The colour Wheel....

Hello hello,

So I know it has been a while, but I have been busy busy what with networking and of course working.  Hear I am though, and what better way to kick start a post then with a spot of retail therapy.

So a while ago I was flukily given some freebies and amongst them was a Gel liner pot, not really thinking much about it as it was a brand I wasn't familiar with, lets just say I am now.  If you need a Gel eyeliner pot that is easy to use, goes on like a dream and stays put for hours on end this is it.  Once this bad boy is on it's on.

I am now aware there is a massive Kiko store based in Oxford circus, however if you don't want to head into town hit it up online.  Which is what I have, keen to see what else they have to offer I went ahead and ordered Luxurious lashes waterproof mascara, Colour corrector Wheel, Smart Lipstick and of course a top up of that Eye liner, which is now a staple for my kit.  So far with all I have been pleasantly surprised.

So who are Kiko?  Kiko Milano, are an Italian brand established and founded in 1997, with the motto of "Be who you want to be" and a line of products to cater any make-up fanatics needs.

The lipsticks are easily applied, go on the colour they are meant to and moisturise your lips while giving off a subtle candy sweet smell, better than that plastic scent.

The mascara has a fibered chunky brush, which both grips lashes to lengthen and adds volume all in one, with that added waterproof protection.

I needed a colour corrector palette as I was all out.  I was sceptical, what with prices as good as these.  I had been impressed with Kiko so far, done my homework and read reviews on this palette.  However, you cannot afford to have a bad colour correcting palette.  I am pleased to say, this is both a neat palette kept in a convenient compact and it does what it says.  For those of you who have no idea what I am talking about, when I refer to colour correct, please see below.  I have given a brief breakdown into what colour correcting is and what tones do what.

Kiko Milano Colour corrector wheel shades- Highlighter, Salmon, Green, Neutral and Purple tones as they show on the skin

Just a heads up!

Neutral- For when there is no particular issue and you really only need straight forward concealing.

White-  You need something to stand out use white to highlight.



Orange-  Great for darker skin tones and really dark circles.

Purple- Counteracts any sallow, yellow, dull skin.

Green- Tames redness, great for skin conditions such as Rosacea or that angry pimple.

Yellow- Good for counteracting purplish hues, bruising, or dark circles.

Peach/salmon- Creates radiance and reduces dark circles under the eyes.

Hopefully now before you go caking on that neutral concealer, wondering why those dark rings aren't shifting, as well as they should.  You can take a step back and assess whether their may be more too it.  Another alternative, drink plenty of water, get those zzzz's in and ensure you take on a thorough cleansing routine.

For more on Kiko Milano go to

www.kikocosmetics.co.uk

Lx

Spring beauty cleaning!

It was lovely to see such spring shades in Topshop, in the make-up stakes.  Their range of nail varnishes are a lovely array of nudes and pastels, perfect for any spring time occasion.

I was only saying the other week, it would be nice if they brought some more nudey, softer colours out, especially with weddings being a pretty popular spring time occasion.  

 And low and behold!  Check out the selection they have, the shades range from very subtle soft colourings of nudes and soft pinks to the rosier, berry pinks.  I am a big fan of Nevada and Lovestruck, and all of these will be featuring in my kit.

I have selected some spring time trends that have been hitting the scenes at present, I have particularly honed in on the trends that tend to lean to a fresher, yet still very pretty and easily achieved looks.  

Glowing sun kissed skin, is what Michael Kors was showing off.  Fan of contouring or a bit of bronze?  Bronzed, highlighted faces, with very little else is what you will find. Showing that it is very much all about that base.

Soft smudgy browns were being worn for Gucci (below)

Paul &Joe (left) and Donna Karan (Right)

 

These came in a mixture or soft Taupes, smudgy light bronzes, highlighting both the eye socket and under eye.   All are light and subtle yet still making the eyes pop,the variations allow you to remain light and minimal or move towards more of a sultry look.  Skin is again is kept bare and fresh.

In Victoria Beckhams show (below left), like Michael Kors and many more have leaned towards, skin was the main focus.  Instead of adding a sunny glow, skin was fresh and glowing in a minimalistic clean way.  Brows were preened lips were neutral and contouring was subtle and natural.  Bare Minimals was the theme and natural beauty could definitely be seen here.

To create fresh faced looks, such as these requires that skin needs to be well prepped.  It is crucial to start with an effective cleansing routine, ensuring skin is well hydrated inside and out.  That means a good moisturiser, lots of water and quality sleep.  A tell tell sign you are not hydrated enough, will be dryness, this can show on your lips with cracked dry lips.  Skin with soak up anything you put on it if it is dehydrated and that includes your make-up.  This can be seen when your make-up begins to crack up, and that is a very big sign you have thirsty skin.

Experiment with these beautiful looks and treat yourself to some springtime treats!

Lx

Searching for that inner glow.

I have lost my glow!  

Having upheld my nutri-blasts, well most mornings.  From which I had noticed my skin had improved.  How do I explain?  well it's consistency was just nicer, less blemished, less wrinkled....I mean not that I look like a leather handbag or anything, but that sleepy crinkled look was taking a bit longer to be banished from my face.  It was just all round easier to manage.  So I looked to the blast bible, for a mix that focused on a decent beauty blend.  This would ensure my inner glow would certainly reappear, by mixing key blends to bring not only that glow back, but glowing teeth, eyes, hair.

So for example with mixes such as Glow profile- which mixes swiss chard, pineapple, strawberries, goji berries, cashews, top off with water and blend.

So far, I am feeling better and my skin seems to be re-appearing with that brighter look.  I have also ensured I allow a little more time for my cleansing ritual of an evening and morning.  If unlike me, you are too lazy..I mean busy!  to do a morning smoothie.  Here are a few alternatives:

There are thousands of kits out there, and having delved in to the at home micro-derm facials, gentle peels and so on.  I am keen to give Ole Henriksen a go.  I only here all good feedback, on all his products, so look forward to being able to do the same.

 The enLighten me kit, promises to reveal brighter and more glowing skin, by using products that work together to balance skin.

Quick fix:

If like me you need to banish your crinkled pillow face, give Benefits Puff off a go.  Quick and easy to use, the applicator allows you to work round awkward areas of the eyes to release a cooling under eye gel.

Skin care over haul:

 Bliss have released a range that focus's on skin energising products.  Where the skin lacks in Oxygen, Bliss's products aims to fuel the skin with a much needed oxygen hit to bring that glow back.

Try their triple oxygen instant energising cleansing foam, and for an extra oomph the triple oxygen instant energizing mask.

 For a little more of a luxurious treat, Korres have released  a Wild Rose range. Wild Rose oil is known to be rich in vitamin C.  The range aims to work on skin discolouration issues, to reveal clearer and more radiant skin.  A good exfoliator is always needed to cleanse, whilst removing impurities and dead skin cells, it is a great way to release that glowing complexion.  limit this to twice a week for a good scrub and ensure you tone and moisturise after.

Natural alternatives:

Sun cream:

 It protects from damaging rays, the sun is one of the biggest cause of wrinkles, and sun damage is harder to reverse, then if you were to prevent it with an SPF, both in summer and in winter. If you don't like old school suncream, try to find products with an SPF in them.

Clean all tools:

be it your make-up brushes, flannels/muslim cloths and even your phone.  It's amazing how often people forget to clean these tools, that can be the biggest bacteria carrying culprits.

Snack on nuts, drink that water down:

Nuts are packed full of skin friendly nutrients, try to select the nuts you eat wisely.  Brazil nuts contain selenium, great for increasing skin elasticity.  Walnuts for omega-3-fatty acids, with lower inflammation and reduce breakouts, finally Macadamia nuts also full of fatty acids and quality oils, great for repair and rejuvenation of the skin.  Remember, although good to snack on, a handful a day is enough. For obvious reasons water is a great way to hydrate your body, whilst flushing out toxins.  Your body is made up of 60% water so it makes sense thats it needs to be replenished.

Go Green:

Now sitting here supping on green tea with a hint of lemon, another known treat for the body mind and soul.  I am ever hopeful that what is said about green tea, rings true.  Apparently loaded with anti oxidants, which help brain function, lowers risks of cancer, fat loss and many more benefits.  Some of these I am still waiting on...ok most.  at present I seem in good health though and in my mind it doesn't taste all that great, so it must be good for you right?!

Hopefully, the above lil gems, may have given you a new lease of life to get that glow back, just in time for summer.

Lx

Anna Sui goodies for me, feedback for you!

More treats sent my way this week, in the shape of Anna Sui lipgloss and Mascaras.  Not only do these products have a an exciting packaging, which almost feel like elaborate chess pieces, they are definitely something to have in your make-up bag

The gloss is small enough to fit nicely in any clutch, whilst being an ideal tool to add a slick of glamour when on the move to spice up that day time look, alternatively layer it up to create glossy lips to turn that day look to an evening  look.  Sticky enough to remain in place for a good while...not so sticky that half the hair on your head, will feel to attach itself to your face in one swish of the head.

Both mascaras are an ideal tool to have, whilst one lengthens and separates, the other thickens and adds curl.  I appreciate you probably would not purchase both, however I am a two mascara girl...no one mascara does everything, so having both of these will ensure you cover all bases.

Whilst I lean towards a more chunky brush, these are a bit dainty for my liking.  Needless to say they pleasantly surprised me.  Even the curved brush of the lengthening and separating version did as it said.

Although not waterproof, so if you think tears maybe on the agenda, this may not be right for that occasion.  Having said that, it stays locked on and getting any accidental specs off the skin, requires a fair rub off.

Enjoy, and by all means invest!

Lx

@annsui
@paul_and_joe

The Richmond Wedding show

Another Sunday, another wedding fair.  Whilst a wee bit breezy it was a lovely day for it and I was excited/nervous!

Off I headed to the lovely Richmond Hill Hotel, to set up for a day filled of brides and the odd groom, eager to set the ball rolling for their wedding.  This was also Story's debut, I would be showcasing the new site and getting the word out on the street, that Story are fully open for business. 

What to expect?

Well for me, I have to just await welcoming whoever may come my way, anyone and everyone are happily received.  However, I have found the usual response to anyone visiting a wedding fair,  is usually couples/brides with that look of a dear caught in headlights.  They all know where they are spending their day, after all they signed up to it, they know they are planning an wedding.  But for some odd reason actually walking into the wedding fair, is like they suddenly have made a terrible mistake.  Hey what's the worst that can happen? you get to have some chit chat, a few flyers thrusted in your face and maybe even some freebies thrown in.  I'd say that's a win win.

On the other hand, if it makes you feel better, sometimes we as stall vendor, the one trying to coax you over.  We get a little baffled and intimidated, as much as you do at times.  It just takes a bit of warming up all round, when we see that fear in your eyes, it can throw us right off.   My approach is not to try and sell, sell, sell.  More give you a bit of info and allow you to feel free to ask me more if you need it, or merely recommend you just visit my site in your own time.  I can imagine the last thing anyone wants is to be pounced on.  We are here to help at the end of the day, so use the day as a chance to soak up as much info as possible.  

On the flip side, for me a fair allows me to show case what I can do for any prospective brides big day, a Hair and Make-up  package or just Hair or Make-up.  I can accommodate additions, Mother of the bride (MOB) and Mother of Groom (MOG), that bridesmaid entourage you may have in toe, or just a treat to yourself for your big day.  Whatever your needs, I will do my utmost to meet them and make your planning/Big day easier.

Why would I have and Hair and Make-up artist?  i'll just do it myself....right?

Funny, I actually have this question in my mind, only because I get asked who would help me out on my big day (hypothetical big day at present)?  I just said, well I'd do my own.  

Then the cogs are set in motion...

Do you really want to be faffing with your own Hair and make-up on the day?  Well I guess not, most of us probably hadn't even got that far in the planning.

Wouldn't it be a nice treat?

One less stress to worry about i guess, while you just sit back and guzzle champers.  Having an artist travel to wherever you please, to do a trial prior to your day, to go through those ideas you have always wanted to see on yourself, but never had the guts to actually try out.

Your could make a really girly day of it, have your bridesmaids, mum, mum in-law to be over, they could even have a trial too?  Whilst giving you that honest opinion, that we all love so much.

Hair and Make-up artists aren't just for weddings, I do all occasions, be it your hen doo make-up, a hen doo party, where all of you would get spruced up, special events and even lessons.

You might want to do your make-up on your special day, but just need a few pointers.  I'd always be happy to do a trial/make-up lesson, along with recommendations of products you should have as staples and those pricey treats that are well worth the money.

All in all I would atlas recommend having a trial, just for peace of mind.

Why a fair?

Well sometimes you just can't do and see everything online, and when you hit a fair you actually see things in the flesh.   From rings, cake and yes you get to try cake...yum,  Photographers, music, it is all going on.

Sometimes you may not have even set the date, you might not be quite in that "lets plan and wedding" zone, so going to a fair might just make it a bit more real.

you can gain so much inspiration, see the do's and the don'ts, make a day of it with your bridesmaids, mum or even just you and the fiancee.  I would definitely recommend trying one atleast.

The Hotel was closely set near a lovely view of the Thames, which would be a heavenly scene for those wedding snaps.  I have found, just from working with weddings, not only do I see some amazing venues, it saves me a massive job of venue hunting for my "oh so" important hypothetical wedding I am planning, wedding Tbc, along with engagement and so on!

All in all the day was smooth running, there was a consistent flow of groups of ladies, couples and even a family day out vibe.  I was actually positioned as you walked in to the fair, so basically greeted and sent people off as they came and went.

Planning an occasion, check out Story if in need of a Hair and Make-up treat.

www.storyhairandmakeup.co.uk

Lx

Treats!! Paul & Joe spring collection

I have to say, it is always a treat to receive products in the post.  That is exactly what I received this week, from the lovely Paul & Joe.

I have been sent a selection from the Spring/Summer collection, which is looking very bright and breezy.  Not only are the products pretty in appearance.  The packaging they come in, make you not want to open them and keep them as a collectors item.  I obviously, soon got over this factor and ripped in to them, to reveal lipsticks, face and eye palettes and a tropical selection of nail varnishes. 

However, what has really caught my eye is their new Foundation.  Unlike anything that has hit the beauty world, for a while.   Gel foundation!  Not cream, not mousse...But Gel.  Yes it is a bit weird on first sight, on pressing my finger into it, it still seemed weird.  When applying it to my first client, it made sense.

This foundation is gel in form, goes on creamily, is absorbed and sets, as almost a powder finish.  The coverage is natural and can be used sparingly or built up to the coverage you desire.

This is a very welcomed addition to my kit, and should definitely be a welcomed addition for your make-up bag.

Lx

Giving myself a boost with juice.

Having previously tried a full on juice diet, which at the time I am sure I bored the pants off readers and anyone in close proximity.  This time however, instead of surviving purely on juice, I have incorporated juice into my diet as a positive addition.

Whilst I dragged my feet at first, on hearing I would be supporting my mother and joining her on exploring, the oh so amazing Nutri-bullet, that everyone has been raving about (TBH it is pretty good, whilst it pains me to admit it).  But, once I realised I would not be embarking on yet another pure juice journey, and a simple added extra to my routine.  What harm would it be, to inject an extra bit of so called goodness into my diet?  Besides it would be there waiting for me in the fridge every morning, purely because my mum makes far to much and I get the leftovers.

I haven't dropped stone in 3 days humph!  On the upside my energy levels are pretty impressive and my skin has definitely improved.  Even that awkward monthly breakout has been significantly reduced.

Admittedly, I prefer some concoctions more than others.  I guess most things that taste bad, are supposedly meant to be good for you, even if they can be a little difficult to funnel down your throat. 

In addition to this extra nutrition, I have followed the thousands and embarked on a 14 day teatox, you may all be familiar with.  Bootea comes in a straight forward box, of so called detoxing in a tea.  Simply follow 14 days of tea drinking, beginning everyday with the day tea and then every other night supping on the night tea. Both work together to detox the body, with the night time tea acting as mild laxative....sometimes not so mild!  So I have heard.  Apparently, this teatox is meant to help aid the digestive system, by giving you a much needed intensive cleanse, to give you the results you desire.  So far I am on day 3, so I have a fair way to go before I see any changes if any, which I am hoping there definitely will be.

Watch this space.

Lx