Look, Dorothy Perkins, Debenhams and more
Last Saturday I caught up with a friend I hadn't seen in ages and had a pretty mammoth shopping trip. Check out my haul:
Monday, 6 October 2014
Schwarzkopf Got 2b Oil-licious Tame and Shine oil -calm the mane - review
The Gloss
Do you feel that sleek, glossy hair is a distant memory? Fed up of dragging your brush through a frizzy mess every morning?
Schwarzkopf Got 2b Oil-licious Tame and Shine is a non greasy oil formula with Argan oil that absorbs instantly and can be used to give hair extra care before washing, better manageability on damp hair and for a sleek finish on dry hair.
The Lowdown
With its multi functionality usage and claim to transform your hair into a glossy mane I was keen on trying it. Generally my hair isn't too hard to manange, I get a few knots from time to time but nothing that makes me want to tear my hair out. However I do feel my hair could be shinier and glossier, doesn't every girl?!
The bottle is small and handbag sized so you can whip it out when you're out and about. It has a lovely almost perfume like smell that makes your hair smell divine.The oil consistency was really quite thin and it didn't leave your hand as greasy as some oil based products. They advise you to use just 1-2 pumps on towel dried hair but I always get a bit carried away and apply a little bit more then that. The oil absorbs quite quickly in damp hair and it didn't feel greasy when applied.
When I brushed my hair the morning after washing it didn't feel quite as hard to get the brush through as normal. My hair did have a shine to it but I wouldn't go as far to say it was really glossy.
When applied to the roots and ends of dry hair I failed to see any major effect. Initially the oil did leave a bit of a damp patch but it absorbed into the hair quite quickly. Unlike some hair products it doesn't leave a sticky, crunchy residue once it has dried which is always a bonus.
I feel if my hair was a little bit more frizzy and out of control this oil could be a really great product to help tame it. It's great for making styling a little bit easier but doesn't add as much shine as you may be led to believe.
I give it 4/5
Get yours for £3.00 at Boots
Advantages
- Gorgeous fragrance that makes your hair smell amazing
- The oil is not as greasy as most oil based products and absorbs quickly
- Has multi-functionality and can be used before washing, on damp hair and dry hair.
- Helps make hair a lot more manageable
- The products by line is tame and shine so I was expecting a little more shine out of this product.
Friday, 3 October 2014
The best beauty advent calendars for 2014 revealed
Move over chocolate it's all about the fantastic new range of 2014 beauty advent calendars that we're celebrating this year.
You may think I'm a little premature for talking about advent calenders when we're only just into October but believe me if you want one of these you need to act fast. The idea of beauty advent calenders was first launched around 2012 and was instantly a massive sell out. I only realised they're were available when it was too late in 2012 so in 2013 I was determined to get my hands on the best advent calenders out there. Whilst I got a Boots and You Beauty calendar, the allusive Selfridge's advent calendar slipped out of my grasp.
There's lots of fantastic brands launching their own advent calender this year and they look amazing. Here's the lowdown.
Benefit advent calender
With the launch of Benefit's first ever advent calender in 2013 there was bound to be pandemonium. It was worse - it was Benefit Gate. When the calenders were launched on 2nd November pretty much everyone was poised at their computer ready to click buy when they went on sale at 1pm. Only they didn't go on sale - and several hours later they appeared and were sold out within minutes. This of course caused much upset and many complaints form Benefit fans. This year I hope will be different. The 2014 calendar is all about a candy coated countdown to the big day including a range of the brands best sellers and adorable beauty accessories that will give you a warm glow.
Available at Benefitcosmetics and Debenhams for £60.00 from 16th October
Selfridges
One of the creme de la creme of advent calendars, and one I have managed to get this year. The Enchanted Spells advent calendar is full of glorious products hiding behind each door. With brands like Lancome, Yves Saint Laurent, Kiehl's and Victor and Rolf this will see your festive season going off with a bang. A total must have.
Available at Selfridges for £85.00
Ciate
For those of you who love your nails get excited as Ciate launch their 2014 edition of the advent calendar. Ciate's mini manor is full of their best selling shades, texture polishes and even festive transfers. Adorable.
Available at Selfridges, John Lewis, Asos and Ciate from £49.00
Liberty
For those of you with a big budget this is the ultimate of all beauty advent calendars. From one of the most renown department stores in London comes a host of luxury treats including Nars, Dermalogica, Laura Mercier and Diptyque. It may be pricey but it's certainly on my want list!
Available at £125.00 in stores and online at Liberty from November.
No7
Last year was Boot's first advent calendar and this year they're back with a focus on one of their in house brands No7. Worth a amazing £135.00 (but only priced at £35.00) this gift of 25 No7 products is a makeup must have. You'll even get some of the best sellers including No7 Protect and Perfect Intense Day Cream. What an investment.
Available at Boots stores and online for £35.00 from 29th October.
Elemis
This 12 days of beauty and luxury skincare calendar may seem a little smaller then the rest but the majority of products are full size. Get pampering early and well into 2015 with this great calendar.
Available at Timetospa for £59.50 now! Get buying girls!
L'Occitane
With L'Occitane's In Provence 2014 calendar you'll get 13 gorgeous treats instead of the 24 expected treats. As is tradition in Provence in holiday season there is always 13 desserts on the festival table. In accordance with this tradition L'Occitane are presenting 13 of their best products each with their own sensual fragrance, body and skincare surprise. Before or after Christmas these are pure presents in their own right.
Available for £45.00 at L'Occitane from 3rd November
You may think I'm a little premature for talking about advent calenders when we're only just into October but believe me if you want one of these you need to act fast. The idea of beauty advent calenders was first launched around 2012 and was instantly a massive sell out. I only realised they're were available when it was too late in 2012 so in 2013 I was determined to get my hands on the best advent calenders out there. Whilst I got a Boots and You Beauty calendar, the allusive Selfridge's advent calendar slipped out of my grasp.
There's lots of fantastic brands launching their own advent calender this year and they look amazing. Here's the lowdown.
Benefit advent calender
With the launch of Benefit's first ever advent calender in 2013 there was bound to be pandemonium. It was worse - it was Benefit Gate. When the calenders were launched on 2nd November pretty much everyone was poised at their computer ready to click buy when they went on sale at 1pm. Only they didn't go on sale - and several hours later they appeared and were sold out within minutes. This of course caused much upset and many complaints form Benefit fans. This year I hope will be different. The 2014 calendar is all about a candy coated countdown to the big day including a range of the brands best sellers and adorable beauty accessories that will give you a warm glow.
Available at Benefitcosmetics and Debenhams for £60.00 from 16th October
Selfridges
One of the creme de la creme of advent calendars, and one I have managed to get this year. The Enchanted Spells advent calendar is full of glorious products hiding behind each door. With brands like Lancome, Yves Saint Laurent, Kiehl's and Victor and Rolf this will see your festive season going off with a bang. A total must have.
Available at Selfridges for £85.00
Ciate
For those of you who love your nails get excited as Ciate launch their 2014 edition of the advent calendar. Ciate's mini manor is full of their best selling shades, texture polishes and even festive transfers. Adorable.
Available at Selfridges, John Lewis, Asos and Ciate from £49.00
Liberty
For those of you with a big budget this is the ultimate of all beauty advent calendars. From one of the most renown department stores in London comes a host of luxury treats including Nars, Dermalogica, Laura Mercier and Diptyque. It may be pricey but it's certainly on my want list!
Available at £125.00 in stores and online at Liberty from November.
No7
Last year was Boot's first advent calendar and this year they're back with a focus on one of their in house brands No7. Worth a amazing £135.00 (but only priced at £35.00) this gift of 25 No7 products is a makeup must have. You'll even get some of the best sellers including No7 Protect and Perfect Intense Day Cream. What an investment.
Available at Boots stores and online for £35.00 from 29th October.
Elemis
This 12 days of beauty and luxury skincare calendar may seem a little smaller then the rest but the majority of products are full size. Get pampering early and well into 2015 with this great calendar.
Available at Timetospa for £59.50 now! Get buying girls!
L'Occitane
With L'Occitane's In Provence 2014 calendar you'll get 13 gorgeous treats instead of the 24 expected treats. As is tradition in Provence in holiday season there is always 13 desserts on the festival table. In accordance with this tradition L'Occitane are presenting 13 of their best products each with their own sensual fragrance, body and skincare surprise. Before or after Christmas these are pure presents in their own right.
Available for £45.00 at L'Occitane from 3rd November
Wednesday, 1 October 2014
Make your days happy with a sneak preview of what's inside September's Birchbox
With winter coming (I know it's Autumn but hey) we all need as many happy days as we can get. Birch Box September edition Happy Days helps to give back that happy feeling with a collection of products that aim to pamper you and make you look fantastic to prevent hibernation in the cold months.
Beauty boxes can be hit and miss but I found myself rather impressed with this months Birchbox, have a quick peeps at my thoughts below.
Agave Healing Oil Treatment
This is a lightweight oil that is designed to smooth hair, build resiliency and boost natural shine and colour. The best way to use it is to warm a 5p sized amount between palms and smooth from roots to ends. Bye bye dull hair!Go full size from £16.00
Benefit It's Potent Eye Cream
Dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, they're all a benefit of aging and they're all something Benefit It's Potent tries to prevent. Packed with light peptides this light formula will be your new best friend. Simply dab on the delicate eye area with your ring finger for it to start taking effect.Available in full size from £25.50.
Korres Citrus Body Milk
Not your typical citrus body product, this little beauty smells amazing and works wonders on your skin too. Containing almond oil and shea butter it hydrates and smooths skin. To apply massage into dry skin after bathing or showering.Available from £9.50
Model Co Power Lash Mascara
This powerful looking brush is designed to capture even the smallest of lashes with its unique shape, giving maximum impact with minimal effort. Applying is simple, gently zig zag the brush across your lashes to the tips to get the most impact.
Available from £24.00
BeautyBlender and BlenderCleanser Solid
Like I mentioned in the video this is the new wonder product that has been featured on beauty blogs galore. Not your typical sponge, the Beauty Blender is a ingenious egg shaped sponge that ensures a flawless base. you even get a solid soap to clean it with - what a treat. To use wet the sponge and squeeze out the water then dot into your foundation and stipple over the skin. To clean it simply wet it, stroke across the soap, lather and leave to air dry.Yours for £26.00.
Urban Fruit Smashing Strawberry
Available in three flavours Perfect Pineapple, Smashing Strawberry and Magnificent Mango this is a tasty 100% fruit snack that will add a little sweetness into your life. Forget crisps this is the new snack that is 100% good for you.Available for £13.20 for 6
Birchbox Happy Days Photo Clip
Pretty self explanatory, this little clip lets you put a lovely picture of yourself, friends, family or even your pet snake (if you're so inclined) into it. Keep those happy days going with reflections on happy memories with lovely people.All beauty samples are available at the Birchbox shop. If you spend a minimum of £10.00 you'll also get free shipping. Bargain
What did you think of September's Birchbox? Would you buy it based on what's inside.. Thoughts please ladies.
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