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Sunday, December 21, 2014

Review: Stila Magnificent Metals eyeliner

Ok. So once upon a time I was watching a Chloe Morello video (ya know, the one with the silver eyeliner and baby pink lips that I go on about quite frequently) and I LOVED it. I loved it so much, I rushed to the interwebs to buy the lipstick she was wearing.
I also thought about that eyeliner constantly, but I was confused as to what to do. You see, I had also recently seen this amazing Stila eyeliner on beautybay (the one I'm reviewing of course). So the inner me was having a mini crisis, "do I buy the Makeup Store silver glitter eyeliner because it's so amazing and it goes with the look amazingly", and "but the Stila one is also really amazing, and it's GUNMETAL. It's not 100%, but it has silver glitter and it's GUNMETAL!".
I thought about it for 2 weeks (not kidding), and decided to go with the Stila one.

I was a little hesitant to get the Stila eyeliner, as I had heard some not-so-positive reviews regarding the Stila Magnificent Metals eyeshadow. Heard that it's apparently flakey, doesn't hold, whatever. I was like "well, it's an eyeliner, so I'm only lining my eyes vs colouring my lids in". That was my justifcation. Purchase. made.

Fresh product. See what I mean by how "wet" it looks. 
It took *forever* to arrive (about 3 weeks from the UK).
It is a dark gunmetal colour with, what I would describe, silver metallic glitter flecks.
It seems very *wet* in the pot, but applies dry, if that makes sense. So once you apply, there's no "drying time" to really consider. However, it is nothing like a gel eyeliner. It's not as opaque as a gel and it is harder to work with.

It's very smooth to apply but doesn't leave a lot of the glitter behind so you do need to pack on quite a bit to the brush to get a good coating of the glittery metallicy goodness (what I meant about being hard to work with. I just use a MAC 266). The base is very pigmented though and even just lightly touching it, you get good colour payoff, but it looks like a good quality eyeshadow vs an eyeliner.
The base itself isn't metallic at all, it really is just the "glitter" that makes it what it is.
What it looks like in the pot vs how it applies is completely different. It looks super metallicy, as you can see, but applies like a grey eyeshadow with silver flecks in it.
When packing the product onto my brush and applying, I didn't notice a lot of fallout and once on, the colour stays put. If you wanna do a smokey, this is perfect. Easily blendable. The glitter doesn't move around easily, but as a whole, easily removed with a makeup remover (I use Garnier Micellar cleansing water).

As an eyeshadow, I definitely recommend priming your eyes first as I did find it to crease on me (although I do have oily lids).

L-R: 1 light layer; packed on heavily; 2 strokes. 
That same 1 light layer; that packed swatch blended out. It would
be awesome as an eyeshadow. 
If you're after something very dark or instantly metallic, this is not the product for you. This is beautiful and unique, but I feel like you would have to specifically want this product to really justify this as a purchase. In regards to what I wanted it for, I do like it but I probably would have been better off buying the Make Up Store glitter liner, but I will still definitely use this. I think those who love and regularly do a smokey eye would love this.
I would like to get the eyeshadow version to see how it compares. The Emerald one looks gorgeous!

UPDATE: I used this as an eyeshadow for my New Years look, and it looked awesome. I suggest using this as an eyeshadow rather than an eyeliner.

Purchased from: beautybay.com. Mecca also stock it.
RRP: $37

Have you tried either this or the eyeshadow version? What are your thoughts on them?


Monday, December 1, 2014

November favourites!


Ooohhh am I excited to show you guys what I've been loving this month! I've gotten some amazing goodies lately, some of which you've seen in the MEGA HAUL I posted a few weeks back! I have been eagerly awaiting to show you what I've been loving this past month. Let's get into it shall we?..


Too Faced "everything nice" palette
I CANNOT tell you HOW excited I was to get this palette. I got my girl to cp this for me from the states as I wasn't sure that we were going to get it here in Australia. I had heard mixed reviews on this palette, some seemed to love it, others not so much, so I was a bit nervous I wouldn't love it as much as what I thought I would. WRONG! I have used this palette every.single.day since receiving it. I am SO SO in love with this palette. It has *everything* you could want. Eyeshadows, blushes, bronzer, highlighter and mascara. Everything is pigmented and I have not been disappointed in anything from this palette. If you can still get it at your local Mecca, then I highly suggest you do. I love it so much!
*not exactly everything but definitely the majority of face painting essentials.



L'oreal Infalliable foundation in Vanilla
I tested this foundation out in a sample I got a while ago and loved it, so I bought the full size. To me, this is the perfect foundation. It's medium to full coverage and really does last all day. With the right powder to set (I go between Hourglass Ambient powders and Too Faced Sweetheart beads), my face looks FLAWLESS! My only gripe is, I got vanilla which is the lightest shade and it is slightly too dark, so even lighter colours would be awesome. Either way, I recommend if you're after something with a bit more coverage.




Chi Chi eyeshadow palette in Naturals
I had bought this as a gift for someone who didn't end up wanting it, otherwise I probably wouldn't have bought this. I was blown away by the quality of this $22 palette. Chi Chi is a cheaper "drugstore" brand (even though it's stocked in high end department stores), but you definitely shouldn't be fooled into thinking this is any less of a makeup brand for the prices. It is HIGHLY pigmented and very smooth to apply. I will definitely be purchasing more of these palettes and from Chi Chi. This is the PERFECT eyeshadow palette for those just starting out. Plenty of beautiful neutral shades that all work very well together. If you get only one thing from this post of recommendations, this is it! PS. Chi Chi have a great xmas deal at the moment,  get 2 palettes for only $30!


Socialeyes Tease 2.0 lashes
I got these a while back and was actually intimidated by the size of these babies. They're at least twice as long as the lashes I usually use (either Ardell or Manicare ones), but I gave them a go and lemme tell you, they are great! They are so lightweight it's not funny. I expected them to be heavy because they are so huge. These are a half/ 3/4 lash so I do need to give my full strip ones. Try but going off Tease 2.0 alone. You won't be disappointed!



Garnier Micellar makeup remover
This is awesome. I previously has the Bioderma one and for the price, I think I used it pretty stingily, so I wasnt 100% sold. For a fraction of the cost and more than 3 times the amount of product, this is definitely the better option. It works pretty much exactly the same (I didn't see any real different, other than the aforementioned). The bottle is so big you could go swimming in this haha. It's very gentle and doesn't sting my eyes (however, I don't have sensitive eyes/ skin). If you want to try the Micellar makeup removers, definitely give this one a shot.

The Body Shop body wash in Vanilla Brûlée
I love The Body Shop xmas offerings, and this year is no exception. They always do Cranberry and some variation of Vanilla and another random scent. This year it's Glazed Apple. I definitely want to stock up on other goodies for the year, but so far I've bought the Vanilla Brûlée and it is delicious. We all know my battles with Vanilla, and although not my favourite, Vanilla Brulee is a warm, comforting vanilla scent. It's not super sweet, which is also nice and more wearable I think.

What the powder looks like. 


Matcha Maiden tea
If you haven't heard of matcha tea, it is a higher antixoidant form of green tea in a powder. It has many health benefits, same as green tea but intensified (or richer), if that makes sense. I first tried it at T2 with cold vanilla soy milk as a "summer" drink. Or you can have it simply with hot water for a winter tea. Very delicious, and I'm definitely all for antioxidants and getting as much as I can out of anything healthy. If you like green tea, you'll love this. It is quite pricy though, so if you're near a T2, have a sample before you go dropping them $$.
I got mine from matchamaiden.com. 70g costs $25 (including free shipping).
T2 also stock it at 30g for $24.

What have you been loving this past month? Is there anything you recommend I try?


Sunday, November 23, 2014

Mega haul

Ok! I've been doing a crazy amount of shopping lately. It's all those amazing xmas goodies I tell you. They've sucked me in good. This is the stuff I've gathered over the past 2 months.



Lush:
Star Light, Star bright bath melt
So White bath bomb x2
Butter Bear bath bomb x2
Magic Wand bubble bar x2
Luxury Lush Pud bath bomb
Northern Lights bath bomb
Tisty Tosty bath bomb
Santas lip scrub
How my "shopping trip" on the Lush website went:
Ooh look!! Christmas stuff!!! Oohh Halloweeeeen stuff!! Damn, all sold out. OOHH XMAS STUFF!!! How pretty is that silver star. Wonder what it smells like? I'll try it out. Ohh So White again, gotta get 2 of those. Ohh better get another Magic Wand. Done. Awww that bear is cute! Smells like vanilla? I'll take 2!! That pud one looks nice. Very festive. I need a lip scrub so I'll chuck that in too. I like cola flavour.... maybe i'll give something to my mum. Probs not though..."
Then I was in the city for a meeting and thought I'd check out Lush in person. I wanted to get Northern Lights but was sold out online, but they had restocked in store, so I got that and Tisty Tosty. I really wish I had gotten the So White shower gel though.



Hourglass:
Radiant Light ambient powder
Another one on my wishlist.

BareMinerals:
Moxie lipgloss in Hypnotist
Hello. My name is Unicorn Holographic Meow. I love unicorns, cats, cake and ANYTHING holographic. It's just who I am.

Stila:
Kitten eyeshadow
Magnificent metals eyeliner in Gunmetal
I LOVE Kitten and needed a new one. Story On why I bought the eyeliner on the review.



MAC:
Rebel and Violetta lipsticks.
Wanted both of these shades since forever, and could not pass up the xmas glittery packaging for Rebel.




Too Faced:
"Everything nice" palette
Mini melted lipsticks (hasn't yet arrived)
This palette is actually everything!! I also really wanted to try the mini melted lippies.








NARS:
Virtual Domination blush palette
A must have for me, as I don't have enough blushes right?







Friday, November 7, 2014

GIVEAWAY: Chi Chi cosmetics eyeshadow palette



To help me celebrate reaching over 17,000 views on this blog, I've decided to pay it back by giving away 1 Chi Chi palette to a reader, to say thankyou.

Prize:
* 1 Chi Chi cosmetics eyeshadow palette in "naturals".

How to enter:
* Follow my blog on bloglovin' (follow the link on the main page).
* Follow me on Instagram (follow the link on the main page).
* Repost the Chi Chi palette on my page and comment what your fave thing to read about is; eg, reviews, hauls etc.
* Hashtag #melzmanor so I can see your entry.

Rules:
* No giveaway accounts.
* Open internationally.
* I pay postage.
* Enter as many times as you like.
* Ends 30th November.

Good luck!

Feel free to ask me any questions if you have any.

Thursday, November 6, 2014

October Favourites

Well well well, wasn't October just ridiculously fast in passing. In other events passing, it was also my little baby kittens' birthday on Saturday. She is a delightful 11 now! Wow! I actually cannot believe I've had her for so long haha (and yes I am aware she is no longer a kitten, but I have got severe *cough mother syndrome cough* and she will never age beyond a kitten to me. Ever.).

Anyhow, other than my precious fur baby, this is also what I've been loving...

* Anastasia Brow Pomade in Chocolate *
Well I dyed my hair a chocolate brown, so got match my eyebrows right? Actually I got the pomade before I dyed my hair but what does that matter (well quite a lot I guess, but point is, my hair and brows actually MATCH now haha). Honestly, how DID I live without this product?! It is actually LIFE CHANGING. Those of you that have gone from whatever you were using to this, will more than likely agree. This product will put you in the brow game for life. Don't hesitate, go and buy it NOW! It's super easy to use but don't rush and go gently with small, light strokes. You can thank me later.

* YSL Rouge Volupte #1 Nude Beige *
Re-visiting something old from my collection, I've re-fallen in love again with this lipstick. It's the perfect nude pink shade. I like its consistency, how it feels on my lips and who doesn't love the packaging?

* Shanghai Suzy Miss Christina Neon Guava *
UGH! This is the PERFECT spring/ summer colour and I die! It is beyond amazing! This is definitely my fave and I cannot get enough of this shade! I do believe this little baby just might have pushed Candy Yum Yum out of its spot of best bright matte... Just saying...
Ps. Check out my review of Shanghai Suzy lipsticks below.

* Hourglass Mineral Veil primer *
I got a sample of this with my last Mecca order, and I LOVE it. The last primer I used was MAC Prep and Prime, but this one just feels smoother. I can honestly see why this seems to be the most "popular" primer out there. I'll definitely be buying the full sized product.

* Stila Magnificent Metals eyeliner in Gunmetal *
Almost didn't make the cut for October but I'm gonna chuck it in. IT IS STUNNING!! Holy crap! I actually had low expectations but it was so much better than I thought it would be! The colour, the glitter, how delicious, OH MY!! Definitely want ALL the shades now. (Review on this coming shortlyyyy).

* Revenge *
Oh, am I slow with this one. My partner recently downloaded this for me, thinking I would enjoy it, and I LOVE IT. I can't just watch one episode at a time, more like 5 haha. my partner described it as Gossip Girl meets Dawson's Creek (LOL) and I guess it sorta is (definitely more Gossip Girl though but with more plots and twists. This is definitely wayyyy above Blairs' scheming!).


I'm pretty sure next months favourites are going to be VERY exciting if I get a certain package soon! Ooh WHAT could it be???? (All the intrigue and mystery... Follow me on Instagram for clues as I WILL be posting this package on there!!!! You have NO idea how excited I am about these 2 particular items jkhaskjfhkjrhgkjddkneskjghkkrjglkjfkjrslgms kind of sums it up haha).

Have a great week guys and I'll see you shortly!

Ps. Tell me what you loved in October and recommend me trying out?






Thursday, October 30, 2014

Lip Product Addict tag


Just to mix it up a little, I thought I'd do one of these. I can tell you all about my favourite (and not so favourite) lip stuff!

Favourite lip balm:
I'm not a massive lip balm kinda girl, however, I have been gifted a couple. I'm currently using The Body Shop "Honeymania".

Favourite lip scrub:
I recently got Lush's Santa one and it's so good. I love the smell, it also does taste good, however, I get grossed out licking it off my lips as I'm sure there's dead skin going on, I mean it is a lip SCRUB after all haha.

Best eye catching red:
I going to say MAC Russian Red or Chanel Dragon. My fave reds! (Both are blue based).

Favourite low end lipstick:
Shanghai Suzy hands down! I absolutely love everything about them! The colours, smell, texture, longevity, price.... I can't say anything bad about them.

Favourite high end lipstick:
My fave brand is MAC. I love them like no other. I don't really have many high end lipsticks. 1 NARS, 1 Chanel, 1 Estée Lauder, 1 YSL.... a bajillion MAC...

Favourite MAC lipstick:
Really? I have over 100 MAC lipsticks and you're asking me to choose 1. I feel like I'm always changing my mind so as of right now, I'm gonna go with Morange. Oh but then there's Creme Cup, and Creme D'nude.... Oh and Candy Yum Yum. Ahhhhhhhh I.CANT. CHOOSE.

Favourite lipstick formula:
I chucked in this sneaky question, as there are so many formulas out there, I felt it was kinda important. I love matte, amplified and cremesheen.

Most disappointing lip product:
OoOhhh... I would actually have to say the retractable (wind up) NYX lip liner. I bought one and it just didn't work for me. I definitely prefer my pencil pencils.

Lip liners ~ yay or nay:
Yes, although I'm lazy and use them *rarely* (even though I have quite a few).

Favourite lipgloss:
Another toughie! I love my MAC Dazzleglasses. I also like Chanel glosses. I think my ultimate fave would maybe be MAC Sugar Trance.

Anything else?
This tag was actually a lot harder than I thought it would be. I'm also dying to get my hands of a new NARS Audacious lipstick as I've heard they're amazing!!

I tag everyone! What's your favourite lipstick???


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Brand recommendations:
I thought I'd also share what I think are the stand out products (from the following brands), that maybe you've thought about trying but want some recommendations, as a positive introduction to said brand...

Bobbi Brown:
Shimmerbricks and gel eyeliner.

Chanel:
Scantilles lip glosses and Ombre D'Illusion eyeshadows.

Chi Chi:
Lipglosses and pencil eyeliners.

Hourglass:
Veil primer, Ambient Powders and Blushes.

Lancôme:
Hypnose Mascara

MAC:
Lipsticks, Eyeshadows, Mineralize Sinfinishes.

NARS:
Blushes and Radiant Creamy concealer.

Stila:
Eyeshadows.

Too Faced:
Melted lipsticks and Sweethearts Radiant powder.

YSL:
Rouge Volupte lipsticks.


Sunday, October 19, 2014

First Impressions

I've been buying quite a few goodies online lately, and along with my goodies, I've received a few samples. Today I'm going to give you my first thoughts and impressions of these products and whether or not I'm going to buy the full sized version.



* Lonvitalite 24k Gold eye mask *
This is actually the first facial mask I've tried that hasn't been a paste like product that you wait to dry and rinse off, and to be honest, I really don't think it's for me. This one came in an individual wrapper in its own liquid, which you then place around your eyes. This had so much product on it that it was dripping down my face. So much of the liquid product that after I used the mask, I still had heaps left that I got another use out of it (just without using the paper/cloth mask thingy). I can't stand things that drip or don't dry (yes, I was that kid who never walked around with sticky fingers. I hate goo, mess or anything else like that). I left it on for the recommended 20 minutes but didn't really notice any difference to my fine lines. The eye area felt smoother though. Maybe you do need to buy the packs of them (it comes with 5 in a pack) to notice a real difference after continuous use. 
Re-purchase: No, these masks aren't for me. I'm a paste girl.
Available: Adorebeauty.com.au
RRP: $36 (for 5)



* L'oreal Infallible foundation *
I'm in the Priceline club so occasionally they'll send me a few samples in the mail. I was using Revlon Colourstay foundation and I wasn't happy with the shade (Ivory), it's horrible (I don't know why, I had a different colour last bottle by accident and I really liked it). I'm definitely looking to replace it with something new, so even though the sample was in the completely wrong colour, I still tested it out. It's amazing. It has amazing coverage (medium to full) and lasts all day. Once I get the right colour, I'll be doing a review on it so keep an eye out.
Re-purchase: Yes! I'm just waiting for my quarterly voucher LOL (hey, being honest here!)
Available: Priceline
RRP: $31.95


* Hourglass Mineral Veil primer *
I don't use a primer. I dont know why. I used to use MAC Prep and Prime, but after it ran out I just didn't repurchase it or anything else. I'm not adverse to them. The Hourglass primer is very nice. It applies smoothly and feels nice and silky on the face. I can honestly see why people seem to go crazy about it and why it's hugely popular. It definitely made my foundation sit better and last for longer (currently using Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk).
Re-purchase: Yes.
Available: Mecca
RRP: $25-69


* By Terry Cellularose Brightening CC Lumi-Serum *
I've never tried anything from this brand before. I guess as it's pretty expensive stuff and not too many reviews around I didn't want to risk it. But this is one nice product. The sample came with 4 shades but I used #1 Immaculate Light which is said to "enhance porcelain complexions, controls redness and tackles dark spots". To me this is a dupe, or very similar, to MACs Strobe Creme. The one thing I really don't like about it, is its smells like rose, which we all know, I do not like at all.
Re-purchase: I would but it looks like MAC Strobe cream, which doesn't smell like rose.
Available: Mecca
RRP: $126


* L'oreal Age Perfect facial oil *
A beauty oil not dissimilar to the likes of Rosehip, Jojoba and those type of anti-anging oils. I used this for about a week and decided to not bother. I use Rosehip oil which has many anti-oxidant properties and is much more natural and not synthetic, which I'm all for as much as I can. I'm not likely to be changing from my beloved Rosehip oil anytime soon. I would recommend something more natural over something not-so-natural.
Re-purchase: No
Available: Priceline
RRP: $39.99


* Aesop Voluming Shampoo *
Another product that I've never tried anything from the brand. This in an Australian brand that uses mostly natural ingredients. This shampoo is designed for fine hair (as per packet description), however, I get very flat hair on top so I wanted to give it a go anyway. I definitely noticed volume from using it the one time. It smells like peppermint too which isn't unplesant, although, not a scent I would associate with shampoo haha. I do really like it, but find it to be on the pricier side. If you love pampering your hair, then I'd give it a go.
Re-purchase: Not for the price. If it was cheaper, more than likely.
Available: Adorebeauty.com.au
RRP: $29 (200ml)


Have you tried any of these? What did you think?


Monday, October 13, 2014

Review: Shanghai Suzy lipsticks

 I saw Chloe Morello wear army pants and flip flops a Shanghai Suzy lipstick so I bought army pants and flip flops a Shanghai Suzy lipstick... Lol. 


I had never heard of the brand Shanghai Suzy until recently. I was watching a tutorial of Chloe Morello's and absolutely LOVED the lip colour she used. After a little digging/ watching/ reading, I discovered it to be this Shanghai Suzy. The shade and intrigue of never hearing about this brand definitely made me go 'oohhh, what IS this and why have I never heard of it before? I LOVE makeup so how could this be?'
Naturally, I googled it and landed onto the website to discover a small range of lipsticks. Only lipsticks. It seemed like a relatively new company, and as many new and small companies do, start out with a small range and make it perfect before launching into other products. I had a look around at the colours on offer and they definitely all seemed like nice "me" colours but I definitely wanted to play it safe and just get the pink lipstick Chloe used (which was Miss Amy Baby Pink).
I was pleasantly surprised at how cheap it was for a lipstick ($12.95). However, I guess that means it could go either way, bad quality or good quality at a really good price. ALL the intrigue!

It arrived 2 days later. Express shipping, so nice and fast. I ripped into that baby like a kid at Xmas and applied it. It was packaged in a cute little purple and clear cellophane type wrapper with a faux flower which was a nice touch. It felt more personal and sent out with thought, which I like.
The lipsticks come in a rectangular black case which have the shade of the lipstick on the top, the name and formula on the bottom and Shanghai Suzy written along the side in silver writing. The packaging feels hardwearing and secure.

What about the lipstick? Nice and smooth to apply. Good texture and the smell!? When you're used to most lipsticks having a subtle or vanillary smell, this definitely surprises you. So what does it smell like you ask? GRAPE BUBBLEGUM!!!! Not.even.kidding. It is the craziest, bizzare and most awesome thing to be in a lipstick. It still trips me out every time I use the lipsticks (which is a lot!).  It might be off putting to those who don't like grape bubblegum or that kind of candy smell. It's not super strongly scented but you can definitely smell it and know immediately what it is.

I've gone back 3 times to purchase these, as with each shade I fall more and more in love with the lipsticks, and there's definitely quite a few to "collect". From comments I have seen around the place (mostly Instagram), I believe each shade is a limited edition so once they're sold out, they don't get re-stocked and they are released each season with the new seasons predicted hottest colours. The great thing about the brand too, if you really do love them, you can buy them in packs. They currently have the offer of buy 3 get 1 free or buy the whole wardrobe of shades (8 in total) at $65 which makes them discounted to $8.13 each; or of course, you can buy them individually.
Each time I've purchased, they've always arrived 2 days later using express shipping (from Melbourne to Adelaide), and shipping is $6.95 regardless of how many are purchased.

Shanghai Suzy lipsticks come in 2 formulas: matte and nourishing



* Miss Amy Baby Pink (matte) *
This shade is THE perfect baby pink. It is a matte but it doesn't feel dry in the slightest and probably the most "moisturising" matte lipstick I have ever worn. It is quite thick (good thick, not bad thick), and with only 2 swipes, is completely opaque and covers my lips nicely. Miss Amy stays put throughout the day, wears evenly and doesn't get cakey at any stage. I only have to reapply after eating.

* Miss Ally Amethyst (matte) *
Miss Ally is definitely not for the faint of heart. This is a very bright, mid toned purple with a blue base and very bold. I used this shade with a lip liner the first time using it, which did affect the application as it didn't feel as opaque as Miss Amy did and felt not right (almost chalky and gritty). I haven't tried using lip liners with any other shade, but even at this point, I'd suggest you go without. After a second, separate application (without lipliner), it applied much better, however, it's definitely not as opaque as the others. It still wears well but not as long as Miss Amy or Miss Christina.
Please note: I use a lip liner all over my lips vs just lining. Maybe that was my problem. You can always experiment with what works for you?

* Miss Leah Baby Cocoa (nourishing) *
To be honest, of all the Shanghai Suzy lipsticks I have, this is probably the most personally disappointing, not for the product itself, but purely because I actually thought this was a much slightly lighter shade. However, this is the perfect shade if you're wanting to dabble with the currently trending 90's "Kylie Jenner" lips without a really red "brick" shade (which I'm actually not for. The 90's need to stay in the 90's lol). This is the only shade I own that is the nourishing formula (its enriched with jojoba oil which makes it nourishing), and is very nice to wear (not that any of them aren't). This formula would definitely help if you do have dry, cracked lips without making the situation worse. Miss Leah does need more regular applications as the formula does wear more quickly due to it not being a matte and more hydrating. I get about 2-3 hours wear before reapplying.
Ps. After wearing this shade more and more, I am definitely really loving this shade, it's almost a "my lips but better" kind of shade.

* Miss Christina Neon Guava (matte) *
I LOVE this shade! Probably my fave out of the 5. It is the most summery and bright without being scary or obnoxious. It's the perfect blend of pink and coral. Long wearing, the only time I have to reapply is after eating and it was opaque with only 2 swipes. Because it is a neon/ super bright shade, it's definitely a shade to apply with attention, as it can stain very easily and can leave those tell tale red signs of tried removal that you get after "colouring outside the lines", or a wild pash session haha.

* Miss Sally Watermelon (matte) *
I feel like I had to work a little bit harder to get this to look "perfect" on my lips. I feel like Miss Sally also needed a good 3 swipes to be nice and opaque. It is also one of those shades that can stain very easily and can be hard to erase those tell-tale signs you can get after either not applying properly and outside of the lip line and trying to wipe it off,  I find it to be more on the red side of "watermelon", but it is absolutely gorgeous and anothing amazing summer shade.

None of the lipsticks bled or feathered on me.

L-R: Miss Amy, Miss Leah, Miss Ally, Miss Sally and Miss Christina. 
I wholeheartedly recommend these lipsticks. They are great value for money and are such amazing quality. There is definitely a shade for everyone, no matter what their style or preference of shades. I'll definitely be repurchasing more from the current seasons selection, and in future. I think the coral one will be next on my list! They're also not tested on animals and vegan!

My picks:
Miss Amy Baby Pink
Miss Christina Neon Guava


Available: shanghaisuzy.com (there's also a stockists page on the website)
RRP: $12.95 (+ $6.95 for shipping)



Tuesday, October 7, 2014

A quick lol...

Ok, total what the hell moment. I was watching a Sally Jo video, and she had a list of products used and it had Cindy-Loumanizer and I JUST realised the "Manizer" interprets to illuminser hahahaha! I am SUCH an idiot...

Have any of you had a duh! moment like that? Tell me about it!

Monday, October 6, 2014

Xmas wishlist!




Can you believe it's almost Christmas time already?! This year has gone by so fast. Pretty scary how fast time really does go by, especially when you realise you haven't actually achieved many of the things that you wanted to by years end. You definitely need to grab life by the horns, otherwise it'll certainly pass you by! I guess that's part of the "live life to the fullest" thing that everyone talks about. It certainly is true.

I've never really been into all the Xmas offerings that most companies seem to offer, the MAC holiday collection used to get the most attention from me because I'm such a sucker for packaging, especially if it's glittery, which most Xmas collections are. However, this year feels different. Not sure why, but I'm ALL about the Xmas goodies this year. These are the ones that have got me anxiously stalking websites, ready with the credit card... And as always, are great gifts to give, especially for the beauty minded as most are limited edition (and oh, how we beauty junkies love the words "limited edition" haha).


* Too Faced mini Melted lip glosses *
 I haven't tried these but I'm really loving that rich colour. I hear these have awesome staying power, which is great for summer because really, who wants melted lips from the summer heat. 

Colours included: Nude, Peony, Fuchsia and Berry.


* Too Faced Everything Nice palette *
Ooohhh this one looks DEVINE! This is definitely my # 1 Xmas want. So many colours, so many choices, so many potential looks! This seems to have everything you could want. Eyeshadows, blushes, bronzer and a highlight. This would also be amazing to take travelling (which I never do, so I guess that doesn't really apply to me, regardless, I still want it). 
It contains 20 eyeshadows, 2 blushes, a bronzer, a highlighter, mini Teddy Bear brushes and a mini Better Than Sex mascara. 


* NARS Virtual Domination blush palette *
OMG THIS is right at the top of my list (after the Too Faced palette, actually, no THIS is my #1 want!!!!) All shades I don't have (except for Deep Throat). GAH!
It includes the shades: Laguna (bronzer), Deep Throat, Miss Liberty, Sex Appeal and Final Cut.



* MAC Heirlooms lipstick in Rebel *
I've wanted Rebel for so long and have held onto my empties for like 6 months, waiting for it to actually be available. Think I'll just bypass the whole empties saga and buy myself the pretty glittery packaged one. Oh Xmas time!



* Bobbi Brown Holiday shimmerbrick *
I'm still waiting for details to emerge on this one. It's been described as bronze, regardless, I'll be needing it haha. I love Bobbi Brown shimmerbricks, and practically own them all (except I'm missing my Apricot....).




What's at the top of your wishlist this year?

Thursday, October 2, 2014

September favourites



Can you believe it's almost October already? It's a pretty crazy thought, especially when you think about how quickly the year has flown, and how close it is to Xmas! Yikes!
Speaking of Xmas, are guys as excited as I am for the awesome Xmas stuff that will be coming out for the holiday season? I am especially loving the offerings of Too Faced.

Anywho, these are the goodies I've come across and am LOVING this past month!

* Too Faced Radiant Sweetheart bronzing beads *
I'm sure I've mentioned this product before, but it really is SO amazing and I just love it. It gives my face a subtle sparkle all over and just makes my skin look luminescent and perfect (IMO). I cannot rave about this product enough!

* Shanghai Suzy lipsticks *
I bought the Miss Amy Baby Pink after watching a Chloe Morello tutorial, and fell in love. Creamy, non-drying, super pigmented and long, even wearing. Love! So I bought 2 of the new summer shades Miss Leah Baby Cocoa and Miss Ally Amethyst. I'll definitely be buying more. Best of all ~ they smell like GRAPE bubblegum!!!!!!!!

L-R: Miss Ally Amethyst, Miss Leah Baby Cocoa and Miss Amy Baby Pink.

* NARS Creamy Concealer in Vanilla *
Another purchase after seeing everyone and their unicorn rave about this. I actually thought "why is this so raved about" after my first 1-2 uses, but as I used this more, I definitely fell in love and highly recommend it too. I'll definitely be re-purchasing it.

* Savvy Matte lipgloss in Icon *
For only $8, this is amazing! It's a matte (obviously) lipgloss and it doesn't budge. You can read my review on this below. Just purchased Hollywood Baby from the Priceline website. I will own ALL the shades!

* MAC Pink Opal pigment *
Seriously, every time I use this I fall in love with it all over again. It is THE MOST PERFECT shade for everything! Brow bone highlight? Perfect! Face highlight? Perfect! Eyeshadow? Perfect! Made of unicorns? Absolutely!

* TheBalm Mary-Lou Manizer *
Why didn't I own this before? This is the PERFECT gold based powder highlighter. I have been using this everyday since I got it. Caution: use with a light hand. It's very pigmented and a little goes a long way! (I use a fan brush for application).



* The Body Shop body butter in Coconut *
Of all The Body Shop stuff I've tried over the years, I never tried this one and I really don't know why. I got this one as a gift and I love it. I have the massive Satsuma one (400ml) and I feel like it's never ending, whereas this one (50ml) I finished quite quickly and maybe I'm a weirdo but I felt such a sense of accomplishment haha. This will be a great summer moisturiser. Will definitely buy again!


* Essie Shorty Pants nailpolish *
I am OBSESSED with yellow atm. Maybe it's just cos we're headed into summer or I don't know but I can't get enough! So naturally this is my current fave! Looks great with a tan.


PS. Whilst writing this post, I ended back up on the Shanghai Suzy site and bought the Neon Guava and Watermelon shades... Oops haha. 

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Updated: My Perfume collection

I find that scent can be a very personal thing. Of course it will make you smell good, but other than the obvious, scent can invoke many emotions, feelings and even nostalgia. Maybe you have a clear recollection of how your mother used to smell or her favourite perfume, you can still remember a scent of your favourite summer that brings it back to life, or even the smell of your favourite food...

To me, scent is SO important, some even have their own personal scent, their signature if you will.
I've already told you all the story previously about how I occasionally come across that perfect vanilla scent, and then it disappears again. Occasionally I'll also come across a smell that brings back instant memories from my favourite times in my life, usually with my best friend, many years ago, when we basically had a whole summer to ourselves and felt so free and grown up. Ultimate nostalgia.

My fave scents are from the fruity and floral families. Although, I do not like rose scented anything. Side "slightly off topic" story: Jurlique make amazing skincare, but make everything friggin rose scented. It drives me crazy!!! Whyyyyy??

Vanilla Kisses Impulse body spray was the very first scent to give me everything I know about the power of a scent, since then I've definitely moved onto bigger and better (ok, maybe not better, but certainly different and more "adult") things.

These are the perfumes in my current rotation...

Please also note that I am most definitely the kind of perfume buyer than is predominantly visual first, them smell second haha. However, I do have to like the smell in order for me to buy a bottle. My white whale is definitely Angel by Thierry Mugler. I LOVE that bottle, but cannot stand the smell. I've tried SO many times to go back and try it at different stages of my life, but I just don't like it! *sad face* #firstworldproblems

* Katy Perry Killer Queen Royal Revolution *
First example of a visual delight that turned into a purchase. This one is the blue bottled version, which is her newest release. I was very pleasantly surprised with the smell, and funnily enough, did invoke a smell from somewhere in my teenage years. I always feel a little bit lame when I buy celebrity perfumes, I don't know why though, as they do smell pretty good!

Eau De Parfum
Top Notes: Pomegranate and Pink Freesia
Middle Notes: Jasmine, Orange flower and Sandalwood
Bottom Notes: Blackthorn, Vanilla Orchid and Musk

Where/ when do I wear this: This is an "everyday" perfume for me.
RRP: $34 (for 50ml)

* Circus by Britney Spears *
Another celebrity perfume. One of the perfumes I own that's not visual-over-scent purchased. I can't remember how or why I ended up purchasing it, but it's actually a staple in my collection now and I'm on my third bottle.

Eau De Toilette
Top Notes: Raspberry Zest and Apricot Blossom
Middle Notes: Blue Peony, Lotus and Orchid
Bottom Notes: Vanilla, Musk and Violet Candy

When/ where I wear this: My everyday everyday perfume.
RRP: $29 (for 50ml)

* Daisy by Marc Jacobs *
To me, this is just spring! Floral and light, I always feel pretty when I wear this. The bottle is so adorable too with the rubbery daisies on the cap. Onto my third bottle of this as well.

Eau De Toilette
Top Notes: Strawberry, Violet and Pink Grapefruit
Middle Notes: Gardenia, Jasmine and Violet
Bottom Notes: Vanilla, Musk and White Woods

Where/ when do I wear this: When I want to feel pretty (rather than rockstar haha). When it's sunny outside and I'm feeling energic and lighthearted.
RRP: from $69 (50ml)

* Flowerbomb by Viktor & Rolf  *
This is my absolute favourite perfume I own. It's very floral and delicious. Although this is definitely an expensive one, it is worth it.

Eau De Parfum
Top Notes: Green Tea and Bergamont
Middle Notes: Sambac Jasmine, Centafolia Rose, Freesia and Orchid
Bottom Notes: Musk and Patcholi

Where/ when do I wear this: On special occasions.
RRP: from $119



* L.A.M.B by Gwen Stefani *
You must be laughing at all these celebrity perfumes by now right? This is the only fragrance I own that is quite heavy, woody and most definitely a night/ winter scent. Even though it is described as a floral, I find it very heavy and definitely not how I would describe it. Probably a woody oriental in my opinion. The bottle itself is quite heavy but I LOVE the design and how it looks.

Eau De Parfum
Top Notes: Violet Leaf, Water Hyacinth and White Freesia
Middle Notes: Jasmine, Rose, Lily of the Valley and Orange Blossom
Bottom Notes: Frangipani, Peach, Helitrope and White Musk

Where/ when do I wear this: This is my go to bottle in winter. I find it too heavy (for myself) any other time of the year.
RRP: from $19

* CKin2U *
Ughhhh my Fave daytime, summer fragrance. I'm currently on either my third or forth bottle of this! I feel so energetic and fresh when I wear this. Definitely the fruity/ citrusy one of my collection. I really love the matte white bottle too. Simple but amazing. The only thing that makes me sad about the design however, is that you can only see how much you've got when you're almost out.

Eau De Toilette
Top Notes: Pink Grapefruit, Bergamont and Red Currant leaves
Middle Notes: Sugar Orchid and White Cactus
Bottom Notes: Vanilla, Amber and Red Cedar

Where/ when do I wear this: My everyday scent in summer.
RRP: from $19

* With Love by Hilary Duff *
This one has a very sexy feel, so this is my go-to when I go out clubbing or something "nighty". It's a bit darker and deeper, which makes it a perfect night scent, which you can get away with wearing outside of winter. It is described as a spicy oriental.
Side note: The bottle is almost empty as i've had this bottle for years, not that I party like some wild person haha.

Eau De Toilette
Top Notes: Spices and Mango
Middle Notes: Cocolobo and Mango Blossom
Bottom Notes: Amber and Musk

Where/ when I wear this: Night time events like clubbing, or drinks with the girls.
RRP: from $39

I also really love Beyond Paradise by Estee Lauder but need to grab a new bottle.


* My top fave 3: *

~ Flowerbomb by Viktor & Rolf
~ CKin2U by Calvin Klein
~ Daisy by Marc Jacobs


FRAGRANCE TIPS:
~ Eau De Toilette is a shorter wearing fragrance with between 5-15% fragrance oil (usually about 10%), which means you need to reapply more often. 
~ Eau De Parfum has a higher % of fragrance oil (roughly 10-20%, usually 15%), which is why it lasts longer, smells stronger and is typically more expensive. 
~ NEVER rub your perfume eg; rubbing your wrists together, as it actually "bruises" your perfume and changing the way it comes off on you. 
~ When trying out a new fragrance from the counters, make sure you get the assistant (or yourself) to actually spray your skin (not those pieces of card), as everyone has different skin/ body chemistry, and what you smell on someone else, may not actually smell like that on you! 
~ Try not to spray your neck/ décolletage as most fragrance has alcohol in it, which can dry out your skin, and over time can result in you having more wrinkles in those areas (especially combined with sun exposure and not moisturing that area every night along with your face routine)!
~ Don't have you perfume collection where the sun can "see" it as that can actually make your perfume go off quicker than the expiry date


What does scent mean to you? Do you have a signature?



All fragrances are available from
Priceline, Myer, David Jones, Chemist Warehouse, and Perfume Connection. 

I purchase the majority of my perfumes from Priceline as it's usually cheaper and I get Priceline points which = quarterly rewards etc.
Prices are from the Priceline website.

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

What I'm Currently Using: haircare

Soooo, I'm definitely not the best when it comes to hair. I'm definitely a pony girl and the most elaborate style I can achieve is a French braid (messily, of course). I wish I was one of those girls who ALWAYS has cute hair, even the ability to do a nice frontal side braid thing would be nice.

However, I definitely try to take care of my hair as much as I can. Of course, I still do the wrong thing occasionally. I still over-straighten my hair, which is one hard task to try and un-do after years of straightening over the same piece of hair to make it as straight as possible! It seems to be the reason I always have 2 spots near my temple that are always broken and wispy. I'm only learning to not tie my hair up when it's wet, but I have finally stopped brushing my hair whilst wet. I also dye my hair... A lot... Since I was 12... All kind of colours.... So you can imagine the mess going on. I'm also trying to grow it long, so refuse to cut it, coz we all know that's how we get long luscious hair without extensions, right? Right? Please tell me I'm right? I honestly think it would be so much easier, and god have I been tempted, to just shave my head a-la Britney 2007. So, if you're like me, and also about as brave as what I am, aka not brave at all, here's a heads up on my fave products I use to prevent more damage from occurring...

First up, let me just say, I'm pretty *lazy* and wash my hair max twice a week. I hate washing my hair. Even if I do use awesome stuff. Ugh! Worst beauty job for me.

Shampoo/ Conditioner:
I rotate a lot so I'm currently using Tresemme Platinum Strength shampoo (the black with purple writing new one) and Tresemme Thermal Recovery conditioner (the white with red writing one). I like them both so far (been using for about a month) and would recommend them.

Treatments:
Moroccan Oil treatment oil:
UGH! THE SMELL! Why hasn't someone made this scent into a perfume, or candle, or something! I LOVE the smell SO MUCH! I use this every time I wash my hair, on my mid lengths-ends of my hair and around my temples on those wispy bits. This is my holy grail hair product and will buy religiously. Definitely makes my hair more smoother and in better condition.

Redken Anti-Snap treatment:
I mix this with my Moroccan Oil treatment. I would definitely recommend this for those with extreme damage like I do. I focus this product on the ends of my hair and those front wispy, damaged bits.

Redken Natures Rescue Refining Sea Polish:
This is a pumice like hair exfoliator that I use when I remember. More so, because it has been discontinued vs, when I remember to use it. This is something you use all over to really clean and smooth the hair, and I really work it into my scalp to remove all the dead skin/ hair cells for a "deep clean". Even though it's an actual scrub, it doesn't harm the hair follicles at all. My hair always feels so clean and fresh when I use this. 



Moroccan Oil Repair hair mask:
I use this when I remember or when I can be bothered, so usually once every 2 weeks, which you really shouldn't be using it more than that due to the product being protein based, and more protein in the hair can actually cause major hair breakage. Definitely makes my hair SO much smoother after using this. Again, the smell is lush!












Heat protection:




GHD heat protectant spray:
I buy this when I have cash because well, I have a GHD, so I should use products that go with my device right? Haha. I just like nice things.

Tresemme heat protectant spray:
A fraction of the cost of the GHD stuff, I can't really tell the difference but the boyfie likes this, so I buy this one too.









Styling Products:
Moroccan Oil strong hold hairspray:
Bought this purely for the smell. If you have plenty of cash laying around and wanna blow it on pointless stuff, then this is your item. It honestly doesn't work any better or worse than any other hairspray I've used (usually Tresemme hairspray), so definitely not a "must have". It doesn't leave your hair crunchy though, which is good, staying power is good too. It definitely is a quality product, but there are same quality products for cheaper.

Paul Mitchell smoothing Gloss Drops:
I use this after straightening to make my hair nice and shiny and to smooth any fly always. This is my fave smoothing product I've ever used. It's not greasy and doesn't leave your hair feeling heavy or looking oil slicked and greasy. I'm pretty sure this too has been discontinued, and that makes me really sad.

Batiste Cherry dry shampoo:
I rave about this all the time and is my fave dry shampoo. Highly recommend trying this range. I wanna try the Wild one next!

Schwartzkopf Instant Volume powder:
To be honest I'm not really a fan of this. I'm not sure if it's because I'm not using this properly or the product isn't 100%. When this runs out (or I've had enough), I'll be purchasing the Kevin Murphy Powder Puff Next, as I've heard nothing but good things.




Tools:
Straightener:
GHD: Pure edition
I use my good old trusty GHD! I love it, and highly recommend it. I got the white one from the Pure/Evil collection about 6 years ago. My original one did break after just past 2 years of use, but GHD head office are beyond amazing and replaced it for me, even though I was just out of warranty. The customer service is top notch. If you have a GHD and haven't registered it on their site, seriously go do it in case something like that happens to you. Also, does anyone else feel the need to buy more than one as they're always coming out with awesome new coloured ones? No? Just me, ok then (for the record I only have this one but am very tempted to buy one of the blue/green birds of paradise one ... It's just SO pretty!).

Hair Dryer:
I still use the one my mum bought me for my birthday when I was like 14. I lost the diffuser for it though haha. Still works like a charm too. It's a Remington metallic purple one.

Hair brush:
I've actually been really lazy and haven't bought a new one since I did that post about washing your hair brush. I do have a Lady Jayne shower comb though for when I get out of the shower (obviously...).

Hair Decoration:
I'm starting to use more hair decorations like headbands and those currently fashionable hair pieces that sit around your forehead (think gatsby, Shannon Harris or Karissa Pukas). I also am loving the hair bun for an elegant style bun, and they are SO easy to use. I get all my hair accessories from eQuip.

Monday, September 22, 2014

Something REALLY handy!



Ok, so I know it's not a beauty related item but I definitely thought this product is worth raving about and super handy to have.
If you're anything like me, you're constantly on your phone (to be honest, I may have a slight addiction to my phone) and it's always SO frustrating when you're out and you lose charge on your phone/ it dies. We've ALL been there, let's be honest.

This little device is a self-powered phone/ iPod/ digital camera/ USB device charger that you charge up, then take anywhere to re-charge your device, at a later date, wherever and whenever you like. I keep mine in my handbag so I can re-charge at work if I need to.

It comes with a cable connector which has jacks for the above items but importantly, for a lot of people, an iPhone 5 jack (I will gladly be able to give my boss a charger when she asks now haha);
and a car charger which you put into the cigarette lighter port thingy (Do all cars still even have these?) so you can charge while you're driving. It only takes roughly (depending on what you're charging I guess) an hr and a half from 0-100%.

It's about 10cm long and will fit into pretty much any bag/ glovebox/ wherever you might want to keep one etc

It comes in different colours too.
There are also other models for iPads and such too.

Available: smartercharger.com.au
RRP: $39.95 (for the basic phone charger)


* To make a long story short, I was gifted this but opinions are my 100% my own, I've had one before and highly recommend them, obviously.