FAVOURITES | January 2014

January was a bit of weird month for me, blogging wise. I just could not get into a proper rhythm - not good. I'm pledging to be better in the coming months, finding a new routine and sticking to it! This month's favourites is seriously lacking beauty-wise, but I've been loving the minimalistic look this month!

My first favourite this month is Sleek's Brow Kit in Dark. This was a late Christmas gift that I received, and I just cannot get enough of it! The kit includes a pigmented wax, a setting powder, a mini blending brush, a mini angled brush and a mini tweezers all in a sleek (geddit?!) compact. Ace! I've taken to using the wax on the angled brush to sculpt my brows, then filling in any sparseness with the powder. I am seriously in love with how it makes my brows look! The kit retails at €9.99. Sleek can be found online here and Cloud 10 Beauty, or if you live in Waterford, you can find Sleek at the Waterford Health Park Pharmacy.

Next up is the Essence 2 in 1 Eyeliner Pen. This is a double ended felt liner pen, with a thin and thick nib. Recently, I've been forgoing eyeshadow completely and sticking to a sweep of liner across my lid! I love Essence's liners anyway, they're all I've used for years, but this particular pen is fantastic. Whether you want a thin line, or a full-on cat eye, this product has got you covered! If like me, you love channeling your inner Alexa (Chung, that is!), then I highly recommend this product! It retails at around €3.80 and can be found in most pharmacies and Primark stores!

I've been spoiled for choice in TV land this month. With the return of my two favourites; Revenge and Grey's Anatomy, and the discovery of my new guilty pleasure show; Made in Chelsea, I feel like all I've done this month is watch TV! Revenge has totally drawn me back in, I had forgotten about it until it was being advertised on TV! I love the plot, the locations, the fashion, the BOYS - Amazing! Grey's Anatomy is always an old favourite, and this current season is so good. Made in Chelsea snuck up on me! It's replaced the Kardashians as my guilty pleasure show, it's so beyond extravagant that you just have to watch! Revenge is on RTE Two Tuesday's at 10, Grey's Anatomy is on Sky Living Wednesday's at 10, and re-runs of Made in Chelsea are on e4 every day at 3, or on 4oD!

Fashion wise, I treated myself to these gorgeous River Island boots. They aren't to everybody's taste, believe me, they were a step outside my comfort zone (see the post my purchase inspired here), but there was something rather compelling about them! I had my eye on the Jeffrey Campbell Mulder-esque boots in RI for a while, but once these came in stock, I needed them. Honestly, I have worn them so much that cost-per-wear isn't even an issue! The boots sell for €55 and can be found in store and online!

I loved the two movies that I saw in the cinema this month; Wolf of Wall Street and That Awkward Moment. Wolf of Wall Street, while 3 hours long, is incredible. To think it's based on a true story is mind-blowing! I loved the casting too, Leo DiCaprio (my long time fave!) and Jonah Hill are great together on screen (Have you seen their skit from Jonah's SNL opening monologue? Hilarious!), and Margot Robbie was a stunning addition! That Awkward Moment starring Zac Efron (another long-time fave) was a everything I love in a rom-com! Adorable story line, good comedy, and attractive boys - what's not to love?! Both are in cinemas now.

That's it for this month's favourites! What have you been loving this month?

Until next time,
Elle. 

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FASHION | Taking A Walk On The Wildside

Like I said in yesterday's resolutions post (see here), one of my "resolutions" is to be more adventurous with my fashion choices. While I like to think that my style is far superior, I do play it safe, more often than not. Whether it's a fear of standing out, or a severe lack of motivation to actually put effort into my outfits, maybe a mixture of both, I tend to stay in my comfort zone. BUT, not anymore! I've begun my journey into previously undiscovered fashion territory. Eek!

I first spotted these gorgeous boots in River Island while browsing what the sale had to offer (unfortunately, the boots weren't on sale - just my luck!), and wanted them instantly, for reasons unknown to myself. They are completely out of character for me. I tend to stay away from chunky and large shoes. As I am a larger shoes size (a 7 for those interested!), I find they make my feet look bigger than necessary... Or so I thought! I bit the bullet this past week, and parted begrudgingly with the €55 without even trying them on. Had I gone mad? Maybe!

Brave, impulsive decisions like this are what I need to get me out of my fashion rut. At the end of the day, I can always return it!

Are you a fashion risk-taker? Or do you prefer comfort over couture?  

Until next time, 

Elle 

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REVIEW | 17 Miracle Matte Foundation

While I'm very adventurous with all other make-up, when it comes to foundation, I play it very safe! I've been using the Maybelline Fit Me foundation for close enough to a year now, and have found it hard to look past it! However, with the current 3 for 2 in Boots, I decided to get a little brave and branch out foundation wise!

I have an unhealthy obsession with matte finishes - lipstick, eyeshadow, powder, nail polish, you name it, I want it. But I'd never tried a matte foundation.. Until now! I purchased the 17 Miracle Matte Foundation in the shade Honey. It's marketed as having a "matte satin flawless finish" and "up to 16 hour shine control". I'm not going to lie, I was excited to use it. I had been stuck in my ways for too long, and I was ready for change!

My excitement, it seems, was short-lived. On first application, the foundation was cakey and patchy. Uh oh! After A LOT of blending and a dusting of translucent powder, it began to look somewhat presentable. Second time around, I applied a primer beforehand, and it was a disaster zone. My face looked muddy and discoloured in places. Not what you want before a night out. It looked so bad, I had to go back to my old faithful!

I'm not one to write products off without a fair trial, so I gave the Miracle Matte another shot. Third time's the charm, or so they tell me! Unlike the first two applications, I began by focusing on my cheeks, applying it to one at a time, and then the rest of my face. Surprisingly, it looked okay, for the most part. There were still some patchy areas near my jawline, it just needs some TLC!

My main issue with this foundation is it dries too quickly, making difficult to blend. No bueno! Because of it's quick drying, it also needs some time when applying. My best advice, take your time, go in stages! Coverage wise, it's a nice everyday foundation, I just prefer a higher coverage. When I'm determined to like something, I will not stop until I find some sort of redeeming quality!

Have you tried any matte foundations? Did you have better luck than me?

Until next time,
Elle.

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FASHION | Winter Warmers For Your Wardrobe!

I'm not one to have a favourite season, they all have their merits, but Winter is gunning for first in the fashion department this year. Big coats, hats and scarves, woolly jumpers.. BOOTS, what's a girl not to love? Here are some of my fashion picks that are guaranteed to warm your wardrobe right up!

1. Parkas

(L-R Primark Parka, RI 3-in-1 Faux Fur Parka in Black, Missguided Orla Faux Fur Detail in Burgundy )

Parkas are a perfect casual winter coat. Don't get me wrong, I love a good mac, or even a duffle, but sometimes, a casual outfit just doesn't match. Primark have a wonderful selection of parkas, one every taste, and are reasonably priced. Missguided have a great collection too, if you're willing to pay a bit more. While I look at winter coats as an investment, the River Island parka above is just a bit too much for my purse to handle. Doesn't stop me from wanting it, in fact, I think that makes me want it more. Where's the money fairy when you need her?

2. Hats. Hats. Hats.

(Clockwise from Top Right: American Apparel Wool Floppy Hat in Dark Rust, RI Navy Pom Pom Beanie, Black Hair Turban, RI Black Rolled Brim Bowler)

This is the one thing I take through every season. I love hats, a well known fact about me. I've even been told I have a head for hats, not sure if that's a complement, but I'll take it. Winter is perfect for hats, and the best part is, there's a great range that you can rock this season! Whatever look you want to achieve, I can guarantee there is a hat to match. You can look stylish and keep your noggin warm too. Result! Pictured above are some styles that I love and can't wait to wear!

3. Boots

(Clockwise from Top Right: New Look Black Cut Out Buckle Metal Tip Ankle Boots, Dunnes Tan Ankle Boots, Primark Black Heeled Chelsea Boots, Steve Madden Black TROOPA Combat Boots)

My second favourite thing about winter. Rainy days means exchanging our much loved converse and vans for sturdy, weatherproof boots. Yes! I don't know where my obsession with boots came from, all I know is I never want it to go away. Like everything else, there is something for everyone when it comes to boots. Heeled or flat, ankle, knee, or thigh high, you name it, you can find it.

4. Knitwear

(Clockwise from Top Right: New Look Grey Ombre Stripe Oversize Jumper, Forever21 Americana Dolman Sweater, Dunnes Heart Feather Jumper, Topshop Red Knitted Chunky Bobble Jumper)

While I'm not a huge fan of knitwear, I do enjoy a good oversized jumper in the aptly named 'sweater weather'. This winter season is all about the printed knit. How fun?! If prints aren't for you though, jumpers in deep reds, blues and greens are everywhere. Not to mention, who doesn't love a good striped knit?

5. Tartan

(L-R: Topshop Red & Green Check Treggings, Top to Bottom: F&F Checked Skater Skirt, New Look Red Tartan Check T-Shirt, Zara Two-Sided Soft Scarf, Pull & Bear Woollen Check Print Lingerie Dress)

Yes, I am aware that tartan is a print, but I am LOVING anything tartan this season. Coats, trousers, dresses, scarves, shirts, skirts, I want it all! The simplest way to add some plaid (see what I did there?), is with a scarf. The Zara one above is a tad pricey, but Primark offer a great alternative for €5! Go ahead, add a little grunge to your wardrobe!

Did I bypass some of your favourite ways to warm up in winter? Let me know in the comments below!

Until next time,
Elle.

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BEAUTY | Mini Boots Haul

Boots has become my downfall. I am totally obsessed, have you guessed yet? I can't seem to step a foot near the store without happily emptying my purse. Oops! Two recent visits to my local store resulted in this haul. With the 3 for 2 offer currently going on, it'd be rude not to partake, don't you think? I tend to get a little carried away, and it happens way more than I care to admit! Let's jump in. 

1. Seventeen Miracle Matte Foundation in Honey (€7.59)

2. Rimmel Scandal Eyes Shadowstick in Blackmail (€5.95)

3. Seventeen Stay Pout Lipstick in Going Steady (€5.69)

4. Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof in Black (€7.49)

5. Collection Primed & Ready Smoothing Make-Up Primer (€9.59)

6. Barry M Lip Paint in 156 (€6.79)

7. Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Liner in Nude (€5.49)

Do you have any weaknesses when it comes to drugstores/drugstore make up? Let me know in the comments. If you want a review on any products featured, be sure to tell me! 

Until next time, 

Elle.

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Manicure Monday #1

As I'm quite fickle and non-committal to nail polish (I tend to get bored easily, especially if it chips early on), I figured a weekly nail post would help me with my commitment problem, and utilize my polish collection more!

This weeks' mani is courtesy of me, as most of them will be! I decided to embrace the winter-y vibes around me and go for a dark polish. This No.7 Stay Perfect Nail Colour is in the shade 13 - Betty Blues. It's available from Boots, and costs around €8.00.

When I originally purchased this colour, I wasn't too crazy about it - I vaguely recall saying it was "a navy trying too hard to be black." But now, I really think that's what I love about it. With one coat, it's almost a dark denim colour, add a second coat, and you'll need the light to hit it to prove it's actually navy! It's also a very glossy polish, which I am LOVING at the minute. Could it be? have I left my matte obsession behind? ... I DON'T THINK SO. However, I am more open to other finishes now! All in all, this polish ticks all the right boxes for a winter staple!

What are some of your favourite polishes for winter? Let me know, and you could see it featured in a future Manicure Monday!

Until next time,
Elle.

P.S. This is completely un-nail related, but my very good friends in Paper Planes just released their very first single, Can't Sleep, this past Sunday, and it's bloomin' ace! It'd mean so much to both me & the boys if you checked it out here. Tell 'em I sent ya!

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FAVOURITES | October 2013

These were meant to be a part of my beauty favourites, but it was already longer than it needed to be! I'm slowly, but surely, figuring this out, so bare with me while I work out some kinks! There's not too many, and I promise to try be less long winded! Let's jump right in!

In terms of fashion pieces, I've only had one this month that I just cannot get enough of. It's these black boots from New Look. They retail at €59.99, but bare in mind, they are real leather, so you'll get your money's worth! I couldn't find these particular boots in the online store, but they could be still available for purchase in New Look stores. I adore these boots. I've worn them as much as physically possible. It does take a few wears to get them super comfortable, but for a boot that will last be the whole winter and then some, it's well worth it. I cannot speak highly enough of them! While these particular boots may not be in everyone's price range, but I do know that Primark have a very similar pair for a third of the price (€22.00), and they come in both black, and a tan colour.

Books wise, while travelling, I picked up The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones by Cassandra Clare. I will admit, the sole reason I picked this book up was because I had enjoyed the movies so much both times I saw it! What I wasn't expecting was to find that the book was so different to the movie adaptation, having read online that they stuck closely to the story line! It became this brand new story, and I was unsure how it would end. I loved it immensely! So much so that I'm planning to buy the rest of the series. It is a bit daunting, beginning a book series with 5 books already published, and another on the way in 2014. Don't let that put you off! This series will have you chomping at the bit to get your hands on the next one (believe me, I'm speaking from experience here!).

In the spirit of Halloween, my movie favourites are some festive classics. Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas and Hocus Pocus must watches for me during the spookiest time of year! Both movies are jam packed with songs to sing 'til your heart's content, and aren't so scary that you'll be awake until Christmas! Perfect for scardey cats like me! 

Musically, October has been one for my favourites. I've been listening to four records in constant rotation: Arctic Monkeys' AM, Kings Of Leon's Mechanical Bull, Days Are Gone by Haim and The 1975's self titled debut. I could wax lyrical about these albums for days, just know that they all fantastic and sometimes splashing out on the deluxe edition is worth the extra euros!

Now, I couldn't mention musical favourites without mentioning my loves, One Direction (I like 'em - sue me!). Their newest single Story Of My Life was released this week, and the video will be online this coming Sunday. I'm not gonna lie, I really like the song! It usually takes me quite some time to warm up to songs, especially singles from unreleased records, but it was an instant love affair. Story Of My Life, available for download on iTunes, is from 1D's upcoming third album, Midnight Memories, which will be released November 25th of this year (expect a review to follow the release!).

This last favourite, I forgot to include in my beauty favorites. It's the Sephora Daily Brush Cleaner. I'll be the first to admit, I'm very, very lazy when it comes to cleaning my brushes. It's shocking. Prior to this, I'd never even purchased a brush cleaner, opting to use home remedies instead. At last, I have seen the light. This daily cleaner is quick and easy, and takes minimal effort. Perfect! 6 pumps covers the largest of brushes, then you lightly swipe the brush across a clean cloth until clean, then leave to dry. It's that simple. This product costs around €6.50 and can be purchased from any Sephora store. 

That's it for my monthly favourite! Hopefully next month, I'll be able to fit them all into the one post! Also, I kind of want to play around with how I lay out these types of posts. If anyone has any suggestions, or if you like this layout, please share your thoughts. Don't be a stranger!

Until next time, 

Elle. 

find me on:

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