tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12047303596523849802024-03-12T17:12:57.236-07:00Queen Of Tartan"A girl should be two things, Classy and Fabulous" -Coco ChanelQueen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-69286717898104533612015-06-11T04:22:00.000-07:002015-06-11T04:22:46.957-07:00Smouldering Purple Eye As of late I've found myself trying to move away from my comfort zone of browns, golds and neutrals and attempting to infuse a little bit of colour into my makeup routine. A good way I've found of doing this is to pick a colour that's not so out there, purple in my case and introduce it as an element of your look rather than the main event.<br />
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For this look I decided to base my look on rose-golds and accent the look with purples. This is a little bit different for me but still not completely out of my comfort zone. I'd love to have the courage to go for something crazy like this. </div>
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For those of you that don't know, this is <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6jgzx2g3nlbaYkd8EMweKA" target="_blank">Jaclyn Hill</a>. She is so gorgeous and talented. Her videos are fun to watch and at the same time really easy to follow and learn from. Go watch her right now if you haven't already. You can thank me later. </div>
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For now this is a bit much for me and quite frankly I don't have the skills/product to create it so I'll be working up to it. </div>
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So for this look I began by priming my eyes with <a href="http://www.debenhams.ie/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10052_10001_123932101999_-1" target="_blank">Urban Decay Primer Potion</a>. I then covered my lid in <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Maybelline-EyeStudio-Color-Tattoo-24hr-Cream-Gel-Eyeshadow_1253778/" target="_blank">Maybelline Colour Tattoo in Pink Gold</a>.<br />
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This gives a really nice colour on it's own and it also works fab as a base for other shadows. I use this colour all the time. the formula of the colour tattoo shadows is fantastic. They are just as good as MAC Paintpots and literally half the price. Using my <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/brushes/217-blending-brush/invt/77x1832xm87l" target="_blank">MAC 217</a> I fanned <a href="http://www.makeupgeek.com/store/eye-products/eyeshadows/makeup-geek-eyeshadows/makeup-geek-eyeshadow-pan-unexpected.html" target="_blank">Makeup Geek Unexpected</a><br />
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into the crease as a transition shade, deepening the colour and blending out the cream shadow from earlier. Be careful not to take this colour too high as it can be a little difficult to blend. I then wet a flat, dense shader brush with <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/solutions/prep+prime-fix+-100ml/invt/77x1832xmw5k01" target="_blank">MAC Fix+</a> and patted the shade trick from my <a href="http://www.debenhams.ie/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10052_10001_123932030999_-1" target="_blank">Urban Decay Naked 3</a><br />
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palette along the bottom of my lid. This shadow is full of really chunky glitter and it's the most divine gold! Using it wet really foils the shadow on the lid and keeps it shimmering and catching the light all day long. This was where I had actually planned to stop but I really wasn't happy with the way unexpected was sitting in and above my crease so I decided to add a little more definition to the look. On my <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Real-Techniques-silicone-liner-brush_1435680/" target="_blank">Real Techniques Silicone Liner brush</a> I took Factory, again from the Naked 3 palette and placed it in the outer corner of the eye running it in to about half way through the crease.<br />
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If your brushes are a little bigger and you find it hard to get that really precise placement of shadows around the eye and especially into the crease, this is a really great way to achieve that. I then used the<a href="http://inglot.ie/makeup-brush-10s.html" target="_blank"> Inglot 10s brush</a> to blend that using windshield wiper motions as I really wanted to concentrate this colour right into the crease rather than spreading it around above the crease. I also wanted to graduate the colour into the inner half of the crease in a sort of ombre effect. </div>
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As usual I then left my eyes and moved on to the face. I didn't have a huge amount of fallout from the shadows but I really wanted to keep the shadows in a slight wing shape at the outer corner so I folded a cotton pad in half and using <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Garnier-Micellar-Cleansing-Water-400ml_1440752/" target="_blank">Garnier Micellar Water</a> I cleaned off the shadow that didn't fit the bill. </div>
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At the moment I'm running out of my Smashbox Liquid Halo Foundation, which I love, but rather than take the easy road and repurchase this, I'm trying to find something bigger and better. Currently I'm trying out Dior Starskin but the shade I've got my tester in which is 010 I think, is a little light for my skin at the moment. For this look I mixed in a small amount of my <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/foundation/studio-fix-fluid-spf-15-30ml/invt/77x1832xm6jc" target="_blank">MAC StudioFix Foundation</a> in NC25 to darken it up a tad and I also added in a tiny amount of <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/illuminators/illuminator/invt/90x3553x2336" target="_blank">Nars Illuminator in Orgasm</a>. I find the pinky orange shade of this highlight really works well with more tanned skin than if I'm using a lighter foundation in the winter months. I find it to be too warm toned for paler days. I then applied all this with my trusty friend, my Sephora Sculpting Sponge. My sponge has seen better days at this point, having been using it for the best part of 3 months. It's so fantastic though I'll keep using it until I have the opportunity to invest in another, (or it quits on grounds of overwork). My skins been a bit odd lately and has decided to erupt on my chin area. I've one or two really stubborn under the skin spots and the makeup refuses to conceal them. Even the industrial strength warpaint, <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Collection-Lasting-Perfection-Concealer_1436032/" target="_blank">Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer</a> can't do it. But on the plus side my skins been less oily, which means I need less powder, which means I get to be more glowy and dewy which has been a welcome development in my book. </div>
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Because I'm not using as much powder I'm bronzing with a powder right away. If I had chosen to go in with my Maybelline Fit Me Stick today my face would have been considerably oilier. Although the colour pay off in those is absolutely brilliant they're quite greasy and in work it can get quite hot so I like to keep those for cooler days. Needless to say mine won't be coming on holidays this year. I really don't feel they would hold up in the heat and humidity. Using a Fluffy Flat Eye Brush, I scuplted out the cheekbone with my <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/benefit-hoola-bronzing-powder_2819/" target="_blank">Benefit Hoola</a>. I also brought it down the sides of the nose, along the top of the forehead, into the temples and under the bottom lip. Using a fan brush I dusted <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/mineralize-skinfinish/invt/77x1832xmt13280000" target="_blank">MAC Soft and Gentle</a> along the tops of the cheekbones, down the centre of the nose and out in a fan at the top and into the cupids bow. I blended all of this out again with the damp sponge. </div>
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I then lined my upper lashline using my <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Maybelline-Eyestudio-Master-Graphic-Eyeliner_1507646/" target="_blank">Maybelline Master Graphic Liner</a> and also lined my upper waterline with a black pencil liner. I brought both unexpected and trick, two of the shades I used earlier under my eye. You could bring any of the colours you've used on your eye underneath but I chose to stick with the lighter colours as this look was for daywear. I coated my lashes in <a href="http://www.debenhams.ie/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10052_10001_123932000499_-1" target="_blank">Urban Decay Supercurl Mascara</a> and applied Eye Candy Lashes in 001.<br />
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I picked mine up from TK Maxx for €3.99. These are a steal at that price! I've used mine 3 times now and they're still perfect! I outlined and filled in my brows using my <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Rimmel-Professional-Eye-Brow-Pencil_6946/" target="_blank">Rimmel brow pencil in Hazel</a> and <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/LOreal-Paris-Perfection-Brow-Artist-Plumper_1538996/" target="_blank">L'oreal Brow Artist Brow Plumper</a>. I'll be posting a full post on brows soon. </div>
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I finished the look by applying <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/lipstick/sheen-supreme-lipstick/invt/77x1832xmj4g" target="_blank">MAC Supreme Sheen Lipstick in Pleasurefruit</a>. </div>
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I love this look and the eyes lasted without budging all day. </div>
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If you'd like to see a mini review on the different foundations I've been trying out let me know on the facebook page and I'll be delighted.<br />
As always if you recreate this look tag me on twitter, facebook and now instagram @kate_mray</div>
Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-34371576283180528982015-05-27T14:17:00.000-07:002015-05-27T14:17:40.369-07:00Look of the dayHere's the look I went for today. I went for dinner with family so I wanted to look put together but I had some errands to run first and I didn't want to look completely overdone. I went for a really simple face and lip and then I really pushed it with my eyes.<br />
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As usual I started with the eye. I primed my lid from lashline to browbone with MAC Pro <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/eyeshadows/pro-longwear-paint-pot/invt/77x1832xmpx8" target="_blank">Longwear Painpot </a>in Soft Ochre.<br />
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I then covered the lid in <a href="http://www.makeupgeek.com/store/eye-products/eyeshadows/makeup-geek-eyeshadows/makeup-geek-eyeshadow-pan-unexpected.html" target="_blank">MakeUp Geek Shadow in Unexpected</a>.<br />
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I applied <a href="http://www.debenhams.ie/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10052_10001_123932012999_-1" target="_blank">Urban Decay Buck</a> into the crease as a transition shade before with a small brush applying <a href="http://www.makeupgeek.com/store/eye-products/eyeshadows/makeup-geek-eyeshadows/makeup-geek-eyeshadow-burlesque.html" target="_blank">Makeup Geek Shadow in Burlesque</a><br />
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into the outer corner of the eye in a v shape. Using my MAC 217 brush I then swept a black shimmer shade from Soap and Glory<br />
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into the crease to darken the look. I depotted this from a palette so I don't know the name of the shade. When I was done I applied a small amount of <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/eyeshadows/eye-shadow/invt/77x1832xm250" target="_blank">MAC Naked Lunch</a> under the browbone. You can see this in the picture directly above the black shadow.<br />
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There was a little bit of fall-out so before I primed my face using <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/primer/pore-refining-primer/invt/90x3553x2217" target="_blank">NARS Pore Refining Primer</a>, I did need to clean up a little using my<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Garnier-Micellar-Cleansing-Water-400ml_1440752/" target="_blank"> Garnier Micellar Water</a>. I mixed a small amount of my <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Liquid-Halo-HD-Foundation-SPF15_1395269/" target="_blank">Smashbox Liquid Halo HD Foundation in Shade 1</a> with my <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/foundation/studio-fix-fluid-spf-15-30ml/invt/77x1832xm6jc" target="_blank">MAC Studio Fix Liquid Foundation in NC25</a>.<br />
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I also added in a little bit of <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/illuminators/illuminator/invt/90x3553x2336" target="_blank">NARS Liquid Illuminator in Orgasm</a>.<br />
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If I really want to sculpt out the face I like to cream contour. I have a few steps to this. Firstly I'll conceal under my eyes using my <a href="http://inglot.ie/face-body/concealer/amc-cream-concealer.html" target="_blank">Inglot AMC Concealer in Shade 64</a>.<br />
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I'll then take my <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/benefit-8220-Watts-Up-8221-soft-focus-highlighter-for-face_1231003/" target="_blank">Benefit Watts Up</a> across my cheekbones and out in a fan between my eyebrows up to the forehead. I have slightly oily skin lately so I don't like to take the shimmer highlight anywhere else on my face. I'll sculpt out underneath the cheekbones, into the temple, down the side of the nose, the jawline and under the bottom lip with my <a href="http://www.international.boots.com/en/Maybelline-Fit-Me-Foundation-Stick_1365459/" target="_blank">Maybelline Fit Me Stick in Soft Honey</a>,<br />
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Then anywhere I haven't put light or dark I'll fill in with <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/mac/prep-+-prime-highlighter/invt/77x1832xmj2l" target="_blank">MAC Prep and Prime Highlight Pen in Radiant Rose</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zjpY6r7-Fg0/VWYzaFQxlmI/AAAAAAAAAjU/c-SUkgb_Fqg/s1600/2015-05-27%2B20.39.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zjpY6r7-Fg0/VWYzaFQxlmI/AAAAAAAAAjU/c-SUkgb_Fqg/s320/2015-05-27%2B20.39.45.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I then blend everything together using my Damp Sephora Sculpting Sponge. Don't forget to blend the contour along your jawline down onto your neck or you'll end up with a serious line.<br />
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At this point I'l start using my powder products. Once I switch to powder products there will be no more cream products applied to my face. Applying creams after you apply powder causes makeup to separate and just look generally patchy.<br />
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Using my damp sponge I'll be setting anywhere I would usually get shiny using <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Rimmel-Stay-Matte-Pressed-Powder_1015573/" target="_blank">Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Translucent</a>. For me this is down my nose, on my chin and I also use it to set my undereye concealer.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X0haVGL3AIU/VWYzgbH_UKI/AAAAAAAAAjg/RBQCDSCAoqE/s1600/2015-05-27%2B20.40.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X0haVGL3AIU/VWYzgbH_UKI/AAAAAAAAAjg/RBQCDSCAoqE/s320/2015-05-27%2B20.40.17.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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In order to really sculpt out that contour I'll go over the dark areas with<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/benefit-hoola-bronzing-powder_2819/" target="_blank"> Benefit Hoola</a> and along my cheekbones with <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/mineralize-skinfinish/invt/77x1832xmt13280000" target="_blank">MAC Soft and Gentle</a>. Blend, Blend, Blend. Blend until your hands hurt.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E05bNSRmrOM/VWYznVxbMhI/AAAAAAAAAjo/gPcv0QW5W14/s1600/2015-05-27%2B20.40.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E05bNSRmrOM/VWYznVxbMhI/AAAAAAAAAjo/gPcv0QW5W14/s320/2015-05-27%2B20.40.59.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I lined my upper lashline using <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Maybelline-Eyestudio-Master-Graphic-Eyeliner_1507646/" target="_blank">Maybelline Master Graphic Liner</a> and my upper water line using a basic black pencil liner. I lined my bottom waterline using NYX Wonder Pencil in Medium. This is available from Sam McCauley Pharmacies. I applied MakeUp Geek in Unexpected on the outer half of the lower lashline and Urban Decay Buck on the inner half before applying <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Full-Exposure-Mascara_1272308/" target="_blank">Smashbox Full Exposure Mascara</a> all over my top and bottom lashes.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-22Pm4oEKPvI/VWYzwuGSWzI/AAAAAAAAAjw/wFQw1lbl8O4/s1600/2015-05-27%2B20.41.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-22Pm4oEKPvI/VWYzwuGSWzI/AAAAAAAAAjw/wFQw1lbl8O4/s320/2015-05-27%2B20.41.32.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I swept <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/blusher/powder-blush/invt/77x1832xm220" target="_blank">MAC Blush in Fleur Power</a> across the apples of my cheeks. I finished the look by applying <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/lipstick/lipstick/invt/77x1832xm300" target="_blank">MAC lipstick in Creme Cup</a> all over my lips and spritzing <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/solutions/prep+prime-fix+-100ml/invt/77x1832xmw5k01" target="_blank">MAC Fix+</a> all over the face. This gives a really dewy finish to the face.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-95_gWwtem7c/VWYz4Mpf5QI/AAAAAAAAAj4/pyCZZyw-y9Y/s1600/2015-05-27%2B20.41.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-95_gWwtem7c/VWYz4Mpf5QI/AAAAAAAAAj4/pyCZZyw-y9Y/s320/2015-05-27%2B20.41.39.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r68-D2n1yZA/VWYz4iM8kgI/AAAAAAAAAj8/ojVjwLuAUJ4/s1600/2015-05-27%2B20.41.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r68-D2n1yZA/VWYz4iM8kgI/AAAAAAAAAj8/ojVjwLuAUJ4/s320/2015-05-27%2B20.41.47.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LVQTcJY-GaU/VWYz4u68frI/AAAAAAAAAkA/T-KJfDo0atI/s1600/2015-05-27%2B20.42.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LVQTcJY-GaU/VWYz4u68frI/AAAAAAAAAkA/T-KJfDo0atI/s320/2015-05-27%2B20.42.37.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Heres the finished look.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hl4kr9QjgmY/VWY0BlyvrBI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/YjMy1HcNS4Y/s1600/2015-05-27%2B15.23.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hl4kr9QjgmY/VWY0BlyvrBI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/YjMy1HcNS4Y/s320/2015-05-27%2B15.23.19.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<br />Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-4850786312544773382015-05-26T15:39:00.002-07:002015-05-26T15:41:46.144-07:00L'Oreal La Palette Nude: HOT or NOT <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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About a month ago I picked up L'Oreal La Palette Nude in 02 Beige at Sam McCauley Pharmacy for just under €15. The palette originally came to my attention after my favourite youtuber, GlamLifeGuru posted a first impressions video on it.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/in_apnVIbgg/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/in_apnVIbgg?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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My first problem with the palette is that the version (the only version sold in Ireland) is a totally different colour palette to the one she was able to buy in America.<br />
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The palette I have looks like this:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7AKf7Uxm6pI/VWTjafnV8lI/AAAAAAAAAew/tf5m7tQr3C0/s1600/2015-05-20%2B00.04.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7AKf7Uxm6pI/VWTjafnV8lI/AAAAAAAAAew/tf5m7tQr3C0/s320/2015-05-20%2B00.04.39.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Palette available in the States looks like this: </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ye7liOOXWI/VPj8mmyCe2I/AAAAAAAAJVs/qN3avwf7X1w/s1600/loreal%2Bla%2Bpalette%2Bnude.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ye7liOOXWI/VPj8mmyCe2I/AAAAAAAAJVs/qN3avwf7X1w/s1600/loreal%2Bla%2Bpalette%2Bnude.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I do wish that the US palette was available here also. I don't understand why the palettes in each zone have to be different. </div>
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Here is a swatch of each shade. The top shade is swatched dry and the bottom swatch has been wet with MAC Fix+ before swatching. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RhIRx1Ph-sM/VWTlYfdgNxI/AAAAAAAAAfE/cw6ipA_G6eY/s1600/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B27%2B26.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RhIRx1Ph-sM/VWTlYfdgNxI/AAAAAAAAAfE/cw6ipA_G6eY/s320/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B27%2B26.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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As you can see the colour pay off from each shade varies dramatically. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_-4CwAHeEV4/VWTmlvqLSeI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/V9yO9CK1Vfg/s1600/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B32%2B39.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_-4CwAHeEV4/VWTmlvqLSeI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/V9yO9CK1Vfg/s320/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B32%2B39.jpeg" width="316" /></a></div>
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LEFT: Applied Dry RIGHT: Applied Wet</div>
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The first shade in the palette is a frosted cream colour. The colour pay off from this shade is very poor and is barely visible on camera either wet or dry. In person, it gives more of a sheen to the skin than applying any colour.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7rCzPSJcyfQ/VWTolzbmmWI/AAAAAAAAAfc/76cdgts2Ef0/s1600/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B35%2B46.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7rCzPSJcyfQ/VWTolzbmmWI/AAAAAAAAAfc/76cdgts2Ef0/s320/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B35%2B46.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The second shade is a pearlescent gold with a peach undertone. It's a lot deeper than it looks in the palette. This is one of my favourite shades in the palette. Applying this colour wet actually sheers it out instead of intensifying the colour. This colour is a close dupe for Urban Decay Half Baked but not identical. Urban Decay Baked is a good deal more coppery than this shade. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bQ2jSYgYTQ4/VWTosBuRSPI/AAAAAAAAAfk/IpYPclTJVdU/s1600/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B41%2B13.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bQ2jSYgYTQ4/VWTosBuRSPI/AAAAAAAAAfk/IpYPclTJVdU/s320/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B41%2B13.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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L-R: Urban Decay Half Baked, Loreal Shade Dry, Loreal Shade Wet, Urban Decay Baked</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-th3432YDlUU/VWTqYkQphDI/AAAAAAAAAfw/8RU5kt6ZLHE/s1600/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B47%2B34.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-th3432YDlUU/VWTqYkQphDI/AAAAAAAAAfw/8RU5kt6ZLHE/s320/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B47%2B34.jpeg" width="188" /></a></div>
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The third shade is a matte cool brown. The colour pay off is poor from this shade and you really need to dig in in order to get it to swatch more opaque. It is a close colour match to Buck from the Urban Decay Naked Palette, but again it is not identical in person. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8yOkeCa3yN8/VWTqpziD4fI/AAAAAAAAAf4/IPUwgrq_Gp0/s1600/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B47%2B49.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8yOkeCa3yN8/VWTqpziD4fI/AAAAAAAAAf4/IPUwgrq_Gp0/s320/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B47%2B49.jpeg" width="290" /></a></div>
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L-R: Loreal Shade Dry, Wet, Urban Decay Buck</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G5w91Fnz7io/VWTr7j0TacI/AAAAAAAAAgM/awvnW62UGng/s1600/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B53%2B06.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G5w91Fnz7io/VWTr7j0TacI/AAAAAAAAAgM/awvnW62UGng/s320/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B53%2B06.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
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The fourth shade is a taupe with a silver/grey undertone. The colour pay-off is great from this shadow. It swatches creamy. Wetting this shadow intensifies the colour and makes it more creamy to apply. It is an almost identical dupe for Urban Decay Bust. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fQ2Vxe4CzwI/VWTsflCmjKI/AAAAAAAAAgU/InbUYzrBE7U/s1600/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B53%2B57.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fQ2Vxe4CzwI/VWTsflCmjKI/AAAAAAAAAgU/InbUYzrBE7U/s320/File%2B26-05-2015%2B22%2B53%2B57.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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L-R: Swatched Dry, Wet, Urban Decay Bust</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qOlDZRGO7hY/VWTuFKpHhSI/AAAAAAAAAgg/5CQYuWVqUtQ/s1600/File%2B26-05-2015%2B23%2B02%2B53.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qOlDZRGO7hY/VWTuFKpHhSI/AAAAAAAAAgg/5CQYuWVqUtQ/s320/File%2B26-05-2015%2B23%2B02%2B53.jpeg" width="276" /></a></div>
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The fifth shade is a shimmery, more than pearlescent lemon yellow. It's even more yellow in person than it's showing up in pictures. It's a very strange shade. I don't own anything else like it. I also don't feel like I'll ever have a use for it. If you tend to wear a lot of greens on your eyes you could probably use this colour. I'll probably depot it and give it to a friend. I think this is the only shade in the palette that I won't use at all. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eeKWzfF3-8o/VWTv2eGTtRI/AAAAAAAAAgs/Tj7rVJ35ouA/s1600/2015-05-26%2B23.07.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eeKWzfF3-8o/VWTv2eGTtRI/AAAAAAAAAgs/Tj7rVJ35ouA/s320/2015-05-26%2B23.07.40.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The sixth shade in the palette is a cool toned matte brown. It's slightly darker than the matte brown we discussed earlier. The quality of the matte shades in this palette leaves a lot to be desired. They come off very patchy and washed out when swatched dry and when swatched wet they are still powdery and lead to quite a bit of fall out. This shade is no different. I do not have another matte brown this dark and cool. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YJa3F95e0NE/VWTxFF7CSwI/AAAAAAAAAg0/hCnmSd_ksXU/s1600/File%2B26-05-2015%2B23%2B16%2B57.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YJa3F95e0NE/VWTxFF7CSwI/AAAAAAAAAg0/hCnmSd_ksXU/s320/File%2B26-05-2015%2B23%2B16%2B57.jpeg" width="204" /></a></div>
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The seventh shade is a slightly warmer version of the last. It's also the first matte shadow in the palette to swatch dry without being patchy. It's a good dupe for Buck from the Urban Decay Naked Palette, which means that it's also quite similar to the third shade in this palette. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EwbyVyIo4js/VWTxm84AjrI/AAAAAAAAAg8/uTqw0LPOcr0/s1600/File%2B26-05-2015%2B23%2B17%2B22.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EwbyVyIo4js/VWTxm84AjrI/AAAAAAAAAg8/uTqw0LPOcr0/s320/File%2B26-05-2015%2B23%2B17%2B22.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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L-R: Third Shade Swatched Dry, Seventh Shade Dry, Wet, Urban Decay Buck</div>
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The eighth shade is a cool toned bronzed gold with a shimmer. It's one of my favourites in this palette and swatches beautifully. I almost always wear this wet. It intensifies the colour and makes it go on the lid nice and creamy. It's an identical dupe for Urban Decay Smog. </div>
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L-R: Dry, Wet, Urban Decay Smog</div>
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The second to last shade in the palette is a cool toned grey/black brown. Dry, it swatches out no different than the other matte browns in the palette but as you can see, wet, the colour gets a lot darker and more intense. It is really powdery though and a nightmare as regards fallout. </div>
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The last, and I certainly mean least, shade in the palette is a matte "black". I say black but I'd call it more grey. It's really washed out and when black shadows are a dime a dozen this one just doesn't cut the mustard. </div>
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This palette is a bit hit and miss. While the matte shadows are a major let down, most of the shimmers are beautiful and there are some exciting dupes for Urban Decay shadows. If you own the Naked Palette I wouldn't advise you to get this, or if you're looking to expand your collection of mattes (as I was), this isn't for you. If you don't own the Naked palette, this might be worth looking into as a more affordable option if you don't mind dealing with a few duds.<br />
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All in All I'm going to give this palette a NOT for me because I just didn't need it in my collection but for beginners out there this could be HOT.Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-9103564898690572682015-05-19T08:49:00.000-07:002015-05-19T09:40:49.434-07:00Desk to DancefloorThis is going to be my first video post so please excuse the quality. This is one of my go-to daytime looks and I'll be posting Part 2 very soon, detailing how to transform it to this<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mIl74gvpXco/VVtarKw__-I/AAAAAAAAAdg/6bPFj1mBBeQ/s1600/2015-05-16%2B21.48.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mIl74gvpXco/VVtarKw__-I/AAAAAAAAAdg/6bPFj1mBBeQ/s320/2015-05-16%2B21.48.11.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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in just a few simple steps. </div>
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Let me know if you prefer the video format in the comments below or if you'd prefer to stick to standard blogging. </div>
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If you recreate this look don't forget to post it to the facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/queenoftartanblog</div>
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and tag me on twitter: https://twitter.com/KateMRay</div>
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Kate xxx. </div>
Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-71713201415930509332015-05-13T11:39:00.001-07:002015-05-13T11:40:35.475-07:00I'm back!.. Did you miss me? It's been almost a full year since I've last posted anything here.<br />
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I am alive. I have missed blogging but I just haven't been able to find the time or the inclination to bring myself to post.<br />
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This year was my final year of University and I honestly feel that it was the most stressful year of my life. I made a huge mistake three years ago in choosing what to study. I have discovered over the last few months that I'm not the only person who makes the wrong decision. There are far more people who make a mistake than you would be likely to think. Making a mistake like this honestly has knocked my confidence so much in the last few years. It's so hard to motivate someone to do something they really don't want to do, and as someone who is competitive, a go-getter and motivated in general it was very hard for me to deal with the changes in myself and my general attitude towards things over the last three years.<br />
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Having finished University this week I can tell you that a huge weight has been lifted from my shoulders and I can not wait to get back to my passions, beauty and writing. I've been thinking up posts over the last few weeks but I'd appreciate any ideas you guys can offer me on what you'd like to see me write about or if there's a product you would like to see trialed. I'll also run a competition in the next few weeks so keep an eye out.<br />
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All My Love,<br />
Kate xxxQueen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-83259517114737167902014-05-29T16:06:00.000-07:002014-05-29T16:06:31.541-07:00Skincare StaplesI don't like to spend loads on skincare. I'd much rather have an investment piece of makeup than expensive cleanser. I know there are plenty of people out there that do love to spend more money on their skincare and I should really invest more. A good friend of mine recently introduced me to a really great <a href="http://www.carolinehirons.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> recently written by a dermatologist. Carolines cheat sheets are perfect for those of you starting out with skincare or even people like myself, who only do the bare minimum and are looking to up their game a little. <div>
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I don't have particularly problematic skin, however I have noticed some dryness as of late around my nose and my concealer has begun to sink into fine lies under my eyes. I have been reading online and have come to the conclusion that I am in need of an eye cream, something I have never used before. Tanya Burr, a favourite blogger of mine, has recommended recently the Origins eye cream, however ranging from €32-55, this investment will require some serious thought on my part. If anyone has any recommendations or advice please let me know in the comments, on twitter or on facebook. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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At the moment I usually get up in the morning and give my face a wash after breakfast using <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Soap-Glory%C2%99-Peaches-and-Clean%C2%99-3-in-1-Wash-off-Deep-Purifying-Cleanser-200ml_1364166/" target="_blank">Soap & Glory Peaches and Clean</a>. I don't like to use a face cloth to wash my face with as I find they harbour germs, but I guess if you have the patience to wash and dry your cloth every day, go ahead! I use cotton pads which are relatively cheap and usually on offer in Boots. I'll usually apply a small amount of moisturiser and primer before going ahead and applying my makeup. </div>
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At night I tend to have all days worth of makeup and general grime on my face so I enjoy washing my face before bed. </div>
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If I was to choose my all time favourite cleanser it would have to be the Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser. It's leaves your skin feeling lovely and soft. When used with a muslin cloth the steam really opens your pores and helps to clear your skin. All Liz Earle products have been manufactured using totally natural ingredients and are animal friendly. </div>
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I also really love <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/No7-Beautiful-Skin-Melting-Gel-Cleanser-for-Normal-Dry-Skin-150ml_1245016/" target="_blank">No.7s Melting Gel Cleanser</a>. You only need a tiny amount and it changes to a liquid on your face and leaves my skin so super soft. I like to use it in the shower, despite Carolines advice that you should not get your face wet in the shower. It feels like a real luxury product to me, and at such a reasonable price it's a must-have. </div>
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Anyone who knows me will tell you that I have a tendency to be extremely lazy, especially after a night out, and although I may not want to go the whole hog and wash my face, I couldn't sleep in my makeup. I like to use a cleansing water on those lazy nights. I find it especially important to start with an eye makeup remover like the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/No7-Beautiful-Skin-Eye-Make-Up-Remover_1245018/" target="_blank">No.7 one</a> and to double cleanse when using a cleansing water in order to make sure I have all of my makeup off. I currently have the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Garnier-Micellar-Cleansing-Water-400ml_1440752/" target="_blank">Garnier Micellar Water</a> but it doesn't quite live up to my personal favourite, <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/No7-Beautiful-Skin-Cleansing-Water-for-Normal-Oily-Skin-200ml_1245010/" target="_blank">No7 Cleansing Water</a>. </div>
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After Cleansing I usually use the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/No7-Soft-Soothed-Gentle-Toner-200ml_1259433/" target="_blank">No.7 toner</a>, although I should probably invest in an acid toner like Ren Clarifying toner or the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Clarins-Gentle-Exfoliator-Brightening-Toner-125ml_1036336/" target="_blank">Clarins exfoliating brightening toner</a> as I have been consistently allergic to every facial exfoliating product I've ever tried. For skin like mine which burns easily and can become a little tight in the summer, I would recommend a spray like the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/La-Roche-Posay-Thermal-Spring-Water-Spray-50ml_1251378/" target="_blank">La Roche Posay Thermal Water</a>. It's refreshing although it doesn't really add any lasting moisture to the skin. </div>
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I don't like to use a huge amount of moisturiser on my face as it can make it quite oily. I'm currently using the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/No7-Beautiful-Skin-Day-Cream-for-Normal-Dry-Skin-50ml_1245032/" target="_blank">No.7 day cream</a> for normal/dry skin but I don't love it and will probably look for something else when I finish the pot. Anyone with suggestions please let me know. </div>
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I find the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/No7-Beautiful-Skin-Rapid-Spot-Rescue_1245052/" target="_blank">No.7 Spot Rescue</a> serum to be very good. I'll apply a small amount on spots before I go to bed and they can disappear in a day or so. </div>
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Do you have any products you swear by or do something differently? Let me know in the comments below. </div>
Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-77518054245534821142014-05-20T07:42:00.001-07:002014-05-20T07:42:27.356-07:00Bare Minerals ReviewIt's been too long since my last post but this will hopefully be the start of many regular posts. I recently acquired the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/bareMinerals-Get-Started-Complexion-Kit-Light_1243803/" target="_blank">BareMinerals Get Started Complexion Kit in Light</a> and have been in love with it ever since. I had always been sceptical of BareMinerals as a brand, doubting the coverage that a mineral powder could give but I must admit where I'm wrong and the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/bareMinerals-ORIGINAL-SPF-15-Foundation_1244898/" target="_blank">Original Foundation</a> in Fairly Light gives me just as much coverage as any liquid foundation I use. <div>
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The kit I got is excellent value, available from Boots.ie for €58. </div>
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It contains:<br />
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<li> two original foundations in fairly light and light, both priced at €27, </li>
<li>Mineral Veil Finishing Powder, retailing at €24, </li>
<li>two foundation brushes, one for full and one for medium coverage, €28 and €23 respectively, </li>
<li>a bronzing powder costing €22, </li>
<li>a concealer brush retailing at €17</li>
<li>Primer costing €23</li>
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So for €58 you're getting products worth €191 if bought separately. There's no arguing with that kind of savings. Also included in the kit is an instruction booklet and a dvd showing you how to properly use the products. I really enjoyed how quick and easy it was to apply during study month and exams. I will definitely be repurchasing! Mineral Makeup especially with the SPF included in BareMinerals Products will be perfect for the summer holidays. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f_YwSPGq1Y0/U3tmWZNLdRI/AAAAAAAAAag/BwXz6dIFDGo/s1600/2014-04-26+22.19.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f_YwSPGq1Y0/U3tmWZNLdRI/AAAAAAAAAag/BwXz6dIFDGo/s1600/2014-04-26+22.19.33.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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BareMinerals are also available to purchase at Brown Thomas Stores nationwide. Let me know what you think of mineral makeup. </div>
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Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-66363688763703379302014-05-02T15:29:00.000-07:002014-05-02T15:29:12.609-07:00Another Day, Another Boots HaulSo it's now May and Summer is officially upon us, not that we would know it by the weather. It's also exam season in UCC, which has led to me being inexcusably inactive here. That will all change in the next week or so, with frequent updates and more interaction via. Social Media. It's always great to find out what people think so I will be looking to get more feedback from people regarding what you'd like to see and if there are any particular products you'd like reviewed. <i>What can I say? I'm a people pleaser!</i><br />
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I've finally got around to doing a boots haul and I've picked up some pieces I'm sure I'll love. The haul may seem small because I also had my birthday recently and got a lot of new makeup there also, which will be featured in their own posts. </div>
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I've been waiting since my <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/03/march-wishlist.html" target="_blank">March Wishlist</a> to invest in Essie in the shade a cut above. This shade is not available on Boots.ie but retails in store for €10.99. While the colour does look amazing, I feel this is a little pricey for a brand I've not tried before. If anyone can offer any guidance on Essies' nail polishes I'd really appreciate it. </div>
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While shopping around the makeup aisles I came across this excellent Sally Hansen equivalent which I know will be good quality. It comes from their <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Sally-Hansen-Gem-Crush-Nail-Polish_1317668/" target="_blank">Gem Crush</a> range and is in the shade Razzle Dazzler. I have only used it once and forgot to take a picture before it began to chip so I've used this one to show you exactly what it looks like. </div>
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQvdaLaEH_UkjgTOyEoi1gbb0ekUx3as2DHGTQJ64-Sh8we7ZhlBw" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQvdaLaEH_UkjgTOyEoi1gbb0ekUx3as2DHGTQJ64-Sh8we7ZhlBw" /></a></div>
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I really liked how there is a mixed selection of glitter. It makes it look really 3D on your nail. It also can be used over other nail polishes and provides a professional finish. </div>
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I have been looking for a nude lipliner for a while for under some of my paler lipsticks, simply to increase their staying power. I was considering the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/LOreal-Infallible-Lipliner_1260027/" target="_blank">L'Oreal Infallible Lipliner </a> but I just felt that the packaging was really flimsy. I don't like lip/eye liners that are in plastic casing. I find that they break and I never end up using them until they run out. I instead fell head over heels in love with <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Max-Factor-Color-Elixir-Lip-Liner_1228319/" target="_blank">MaxFactor Colour Elixir Lipliner</a> in Pink Petal. It comes out really smoothly and isn't drying or rough at all. It also matches all my pink lipsticks well. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FnrOat67Vbc/U2QRaqckEII/AAAAAAAAAYY/SlzS6SaoyTg/s1600/2014-05-02+22.40.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FnrOat67Vbc/U2QRaqckEII/AAAAAAAAAYY/SlzS6SaoyTg/s1600/2014-05-02+22.40.42.jpg" height="310" width="320" /></a></div>
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This brings me to my next purchase, <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/LOreal-Paris-Color-Riche-Collection-Privee_1369339/" target="_blank"> L'Oreal Color Riche Collection Privee in Juliannes Nude</a>. It was a little expensive for a high-street brand lipstick but I do love the colour and it's really moisturising. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ue-RfrAfm4o/U2QUpjN-VEI/AAAAAAAAAYs/wSqJfJyLw3s/s1600/Juliannes+Nude.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ue-RfrAfm4o/U2QUpjN-VEI/AAAAAAAAAYs/wSqJfJyLw3s/s1600/Juliannes+Nude.jpg" /></a></div>
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As mentioned in my <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/04/april-wishlist-and-lenten-update.html" target="_blank">April Wishlist</a>, I have invested in some of the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Barry-M-Hi-Shine-Gel-Effect-Nail-Polish_1281299/" target="_blank">Barry M. Gelly Nail Polishes</a>. I bought them in the shades Greenberry and Blueberry, but haven't got around to trying them yet. I'm dying to see what they are like on. They claim to give the shine synonymous with a gel manicure. I have found Barry M nail polishes to be a bargain in the past, as they are always at a reasonable price point. </div>
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I did also buy another <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Sally-Hansen-Complete-Salon-Manicure-Nail-Colour_1317168/" target="_blank">Sally Hansen nail polish</a> in the shade Frutti Petutie, which is a really vibrant Coral based pink. </div>
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The <a href="http://www.brownthomas.com/face/shimmer-brick-compact-pink-quartz/invt/41x1830xe38111" target="_blank">Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick</a> has been on my list for quite a while, but the price is just too much for me to justify. So imagine how delighted I was to discover that Seventeen have produced an almost identical <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/SEVENTEEN-Instant-Glow-Shimmer-Brick_1321239/" target="_blank">dupe</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://almostdelightful.com/wp-content/uploads/blogger/-5qogHaVZpE4/T9JGe3rxZWI/AAAAAAAAFOk/yWa9pvT_u48/s1600/17shimmerbrick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://almostdelightful.com/wp-content/uploads/blogger/-5qogHaVZpE4/T9JGe3rxZWI/AAAAAAAAFOk/yWa9pvT_u48/s1600/17shimmerbrick.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is the shade pink bronze, but I will definitely be investing in Gold Bronze for the Summer.<br />
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Another item which has been on my list for quite a while is the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Real-Techniques-silicone-liner-brush_1435680/" target="_blank">Real Techniques Silicone Liner Brush</a>. This was recommended to me when I had my <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/03/smashbox-makeover.html" target="_blank">Smashbox Makeover</a>. It allows you to apply gel eyeliner without the bristles from the brush moving and messing up your work.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p7gE9gvZi1M/U2QatQlKWvI/AAAAAAAAAY8/pWkcVlz9gk8/s1600/eyes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p7gE9gvZi1M/U2QatQlKWvI/AAAAAAAAAY8/pWkcVlz9gk8/s1600/eyes.jpg" height="89" width="320" /></a></div>
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See how neatly the eyeliner went on? This brush is a lifesaver.<br />
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Last, but certainly not least, I invested in <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Maybelline-EyeStudio-Color-Tattoo-24hr-Cream-Gel-Eyeshadow_1253778/" target="_blank">Maybelline Colour Tattoo</a> in Pink gold which is the most divine pink/champagne colour. Definitely worth an investment for summer. I have been using it with a champagne all over my lid, pink gold on the outer half of the lid and a taupe in my crease for every day use.<br />
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTVNwKFUsoy1AybalJvIetLHjTxZpxKTBjIdy7VBODOHpX-a37Q" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTVNwKFUsoy1AybalJvIetLHjTxZpxKTBjIdy7VBODOHpX-a37Q" /></a></div>
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There is currently 3 for 2 in Boots Stores and on Boots.ie, including all cosmetics and makeup tools and accessories. Let me know if anything takes your fancy or if you have found any hidden gems this month. </div>
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Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-57423105551299604692014-04-22T07:27:00.000-07:002014-04-22T07:27:58.632-07:00April Wishlist and Lenten Update<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-IE">April Wishlist and Lent Update<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-IE">Easter is
here and along with it the end of lent. March was a busy month with study
starting for exams and going on a fabulous trip with some college friends to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Amsterdam</st1:place></st1:city>. Being so busy
probably helped but I mostly managed to stick to my Lenten promise and bought
little to no cosmetics. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IE">My <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/03/march-wishlist.html" target="_blank">MarchWishlist</a> went something like this. I didn’t invest in the <a href="https://www.boots.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&productId=1407574&respStsCode=0&catalogId=11051&orderItemAction=add&categoryId=&storeId=10052&krypto=BCXBjxjc7k%2Bl2YjuPOLGS2twAZGFH1%2BUN5WnjrjZn5Z1uvpI0Kyfw9BJVRFDgUfmJCyprrzcYFoe%0AbFTRk0wm0JajYFwZGwnOhXz0T6TI670FSmmvhNKDNKIoOPS1FOvUfeEEvGjDtuOk7BOopH5VxKQh%0Aar1G%2FtEzdAQmgATxGsfQWVeUzzt2mVc7QirsDXAYOfEYCTLmcWwk9gmXBriaZOzO%2FbmVoF9EuCgX%0AhT8pQ0QB%2FmkLyf7kZOnwmc2U6hpG6RMnVDwun%2Blz3VUfMxBgNBmpSg3HbpLpZH0HC7o2C2C8OwTH%0A1Yi0lJXtJCjhRJMW" target="_blank">Essie nail varnish</a>
but that will definitely be on the shopping list this month. My birthday was
this week and I’m feeling the need to treat myself in the next few days. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IE">My <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/No7-Match-Made-Concealer_1373394/" target="_blank">No7 concealer</a>
is still going strong so I won’t be investing in the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Collection-Lasting-Perfection-Ultimate-Wear-Concealer_1436032/" target="_blank">Collection concealer </a>yet. The
other day I did a clear out of my makeup stash and put away all the things I
don’t use, for example I have at least 5 mascaras and I can only use one/two
max. When one runs out I will look to see if I have another and if not then it
will be time to invest in a new one. Obviously there will be hauls and splurges
but for the most part I should try to be more savvy when it comes to what I
have. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IE">I did
invest in the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Garnier-Micellar-Cleansing-Water-400ml_1440752/" target="_blank">Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water</a> (currently a bargain, on offer at just €3.29) before <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Amsterdam</st1:place></st1:city> so that I could decant it into a
100ml bottle for hand luggage. There will be a review posted in the coming
weeks based on this vs the<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/No7-Beautiful-Skin-Cleansing-Water-for-Normal-Oily-Skin-200ml_1245010/" target="_blank"> No.7 Cleansing Water</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IE">The <a href="http://www.cloud10beauty.com/tanya-burr-nail-polish-3155.html" target="_blank">TanyaBurr nail varnishes</a> are still on my list to invest in as I am just falling more
and more in love with them every time I see them. I am dying to have little
duck. Mint green is one of my favourite shades for this summer. I can’t resist
things in mint.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-IE">I am still
in love with the jumpsuit from Boohoo and I<strike> will certainly be adding this to my
summer wardrobe </strike> (am very upset it's out of stock). It’s been a long month of not buying things and I have come
across some new must haves for April. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.oasis-stores.com/tropical-forest-short/loved-by-mollie/oasis/fcp-product/3460015668" target="_blank">Floral Shorts by Mollie at Oasis</a></h3>
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<a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/31/b4/1d/31b41dcf3440efcd3b3febdaff9add33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/31/b4/1d/31b41dcf3440efcd3b3febdaff9add33.jpg" /></a></div>
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These shorts while pricey at €44.00, will look fab for Summer. Paired with white or any colour that you pick up from the design on the shorts, it will be fabulously easy to bring these shorts from day to night by adding a pink lip, some wedges and a blazer. Oasis also offer a student discount on presentation of a valid student ID. </div>
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<a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Sleek-MakeUp-Blush-Pink-Lemonade-Blush-by-3_1427465/" target="_blank">Sleek Pink Lemonade Blush Trio</a></h3>
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This blush is full of the most amazing shimmering and matte pinks, both cream and powder. It is everything one looks for in a Summer blush palette. It would be the perfect blush to take away on holidays knowing that you will have something on hand for every eventuality. Sleek products are extremely good value and are available to order on boots.ie. I could not however find this product on the Irish site. </div>
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<a href="http://www.oasis-stores.com///oasis/fcp-product/4480002361#GBP" target="_blank">Oasis Tropical Floral Playsuit </a></h3>
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<a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/ad/ff/7c/adff7cc1401369673922fc051fd2bebd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/ad/ff/7c/adff7cc1401369673922fc051fd2bebd.jpg" height="320" width="200" /></a></div>
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This playsuit, again from Oasis, is also pricey at €56, but is utterly stunning! Paired with flip flops during the day it would make the perfect outfit for a trip to the market or sightseeing and with gold accessories and heeled sandals by night, it would take you absolutely anywhere. Definitely one not to miss. </div>
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<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Barry-M-Hi-Shine-Gel-Effect-Nail-Polish_1281299/" target="_blank">Barry M Gelly Nail Polish</a></h3>
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I love when I get my nails done, but sadly gel just doesn't seem to last for me. I'm dying to try these new polishes from Barry M, which claim to give the same finish as a gel manicure. I don't think they last as long as a gel manicure would but if I apply a top coat every other day I tend to get about a week out of a home, manicure, which isn't half bad. </div>
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<a href="http://www.oasis-stores.com/cowl-wrap-playsuit/loved-by-mollie/oasis/fcp-product/4480001701" target="_blank">Black Cowl Wrap Playsuit by Mollie at Oasis</a></h3>
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<a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/58/0f/cc/580fcc8f83adb2d9b50c2209eea21f4d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/58/0f/cc/580fcc8f83adb2d9b50c2209eea21f4d.jpg" /></a></div>
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There seems to be a running trend in this months wishlist, in that I'm going to spend my last penny in Oasis. They have really outdone themselves for their Spring/Summer Collection and the clothes by Mollie are so classy and elegant. If you aren't feeling the floral trend for Summer but still want a jumpsuit that will take you from day to night easily then this is the one for you. Black looks well on everyone and the cowl/wrap nature of this playsuit should be flattering on any shape. This one could be harder to dress down for daywear, but a white belt and some flip flops and this would take you into the heart of any European city. An absolute must have for those nights where you need something really elegant but cool and relaxed at the same time!</div>
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So that's this month's wishlist... Have you spotted anything you'll be lusting after for the month to come? Let me know in the comments below. </div>
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Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-28713485222090392392014-04-16T10:59:00.000-07:002014-04-16T10:59:27.341-07:00Smashbox Makeup ReviewAlthough some products mentioned in this post were provided to me courtesy of Smashbox, the views expressed in the following post are entirely my own.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N1NrVo7m3iY/U06vargByqI/AAAAAAAAAR8/shyuWSWgkMc/s1600/2014-03-05+13.06.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N1NrVo7m3iY/U06vargByqI/AAAAAAAAAR8/shyuWSWgkMc/s1600/2014-03-05+13.06.48.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uir22MFIRAw/U06vaey_VKI/AAAAAAAAASA/-EIVWsUXC8k/s1600/2014-03-05+13.06.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uir22MFIRAw/U06vaey_VKI/AAAAAAAAASA/-EIVWsUXC8k/s1600/2014-03-05+13.06.23.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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A few weeks ago Smashbox sent me some products to review including their <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Try-It-Kit_1300137/" target="_blank">Try-it Kit</a> and a tester of their new <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Full-Exposure-Eye-Shadow-Palette_1437526/" target="_blank">Full Exposure Palette</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zKhJyJFYa4w/U06vnsoZsEI/AAAAAAAAAUY/SC_jd_yvkbA/s1600/2014-04-16+14.32.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zKhJyJFYa4w/U06vnsoZsEI/AAAAAAAAAUY/SC_jd_yvkbA/s1600/2014-04-16+14.32.20.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I also had my makeup done by their makeup artist, which I have already reviewed in my <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/03/smashbox-makeover.html" target="_blank">Smashbox Makeover Post</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-70eSFUykdEI/U06vafAMitI/AAAAAAAAAR4/ao02p0z4zKQ/s1600/2014-03-14+21.01.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-70eSFUykdEI/U06vafAMitI/AAAAAAAAAR4/ao02p0z4zKQ/s1600/2014-03-14+21.01.15.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QOyEcJO_TxQ/U06vczMxIZI/AAAAAAAAASc/4Wx4g1_y5qI/s1600/2014-04-16+14.24.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QOyEcJO_TxQ/U06vczMxIZI/AAAAAAAAASc/4Wx4g1_y5qI/s1600/2014-04-16+14.24.20.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Try-it Kit contains a travel size <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Photo-Finish-Foundation-Primer_1271634/" target="_blank">primer</a>, </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J3bzq3H9F1Y/U06ve9TC3RI/AAAAAAAAASw/E1jNQtwFWI0/s1600/2014-04-16+14.24.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J3bzq3H9F1Y/U06ve9TC3RI/AAAAAAAAASw/E1jNQtwFWI0/s1600/2014-04-16+14.24.33.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Photo-Finish-Lid-Primer_1271630/" target="_blank">lid primer</a>, </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l2_Zau_on58/U06vfGeEygI/AAAAAAAAAS4/-zi-k2F1pqo/s1600/2014-04-16+14.24.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l2_Zau_on58/U06vfGeEygI/AAAAAAAAAS4/-zi-k2F1pqo/s1600/2014-04-16+14.24.43.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Limitless-Eye-Liner_1272491/" target="_blank">eyeliner</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yLlNttvhIEk/U06vfwLJRlI/AAAAAAAAAS8/JNS_NdUj7sg/s1600/2014-04-16+14.25.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yLlNttvhIEk/U06vfwLJRlI/AAAAAAAAAS8/JNS_NdUj7sg/s1600/2014-04-16+14.25.00.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Full-Exposure-Mascara_1272308/" target="_blank">mascara</a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gS4Yi1KXcRc/U06vhlMnExI/AAAAAAAAATQ/Lm_MwfNsnTA/s1600/2014-04-16+14.25.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gS4Yi1KXcRc/U06vhlMnExI/AAAAAAAAATQ/Lm_MwfNsnTA/s1600/2014-04-16+14.25.12.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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and <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Lip-Enhancing-Gloss_1272521/" target="_blank">lipgloss</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JsRFXaWOiA4/U06viFC-hnI/AAAAAAAAATU/P5FtLUrhxus/s1600/2014-04-16+14.25.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JsRFXaWOiA4/U06viFC-hnI/AAAAAAAAATU/P5FtLUrhxus/s1600/2014-04-16+14.25.22.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I already owned the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-High-Definition-Liquid-Concealer-8ml_1272292/" target="_blank">concealer</a> in fair/light and <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Liquid-Halo-HD-Foundation-SPF15_1395269/" target="_blank">foundation</a> in shade 1.<br />
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I started todays look by applying a pea-sized amount of primer all over my face.<br />
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The primer glided on really easily and wasn't oily or greasy on my face. I have been considering investing in a Smashbox primer for some time, but the price was always a major deterrent for me. Having tried it, I do quite like the formula and for someone with oily skin who really needs a primer it would be perfect, however my skin being normal/combination doesn't really need a heavy duty primer. </div>
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After applying the primer I applied my concealer in any areas I felt needed a little help. I don't usually use the smashbox concealer for blemishes; I mainly keep it for my undereye area, however as this post is predominantly for Smashbox products I decided to try it out as a blemish cover also. I didn't really like it that much as a blemish cover. It was fine to cover redness but it didn't really do much to cover the spot on my forehead.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GBrYSDl2Bjk/U06vjIQhZ8I/AAAAAAAAATo/CV_oSwcWccU/s1600/2014-04-16+14.29.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GBrYSDl2Bjk/U06vjIQhZ8I/AAAAAAAAATo/CV_oSwcWccU/s1600/2014-04-16+14.29.47.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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After blending out my concealer I applied some lid primer all over my lid up to my browbone. Since my Smashbox makeover I have been applying my eyeshadow before my foundation in order to stop fallout affecting the rest of my face.<br />
<br />
The top row of shadows in the palette are shimmery<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SLzO4dFRsPs/U06vmK7hELI/AAAAAAAAAUI/pevUSZOQoYY/s1600/2014-04-16+14.32.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SLzO4dFRsPs/U06vmK7hELI/AAAAAAAAAUI/pevUSZOQoYY/s1600/2014-04-16+14.32.39.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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and the bottom row are matte. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-smKgz3FHWNU/U06vmqFfsDI/AAAAAAAAAUM/C5_z9z_Q5OY/s1600/2014-04-16+14.32.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-smKgz3FHWNU/U06vmqFfsDI/AAAAAAAAAUM/C5_z9z_Q5OY/s1600/2014-04-16+14.32.43.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I used the matte cream colour all over my lid up as far as my browbone, before applying the matte beige on it's left all over the lid. I used the matte taupe colour on the right of the cream on the outer half of the eye and used the matte chocolate brown on the very left hand side to contour my eye. The finished blended look was this. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l1NYBTNNrJY/U06vq6QbCSI/AAAAAAAAAVE/tz2DwzLE53U/s1600/2014-04-16+14.39.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l1NYBTNNrJY/U06vq6QbCSI/AAAAAAAAAVE/tz2DwzLE53U/s1600/2014-04-16+14.39.08.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I then used my <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Real-Techniques-Stippling-Brush_1253416/" target="_blank">Real Techniques Stippling Brush</a> to buff on my foundation. I found that I used more foundation than usual due to it sticking to the primer more than it would to bare skin. I suppose this is really a testament to the quality of the primer. After applying I used my normal <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/No7-Match-Made-Concealer_1373394/" target="_blank">No7 Concealer</a> to cover up any areas I felt weren't properly covered by the Smashbox Concealer. I then applied my <a href="http://www.debenhams.ie/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10052_10001_123932008299_-1" target="_blank">Urban Decay Liquid Liner</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PBQWQwkYIPA/U07Asf2fykI/AAAAAAAAAXY/WP_PWTHvXaU/s1600/foundation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PBQWQwkYIPA/U07Asf2fykI/AAAAAAAAAXY/WP_PWTHvXaU/s1600/foundation.jpg" height="320" width="198" /></a></div>
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I used the Smashbox pencil liner along my upper waterline. There was no transfer to my bottom waterline whatsoever. It also didn't spread throughout the day. I used my <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Rimmel-Stay-Matte-Pressed-Powder_1015573/" target="_blank">Rimmel Pressed Powder</a> on my T-zone and chin. I filled in my eyebrows and applied my bronzer and highlighter to minimally contour my face. I used <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Bourjois-Little-Round-Pot-Blusher_1395/" target="_blank">Bourjois Blusher in Jasper Rose</a> on my cheeks. </div>
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Before applying the Smashbox Gloss, I applied Benefit lip plump on my cupids bow and in the middle of my bottom lip. I used my <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Rimmel-Kate-Lasting-Finish-Lipstick_1230439/" target="_blank">Kate Moss lipstick in 03</a> under the gloss. The gloss didn't feel sticky when I applied it but it did leave a sticky residue after it had been on for a few minutes. It didn't last more than a half hour and was totally gone after I had eaten. </div>
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The finished look: </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PJYjPhYexj4/U07EkQsrubI/AAAAAAAAAXk/5Op2YX4_3b0/s1600/smashbox+finished+look.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PJYjPhYexj4/U07EkQsrubI/AAAAAAAAAXk/5Op2YX4_3b0/s1600/smashbox+finished+look.jpg" height="320" width="227" /></a></div>
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<br />Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-19236380179626611802014-04-16T09:07:00.001-07:002014-04-19T05:01:50.876-07:00How Cruelty Free is Your Makeup Bag? <div class="MsoNormal">
Its obvious
to anyone that knows me, that I am totally and utterly addicted to all things
makeup. What is often not as obvious is that there are some issues I feel
strongly about when it comes to makeup products I will use. Over the years, in
the process of brands testing their products before placing them on the market,
many animals have been subject to what can only be described as torture.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IE">Living in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">Ireland</st1:country-region></st1:place>,
a member of the European union, bound by EU law, there is zero tolerance for
animal testing. An EU directive provides the framework for the phasing out of
animal testing for cosmetic purposes. It is prohibited to test finished
products on animals, and prohibited to market in the EU, finished cosmetic
products and their ingredients which were tested on animals. The testing ban
has been in place since 2004 and the marketing ban since 2009. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-IE">I am no
political activist but it seems ridiculous to me that in 2014, when Europe can
find alternative methods of testing cosmetics that larger, more powerful
countries such as the <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">US</st1:place></st1:country-region>
cannot make more of an effort to put an end to animal testing. The <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">US</st1:country-region></st1:place> are
by no means the biggest culprit when it comes to this issue, having outlawed
the testing of cosmetics on mammals. In <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place></st1:country-region>, local laws require animal
testing on cosmetic products to demonstrate consumer safety as part of the
product registration process. This is a mandatory legal requirement applicable
to all cosmetic products sold in china. This has caused many large cosmetic
companies such as Urban Decay not to enter the Chinese market despite it being
potentially highly lucrative. </span><span style="color: #413000; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Urban Decay is just one company out of many to be awarded
the ‘leaping bunny’ logo. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you see the ‘leaping bunny’ on a cosmetic or website, you
can be confident in the fact that the company has committed to the Corporate
Standard of Compassion for Animals, a voluntary pledge that companies make not
to test on animals during any stage of product development. The ingredient
suppliers make the same pledge and the result is a product which is 100% free
from animal testing. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Urban Decay, which has recently been bought out by L’Oreal,
made the following statement via email: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>"We are under new
ownership but they basically only own us. We still use the same animal and
cruelty free companies we use to make our products. We hope to lead the way for
L’Oreal and show them they do not need to test on any animals."<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
L’Oreal claim to no longer test any of its products or
ingredients on animals, but as is the case with so many companies I emailed,
they do make the exception if regulatory authorities demand they do so. This
basically means that when they sell in places like <st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place>, they do allow the testing of
their products on animals. Many companies sent me full details of their animal
testing policy and the mention of this exception was always buried somewhere
mid-paragraph. It seemed to me that most companies were aware that what they
were doing would make people unhappy and they were doing their best to hide it.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I sent emails to companies I always asked specifically
if they sold in Countries such as <st1:place w:st="on">China</st1:place>, where animal testing is
mandatory, and though I found that many companies were attempting to hide their
involvement in the Chinese market, most were willing to disclose it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Real Techniques emailed me to say that their brushes are
100% synthetic, so they are all cruelty free. They did however choose not to
comment on whether they sell in markets where animal testing is mandatory.
Benefit told me that they have not been carrying out animal testing since long
before the ban came into effect in 2004. They also did not comment on whether
they sell their products in the Chinese market. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Boots provided the following statement: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“Boots and its
subsidiary businesses do not test any products or ingredients on animals, and
do not commission others to do so on our behalf. In fact in March 2013 it
became illegal for any company to test cosmetic products or ingredients on
animals in <st1:place w:st="on">Europe</st1:place>. We realise that until satisfactory
replacements are available, other businesses around the world will carry out
some tests for their own particular products and ingredients to meet regulatory
requirements. These safety tests may
sometimes involve ingredients of the type used in products which we manufacture
and sell.”<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
I started off by going through my makeup and emailed all of the companies. From the statements they sent me I made this little table. When I started the research for this post I thought it would be really easy to find products that are ethical. It's actually a lot harder. A lot of brands will put the profits they can gain ahead of the welfare of the animals they are testing their products on. From now on I will be trying my very best not to buy
products which have possibly been animal tested. Please let me know in the comments below if you have
any questions or if there are any brands you would like checked out. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 480; width: 572px;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 13.3pt; mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;">
<td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Brands 100% free
from animal testing<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Brands not free
from animal testing<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.3pt; mso-yfti-irow: 1;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>NO.7<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Rimmel<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.3pt; mso-yfti-irow: 2;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Urban Decay<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Sleek<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.3pt; mso-yfti-irow: 3;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Philosophy<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Real Techniques<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.3pt; mso-yfti-irow: 4;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Body Shop<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>MaxFactor<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.3pt; mso-yfti-irow: 5;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>MAC<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.3pt; mso-yfti-irow: 6;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Bobbi Brown<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.3pt; mso-yfti-irow: 7;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Maybelline<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.3pt; mso-yfti-irow: 8; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.3pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 214.55pt;" valign="top" width="286"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Lancome<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br />
</i>I was unclear when it came to certain companies such as Benefit and
Bourjois, so I felt it best to leave them out of the running altogether, rather
than give false/misleading information. All of these companies would be
required not to perform animal testing within the EU but if they sell their
products in the Chinese market I included them in the Not Cruelty Free bracket. </div>
Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-46399191563576058992014-03-21T16:17:00.000-07:002014-03-21T16:17:38.555-07:00My favourite bloggersI'm not sure exactly when my obsession with blogging and bloggers began, but I do know where it all began for me.<br />
<br />
The very first blog I ever got into was <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/JacksGap" target="_blank">JacksGap</a>. For those of you who don't know Jack is a British University Student who began his own youtube channel documenting his Gap Year. He and his twin, Finn have become majorly successful and have even gone to third world countries with Comic Relief to help raise money and awareness. Although this may make them sound very serious, their videos are always lots of fun and they have collabbed with people like Sam Pepper, who appeared on Big Brother. Here is my favourite video from Jack and Finn:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
After Jack and Finn, it wasn't long before I realised that there were a plethora of youtubers and bloggers who loved makeup as much as I do. I followed some of my favourite people from the blogging community on youtube long before I realised that they had blogs;<br />
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/feed/blog/1323356" target="_blank">Zoella</a> who is also on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/zoella280390" target="_blank">youtube</a>, is best friends with <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/1918059" target="_blank">Louise</a> who also has a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/Sprinkleofglitter" target="_blank">youtube channel</a>, and both Zoe and Louise are friends with <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/feed/blog/4069854" target="_blank">Tanya</a> (again a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/pixi2woo" target="_blank">youtuber</a>), who's married to<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/j1mmyb0bba" target="_blank"> Jim</a>, who's sister is samantha (a.k.a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/pixiwoo" target="_blank">Pixiwoo</a>), who created Real Techniques. So you can really see that the blogging world is just one large community of people who have something to say or share.<br />
<br />
Now while Beauty and Fashion are my true interests, I also like to see other people's interests and learn new things. One of my favourites I have already mentioned in my <a href="http://www.queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/03/cheap-and-cheerful-fashions-kimonos.html" target="_blank">DIY Kimono Post</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCap97Ue8K_BpKlrvQRYd6JA" target="_blank">LaurDIY</a>, her DIY projects are always beautiful and her fashion and makeup posts thrown in just make for the perfect blog.<br />
<br />
Starting my own blog has really opened my eyes to some new and exciting blogs that I probably would never have found on my own.<br />
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<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/11638613" target="_blank">StrikeAPose</a> is a fashion and beauty blog set up by Mary and Rose. Mary has been particularly supportive of me since I started my own blog and she is genuinely talented. She recently made her first <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F84O2LE8Jbw&list=UUSUN0slCbu_iG86jGLWxPBw" target="_blank">youtube video</a>, which is well worth watching.<br />
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<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/10800517/lily-pebbles" target="_blank">Lilly Pebbles</a> is a new inspiration for me. Her style is so chilled and effortless, yet she always looks amazing.<br />
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Obviously there are many more blogs that I could and probably should mention so I will list all of the blogs that I subscribe to below. Please let me know if there are any blogs I've missed that you follow or if you have found a gem in this post.<br />
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<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3880943" target="_blank">WonderForest</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/1958824" target="_blank">Pixiwoo</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxJ54OEBjFI2Hk2tYntzkUg" target="_blank">Easy Access Beauty</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3917066" target="_blank">Beyond Blush</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/1756919" target="_blank">FleurDeForce</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4532619" target="_blank">GhostParties</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/10789103" target="_blank">Jia And The St</a>ars<br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/6498215" target="_blank">Liana Beauty</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3395553" target="_blank">Lifes Lust Haves</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTqEu1wZDBju2tHkNP1dwzQ" target="_blank">Jacks Gap</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/7656413" target="_blank">Essie Button</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/10800517" target="_blank">Lily Pebbles</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4013556" target="_blank">Ninas Bargain Beauty</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/2538185" target="_blank">So Sue Me</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9gFih9rw0zNCK3ZtoKQQyA" target="_blank">Jenna Marble</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVsTboAhpnuL6j-tDePvNwQ" target="_blank">Tess Christine</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/11638613" target="_blank">Strike A Pose</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF5UrKfIq5ap9skGOgm4W7w" target="_blank">Pointless Blog</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4069854" target="_blank">Tanya Burr</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/10528417" target="_blank">Laur DIY</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPeZTzsoQ4iBjfkVbU0ilmg" target="_blank">Marcus Butler</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuouUWCLmpG4Dje3Ay0p1oQ" target="_blank">Joe Suggs</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKGiTasUqLcZUuUjQiyKotw" target="_blank">Sam Pepper</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkw6KESv1JBSMMOA4YfC2AQ" target="_blank">Josh Wad</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkw6KESv1JBSMMOA4YfC2AQ" target="_blank">e</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvVuqRzGVqRlmZYlTf99M_w" target="_blank">Tyler Oakley</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/1775978" target="_blank">Vivianna Does Makeup</a><br />
<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/1323356" target="_blank">Zoella</a>Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-56704836906643942502014-03-17T15:19:00.000-07:002014-03-17T15:19:08.149-07:00Smashbox MakeoverAlthough this makeover was courtesy of Smashbox, all views expressed in this post are my own. <div>
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This weekend I had my makeup done by Yvonne at Smashbox for a 21st I attended. Lately I have found myself stuck in somewhat of a rut, always using the same products and I was looking for some fresh inspiration. I will usually go with a brown/black shimmery eye and a neutral/red lip for a night on the town. </div>
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I had never really tried Smashbox products so this was the perfect opportunity for me to freshen up my makeup collection. </div>
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Yvonne started with my eyes. Lately I've been very stressed and finding it hard to sleep and so have been noticing my dark circles becoming more prominent. Yvonne put a little bit of<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Travel-Size-Colour-Correcting-Foundation-Primer_1281412/" target="_blank"> Colour Correcting Primer</a> under my eyes before applying <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-High-Definition-Liquid-Concealer-8ml_1272292/" target="_blank">Concealer</a> in Light/Medium. I invested in the Concealer in Fair/Light for everyday use. One of Yvonnes top tips was pat the concealer on under the eye in order to increase blood flow to the area. This will naturally brighten the skin. She used their new Full Exposure eyeshadow palette, which is not yet available on Boots.ie, but is available in store. I think it costs around €35. </div>
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS-6A1OhB7jJy4Eur1RrJxpC37ygXmFJQpsZGSFpBQTn8DDeCw7" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS-6A1OhB7jJy4Eur1RrJxpC37ygXmFJQpsZGSFpBQTn8DDeCw7" /></a></div>
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Although I do usually stick with a neutral eye palette, this was slightly new for me in the fact that the colours Yvonne used were matte. The top line of shadows in the palette are shimmers and the bottom line is totally matte. She first primed the lids using their <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Photo-Finish-Lid-Primer_1271630/" target="_blank">eye primer</a>, and then used the 4th colour in the bottom row (ivory/white) to fill in the lid up as far as the browbone. She then used the 5th colour in the bottom row all over the lid before using the darker brown next to it to draw in a contour along the upper lashline and into the crease. She used a blending brush similar to the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/No7-Eye-Contour-Brush_1261143/" target="_blank">No.7 brush</a> I mentioned in my <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/02/all-time-makeup-favourites-collection.html" target="_blank">Favourites Post</a> to blend the contouring colour out over the lid before darkening the colour in the crease by patting the black colour on the right into the crease with a small brush. She then used the same blending brush to blend this up towards the browbone. All of the colours were very pigmented and it was very easy to build the colour up to the desired smokey effect. </div>
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I usually don't do my eyeshadow before my base, but Yvonne made a very good point in that you don't have to be as careful in applying the shadows and avoiding fallout. Before applying my foundation she primed my face with their <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Photo-Finish-Foundation-Primer_1271634/" target="_blank">original primer</a>. The primer dries in evenly and quickly without leaving a film on the face. You don't have to apply foundation straight after primer. Foundation can be applied after allowing the primer to sink in or immediately. She used their <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Studio-Skin-15-Hour-Wear-Hydrating-Foundation_1272577/" target="_blank">heavier coverage foundation</a> all over the face. She applied it with a flat foundation brush and alternated the direction of her brush strokes in order to reduce the appearance of visible brush strokes. I invested in the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Liquid-Halo-HD-Foundation-SPF15_1395269/" target="_blank">lighter everyday foundation </a> in shade 1 for everyday use. </div>
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Yvonne explained to me that she doesn't like to do the face piece by piece but likes to move around and give things time to settle, and give herself the opportunity to think about what she is doing. After my foundation was applied she moved back to my eyes and filled in my brows using their <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Brow-Tech-Trio_1272244/" target="_blank">brow powder</a> in Brunette. She applied the wax before the powder, which was new to me. I was under the impression that wax was applied after in order to set the powder. </div>
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She then applied some <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Photo-Set-Pressed-Powder_1272565/" target="_blank">pressed powder</a> to my T-zone and chin where I would be likely to become shiny throughout the night. </div>
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I really wanted a cat-eye flick as they are still in for SS/14 and I can't do them myself. She used their <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Jet-Set-Waterproof-Eyeliner_1272299/" target="_blank">gel eyeliner</a> and the <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Real-Techniques-silicone-liner-brush_1435680/" target="_blank">Real Techniques Eyeliner Brush</a> to create the perfect flick. What's unique about this brush is that it is all one piece. This prevents little hairs from going astray and messing up your line after a few washes. I asked Yvonne to share some tips for creating the perfect eyeliner for people like me, who struggle with liquid liner. Her advice was to look down into a mirror which is placed on a table in front of you. This will cause your eye to half-close, stopping you from blinking. Also she advised that when you come to the edge of your eye, rather than carrying on the line to extend into the flick, turn your brush and draw your flick in to meet the line. I have been practising using these tips and the results have been amazing! After finishing my eyeliner she applied their<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Full-Exposure-Mascara_1272308/" target="_blank"> Mascara</a>. While there was absolutely nothing wrong with the mascara there also was nothing remarkable about it. </div>
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She then used a fan brush to highlight my cheekbones using a <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Soft-Lights-Highlighter_1272606/" target="_blank">powder</a> and to contour using a gorgeous <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Baked-Fusion-Soft-Lights-Blush_1272203/" target="_blank">shimmer brick</a> that could easily be used individually for different things. To keep my face relatively neutral as I wanted to go with a strong lip, she used a <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Blush-Rush_1272229/" target="_blank">coral blush</a> to add some colour to my cheeks. </div>
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Finally she used a purple<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Always-Sharp-Waterproof-3D-Liner_1430018/" target="_blank"> eyeliner</a> to line and fill in my lips before covering it with their <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Be-Legendary-Lipstick_1272206/" target="_blank">lipstick</a> in Vivid Violet.</div>
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The lipstick was a fantastic colour, but didn't last all that long.</div>
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This was the finished look. </div>
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The lipstick didn't last very long and had to be topped up throughout the night using my <a href="http://www.collectioncosmetics.co.uk/lips/lipstick/gothic-glam-lipstick.aspx" target="_blank">Collection lipstick</a> in Scorned, which I can't find on Boots.ie but is available in store. I already mentioned this lipstick in my <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/02/make-up-haul.html" target="_blank">Make Up Haul Post</a>. The rest of the makeup did seem to last fairly well, although my face looks abnormally white in several photos. This is what it looked like after almost 8 hours. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xgI5R-sNH48/UydztcVKqKI/AAAAAAAAARU/CUuoO_Pu9Tw/s1600/after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xgI5R-sNH48/UydztcVKqKI/AAAAAAAAARU/CUuoO_Pu9Tw/s1600/after.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a></div>
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I even managed to somewhat recreate the look the following morning for work. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yAXDkdiAYYs/Uydz6vkMRVI/AAAAAAAAARc/CuRQWC6GE5k/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yAXDkdiAYYs/Uydz6vkMRVI/AAAAAAAAARc/CuRQWC6GE5k/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Smashbox also provided me with a free <a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Smashbox-Try-It-Kit_1300137/" target="_blank">Try-it Kit</a> which I will be reviewing soon. </div>
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Let me know your thoughts below and if you will be investing in any of the products I've mentioned. </div>
Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-8599884590345116732014-03-12T14:52:00.003-07:002014-03-12T14:54:39.487-07:00Bloglovin' <br />
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Today I want to take the time to tell all of you about Bloglovin'. Some people who blog themselves may already know about it, and how amazing it is, but there are a lot of people reading my blog who no doubt won't know it.<br />
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Bloglovin' is a blog reader. It's basically a social network. You log in to your account and you follow the blogs that you like. I follow quite a few and will post recommendations in the next few weeks in a post about my favourite bloggers.<br />
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Bloglovin' works really well for Bloggers as well as readers. Not only will it give you your blog fix but it suggests new blogs that you may be interested in based on your subscriptions. This can be a huge inspiration boost when you are having a bout of bloggers block.<br />
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There are few things that I enjoy more than opening my bloglovin' to find that someone has liked a post or followed me. It's a huge confidence boost to know that someone cares so much about what you have to say that they want to be notified the next time you post.<br />
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For those of you who are iPhone users, there is an app for Bloglovin' which is just as useful as the webpage. I like to read through my blogs when I have a spare few minutes, on the bus or in the ads of a TV show. Through both the App and the Web Version you can comment directly on posts and interact with other readers of your favourite blogs.<br />
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I would love to see some of you joining Bloglovin' and getting involved in the blogging community.<br />
You can sign up <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/" target="_blank">here</a> and you can then find my blog to follow it <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/11881061" target="_blank">here. </a><br />
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Please let me know if you have any problems and how you get on in the comments below.Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-3429913582924245822014-03-10T15:24:00.001-07:002014-03-10T15:24:36.787-07:00March WishlistMarch is now upon us and so is lent. I don't usually do lent, but this year I decided to test my willpower. I have resolved not to buy any more cosmetics or makeup products until Easter.<br />
I do have a serious addiction and I need to reign it in a little bit and this should hopefully help.<br />
I've decided to torment myself by posting a Wishlist, and who knows? Come April I may treat myself to some of these things.<br />
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<b>Essie Nail Polish in A Cut Above</b></h3>
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Essie Nail Polishes are really good quality and retailing in boots for around €9.99, they are an absolute bargain. This chunky pink glitter would be gorgeous over any colour: black, nude, white. I love anything that glitters. However, I would guess that I now own close to 100 nail polishes and the last thing I need is another one.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Collection-Lasting-Perfection-Ultimate-Wear-Concealer_1436032/" target="_blank">Collection Lasting Perfection Ultimate Wear Concealer</a></b></h3>
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Zoella swears by this concealer,and if it's good enough for her it's good enough for me to try. </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/U6dab2oWt5o?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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If you don't want to watch the whole video then you can skip to 6:30 where you'll see her talk about the concealer. </div>
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<a href="http://www.boots.ie/en/Garnier-Micellar-Cleansing-Water-400ml_1440752/" target="_blank">Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water</a></h3>
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This one is a bit of a roundabout story so please bear with me. Last year while on holiday in the South of France, I was looking for some cleanser in a small cosmetics shop called Nocibé. I found a bottle of Micellaire Water and I literally only bought it because it had one of these bottles which I wanted to fill up with nail polish remover when the cleanser was gone. </div>
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<a href="http://www.quadpack.com/webpac_content/quadpack_articles/english/Luxury_at_your_fingertips____Institut_Arnaud_well_pump/images/Institut%20Arnaud%20Well%20Pump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.quadpack.com/webpac_content/quadpack_articles/english/Luxury_at_your_fingertips____Institut_Arnaud_well_pump/images/Institut%20Arnaud%20Well%20Pump.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
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As it happens, I was very impressed with the micellaire water and when it was gone, and I was back on Irish soil a replacement was ridiculously hard to locate. I have an alternative that I'm using at the moment, which will feature in a later skincare post but as soon as that is gone I will be investing in this. </div>
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<a href="http://www.feelunique.com/p/Tanya-Burr-Nail-Polish-60g" target="_blank">Tanya Burr Nail Polish</a></h3>
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One of my favourite bloggers Tanya Burr has recently brought out a line of lip glosses and nail polishes, and while I'm not much of a lip gloss girl, the nail polishes are simply perfect! My favourite shades are Little Duck, New York Night and Penguin Chic, but they are all lovely and I will be buying them very soon. </div>
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<a href="http://www.boohoo.com/invt/azz39013" target="_blank">Lorena Floral Tieback Jumpsuit</a></h3>
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I love this jumpsuit. Floral prints are so cute and pretty in the Summer. This piece would be so easy to dress up or dress down. Paired with flip flops it would be perfect for a walk on the beach or a stroll through the market and paired with a blazer, heels and earrings it would take you out on the town. This is a must have for Summer. </div>
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These are just a few things that have crossed my path recently. I hope you've been inspired to treat yourself too. Please let me know in the comments below. </div>
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From now on wherever possible I will provide links to make it easier for people to shop my blog posts. </div>
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Also please let me know what you would like to see me post about next by taking part in the poll on the right sidebar. </div>
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Thanks for reading.</div>
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Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-65465165832642961022014-03-06T11:16:00.001-08:002014-03-06T11:16:28.927-08:00Review: L'Oréal Paris Studioline #TXT Texture Styling Wave Creating SprayWAVE IT.<br />
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This product claims to create texturised waves on straight hair, specifically formulated to help protect hair against heat, while leaving the hair non-heavy and non-crunchy.<br /><br />
As a sort of disclaimer I should probably begin this review by stating that my hair is naturally somewhere between a wave and a very messy curl when left to dry naturally. It's also very thick and can be quite stubborn to style. If I don't blowdry it my hair tends to get very matted, which leads to frizzynesss when I do manage to brush it.<br />
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I already mentioned this product in my <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/02/make-up-haul.html" target="_blank">Haul Blog Post</a>. I bought this purely on the merits of the Volumising Spray I have from the same line. The spray is relatively cheap retailing at €4.99, which if it worked would make it a steal.<br />
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I started the process by washing my hair, adding some John Frieda Frizz Ease Serum for thick hair and by spraying the wave spray over my wet hair. I know that everyone's hair is different but I could have done with some further direction than "spray generously".<br />
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I then "half-blowdried" my hair, basically I blowdried the excess water out of my hair and styled my fringe.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rd3JTcVTTN4/UxjFfyXeAeI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/FG4Ijd27sxg/s1600/Wet+Hair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rd3JTcVTTN4/UxjFfyXeAeI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/FG4Ijd27sxg/s1600/Wet+Hair.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I then stopped blowdrying and twisted my hair into a few topknots. The bottle says "at least two" but I have a lot of hair and I wanted fairly defined waves so I did put in a good few. I pinned them so that they would stay while I continued blowdrying my hair.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ushM4HVLM94/UxjE3QCMKoI/AAAAAAAAAQY/qEFvPQmzQwU/s1600/WCS+topknots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ushM4HVLM94/UxjE3QCMKoI/AAAAAAAAAQY/qEFvPQmzQwU/s1600/WCS+topknots.jpg" height="317" width="320" /></a></div>
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I kept blowdrying my hair for about another 10-15 minutes and then took out the topknots. At this stage the waves did look fairly defined but I couldn't leave my hair in just six curls so I had to separate them.<br />
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I then continued to blowdry my hair, while scrunching the waves upwards.<br />
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I wasn't that happy with the quality of my hair. It was really messy and not very wavy. It reminded me of the way my hair would look after I came out of the sea on holidays and left my hair dry naturally. It wasn't a very good look for me and the only place I would actually wear my hair like that would be on holidays, where my hair would look like that anyway.<br />
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I used my <i>Remington Silk Curling Wand</i> to make the waves more defined. I took some pictures to show how it looked along the way, and this is the finished look.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eMNfsyZsbWc/UxjE3AUhDfI/AAAAAAAAAQg/dp5LOtGCq8w/s1600/WCS+fin+look.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eMNfsyZsbWc/UxjE3AUhDfI/AAAAAAAAAQg/dp5LOtGCq8w/s1600/WCS+fin+look.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
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The look did take quite a bit of time to do and it would have been faster to just use my curling wand in the first place. </div>
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I followed the instructions on the back of the bottle exactly. The bottle claims to leave your hair irresistibly soft to the touch, non-crunchy and non-heavy. I did find my hair a bit sticky and crunchy afterwards to be honest.</div>
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In writing this review I felt that I should give a balanced and well researched view so I looked online at how other people found the spray. </div>
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The reviews in general that I found were poor enough, however I did find <a href="http://www.frillseeker.ie/blog/5-steps-easiest-and-non-crunchy-beachy-hair-weve-ever-seen" target="_blank">this article</a> with some pictures from the press release of the product. My hair looked nothing like that unfortunately. </div>
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I also found a tutorial from L'Oréal Paris on how to use it, which was totally different from the instructions printed on the back of the bottle. </div>
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Maybe if you followed these instructions you would have a better result from the spray, but for now from me, its a thumbs down. </div>
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Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-79530144285314304252014-03-05T06:28:00.000-08:002014-03-05T06:28:42.042-08:00#OOTD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAyz8YyLowA/Uxct8yINqlI/AAAAAAAAAQA/MoCU398iUGg/s1600/ootd9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAyz8YyLowA/Uxct8yINqlI/AAAAAAAAAQA/MoCU398iUGg/s320/ootd9.jpg" /></a></div>
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Yesterday I had college and I also had an informal interview. I wouldn't have time to change between the two so it was important to keep my outfit simple for college but yet appropriate for an interview. </div>
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The red tartan dress I wore is from TK Maxx. I bought it there just after Christmas. I think it cost around €16.99. I bought the navy coat with the black fur detail on the collar in H&M in the Crescent Shopping centre in Limerick just two weeks ago. It was in the Sale and it cost just €20. It's really stylish and warm at the same time. Although we are coming into the Spring/Summer Season it will most likely be cold in Ireland for another few months so it's not too late to invest in a coat. </div>
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My snood is from Penneys, although they may be out of stock by now. I bought it before christmas and it cost around €5. I love mustard and I think it's really flattering on every skin tone. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Y_zTfWrP50/Uxct7wNcz0I/AAAAAAAAAPw/9Jnkdv5K4ik/s1600/ootd7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Y_zTfWrP50/Uxct7wNcz0I/AAAAAAAAAPw/9Jnkdv5K4ik/s320/ootd7.jpg" /></a></div>
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My black boots I have already featured in an #OOTD post. They are from New Look and cost €44.99. I really love them because they are so pretty. They are a lot higher than they look though and can be super hard to walk in. They are also a little uncomfortable, not enough to stop me wearing them though. No pain no gain right? </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nWjw_P7SLsA/Uxct7pOmMnI/AAAAAAAAAPo/X4YsmWu2BG0/s1600/motd4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nWjw_P7SLsA/Uxct7pOmMnI/AAAAAAAAAPo/X4YsmWu2BG0/s320/motd4.jpg" /></a><br />
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Yesterday my look was quite Wintery so I wanted to stick with it and wear a berry lip. In order to pull that off I needed to keep the rest of my face simple. I used <i>Smashbox Liquid Halo HD Foundation </i>in 1 as a base and used <i>Smashbox High Definition Concealer </i>in Fair/Light to hide my dark circles. I'm having a slight breakout on my chin at the moment so I used <i>No.7 Stay Perfect Blemish Cover </i>in Medium to cover that up. To set my base I used my <i>Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder </i>in Peach Glow, because I was leaving the house at 8am and not coming back until close to 7pm, and I don't really like fixing my makeup in college. On my eyes I used the highlighter from my <i>Sleek Face Contour Kit </i>in Light up as far as my brow bone. I then layered Sin from <i>Urban Decay's Naked Palette </i>all over my eyelid. I used Buck from the same palette to contour along the crease. I highlighted my tear duct and the very outer corner of my eye with Virgin from the same palette to open my eye. I just used <i>Rimmel Scandaleyes Rockin' Curves mascara</i> on my lashes and filled in my brows using <i>L'Oréal Superliner Brow Artist </i>in Blonde. I used a dusting of the bronzer from my <i>Sleek Face Contour Kit </i>to contour my cheekbones and <i>Bourjois Blush </i>in 95 Jasper Rose to add a little bit of colour to my cheeks. I lined my lips with my <i>No.7 Precision Lips Pencil </i>in fire and then filled them in using <i>Collection Gothic Glam Lipstick </i>in 2 Scorned. To make the colour last I covered that in <i>Barry M Lip Laquer Crayon </i>in 2. </div>
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Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-5709388661035551352014-03-03T04:45:00.001-08:002014-03-03T04:45:14.720-08:00Cheap and Cheerful Fashions: KimonosI have a serious love for kimonos and I really need to stop buying them. I have far too many at this point and after an email from River Island yesterday letting me know that they are getting in more, I can feel the itch starting again. So in my well established wisdom I scoured the internet for a cheap alternative that I could share. <div>
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Here is a link to the <a href="http://eu.riverisland.com/women/tops/kimonos?rmid=22516&rrid=4415689&cmpid=esRI141001A_a" target="_blank">River Island kimonos</a> in case you're too lazy for the alternative. </div>
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So here comes my creative solution to insufficient funds. </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/SmJ8L4VCMjk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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This video comes from a Youtube Channel called <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/LaurDIY" target="_blank">Laur DIY</a>, which is well worth checking out if you have time. I love her style and her creativity, and there are lots of her projects that I will be trying out in the next few months. </div>
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I will be keeping my eye out for some suitable scarves in the coming weeks and I will post the results when I have made my kimono. </div>
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Please let me know in the comments if you would like to see more of this on the blog, or if you will also be trying this. </div>
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Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-71867158934102118582014-03-02T13:08:00.001-08:002014-03-05T06:29:05.535-08:00#OOTD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This outfit is from Friday but I didn't get a chance to upload it until now. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fy9XRiNjnmA/UxOYjL7MzdI/AAAAAAAAAOU/A0wAfT7MGKk/s1600/ootd5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fy9XRiNjnmA/UxOYjL7MzdI/AAAAAAAAAOU/A0wAfT7MGKk/s1600/ootd5.jpg" height="320" width="109" /></a></div>
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The teal jeans I bought at TK Maxx in the Modbox section, which has really trendy affordable pieces ranging from size 8-18. The jeans were around €16.99 and they nearly always have something similar.<br />
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This polka-dot top is one of my favourites. I'm never sure whether it's black or navy but the cut of it is just so pretty and I love the coral neck detailing. I bought it in the Winter Sale this year in Zara. I think it cost around 6 or 7 euro. It was a steal.<br />
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My denim shirt is from River Island. It has diamante detailing on the collar and again I just love it. It was a tad pricey at €75 but it's thick so it can be worn as a shirt in the Winter and as a Jacket in the Summer, making it a really versatile piece.<br />
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My brown Cowboy boots have a knit-like effect on the top and they go with absolutely everything. I got them from Penneys before I started college last year so I have had them now for a year and a half. I can't remember how much they cost, probably around €20 but so so worth it.<br />
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Friday I spent the morning trying the lavender look for my <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/03/lfw-makeup-trends.html" target="_blank">LFW Makeup Post</a> so that's why may eye-makeup is a bit strange. I already explained my eye makeup over there. On my face I used <i>Rimmel BB Cream</i> in Light as a base, dusted with <i>Rimmel Stay Matte Powder </i>in Peach Glow. On my cheeks I used <i>Philosophy Divine Blushing Bronzer </i>in Deep. On my lips I used <i>Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate </i>in 03.<br />
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You can find a full description of all of these products in my <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/02/make-up-haul.html" target="_blank">Make Up Haul Post</a>.Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-90278932316263426132014-03-01T14:29:00.000-08:002014-03-01T15:01:09.253-08:00LFW Makeup Trends<br />
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<a href="http://alexloves.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/11/Topshop-Unique-SS14/1055570745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://alexloves.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/11/Topshop-Unique-SS14/1055570745.jpg" height="219" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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Last week at London Fashion Week we said goodbye to some of our old reliables and said hello to some new, unique beauty trends for AW/14. Although the fashion world may be having a better time of it I am still waiting for the Summer here in Ireland so I've taken the time to pick out some of the key trends for SS/14. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Some of the stronger trends such as the cat-eye flick and the metallic colour pallette are still hanging around though to ring in the summer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A really prominent trend at LFW was the power lip, ranging from pastel colours and bright pops of orange to the light berry lip we saw gracing the runway during the Charles Anastase show.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www3.pictures.stylebistro.com/it/Charles+Anastase+Fall+2010+kynjMsnVSO7l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www3.pictures.stylebistro.com/it/Charles+Anastase+Fall+2010+kynjMsnVSO7l.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></span></div>
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I love a dark lip in the Winter season but I'm not sure about how well this will fare during the transition into Summer months. Maybe this trend will be wearable in Ireland where it is cold enough year around to make cheeks flushed and lips red, but somehow I think those of us holidaying in warmer climates won't be sporting the berry lip on the promenade. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A much more wearable trend is the orange lip seen at the DKNY show. Orange lips are surprisingly flattering on almost every skin tone. Makeup Artist, Charlotte Willer used affordable high-street brand Maybelline to create the look. She mixed <i>Maybelline Colour Sensational Vivids Lipstick </i>in Electric Orange and Neon Red. </span><br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/K7-2sMeyyyifkLx21pKI6wrJVNpmnDMKWSPedRf8HvQ_gz1VnR4LmzLplsEbqZ2K7RGHCS461ad3oxwrFmefyH9dg85JCitmVizC57VmIEAKV1Qdd0AfRjB-ntdqWKiciJ-aW0N943M" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/2f/c0/c4/2fc0c479251f7b2f3dae83a161fdd931.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The trick when choosing an orange lipstick for paler girls is to choose a lipstick with a red hue rather than yellow. In order to demonstrate how easy the trend is to pull off I attempted the look this morning. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LR8lkwa6xKE/UxJD0DXqc_I/AAAAAAAAAMo/5rKBiy7D5d0/s1600/orange+lip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LR8lkwa6xKE/UxJD0DXqc_I/AAAAAAAAAMo/5rKBiy7D5d0/s1600/orange+lip.jpg" height="320" width="246" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I used <i>Mac </i>in Lady Danger and mixed it with <i>Mac </i>in Russian Red because Lady Danger has a yellow base. I kept the rest of my face simple to emphasise the strong lip. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Designer, J. JS Lee also featured a bright fuschia tone lip, similar to <i>MAC </i>in Pleasurefruit. I was never a huge fan of lip gloss as I find the majority to be sticky and unpleasant to wear and I am pleased to report that gloss has largely gone by the wayside for the Summer Season. Edging into its place is a matte lip. This look can be achieved by blotting lipstick and then dusting lightly with a translucent powder through a tissue.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.elleuk.com/var/elleuk/storage/images/beauty/make-up-skin/make-up-features/best-in-make-up-london-fashion-week-s-s-14/j.js-lee/16185829-1-eng-GB/j.js-lee_GA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://www.elleuk.com/var/elleuk/storage/images/beauty/make-up-skin/make-up-features/best-in-make-up-london-fashion-week-s-s-14/j.js-lee/16185829-1-eng-GB/j.js-lee_GA.jpg" height="320" width="246" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Another strong trend to emerge this year was blue-tone eyeshadow. I am of the opinion that blue eyeshadow isn't the most flattering but I can just about tolerate a lavender eye similar to that seen at the Holly Fulton show.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.elleuk.com/var/elleuk/storage/images/beauty/make-up-skin/make-up-features/best-in-make-up-london-fashion-week-s-s-14/holly-fulton/16185986-2-eng-GB/holly-fulton_GA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: inherit; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.elleuk.com/var/elleuk/storage/images/beauty/make-up-skin/make-up-features/best-in-make-up-london-fashion-week-s-s-14/holly-fulton/16185986-2-eng-GB/holly-fulton_GA.jpg" height="320" width="246" /></a></span></div>
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Makeup artist Andrew Gallimore applied this lilac colour from just above the lashline to the brow bone, and while this looks stunning on the runway I don't think I will see it gracing the streets of Ireland any time soon. I created a similar, more wearable look today using the <i>No.7</i> <i>Neutral Radiance Eye Palette </i>and the <i>Urban Decay Bamboo Palette.</i><span lang="EN-IE"> </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iadykgOUxfM/UxJI5Ta0oXI/AAAAAAAAANA/TxBhSf0SGYA/s1600/No7Palette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iadykgOUxfM/UxJI5Ta0oXI/AAAAAAAAANA/TxBhSf0SGYA/s1600/No7Palette.jpg" height="320" width="289" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No.7 Neutral Radiance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/236x/ec/49/e8/ec49e823ea6fe09fdd63c988fd0db66d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a> I used the Blue-Lilac colour in the upper left hand corner of the <i>No.7</i> pallette all over the eyelid to create a base. I then used the copper-pink colour you see underneath to contour the outer part of my eye-socket to create depth. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-IE"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-IE"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkiLGLsxEyg/UxJI2g9vc5I/AAAAAAAAAM4/sBWkNh1FJho/s1600/UD+VZI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkiLGLsxEyg/UxJI2g9vc5I/AAAAAAAAAM4/sBWkNh1FJho/s1600/UD+VZI.jpg" height="320" width="258" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-IE">
</span></span><span lang="EN-IE"><i><br /></i></span><span lang="EN-IE"> </span>I then applied VZI by <i>Urban Decay</i> in the inner corner of my eye to really make the pinks and purples pop. I then blended them as far towards my browbone as I was comfortable with to stay in keeping with the trend. I ran the blue-lilac colour under the outer corner of my eye with an angled brush in order to also tie in the Ephereal look we saw grace the catwalk of one of my favourite designers, Julien MacDonald. Cheekbones were highlighted and faces were kept simple to emphasise the otherworldlyness of the models. The look took some getting used to and I did have a few double takes when I passed the mirror throughout the day, but I must admit it did grow on me. This is probably as blue as I would go with my eyeshadow but I would never say never. There was once a time when I hated tartan.<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-IE"><br /></span><span lang="EN-IE"> </span><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/2f/c0/c4/2fc0c479251f7b2f3dae83a161fdd931.jp"><br /></a></span><span lang="EN-IE"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/236x/ec/49/e8/ec49e823ea6fe09fdd63c988fd0db66d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/236x/ec/49/e8/ec49e823ea6fe09fdd63c988fd0db66d.jpg" /></a></div>
</span><span lang="EN-IE"><br /></span><span lang="EN-IE"> </span><span lang="EN-IE"> </span>Another way of wearing the blue
eyeshadow trend was shown at the David Koma Show where the models eye was first
covered with a gold eyeshadow as a base, similar to the <i>Bourjois Shimmering Shine Liquid Eyeshadow</i> in Molecule D'or that I frequently use. The outer half of the lid
was thickly lined with a navy eyeliner. Navy really brings out the colour
of the eyes. This is another really wearable way to go with it.</span></div>
<div>
The gold eyeshadow used in the David Koma show tied neatly into another trend to feature heavily in the coming season, metallic glitter eyeshadows. I find <i style="font-family: inherit;">Urban Decay </i>to be very reliable for glittery eyeshadows and if applied with their <i style="font-family: inherit;">Eye Primer Potion</i> the eyeshadows don’t have much fallout.</div>
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<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thick flicks of eyeliner were
also seen at the Sister by Sibling show and the Topshop show and it looks like
this trend is here to stay. I am not a huge fan of this trend but it is largely
down to my own ineptness. Liquid eyeliner and I are not a good match and no
matter how I try I just cannot create the cat-eye flick I so crave. </span><br />
Topshop went for a bold eye look. Models sported a messy eyeliner both on the lid and on the waterline under the eye. They themed their makeup “Beach Party” and it certainly did smack of Oxegen. </div>
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The models had bronzed skin and grungy hair and eye makeup. Although a fairly natural and non-preened look it was drastically different from the pretty, natural faces we saw grace the runway at the Temperley show. The soft sheer makeup was beautiful and really made the models look fresh as a daisy. Minimal makeup is easy to pair with a pastel lip and a white tone eyeshadow in the summer. I would recommend using a tinted moisturiser or BB cream to create this look.<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">One of my favourite reveals at LFW
is that freckles are back! Being Irish I do have an abundance of freckles and a
tendency to want to hide them. At the Paul Smith show the makeup artists
actually drew freckles across the models’ cheeks and nose using an eyebrow
pencil. Backstage at Charles Anastase each girl was given a beauty spot under
her left eye because imperfections are beautiful. The natural and real nature
of the catwalks really struck me this year and it is a trend I truly adore.</span></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Despite this many models sported
bronzed skin and although for the last few seasons pale skin has been in, it
appears tan is back. When Topshop Models weren’t sporting their grungy beach
look they were instead bronzed babes showing off a bright red/orange lip.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Big lashes seem to be in this season
and not just on the top lid. The Makeup Artist at the Jean Pierre Braganza show
applied false lashes to both top and bottom lids of the girls before sending
them down the runway. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mulberry perhaps showed the prettiest faces at LFW, although they did seem to go very heavy
on the mascara. I’m not sure spider lashes will ever be “in”. </span><br />
<o:p style="font-family: inherit;"> </o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;">What do you think of the trends at
LFW? Will you be sporting any of them in the months to come? Let me know in the
comments below.</span><br />
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Gold Jumper w/ sequin sleeves: Penneys Limited Edition (Previous Season)</div>
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High Waisted Shorts: Penneys (Previous Season)</div>
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Black boots w/ gold heel plate: (New Look €44.99)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5E0XGEblkAo/Uw-mcflIQ0I/AAAAAAAAAME/kshWwYJBy6Q/s1600/motd2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5E0XGEblkAo/Uw-mcflIQ0I/AAAAAAAAAME/kshWwYJBy6Q/s1600/motd2.jpg" height="320" width="206" /></a></div>
<br />
Rimmel BB Cream (Boots, €8.95)<br />
Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder (Boots, €5.99)<br />
L'Oréal Superliner Brow Artist (Boots, €8.49)<br />
Sin, Virgin and Buck from Urban Decay Naked Palette (Debenhams, €44)<br />
Rimmel Scandaleyes Rockin' Curves Mascara (Boots, €5.65)<br />
Benefit Watts Up (Boots, €35)<br />
Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate in 03 (Boots, €6.99)Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-72217573624783967592014-02-26T10:23:00.000-08:002014-02-26T10:41:09.624-08:00All Time MakeUp FavouritesThese are what I consider to be the best of the best of my makeup collection. Compiling this list was no easy feat. Do you know how much makeup it is possible to love? In my case rather a lot. I've done the best I can to whittle it down to one or two from every category. So here goes.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Lipstick</h3>
<b><u>Daywear</u></b><br />
<b>Winner: </b>MaxFactor Colour Perfection in Ultrasuede (Discontinued)<br />
<b>Runner Up: </b>Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate in 03 (Boots, €6.99)<br />
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For daywear I have used <i>MaxFactor Colour Perfection </i>in Ultrasuede for a long time but this line of lipsticks have been discontinued and I can't quite seem to find something the same.<br />
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When this runs out I will probably use my <i>Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate </i>in 03 but it's not the same.<br />
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On the top is the Rimmel 03 and and on the bottom is Ultrasuede.<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>Nightwear</u></b><br />
<b>Winner: </b>Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate in 01 (Boots, €6.99)<br />
<b>Runner Up: </b>No.7 High Shine Lip Crayon in Berry (Boots, €11.75)<br />
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These are really great affordable lipsticks, but I do usually need a lipiner under this deep red colour to stop it from moving. I use my <i>No.7 Precision Lips Pencil </i>in Fire.<br />
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This lipliner also works with my <i>MAC Russian Red </i>and <i>Miss Sporty Perfect Colour </i>in Dream.<br />
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On the top is a swatch of the Rimmel in 01 and on the bottom you can see the colour of the liner.<br />
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Close behind but not quite there is my <i>No.7 High Shine Lip Crayon </i>in Berry. This does not quite have the depth in colour that I would need it to if it were to be my favourite. You can see more information on this product in my <a href="http://www.queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/02/make-up-haul.html" target="_blank">Make Up Haul Blog Post</a>. </div>
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<h3>
Eyeliner</h3>
<b>Winner: </b>Mac Dupe Eye/Lip liner with aloe vera & vitamin E<br />
<b>Runner Up:</b>Maybelline New York EyeStudio Lasting Drama Gel Liner<i> </i>in 01 Black (Boots, €11.99)<br />
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My favourite eyeliner of the moment is a MAC dupe which I acquired some time back. I'm not sure where exactly I got it from but I am aware that it is not a genuine MAC eyeliner.<br />
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Although I am aware that it is a fake, that doesn't stop it being a quality eye pencil. It lasts and doesn't move if I wear it all day, and it doesn't irritate my eyes like a lot of other liners do. </div>
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I have had <i>Maybelline New York EyeStudio Lasting Drama Gel Liner </i>in 01 Black since it first came out in 2010 and I'm still not even close to running out. </div>
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I realise that makeup goes off but I haven't had any problems yet and I can't afford to be throwing out makeup willy nilly. </div>
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This liner is much darker and thicker than a pencil and I only really use it for going out at night. I think it would be too much for daywear. I don't rate the brush that comes with it and prefer to use my <i>Louise Walsh Angled Eye Brush</i> to apply the gel. </div>
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<h3>
Mascara</h3>
<div>
<b>Winner: </b>Estée Lauder Magnascopic Maximum Volume Mascara (Debenhams, €25)</div>
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<b>Runner Up: </b>Mac Zoomlash (Brown Thomas, €18)</div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">I don't own either of my favourite mascaras at the moment as I love trying out new brands and I have lots of other mascaras at the moment to use but none of them measure up to these. </span><br />
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<i>Estée Lauder Magnascopic Maximum Volume Mascara </i>is the best mascara I have ever used. It creates full voluminous lashes without causing spider legs. I cannot rate this highly enough and I can't wait to repurchase it. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-odrXQGItcRo/UKcd4rBPnuI/AAAAAAAAAow/OAcmJXttSC8/s1600/Mac+Zoom+lash.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-odrXQGItcRo/UKcd4rBPnuI/AAAAAAAAAow/OAcmJXttSC8/s1600/Mac+Zoom+lash.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mascara is one of the places in my makeup bag that I won't hesitate to spend money because where I'm concerned you get what you pay for. The only problem with <i>MAC Zoomlash </i>for me is that, at the beginning of the bottle before you use it for a while, too much comes out on the brush and it is so easy to end up with spider legs. Once you use it a bit, it evens out and it is much easier to use. </div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Blush</h3>
<div>
<b>Winner: </b>Nars in Orgasm (www.brownthomas.ie, €29)</div>
<div>
<b>Runner Up: </b>Sephora Dupe (Not Available in Ireland)</div>
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My favourite blush is <i>Nars </i>in Orgasm </div>
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but as this is not readily available to me in Ireland, when I ran out I never repurchased it. While on holiday in France two years ago I found a gem in a Sephora store. </div>
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<a href="http://www.tonguechic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/PAP-COLOR-COLLECTION-FERMEE-V2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.tonguechic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/PAP-COLOR-COLLECTION-FERMEE-V2.png" height="241" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
This set comes as six shelves, each with 4 shadows, 2 lipglosses and a blush and each shelf has a colour scheme, green, brown, blue, pink, purple and black. These shelves all slot into a drawer unit which also comes with a hollow compact to slot your favourite shelf into when you are on the go.<br />
In the green shelf there is a blush which is very similar to the <i>Nars </i>blush I love so much.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R8dgfogkVj8/Uw4PqQXpvUI/AAAAAAAAAKU/Huh9RBe6560/s1600/photo+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R8dgfogkVj8/Uw4PqQXpvUI/AAAAAAAAAKU/Huh9RBe6560/s1600/photo+(5).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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As you can see it is almost gone and then I will be on the hunt for a new blush. If you have any suggestions please leave them in the comments below.<br />
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<h3>
Bronzer</h3>
<div>
<b>Winner: </b>Strictly Come Dancing Bronzing Set (Discontinued) </div>
<div>
<b>Runner Up: </b>Benefit Hoola (Boots, €34)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Last year after Christmas I picked up a <i>Strictly Come Dancing Bronzing Set</i> in the Boots sale for less than €15 and little did I know what a gem I had acquired. </div>
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<a href="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/BNIB-Strictly-Stunning-Face-Body-Bronzing-Collection-Come-Dancing-Gift-Box-Set-/00/s/MTIwMFgxNjAw/z/lOUAAOxyHBBSP0mf/$T2eC16d,!zEFIe9W4c8bBSP0meiLpQ~~60_35.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/BNIB-Strictly-Stunning-Face-Body-Bronzing-Collection-Come-Dancing-Gift-Box-Set-/00/s/MTIwMFgxNjAw/z/lOUAAOxyHBBSP0mf/$T2eC16d,!zEFIe9W4c8bBSP0meiLpQ~~60_35.JPG" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The bronzer has three shades in it, a shimmery white, a shimmery beige and a darker brown colour. I used the white alone as a highlighter, with the beige for a daytime bronzer and mixed all three together for a night bronzer. Unfortunately mine has broken and I can't find anywhere to repurchase this. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-__nQ6Vb6Ieo/Uw4RMoB4YDI/AAAAAAAAAKg/EnXhfIgR08Y/s1600/photo+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-__nQ6Vb6Ieo/Uw4RMoB4YDI/AAAAAAAAAKg/EnXhfIgR08Y/s1600/photo+(6).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I like <i>Benefit Hoola </i>but I find Benefit's products to be very overpriced and it kills me to repurchase them. Recently a friend of mine gave me the <i>Sleek Face Contour Kit</i> in light. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3e7hzkEW4Jo/TuO4aEkqEJI/AAAAAAAACGk/WB3QkpJz26E/s1600/ContourKitLight+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3e7hzkEW4Jo/TuO4aEkqEJI/AAAAAAAACGk/WB3QkpJz26E/s1600/ContourKitLight+%25282%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The bronzer in this is quite similar to <i>Hoola</i> and much more reasonably priced. I will definitely repurchase this. </div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Brows</h3>
<b>Winner: </b>Rimmel London Professional Eyebrow Pencil in Hazel (Boots, €4.75)<br />
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<a href="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10022425?wid=88&hei=111&op_sharpen=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10022425?wid=88&hei=111&op_sharpen=1" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
I like the <i>Rimmel London Professional Eyebrow Pencil </i>in Hazel because it works just fine and is as cheap as chips. 10/10 in my book. Will definitely repurchase. </div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Concealer</h3>
<b>Winner: </b>Benefit Boiing in 02 (Boots, €24.00)<br />
<b>Runner Up: </b>No.7 Match Made Concealer in Cool Ivory (Boots, €9.75)<br />
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<a href="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10081423?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10081423?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" height="320" width="261" /></a></div>
<div>
This is one of the few <i>Benefit</i> products that I rate at all. The concealer is brilliant! It really is industrial strength. Usually I will use it only at night but on the odd occasion if I am having a particularly bad skin day I will pop it on with my regular daytime foundation and it does the job. I am on my second tub of this and I will definitely repurchase. </div>
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTkSppl71ldjBHVIbTn10TlOTZZ_j_MQGlF-FT8Siqie1plajsg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTkSppl71ldjBHVIbTn10TlOTZZ_j_MQGlF-FT8Siqie1plajsg" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At the moment I am down to the last bit of my <i>No.7 Stay Perfect Blemish Cover </i>in Medium. I have already repurchased but what I didn't realise when I was in the store is that they have rearranged the line and now <i>No.7 Match Made </i><i>Concealer</i> comes in the same shades as the <i>No.7 Stay Perfect Fou</i><i>ndation</i>. This suits me perfectly as I now own the matching concealer and foundation in the shade Cool Ivory. The reason this concealer is not my winner is that it just doesn't have the same coverage as the <i>Boiing</i> but on a normal day it does just fine. </div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Powder</h3>
<div>
<b>Winner: </b>Rimmel London Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Translucent (Boots, €5.99)</div>
<div>
<b>Runner Up: </b>No.7 Perfect Light Pressed Powder in Light (Boots, €14.95)</div>
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<a href="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10097901?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10097901?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" height="320" width="261" /></a></div>
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<div>
I don't really have a problem with oily skin so I don't have a huge grá for powder. I use it most of the time to be safe but the only time I really need it is in the Summer when I'm away in a hot climate. I find <i>Rimmel London Stay Matte Long Lasting Pressed Powder </i>in Translucent does the trick for me at home. I've never taken it away with me to comment on it but if I'm still using it in the summer I will find out then. I have used this before and recently repurchased it. I have also turned other people onto it and they've been happy with the results. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
I also really like the <i>No.7 Perfect Light Pressed Powder </i>in light. </div>
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<a href="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10143519?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10143519?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" height="320" width="261" /></a></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It does the same job for me as its <i>Rimmel </i>counterpart and I just don't really feel like paying the difference. </div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Bases</h3>
<b>Winner: </b>MAC Mineralize Satinfinish SPF15 Foundation in NC25 (Discontinued)<br />
<b>Runner Up: </b>Rimmel London BB Cream 9in1 (Boots, €8.95)<br />
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<a href="http://img4-2.realsimple.timeinc.net/images/beauty-fashion/makeup/0709/foundation-mac_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img4-2.realsimple.timeinc.net/images/beauty-fashion/makeup/0709/foundation-mac_300.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
My favourite foundation is <i>MAC Mineralize Satinfinish SPF15 Foundation </i>in NC25. It gives a lovely even coverage with a nice glow. I am almost out of it at the moment but it makes me want to cry that it has been discontinued. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Recently while trawling through Boots in Limerick's Crescent Shopping Center I came across what I think is a real gem, <i>Rimmel London BB Cream</i>. I wrote more about this in my <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/02/make-up-haul.html" target="_blank">Make Up Haul Blog Post</a>. </div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Palettes</h3>
<div>
<b>Winner: </b>Urban Decay Naked Palette (Debenhams, €44)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There is only one real winner where I am concerned when it comes to Palettes and there standing above the crowd is the <i>Urban Decay Naked Palette. </i>Admittedly it is expensive but in my opinion, worth every penny. I have used every colour in it some stage, some more than others, and I love it. Recently I have been forcing myself to use other products when I am doing my eye makeup. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pz5Sk23I2AU/Uw4cyn3AfcI/AAAAAAAAAKw/fbEVwHguAtc/s1600/photo+(7).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pz5Sk23I2AU/Uw4cyn3AfcI/AAAAAAAAAKw/fbEVwHguAtc/s1600/photo+(7).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Tools</h3>
<div>
<b>Winner: </b>No.7 Eyeshadow Blend and Contour Brush (Boots, €9.50)</div>
<div>
<b>Runner Up: </b>Real Techniques Buffing Brush (Available in Core Collections set €28.99)</div>
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<a href="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10138596?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10138596?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" height="320" width="261" /></a></div>
<div>
I absolutely adore this brush. I bought it with a voucher as an impulse buy in Boots so it cost around €5, which is an absolute bargain. I don't use it to apply my contour eyeshadow as I use an angled eyeshadow brush for that but I always use it to blend my shadows after I put them on. As far as I am concerned EVERYONE needs this brush. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPNSVCo-O-o/Uw4e4Be1hlI/AAAAAAAAALA/bED_EDV4DAw/s1600/photo+(8).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPNSVCo-O-o/Uw4e4Be1hlI/AAAAAAAAALA/bED_EDV4DAw/s1600/photo+(8).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
I bought this brush in Boots and fell instantly in love with it. I wrote more about this brush in my <a href="http://queenoftartan.blogspot.ie/2014/02/make-up-haul.html" target="_blank">Make Up Haul Blog Post</a>. </div>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Highlighter</h3>
<b>Winner: </b>Benefit Watts Up (Boots, €35)<br />
<b>Runner Up: </b>Sleek Face Contour Kit in Light (www.sleekmakeup.com €7.99)<br />
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<a href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/medias/sys_master/8799921700894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/medias/sys_master/8799921700894.jpg" height="229" width="320" /></a></div>
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I really like the pearly dewy look this highlighter gives. I usually apply it on the cheekbones, down the center of the nose, on the brow bone and on the cupid's bow. It is a tad pricey so I try to save it for night time and use my <i>Sleek Face Contour Kit </i>for daywear. </div>
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So those are my makeup favourites. Do you have any that I've missed or maybe we have some of the same favourites. Please let me know in the comments below. My next post will be addressing the makeup trends for spring which emerged at LFW. </div>
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Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-13067632012429019992014-02-25T14:29:00.002-08:002014-02-26T10:34:43.980-08:00#OOTD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A2aoGYSsEho/Uw0Ogsl_IeI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/LQKcjChdL10/s1600/ootd1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A2aoGYSsEho/Uw0Ogsl_IeI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/LQKcjChdL10/s1600/ootd1.jpg" height="320" width="111" /></a></div>
Tartan Dress: TK Maxx: €16.99<br />
Blazer: New Look: €34.99<br />
Black Gold Heeled Boots:<br />
New Look: €44.99<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pNfu0A_cJN8/Uw0OjyKXrmI/AAAAAAAAAIY/o-Am0wW7w2o/s1600/ootd2%23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pNfu0A_cJN8/Uw0OjyKXrmI/AAAAAAAAAIY/o-Am0wW7w2o/s1600/ootd2%23.jpg" height="320" width="123" /></a></div>
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Rimmel London BB Cream: Boots: €8.95<br />
Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder: Boots: €5.99<br />
Sleek Contour Palette: SleekMakeup.com: €7.99<br />
L'oréal Superliner Brow Artist: Boots: €8.49<br />
Buck from Naked 1: Urban Decay: €44<br />
Bourjois Shimmering Shine Liquid Eyeshadow in Molecule d'Or: Discontinued<br />
Sephora Colourful Mono Eyeshadow in Glittering Sand: Sephora.fr : €11.95 + p&p<br />
Rimmel London Scandaleyes Rockin' Curves Mascara: Boots: €5.65<br />
Rimmel London Lasting Finish By Kate Lipstick in 03: Boots: €6.99<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ajC9u-V0Vk/Uw0OwEsOdVI/AAAAAAAAAIg/eKMZRWM5RS4/s1600/motd1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ajC9u-V0Vk/Uw0OwEsOdVI/AAAAAAAAAIg/eKMZRWM5RS4/s1600/motd1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1204730359652384980.post-32285697996461278002014-02-25T13:29:00.000-08:002014-02-26T10:33:04.988-08:00Make Up HaulBetween Christmas and treating myself at every available opportunity, I have amassed a large collection of additions to my already sizeable cosmetics collection.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1NtL2BFDdr4/UwyzplfYL5I/AAAAAAAAAFo/7gjPC_jUBl8/s1600/make+up+stash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1NtL2BFDdr4/UwyzplfYL5I/AAAAAAAAAFo/7gjPC_jUBl8/s1600/make+up+stash.jpg" height="320" width="261" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VEWCT__Nq4s/Uwy0Rh4cA5I/AAAAAAAAAFw/VtmwGiYNdAI/s1600/Make+up+haul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VEWCT__Nq4s/Uwy0Rh4cA5I/AAAAAAAAAFw/VtmwGiYNdAI/s1600/Make+up+haul.jpg" height="132" width="320" /></a></div>
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Over the last few weeks I've tried and tested most of these products and have already found some firm favourites which I will definitely be repurchasing. I have left out the products which I repurchased as they will feature in a later favourites blog post.<br />
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I'll do my best to review all of these and I hope some of you will be as tempted as I was.<br />
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<h2>
<b>Hair Products</b></h2>
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<h3>
<b>L'oréal Paris Studio Line #TXT Volume Supersizing Spray</b></h3>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PMnE2wdgPNI/Uwy0mO-5Q7I/AAAAAAAAAF4/ZdLt_78Q5oE/s1600/L'oreal-volume-supersizing-spray.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PMnE2wdgPNI/Uwy0mO-5Q7I/AAAAAAAAAF4/ZdLt_78Q5oE/s1600/L'oreal-volume-supersizing-spray.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
This spray retails in boots at €4.79 and in my opinion it is worth every penny of its not too hefty price tag. In fact I would say it is one of the biggest bargains I have ever come across. I was turned onto this spray by well known British blogger Zoella in her youtube video: November favourites.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ekw8L7rRNQ8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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I took some pictures to demonstrate how good this product is. My hair went from this after blowdrying and straightening,<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BlWFE8Cj16Y/Uwy1jJ6Qg2I/AAAAAAAAAGE/_Jolfa4ZHIk/s1600/supersizing+spray+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BlWFE8Cj16Y/Uwy1jJ6Qg2I/AAAAAAAAAGE/_Jolfa4ZHIk/s1600/supersizing+spray+(2).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
to this in minutes<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jJbrj3N2LF0/Uwy1v5-zqbI/AAAAAAAAAGM/7RO9D22FMiM/s1600/supersizing+spray+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jJbrj3N2LF0/Uwy1v5-zqbI/AAAAAAAAAGM/7RO9D22FMiM/s1600/supersizing+spray+(5).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I will definitely 100% be repurchasing this.<br />
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<b><br /></b>
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<h3>
<b>L'oréal Paris Studio Line #TXT Wave Creating Spray</b></h3>
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<a href="http://www.echemist.co.uk/productmedia/l-oreal-studio-line-txt-wave-creating-spray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.echemist.co.uk/productmedia/l-oreal-studio-line-txt-wave-creating-spray.jpg" /></a></div>
I bought this spray on the merit of the volume spray which is part of the same line, but I haven't got around to testing it yet but I will review it as soon as I do. I expect great things from this now.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<h2>
<b>Face</b></h2>
<h3>
Rimmel London BB Cream in Light</h3>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RvRtUDE7QMA/Uwy3CaUn_kI/AAAAAAAAAGY/xceeaZaygfg/s1600/IMG_1316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RvRtUDE7QMA/Uwy3CaUn_kI/AAAAAAAAAGY/xceeaZaygfg/s1600/IMG_1316.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
I've been wanting to try a BB Cream for a while now and I had planned on trying the L'oréal Nude Magique BB Cream. When I went to boots to try it I found that the lightest colour turned a funny shade of orange on the back of my hand. Retailing at €15.49 at boots I was glad I hadn't jumped straight in at the deep end and bought it. The Rimmel alternative that I purchased retails at a much more respectable €8.95 and is a much better match for my skin tone. The BB Cream has a nine point promise attatched: </div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>
1. Minimises the appearance of pores</b><br />
<div>
I'm not too sure about this one as I've never really noticed any giant pores on my face but no doubt now that I'm thinking about them I will every time I look in the mirror. </div>
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<br /></div>
<b>
2. Evens Skin Tone</b><br />
<div>
The cream definitely does a good job of this. I usually use a tinted moisturiser on days when I don't want the coverage of a foundation but I still want the security of having some makeup on. Up until now my go-to product had been the Benefit You Rebel in Lite, but retailing at a hefty €35.00, I think this BB Cream will do just fine as a replacement. </div>
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<b>
3. Mattifies</b><br />
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Again my skin is not particularly oily so I don't really have a huge use for mattifying makeup but I would always throw on a bit of powder just to be safe during the day. I can't stand when makeup slides off or when by the end of a lecture I have more makeup on my hand than on my face. Looking at noone in particular except you Benefit again with your overpriced tat. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F_PpZMS5NZo/TB0Gx514V8I/AAAAAAAAAB4/pfnZpL_HXdo/s320/benefit-foundation-faker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F_PpZMS5NZo/TB0Gx514V8I/AAAAAAAAAB4/pfnZpL_HXdo/s320/benefit-foundation-faker.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>
4. Controls Shine All Day</b><br />
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I don't have a huge problem with this again but I haven't noticed any problems with the staying powder of this product and my face hasn't been shiny at all having worn it all day with just a small dusting of powder. </div>
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<b>
5. Smoothes</b><br />
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I don't know about this one to be honest. Smoothes what? Again I haven't noticed my skin being lumpy. So I can't comment on this one. </div>
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<b>
6. Soothes</b><br />
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This is a getting a bit far fetched here I'd say. If my skin needed soothing I don't think I'd be applying makeup to it, rather a simple moisturiser. So again, I can't comment on this. </div>
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<b>
7. Conceals Dark Circles</b><br />
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I don't know about this one. My dark circles have really been irritating me lately and I can't find a product to cover them up. I have to say this one isn't it either. </div>
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<b>
8. Helps Prevent Blemishes</b><br />
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Well this one I would presume is because it is lighter than a foundation and therefore better for your skin. I can't swear to this one but I haven't gotten a spot since I've started using it. I'm definitely going to now though that I've jinxed it. </div>
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<b>
9. Gives All Day Coverage</b><br />
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I think I've already addressed this point. It seems to last fairly well for me when I wear it all day. </div>
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<div>
I took some pictures to show you the difference it makes to my skin. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDjiSdgzWjc/Uwy8CeRLslI/AAAAAAAAAGo/ux7PHPtK_QE/s1600/IMG_1312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDjiSdgzWjc/Uwy8CeRLslI/AAAAAAAAAGo/ux7PHPtK_QE/s1600/IMG_1312.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">Before</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9j2LatHFnYE/Uwy8KZPXJ-I/AAAAAAAAAGw/XFJkJ6PL2cc/s1600/IMG_1318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9j2LatHFnYE/Uwy8KZPXJ-I/AAAAAAAAAGw/XFJkJ6PL2cc/s1600/IMG_1318.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>After</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b> </b></div>
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I can really see a difference in my face after just applying the BB Cream but by the time I finished my makeup it looked just as good as any foundation. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oOa4AJpQeH0/Uwy8rXLmx8I/AAAAAAAAAG4/wihh_Y71tQs/s1600/IMG_1385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oOa4AJpQeH0/Uwy8rXLmx8I/AAAAAAAAAG4/wihh_Y71tQs/s1600/IMG_1385.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Philosophy Divine Blushing Bronzer in Deep</h3>
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<a href="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/Brand-NIB-Philosophy-Divine-Illumination-Divine-Blushing-Bronzer-Medium-/00/s/MTE5NFgxMjk1/z/9f8AAMXQ8OdRKRqx/$T2eC16RHJGIE9nnWqyFCBRKRq)Z-eQ~~60_35.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/Brand-NIB-Philosophy-Divine-Illumination-Divine-Blushing-Bronzer-Medium-/00/s/MTE5NFgxMjk1/z/9f8AAMXQ8OdRKRqx/$T2eC16RHJGIE9nnWqyFCBRKRq)Z-eQ~~60_35.JPG" /></a></div>
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I bought this bronzer/blusher in TK Maxx just after Christmas. I think it retailed at about €12.99 which is a steal for such a beautiful product. For daywear sometimes I like to just apply the dusty pink colour as a blush but for night time, with a darker foundation I like to swirl an angled bronzer brush around the palette and apply it like you would any other bronzer.<br />
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<h3>
Philosophy Divine Satin-Finish Illuminating Powder in Medium</h3>
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<a href="http://ba.fimgs.net/system/pics/6035/large/divine_satin_finish_illuminating_powder_re_a1.png?1304007130" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ba.fimgs.net/system/pics/6035/large/divine_satin_finish_illuminating_powder_re_a1.png?1304007130" /></a></div>
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I got this as a Christmas gift, again from TK Maxx. It is a nice powder for night time but it is very glittery, which is not clear from the picture and it can just appear that my face is very shiny if I wear it during the day. I have never used the brush that came with it because I have a very good powder brush but the bristles on it are very soft and I'm sure it would be fine for applying the powder with. </div>
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<h2>
Eyes</h2>
<h3>
Rimmel London Scandaleyes Rockin' Curves Mascara</h3>
<h2>
(As seen on Made in Chelsea)</h2>
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRrmt1fSYE_pDC1FM9twXIHdD5pHxTXhh4ETqcrGY6l0cp1M5UB" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRrmt1fSYE_pDC1FM9twXIHdD5pHxTXhh4ETqcrGY6l0cp1M5UB" /></a></div>
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I am not usually one to be caught out by advertising but I absolutely adore Made in Chelsea and this mascara would not have even entered my field of vision if it had not been for the show. I love the shape of the brush and I feel like it really curls and elongates my lashes. It doesn't give quite the volume I would like for a night time mascara but with false lashes I'm sure it would be fine. My old day time mascara, Bobbi Brown Everything Mascara retails at €25 at Brown Thomas and while this may not cost as much at just €5.65,it certainly does a comparable job. I would stick to MAC Zoomlash for night time though. </div>
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<h3>
L'oréal Paris Superliner Brow Artist in Blonde</h3>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cbM3CNL40jI/UeUWOorS4cI/AAAAAAAAIhE/AUcAIfdlvhM/s1600/L'Oreal+Brow+Liner+Shades.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cbM3CNL40jI/UeUWOorS4cI/AAAAAAAAIhE/AUcAIfdlvhM/s1600/L'Oreal+Brow+Liner+Shades.JPG" height="243" width="320" /></a></div>
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This brow pencil was an impulse buy after seeing it featured in a Glamour magazine on my break from work. I still have a little bit of my Rimmel Professional Eyebrow pencil and I don't really notice any difference between the two. The new l'oréal one's niche is that it has a second pencil on the back, "finish and fix wax". I don't really know why this enticed me because I don't think my eyebrows have every moved on my face and half of the time I forget to use it. Now don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with this pencil, but with the l'oréal version retailing at €8.49 and the Rimmel at €4.65, I think that next time I'll keep my €4 and go with the cheaper version. </div>
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<h2>
Lips</h2>
<h3>
No.7 High Shine Lip Crayon in Berry</h3>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EdqTF2CkXUg/UjB1yLHbSyI/AAAAAAAAQeM/4t5B7rbL2xA/s1600/NO7+HIGH+SHINE+LIP+CRAYON+-+BERRY.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EdqTF2CkXUg/UjB1yLHbSyI/AAAAAAAAQeM/4t5B7rbL2xA/s1600/NO7+HIGH+SHINE+LIP+CRAYON+-+BERRY.png" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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This lip crayon or chubbstick as I like to call them, (don't ask me where I got that from), is really nice. I was inspired to go for the berry lip after <a href="http://www.zoella.co.uk/2013/10/autumnal-hair-makeup.html" target="_blank">Autumnal Hair and Makeup - Zoella</a> blog post. Unfortunately I can't really afford YSL lipsticks and went looking for something a little more affordable. This is a little bit like a coloured lip gloss and it doesn't have the depth of colour I'm looking for. I usually apply it over my MAC Russian Red lipstick which is another new item I got for Christmas from a very good friend of mine. </div>
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This is what the crayon looks like without the red base. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i1ZlNkiGQkM/UwziyVyHsUI/AAAAAAAAAHI/9NvdUo01Zd4/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i1ZlNkiGQkM/UwziyVyHsUI/AAAAAAAAAHI/9NvdUo01Zd4/s1600/photo.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
And this is what it looks like with the Red Lipstick base.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gdbQrq5_UfI/Uwzi0bzZ1sI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/J8ZoYFmWvzA/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gdbQrq5_UfI/Uwzi0bzZ1sI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/J8ZoYFmWvzA/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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It still wasn't as purple as I wanted it to be so I bought Collection Gothic Glam in Scorned 2. </div>
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This lipstick is more along the lines of what I was looking for. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qj-r7rgtbCk/Uwzjs6OVfII/AAAAAAAAAHY/xh8lLjYYYNI/s1600/IMG_1275.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qj-r7rgtbCk/Uwzjs6OVfII/AAAAAAAAAHY/xh8lLjYYYNI/s1600/IMG_1275.PNG" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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This picture doesn't quite show how dark it is because I layered Barry M Lip Laquer Crayon in no.2 Cherry Red over it. </div>
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<a href="http://www.barrym.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/382x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/l/l/llc2-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.barrym.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/382x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/l/l/llc2-large.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love the glitter effect this crayon gives to the darker lipstick. When I bought it I intended to use it as a lipliner under lipsticks but I wouldn't recommend it for this as it led to the lipstick over it bleeding all around my mouth. </div>
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<h3>
Rimmel London Apocalips Lip Lacquer</h3>
<div>
I was again tempted to buy these by Made in Chelsea. I bought these at a small independent chemist and I can't remember exactly how much I paid for them but I think they were around €6 each. They retail in boots for €7.95. I bought two of these: 501-Stellar which is a reddy pink colour and 400-Big Bang which is a deep red colour. They are sort of similar. I really like the stain they give to the lip so that if you're on a night out and your gloss starts to wear off you still have the colour of the stain underneath. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwEfCunE21Y/UwzmookJUYI/AAAAAAAAAHk/8zEFQ7pZq4o/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwEfCunE21Y/UwzmookJUYI/AAAAAAAAAHk/8zEFQ7pZq4o/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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On the left is Stellar and On the right is Big Bang. </div>
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<br /></div>
<h3>
Rimmel London Lasting Finish by Kate Moss lipsticks</h3>
<div>
I own three of these lipsticks but the one I bought most recently was no.3. It's a really nice colour for everyday use and a cheap and cheerful dupe for MAC Creme d'Nude at just €6.99. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h_kIKMsMrxc/Uw0CYGQgiwI/AAAAAAAAAIA/6Le2dOSP8ho/s1600/IMG_1384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h_kIKMsMrxc/Uw0CYGQgiwI/AAAAAAAAAIA/6Le2dOSP8ho/s1600/IMG_1384.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<h2>
Face Brushes</h2>
<h3>
Real Techniques Core Collection</h3>
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<a href="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10137218?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10137218?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" height="320" width="261" /></a></div>
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This set was my first purchase from the Real Techniques collection and it certainly won't be my last. I wanted a brush to apply liquid foundation as I don't like the heavy, streaky way my Urbanista Lay the Foundation Brush applies my foundation. I had heard great things about the Expert Face Brush but I didn't want just one brush to try so I decided to purchase this set. It retails at €28.99. While this may sound a little expensive, it is a great price for some fab brushes. The buffing brush I use for pretty much everything, from applying liquid foundation to buffing foundation after it's applied with my regular foundation brush to buffing on powder to blending in my concealer. The Lip brush does what it says on the tin. I'm not sure what there is to say about it. The foundation brush has too small a head in my opinion to apply foundation, and too big to apply concealer so I have no use for it really. The contouring brush I love for applying highlighter to my cheekbones from my Sleek Contouring Palette. </div>
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<br /></div>
<h3>
Real Techniques Stippling Brush</h3>
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<a href="http://www.beautyinmymind.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Real-Techniques-Stippling-Brush-Review-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.beautyinmymind.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Real-Techniques-Stippling-Brush-Review-3.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
This brush didn't look much in the packet so I asked the girl in the Crescent Shopping Center in Limerick to take it out of the box for me so I could see it. The buffing brush's bristles weren't quite what I wanted and the Expert Face Brush seemed to be along the same lines. They are both great brushes, although not what I wanted for applying my foundation. The stippling brush provides a light, even finish with my BB Cream and it gives a nice even effect with my Night foundation MAC Studiofinish. </div>
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<br /></div>
<h3>
No.7 Eye Colour Brush</h3>
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<a href="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10138594?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://boots.scene7.com/is/image/Boots/10138594?wid=280&hei=343&op_sharpen=1" height="320" width="261" /></a></div>
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This brush I bought on the merit of another no.7 brush, possibly my favourite eye brush, the Contour and Blending brush. </div>
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With both retailing at €9.50, they are relatively cheap brushes, especially as No.7 regularly give out vouchers at the till in Boots. The Blending and Contouring brush I would highly recommend. The Eye Colour brush i would only recommend if you need a new plain eye brush which i didn't. There is nothing exceptional about it. </div>
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<div>
So now with enough makeup to open a beauticians, my next post will be a favourites blog. Thanks for reading and I hope you found something you like.</div>
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By the way Boots are currently offering 3 for 2 on selected cosmetics and haircare. </div>
Queen Of Tartanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08617016235747125016noreply@blogger.com0Cork, Ireland51.8968917 -8.486315699999977451.818503199999995 -8.6476771999999773 51.9752802 -8.3249541999999774