Bliss Steep Clean for a deep clean

I bought this as I was feeling that my combination/dry skin was generally looking quite shiny only a couple of hours after applying my make up in the morning. Its marketed for oily and combination skin which I dont have but I was attracted to its promise to reduce oil without drying. This is a traditional smooth cleanser which has a light, clean scent. I was a bit worried that it might be too astringent and harsh but it isnt at all and doesnt even sting freshly plucked eyebrows! I use just one pump (convenient, love in the morning!) in the shower with my pink Soap & Glory scrublet and it does seem to be helping keep the nasty, shiny T zone at bay, leaving my skin feeling really fresh. I think its fairly economical as it will last me ages at the rate I am using it. So far my skin doesnt seem to be drying out with it and I do think some slight red marks around my chin area are looking fainter. Very happy with my purchase, helped by the usual fab, quick service from HQHair

My lovely Ladybirds

Aren't these little studs just so cute? I have always loved Ladybirds so couldnt resist these. They are perfect when you want small earrings to wear with chunky necklaces. I first saw them on ASOS (now reduced in the sale!) but searched and found them cheaper on Revolve. Stupidly I thought I might escape customs charges but no such luck so they werent really much cheaper in the end. Oh well, I think they are worth it and havent taken them off since they arrived.

Marvellous maxis

Both these dresses have been recently purchased after a long while looking for a maxi dress I felt was me. In fact I stalked the first one on eBay for months having tried it on in Monsoon last summer, not bought it and then been unable to get my size in store. The second one is boden and is lovely and comfy to wear. Strangely at 5'6" I needed a tall length so it would probably be a good choice for petites in the regular length.

mini Nars haul

I recently decided I needed more Nars products - just because, you know how it is. I was tempted by a 15% off code for HQ Hair and the promise of a free mini orgasm illuminator with any 2 Nars products. I got the Multiple bronzer stick in Tuomota, Nepal shadow and Deep throat (tee hee) blush. I am really happy with all 3 products and have worn them together every day this week for work - such an easy summer look. The quality is really nice and they all blend so well. The Nars packaging is delicious but gets so grubby so quickly! The Orgasm illuminator looks really pretty and I'm hoping I can test it out properly tonight.

Villa Maria Marlborough, Private Bin, Sauvignon Blanc

I am currently enjoying a well chilled glass of this. I love a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc in the summer and this is currently on special for 5.99 (33% off) in Sainsburys. Its very dry and crisp which is exactly how I like my white wine. Sainsburys describe it as full of passion fruit and lime flavours. I'm not sure I get that exactly but its certainly citrussy.
Have a great weekend, lets hope its a sunny one, Cheers!

New Shoes, I didnt mean to, honest!

In a fit of impusivity I recently bought a gold ruffly clutch from Dune. I was buying the Head over Heels shoes and the assistant suggested the bag would go. I was sucked in because it was on sale but quickly realised it was in fact rather hideous! I found another, much prettier bag in accessorize but unfortunately could only exchange the Dune bag. I ended up with these little beauties which I am pretty pleased with. I have wanted a pair of leopard flats for ages and these look very expersive irl. I doubt I will wear them much over the summer but come autumn winter I know I will be glad to have them especially to wear with basic black outfits.

Head over heels shoes

I bought these recently to wear to a wedding, with a coral dress. They are from Dune's new Head over Heels line. They were very comfy to wear all day as the heel is manageable and they are soft leather. I think the line is a tiny bit cheaper than regular Dune. Have any of you checked these shoes out?

Much love for Liz Earle Hand repair

I am not sure why, but my hands have been really dry and, to be frank old ladyish recently. Not a good look. I have turned to an old favourite to sort them out. In my opinion Liz Earle makes exceptional hand cream.
Here is how they describe it

'This powerful, non-greasy cream provides instant protection and relief for your hands. With panthenol (pro-vitamin B5), soothing echinacea, toning hops, plus antioxidants beta-carotene and natural source vitamin E, this treatment helps to condition nails, soften cuticles and protect against dehydration'

At 14.50 for 100ml pump this is not cheap but it really does work and one pump is more than enough for both hands so it lasts well. Somehow it manages to feel rich and luxurious without being greasy. It smells gorgeous and is absorbed quickly which is important for me during the day.

Most beautiful lipstick ever

I have always been a gloss girl but recently have been experimenting more with lipstick. I love that my hair doesnt stick to it - eugh. A fairly recent discovery has been the YSL Rouge Volupte line and omg an addiction is now born! These are not cheap by any means, retailing at 21 quid generally although occassionally they can be found in less popular colours for less. The formulation is to die for, so soft and creamy yet still pigmented and with unexpected staying power. The packaging is very special, I'm sure you will agree. I love that the end has a small mirror on it which is great for touch ups. I have Sensual Silk (number 2), a pinky nude and Faubourg Peach (number 30), a bright coral so far.....I see more Rouge Voluptes in my future. This could get expensive!

Summer trousers, yay for New Look

I bought 2 pairs of these at the weekend after spotting them for a bargainous 20 quid in New Look. I bought this colour and a dark grey pair. Being pear shaped I generally go for wide legged trousers but I think the slim but not skinny shape is really flattering. I love that I can wear them long or rolled so they work with heels or flats and will save on packing for trips away this summer.

Pretty summer scent

I bought this Issey Miyake A Scent Eau de Parfum Florale recently after really enjoying a sample from Red magazine. I am hopeless at describing scents so here is what Boots say

'A floral, feminine and warm fragrance. A bouquet of flowers made of hyacinth, jasmine and rose’s petals fused with the warmth of woody notes.Olfactory family: Floral Woody Top notes: Jasmine Middle notes: Hyacinth and rose's petals Base notes: Warm wood'

The best part is that I paid for this with advantage points! Its normally 33 pounds for 25ml (which is the size I got so I can through it in my bag) 46.50 for 40ml.

So far I am loving it.

Hair care I am loving right now

Tara Smith shampoo and conditioner
in C Curls. Last autumn I was loving the Bumble and Bumble Creme de Coco and I still enjoy that but this range is one third of the price. It smells so fresh and does work particularly well when I am leaving my hair to dry naturally ie wavy. An added bonus is that its free from parabens and other nasties. Find out more at tarasmith.com

cheers x

Sorry its been so long

I have been inspired to start writing here again after a long hiatus which was initially started by getting married and being on honeymoon. In fairness the honeymoon was 2 weeks rather than 6 months but still please accept my apologies!

Cheers x