Beauty // Rimmel Match Perfection Foundation Review

As a pale girl,I absolutely hate buying foundation! It's a minefield out there when your skin slightly resembles Casper the ghost,just one shade too dark and I can end up looking like an oompa loompa. I'd been looking around the high street to see what brands offer the palest shades,and that's when I found Rimmel Match Perfection in Light Porcelain.At the moment it's in Boots for £4.99 and comes in 10 shades,so ladies (or gentleman) if you're darker skinned,you have the option of gorgeous bronze and honey shades.

Firstly,I love that it contains SPF 18 because I'm always looking for ways to protect my skin without clogging my pores.It's in an easy to use pump bottle,and 30mls of product for only £4.99 is a pretty good deal.According to Rimmel the formulation provides "traceless coverage and perfectly flawless skin under any light".This is great for me because I work in harsh lighting,and I often don't realise that I've taken on a slight orange hue.

When I first swatched this,I was pleased by how effortlessly it blended into my skin.It's quite a thin consistency,but it's really buildable so that you can give your skin great coverage where it needs it most.I have combination skin,and I found that it worked well on all areas of my face.It provided coverage and reduced shine on my t zone,and it didn't sink and crack into dry areas either.I haven't ever had a foundation with such a nice scent before either,it's smells really fresh and reminds me of Aloe Vera.It feels very moisturising and lightweight on my skin which I love,I can't stand that mask effect that some foundations give.The only problem I have with this is that it doesn't cover my freckles that much,but I guess I should be working to embrace them anyway! 

Excuse the weird photo,but I'm so happy with how this turned out.I used a tiny bit of Maybelline Pure Cover Mineral Concealer in Natural (£1 from Poundland) to cover a few blemishes,and then I swirled a little Miss Sporty So Clear Face Powder in Translucent (£2.99 from Superdrug) to keep it all in place and there we have it! I feel a lot more confident wearing this foundation knowing that I have even looking skin without those tell tale "tide marks".As for it's claims of lasting all day,I'd say it lasts a good 7 hours,and even then I think a quick touch of powder and you'll be good to go.So fellow pale folk and freckly sisters,if you're   looking for an affordable foundation that feels natural and offers a light to medium coverage,I would 100% recommend this!

What foundation are you currently using?

Lifestyle // Bloggers you should be following Part 2

 I've decided to extend my Bloggers you should be following series because there are so many fantastic bloggers out there that I feel need mentioning,and I had so much fun writing Part 1 which you can read here.I think interaction and great content are key in creating amazing blogs that keep readers hooked,and these ladies have this in spades! If you're after some new reads for your Bloglovin' feed then look no further.Of course,all of the beautifully designed headers belong to the respective bloggers and designers.

Do you often lament your teenage years when all you had to worry about was perfecting your Myspace angle and how much Harry Potter you could read in one night? Me too.Becky's awesome blog really gives me all the nostalgia feels,I mean look at this amazing post where she revists her emo phase! My 14 year old self is very jealous of those socks.Her style is still just as awesome these days and if you love fun prints,pastels and a little bit of geekery then you will definitely get lots of fashion inspiration here.My favourite look has to be her recent Gingham OOTD.I love everything about it;the jelly shoes,the cute frilly socks.So perfect.Now before I stop waffling on like a crazy fangirl,I would also like to mention that Becky hosts the Monday #fbloggers Twitter chat where I've had some great conversation with her,she comes across as very upbeat and friendly which is just what everyone needs on a Monday! Follow her on Bloglovin' guys.

If you love beautiful photographs of the Countryside and adorable dogs then you will love Life Outside London written by the wonderful Michelle.I love her style of writing,it's like you're round her house having a cup of tea! I'm sure she'd serve you these amazing recipes too.These Cheese and Red Pepper Thingumies (scientific word) look so fresh and easy to make, and don't even get me started on these PB squares.As a fellow Devonian blogger,I really enjoy reading about all the adventures she gets up to in the area,and I'm sure it'll be a great help to holidaymakers who come down here for the Summer.

As you all know from my blog,I'm really into raising awareness and busting misconceptions surrounding mental health,so I'm so happy to share Catherine' awesome blog YouWishYou.I spoke to her over the phone as she's currently working on a feature discussing body image,and she made me feel so comfortable and came across as a very articulate and passionate person,we could all do with some more of that attitude in our lives! Not only that but she also has an amazing fashion sense,and I love her take on the Little Black Dress.Her blog is a great place to go for beauty reviews regardless of your budget,and I really think she will go far in Broadcast Journalism.You can follow Catherine over here 

Now admittedly I only have one tattoo (a hastily chosen but much loved lower back number,yes it is a Butterfly) but the beautiful designs and artists that are shared and discussed over at Illustrated Teacup really make me want to own more artwork.Having a tattoo can be a big decision and I love that Rachel takes the time to explain the negatives and positives of the tattoo world,so that people can make the right decision for themselves.This How to look after your new tattoo post is full of useful advice and tips to help heal your new ink and leave it looking as perfect as it did from day 1.There are a couple of mood board posts where give  great inspiration for any budding aritists or for people looking for their next tattoo,I mean look at these amazing tea inspired tattoos (that rabbit is adorable).I love how personal and in depth she is about  her experiences and own artwork with us,and I think she knows what she's talking about after all the hours she's spent getting tattooed! I love how much her colorful full sleeve contrasts against her white wedding dress.Beautiful.It's great to see a blogger sharing her passion and talking about something a little different.You can follow Rachel here.

I always feel really happy writing these posts,I love how positive this community is and I enjoy contributing to it in any way I can.I hope you've enjoyed reading and hopefully you've have lots of late night reading to get through!

Who do you think I should be following? Any recommendations?

Poundland bargains // Jess Nail Polish Review

I've had a lot of success with nail polishes from Poundland recently, I love that they have a great selection of branded products like Revlon and Sally Hansen.I normally overlook brands I don't recognise but I saw a very inviting stand of Jess nail polishes that had every kind of colour and finish you could want! I've never seen this brand before, but I'm after some bold colours for Spring & Summer,so I picked up two of these polishes for £1 each (of course.)

The packaging is fuss free and clean which is a winner for me,and I like that they have names,polishes always seem a bit more luxurious to me when they have creative names.The beautiful emerald green is called "Brazen" and the vibrant purple is called "Madison".I was worried that they might have been hard to apply being a cheaper product,but I was very impressed.It only took two coats of polish to achieve a nice solid colour and the brush holds just the right amount of product.It also has a very quick drying time which is great for people in a rush.

Madison looks 1000 x nicer on the nails than in the bottle! It's so vibrant and has quite a glossy finish.I did add a little bit of a topcoat but it doesn't need it. 

I will be wearing this so much during the coming months.Brazen means "bold and without shame",so this polish definitely lives up to it's name.It also has a glossy finish too,which I think makes it look a bit more high end.

The next time you're in Poundland,I would definitely recommend having a look at the Jess nail stand.They're cheap and have so much variety to choose from that you could buy one for every day of the week!

Have you ever tried Jess polishes? What do you think?

Freebie // Manuka Doctor Mini Hero Kit review *

I've been hearing so much about Bee venom and Manuka honey and the wonderful effects they can have on your skin! Apparently they have great healing and nourishing properties and even leave your skin looking youthful and glowing.I didn't want to pay the often hefty price tag on these products,so I decided to take advantage of the Mini Hero Kit that the lovely people at Manuka Doctor are giving away for free! It's worth £12.99 and you only have to pay £2.50 P&P so I think that's a pretty good deal.Pick it up here (I'd be quick though, you never know when they're going to take these deals down.)

You get 3 sachets which have enough product in to get 2 or 3 uses each out of them,and I'm really pleased with the results! I did look up the process of how they retrieve the bee venom,and I'm happy to say that it is a humane process.If you'd like to know more then there is more information here.They do advise not to use this product if you are allergic to bee stings.

Manuka Doctor Rejuvinating facial mask

"Pain free natural way of combating wrinkles with purified Bee venom to help promote elasticity"

I applied a thin layer of this after cleansing and left it to soak into my skin for 30 minutes.It really felt like it was working,it reminded me of a nice spa treatment.On application it had a lovely fresh smell and went on really smoothly.I used a damp face cloth to remove the residue and my skin felt so soft and nourished! It also had a nice glow to it,probably from the Bee venom!

Manuka Doctor Skin treatment serum

"High performance natural alternative to significantly improve blemish prone skin"

Honey and it's antibacterial properties have been used in skincare for years,and I can see why.I applied some of this before I went to bed and when I woke up my skin tone did look more even and refreshed.It might take a few more applications to get it looking how I want,but I am impressed with it's results.

Manuka Doctor Targeted wrinkle filler

"In just 30 minutes wrinkles are reduced"

Now I don't know if this is true,because I'm only 22 and I don't have any wrinkles that I can see right now.It did leave my skin looking really plumped out and fresh though.I also noticed it gave my skin a lovely smooth texture which made applying my make up much easier.

They also offer lots of other products for all different kinds of skin conditions.I'd never heard of Manuka Doctor before but after using these samples I think I'll check them out.Their products vary in price from affordable to the more high end,but I'm sure there is something for every budget! I would definitely recommend them.

Have you ever used Bee venom in beauty before?

Recovery // Positive body image affirmations

Positive affirmations are a big part of my daily life.If I didn't do them I don't think I would be able to look in the mirror.Looking in the mirror is a big struggle when you don't believe you match up to societies impossible standards.Girls as young as 5 and 6 are becoming increasingly concerned about their weight and appearance.It's getting just as bad for men too,there are plenty of adverts shaming men for not being the muscular Action Man types that the media hound them with everyday.To try and ground myself in the reality and gain some perspective,these affirmations really help me to create a more positive atmosphere.

1. "I deserve to take up space in the world"

I believe this is a quote from the Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. This is a great affirmation to say when you are feeling helpless or unimportant.You can be vast and brilliant and you deserve to be here as much as anyone else.

2. "I am worthy of love."

This one has helped me through some very tough times.You are worthy of love no matter who you are or where you come from.Love isn't just reserved for the successful,the healthy or the rich.

3. "Fat isn't a bad word."

You hear so many people saying "Does this make me look fat?" and the other person will say "no, you look beautiful not fat".Why can't they be both? Fat is whispered in hushed tones and shouted as taunts and I think it's unnecessary.You can be fat,you can be thin,or you can be anything in between.If you're healthy and happy then that's great.Actually,even if you're not healthy,you're still wonderful and deserve everything you could want!

4. " It is okay for me to love myself."

It isn't vain or self absorbed to love yourself and your body.You are capable of great things and that should be celebrated! When we start dictating our happiness and not the media,true acceptance of ourselves and others will come.

5."Thank you (body part) for doing (whatever they do.)"

I know this sounds funny but I find this really helpful.Thank your legs for carrying you everywhere.Thank your eyes for seeing what the world has to offer.Your body is going to be with you your whole life,so learning to honour and respect it can only improve your relationship with yourself!

Although it takes time,I definitely think these affirmations are really useful in helping to improve your body image.I like to say some when I'm getting ready in the morning,it's a great way to set myself up for the day!

I'd love to know if anyone else has any affirmations they use.Let me know!

Poundland bargains // £1 Minnie Mouse polish review

I'm obsessed with everything Disney related,as I know lots of people are.I don't enjoy paying their prices though,it seems that anything with the Disney name can retail for twice as much as another brand.That's why I'm so happy to see lots of their products in Poundland at the moment.I also love buying more polishes than I need,and at only £1 I can justify that!

I picked up this beautiful Minnie Mouse polish in "Red".Not a very inventive name,but the packaging is so cute that I don't mind.I found the short brush made it really easy to apply and the formulation wasn't too goopy (technical word.)

I would definitely recommend this to someone who want a simple but pretty nail polish for a good price! They did have a few other pastel colours too,which I think I'll have a look at another time.It didn't smell too strong either,which I think is a bonus as some polishes really have that chemical smell to them.

This is after 2 and a half days and I'm terrible at nail care,so I'm pretty impressed by it's staying power.If you regularly use hand cream and apply top coat I'm sure it will last longer.Looking at them,I wouldn't say that it was a true red,they look more of a orangey red to me.Or "blood orange" but I can't say that or "oxblood" without feeling like a pretentious twit.

What polishes are you wearing at the moment?

Ebay bargains // Korean BB Cream

I've really been into Korean cosmetics recently.I love how innovative the formulations are,and they have products for every skin type imaginable! After using the sheet masks (which I reviewed here) and being very impressed,I was very excited to try this BB cream from the Korean company,Holika Holika.

If you browse Ebay you'll notice there is no shortage of interesting foreign beauty products and this really caught my eye! Isn't the packaging adorable? I had been looking for a BB cream to wear on those days when I want to wear lighter make up,and with summer coming up I thought it would be the perfect time to buy one.I picked this up for the bargain price of £3.36 from this seller.This is a complete steal because on the Holika website it retails for £7.87.

They have 5 types of BB cream to choose from depending on your skin type.They are;

• Moisture for dry skin (this is the one I bought)
• Essential is a multitasking BB cream for all skins
• Clearing for acne prone skin
• Watery for combination skin
• Shimmering for dull or uneven skin tones

Lots of Korean products are aimed towards keeping skin youthful looking,so I'm happy that these contain SPF 30 to keep my skin in good condition.On opening the tube it has a medium consistency and smells lovely and fresh.I think it would be great for anyone with sensitivity to strongly scented products.

On application it looks quite orange,but it sinks wonderfully into my skin and provides light coverage.I've noticed that applying a moisturiser beforehand helps it last longer and stops it from gathering in dry areas.I definitely think this is a contender against the more well known BB creams from Garnier and Loreal.

This was the end result! When I apply this it gives my skin that "my face but better" look that I prefer in the Summer.It leaves a lovely dewy finish and it lasts a good 5 hours too.I like to dust a little powder on top just to set it.You don't need much product for a full face,but when I do eventually run out,I will definitely be repurchasing this.


Do you wear BB creams? What do you think of them?

Prep your skin for spring // Red Fox Tub-O-Butter review

I've been looking for a product that will get rid of dry patches of skin without creating irritation or being too strongly scented.The one place I always have a look around is Amazon,there never fails to be something there for everyone.I came across this interesting looking tub with the even more interesting name of "Tub-O-Butter".Although it doesn't sound very appealing,it claims to have so many benefits from keeping you looking young to preventing dryness,and all for £2.49! I thought was very reasonable considering the amount you get.

£2.49 from Amazon (free P&P)

I must admit the packaging doesn't really do much for me.I think I've seen these colours before on my Nan's curtains back in the '70s,but it's easy to read and I do like their no fuss approach.Apparently this product is from Georgia in the USA, so I'm hoping for something a little different to what we get over here.Foreign beauty products are always so fun to use,they seem more more innovative. 

It has a very thick Vaseline type texture,which is great as not much of the product is needed.I'm hoping this is very economical as I'm forever buying moisturisers.It has a very faint scent of cocoa butter which is just enough that you can smell it on the skin,without it overpowering any perfume.I tried some this morning and I must say,this stuff is amazing! A thin layer is all that's needed to give my skin all it needs and it has left my problem areas free from irritation and dryness.It takes a little while to sink in,but it is definitely worth it to feel the benefits that it gives.

I was really impressed by all of the uses this lotion has,I've used it to moisturise my cuticles and it's left my nails feeling really nourished and smooth.Also,it contains lots of natural ingredients like pure cocoa butter and lanolin which is great if you're trying to be more wary of what you're putting on your skin.I'm definitely going to buy this again!

Have you bought any great products from Amazon recently?

Mothers day picks // What I bought

Mother's Day is coming up on the 30th March,and like most Daughters I have been racking my brain trying the think of perfect gift ideas.As much as I love her,she is the most awkward woman to buy for! She can't used scented body products and has a lot of aversions to different types of food.Finally, I think I've picked some things she'll love.

Card from Etsy £2.95

I'm really soppy so this card definitely appealed to me.Unlike my husband who insists on buying humorous cards for everyone in case someone thinks he's being soft! I love the cute font and I completely agree that you're never to old to need your Mum (even at 22).I thought this really stood out as something unique and pretty to look at.

       Quote book from WHSmith £5.99

Cadburys Eclairs £1

I love memorising quotes to help me though tough times, and I always share them with my family,they never fail to cheer Mum up.This little quote book really caught my eye,it's full of lovely words that she can treasure forever.I also picked up a bag of Cadburys Chocolate Eclairs because I always remember her eating them when I was a child,she even managed to give me a few! I don't even like them that much,but I felt so important when she handed me one.

I thought this quotes were so lovely and heartfelt,they would make a great gift for any Mother.I know holidays can be quite commercialised now,but I think it's wonderful when we have an excuse to give our loved ones a well deserved present.If you're still trying to find the perfect Mother's Day present,WH Smiths have lots of lovely books which have offers on,so try and get yourself a bargain.

Have you bought anything for Mother's Day?

My Liebster Award

I'm very happy to receive this Liebster Award from the lovely Ashlie of Plumptuous Pretty,who can be found  here.I think these are a great way to get to know your fellow bloggers and support them!

There are a few little rules.
1.You must link back to the person who nominated you.
2.You must state 11 facts about yourself.
3.You must answer the 11 questions given to you.
4.You must nominate 11 others,and set 11 questions for them to answer.
5.You can't nominate the person who nominated you.
6.You must tell the people you've nominated them,so they can take part!

11 facts about me

1.I am very skilled at picking things up with my toes.
2.My favourite colours are duck egg blue,grey and lemon yellow.
3.My worst habit is eating in bed,and leaving crumbs everywhere.
4.I was born 3 months early.
5.I have a lower back tattoo,which I got when I was 18.
6.I always have to be doing something,boredom drives me insane.
7.I'm a country bumpkin
8.My ultimate dream is to become a mum.
9.I absolutely love cats,as most people do!
10.I often think about space,the sea and the mysteries of the world.
11.My favourite perfume is Juicy Couture and I've used it for years.

Questions from Ashlie (Plumptuous Pretty)

1.What is your favourite fictional character and why?

I would have to say the B.F.G by Roald Dahl,he is so kind hearted and brings joy to the children in the film,and the ones watching it! I always wanted him to send me good dreams.

2.What is the main reason you started blogging?

I used to regularly read blogs and it looked like they were having so much fun.I thought,why not take it up? It's a great opportunity to meet other like minded people and find out great information.

3.What is your favourite day of the week and why?

I'd say Sunday.It's really quiet in village where I live,and it's a lovely time to go for a walk in the countryside.It's really peaceful,the only people you meet are a couple of dog walkers.

4.Favourite TV series growing up?

The Simpsons.Some of their jokes went over my head as a child,but now I find it even more entertaining.I liked the characters and I always thought American TV shows were cool.I used to watch it every weekday evening on BBC2 at 6pm (aah the late 90's.)

5.Favourite season and why?

Autumn definitely! I love the leaves changing to beautiful golds and browns,and the opportunity to drink hot chocolate and wrap up in warm jumpers.

6.Favourite junk food?

Pizza.It's got everything I could want from a meal.Carbs,meat and cheese.I never eat thin crust,deep pan all the way.Always pepperoni or four cheese.

7.What does a perfect Sunday consist of?

Breakfast in bed,Disney movies and a hot bubble bath.Anything to help me feel nice and relaxed!

8.What would be your dream holiday?

Where to start? I'd have to say Disney World in Florida.I've always wanted to see Cinderella's Castle and do all of the tourist stuff (I'm a big kid.) Also, Florida is a great place to swim with Dolphins,and that's been a dream of mine for years.

9.Who is your favourite person?

My lovely husband.He has been with me through so much,and always supported me 100%.It's great to have someone to face the world with.

10.Favourite hair colour,and favourite hair colour on others?

I'm biased but I do like brown hair,especially when it's lovely and shiny (which can be mine,when it behaves!) On other people,I think ginger hair looks really striking.

11.What is your favourite word?

Serendipity.Not only does it sound beautiful,it has a lovely meaning.I definitely believe in chance and strokes of luck!

My nominees

1.Annabelle from Annabee Beauty
2.Lucy from xolucy
3.Leona from Oh! Leona
4.Lucy from Pretty Little Things MCR
5.Michelle from Life Outside London
6.Lauren from The Beautiful Good Life
7.Ellie from Vanilla Moon
8.Kristen from Every Beauty Talks
9.Sophie from The Sopho Diaries
10.Kendwy from Mind of Kiwi
11.Helen from The Lovecats Inc

I love reading your blogs and would love to know more about you! Here are your questions.

1.What is your favourite number and why?
2.What does your dream house look like?
3.What do you think is at the edge of the Universe?
4.Can you juggle?
5.What's the most unusual food you've ever eaten?
6.What has been your worst haircut/style?
7.What's your most used word or phrase?
8.How would you describe your style?
9.What type of music do you like?
10.Have you every met a celebrity?
11.What would you tell the 10 year old you,if you could?

I'd love to see your answers! xx

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