Moggalicious

OOTW (Outfit Of The Wedding)

2009-09-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned on twitter I was at 2 weddings last weekend-Saturday and Sunday. The wedding on Sunday was of my brother in law (to be!) and his fiance (now wife). It was a gorgeous day, the bride has a really artistic eye and all the tables had vintage tea cups and saucers which she had sourced from charity shops (looked gorgeous!!) She also had paper butterflies on the wine glasses which is something I had seen in magazines and definitely would like at my wedding (would go with the garden setting perfectly I think). Here is a few pictures of my outfit. It turned out to be quite 1950s in style and so I donned some false lashes too (unfortunately was rushing so much I didn't get a pic of those.

My Pink satin shoes. I paired these with some opaque balck tights which gives a great contrast

My dress which is from Oasis. Love the pattern. The belt sinches in your waist so it's very flattering! The Skirt has some netting underneath so that it flares out. The design is taken from an original 50s dress and is great fun to dance in :-)

My pink satin bag which was a 21st birthday present (a few years ago now!) One of the butterflies from the table. Pearls which I wore wrapped round my wrist.

Face of The Day

2009-09-25T10:31:00.001-07:00

Here is my Face of the day using the products from my post below! An easy work day look. Roll on the weekend...I have a wedding on Saturday AND Sunday...what to wear???

Products I'm Currently Using Tag

2009-09-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by the lovely witoxicity (witoxicity.blogspot.com) to blog about the products I'm currently using:
Here we go:

Hair

Shampoo - Schwarzopf colour shampoo for silver/blonde hair (to get rid of brasiness-my hair needs help after a dying disaster!...better now but hair has suffered for it)

Conditioner - Schwarkopf Be Blonde Cool blonde conditioner

Treatment - Aussie 3 minute miracle. Also recently bought Joico K Pak moisture mask and reconstructor which is supposed to resuscitate suffering hair!

Styling Products - Mark Hill De-frizz shine serum. Ellnet Hair spray. Toni & Guy salt spray

Body Products
Shower Gel - Body Shop Energy aromatherapy shower gel (smells amazing!)

Body Moisturiser - Butter Up by Soap and Glory

Deodorant- Sure Crystal antiperspirant stick

Fake Tan - (Hell yeah-I live in Scotland!!) St Moritz mousse/ Xen Tan lotion / Clinique facial tan lotion

Face Products

Facial Cleanser - Liz Earle Hot cloth cleanser with muslin cloth -heaven!! :-)

Facial Toner - Don't use

Exfoliator - Apri apricot gel scrub

Moisturiser - Clarins Multi active Jour

Night Cream - Clarins Multi Active Nuit

Serum - Soap & Glory Make yourself Youthful Rejuvinating face serum

Make-up For Today (I was at work so not overly wild!)

Primer: none

Concealer: Benefit Erase Paste

Foundation: Lily Lolo powder foundation in Popcorn

Blusher: Lily Lolo mineral blush in Cherry Blossom (gorgeous peachy pink)

Bronzer: Bobbi Brown bronzing powder in medium (officially addicted to this)

Highighter: nope

Eyeshadow Base: Not today

Eyeshadow: Catrice in Golden Brown (got it in Holland)

Eyeliner: Bodyshop black eyeliner

Eyelash Curler: Don't own one

Mascara: Rimmel Max Volume Lash (good staying power but not as good as Covergirl lashblast)

Lipstick: Bourjois Doctor Glamour in shade Rose Toubib

Lipgloss: Not today

Nailpolish: Not today, can't really wear it at work for hygiene reasons.

I tag anyone who hasn't done this one! :-)

Get out the sweat bands!

2009-09-17T11:03:00.000-07:00

I now have about 6 weeks until my exam-GULP! But after it's over I really want to get back into exercise. I am currently a member of a gym at the local university and go on average twice a week. However, I have always wanted to get into running outside. I love the outdoors and always watch other runners out and about thinking I wish I could do that. My main problem is I get exhausted so quickly when I'm running outside compared to the gym. I think I'm also a bit more self conscious for some reason.
So, I found a book which is really inspiring. Its called Running Made Easy by Susie Whalley and Lisa Jackson who have written for Zest magazine (health and fitness magazine in the UK). It is REALLY simple to read and has lots of photos and colour. Its basically a plan for absolute novices to get running. It has plans for 5km, 10km and even half and full marathons (but I don't think I'm quite at that stage yet!) The way the plan works is using spells of running interspersed with spells of walking. It really made me think "I could do this!". It also has days off so its realistic in terms of fitting it into your lifestyle. There are loads of inspiring stories and answers to FAQs on running.

So if anyone is looking for a way to get fit without shelling out for gym membership definitely have a look at this book. You can join me in the quest to get running outside!
(£6.39 on http://www.whsmith.co.uk/. Also available on amazon where you can check out some pages inside too)

Pay Day Indulgences!

2009-09-07T10:42:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned previously I am currently studying for a big exam in October and so to cheer myself up I went shopping!! I have recently been trying to only buy things if I REALLY love them and often return to the shop after thinking it through. This is because in the past I have spent a lot of money on impulse buys which I go off and never wear/use. I'm hoping that this means I will will have fewer, more loved pieces of clothing/makeup.

1. YSL Rouge Volupte Radiant Lipstick.
This line of lipsticks have featured in lots of beauty blogs/youtube videos and I was keen to try them out. I'm not usually a lipstick person because
1. I have large eyes and relatively small lips so usually accentuate my eyes.
2. I get annoyed with the fact lipstick gets on clothes, glasses, teeth.
3. It is higher maintenance to keep applying lipstick than gloss.

but...
the consistency and colour of these are amazing and I really love having a different look. I went for number 9 (caress pink) which is a cool fuchsia pink and is noticeable but not too out there. Looks really nice with pink blush for a pretty look or smoky eyes for a more fashion forward look. My swatch photo was rubbish so I haven't posted it but it is definitely worth a look at when visiting YSL counter.

2. Accessorize Rings

Accessorize is such a dangerous shop for me as I always end up picking something up! This time it was 2 rings. P.S. excuse the state of my messy paws....I can't see the hand modelling agency ringing me up anytime soon! ;-)

1. Cupids Arrow Ring

I admit it-I am a bit of a dreamer....but when I saw this ring I instantly thought it looked like an arrow from Cupid's bow had wrapped around my finger.....I know as I said I'm a bit of a soppy romantic. It would be an amazing wedding ring for someone really artistic.

2. Love Ring

Ok....I think the title says it all...........see above for excuse! I thought this ring was really cute. Its made from sterling silver too which is great as most of my jewellery is made from some sort of painted tin and always tarnishes! My favourite pair of earrings are almost unwearable now :-(

Office Shoes

I desperately needed some new shoes for work and thought these would be perfect. They are black leather with suede flowers/ruffles on the front. They are REALLY comfy which is a must and a bit more interesting than the black ballet pumps I wear at the moment.

Thanks for reading!! x

Lets Talk About Specs!

2009-09-01T15:02:00.000-07:00

I am in love....with a pair of specs. In fact I am in love with a whole range of glasses. Any that have the inetrlocking Cs of Chanel!
OK...glasses are not usually associated with glamour and longing! I started wearing glasses age 14 but avoided doing so unless absolutely necessary. On nights out I would not be able to see across the dancefloor to find my friends but there was no way I was going to wear some NHS specs (which were hideous by the way!!) with my finest Morgan top (it was the 90s after all!).In fact my mum got so fed up with me and my glasses phobia that she got me contact lenses.......and it was a miracle-I could see!!!

Since that day glasses have been confined to the privacy of the home. And my eyesight with time has got worse...and worse ...and worse. So now my specs are milkbottle-esque unless I pay for mega thin lenses!! Geek Alert!!! So to save my poor eyes from the constant lens wear for my last pair of specs I splashed out a little more for a decent pair which are actually ok...but still I hardly ever don them except for the odd trip to Sainsbury's!

On Saturday I stumbled into Vision Express to have a look at the frames and could not stop myself from trying on the whole Chanel range. They are so beautiful and have gorgeous features such as quilting, pearls, monochrome which make them classic Chanel.

I am now saving my pennies for a pair so I can be a specs wearer and PROUD!!

The Dress I'll Only Wear Once (I hope!!)

2009-08-26T08:51:00.001-07:00

Soooo after much Internet searching and magazine flicking I had some idea about what dress I wanted to wear for my wedding in May. As you can imagine it is a major decision to make and as I've always loved fashion a really important one. I kept an open mind when I went for my first day of trying dresses on and was willing to try all styles from fuller skirts to straight. I knew what I didn't want (anything with loads of ruffles/frills).

I think the idea I had in my head was Classic but modern, simple but stylish, something different........and so the trying dresses began.In the first shop we went to I soon learnt that huge, full skirts were not for me (even though my mum loved them!) and although I liked a lot of the first 10 dresses I tried on (it was a bit of a marathon!!) I didn't love any of them.

So we toddled off to the next shop after lunch.....a bit tipsy after some prosecco! The second shop was a bit rough round the edges compared to the luxurious feel of the first one but.....the dresses were beeeautiful!!! I could have stayed in there all day! I had 2 in my head which I had liked from the website.

The first was a beautiful Jenny Packham butterfly dress which I really liked because of the flowy nature of the skirt and the fine straps. It looked gorgeous on.....

The other dress I had my eye on was a classically beautiful dress with really clean lines. It fitted like a dream and felt "right". In fact I actually preferred this one to the Jenny Packham butterfly one.

Sooo as I stood there procrastinating my mum had a look at the rack of dresses and pulled one out for me to try on. I had seen this dress before online but was not so sure if it would be "too much".....then I tried it on!! It is the absolute dream dress, it has beautiful intricate beading on the overlay which falls down into panels which are beaded like butterfly wings. I'm getting married in the country with reception in a marquee and I knew this would look beautiful twinkling in the sunlight in the garden. It has a feel like Midsummers Night Dream and with a veil would be beautiful for the church.....as you can probably guess I had found the one!

http://images.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://www.preownedweddingdresses.com/images/dresses/6119/src/Jenny-Packham-Empire-Papillion-Ivory-2008-2.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.preownedweddingdresses.com/dresses/6119/Jenny-Packham-Papillion-Size-10.html&usg=__1PFhBq7WPsFMD_fFRZs5cfp4He0=&h=3040&w=1640&sz=735&hl=en&start=17&um=1&tbnid=pR4TemEeIJb27M:&tbnh=150&tbnw=81&prev=/images%3Fq%3Djenny%2Bpackham%2Bpapillon%26ndsp%3D18%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26um%3D1
People always say "You'll Know" when you've found the right dress (a bit like men I suppose) and it's true! It's really different but I think that's part of why I love it so much.

Zzzzzzzzzzzz

2009-08-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

:-( I have a big exam in October (in fact it is on 29th -1 week after my birthday) and I feel that at the age of 26 (and 3 quarters) I should be free of studying!!! I am the worlds worst studier as I will find any excuse not to. Cleaning and tidying have taken on a new appeal as I will do anything to avoid sitting down with the books. Will have to be good and try and do some tonight...and not spend the evening making cups of tea every 5 mins......hmmm

Holiday Haul

2009-08-19T05:36:00.000-07:00

Here are some things I picked up on holiday in Canada. A modest haul due to my case being already 1Kg too heavy on the way THERE!

1. Essie Polishes and Cuticle Pen

I really love Essie polishes (i'm not sure how much of that is due to the nice packaging). I picked up a gorgeous metallic shimmery purple which I thought would look good with my dress for the wedding (666 Sexy Divide). I painted my toes with this 2 weeks ago and it's still glossy and chip free! The fushia pink is a gorgeous matt polish (37 Fiesta).

When I was in whistler I had my fails done with gel overlays. I like my nails to look natural and so don't get extensions. They use a gel which sets under UV light. It dries instantly and I usually get a french manicure. The gel lasts for up to 3 weeks before it starts to chip/crack. You can paint normal polish on top of the gel but need to use acetone free nail polish remover to take it off so it doesn't damage the gel coat underneath. To remove the overlays pure acetone is used either in the nail salon or at home. I love it for my nails as they are really weak and normal polish alone will only last 2 days before it chips.

I bought the Essie cuticle pen to prevent those horrible tags at the side of the nail. This one uses apricot oil and smells lovely. It works really well-I'm hoping you an get it in the UK too!

2. Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/liner and Eyeliner Brush

I've had my eye on this shadow for a while. The shadow is "Skinny Jeans" by Benefit and is a gorgeous metallic grey/silver. It lasts really well and is a great base for a smokey eye. I also picked up the benefit "Get Bent" eyeliner which makes applying liquid eyeliner so much easier

3. Fresh Mascara Wands Set

I picked up this set of mini mascaras in Sephora. It contains 2 2g mascaras in Supernova and Firebird. I am excited to try these out!

4. Lush Marilyn Hair Mask

I wandered into Lush in whistler looking for a hair mask as my hair had got really dried out in the sun. The girl there recommended this one called Marilyn which is made for blonde hair. You put it onto dry hair as apparently the hair absorbs more that way. After 20 mins you then shampoo and condition as normal. It left my hair really soft and shiny. It also contains chamomile which gently lightens hair so brightens highlights-anything which makes me more like Marilyn is good with me!

100 Followers Competition!!

2009-08-18T10:41:00.000-07:00

The Lovely Lauren at laurenloves.blogspot.com is having a competition to create a beauty brand slogan. Fabulous prizes!!! Check it out!

Canadian / USA Adventure

2009-08-14T03:07:00.000-07:00

I had such a fabulous time on holiday in BC Canada and Seattle. I was on holiday for just over 2 weeks and did a lot of travelling about. I went with my boyfriend and as we were going for a family wedding his mum & stepdad travelled over too. I thought I'd bore everyone with the inevitable holiday slideshow (no yawning at the back! ;-)
1. After a verrry stressful plane ride over from Glasgow to Vancouver (for reasons I won't go into) we arrived to 30 degree heat! My fiance and I were staying with his step brother and his fiance for the first 4 days outside the city in a place called Port Moody. We did a bit of walking around and spent some time in the city.

The Inlet At Port Moody

Vancouver Harbour From Stanley Park

Me beside statue in Stanley Park

Having Lunch In Revolving Restaurant at Top Of Harbour Centre, Vancouver

My Boyfriend and I On Granville Island

Sunset at English Bay, waiting For Fireworks

2. Next we set off with our hire car to Whistler which is to host winter Olympics in 2010. Its a ski resort in winter but in summer there are loads of trails for walking and cycling. There are also beautiful lakes for having a swim-aaaaaah. Shops weren't too bad either-a girl's got to do something while the other half is playing golf! Also ate some ammaaaaazing sushi.

Waterfall on road Up to Whistler

Alta Lake in Whistler

In 2 Person Canoe (One of the rare times I was actually paddling!)

3. Next we left Whistler and headed over on a ferry to Bowen Island. Its a really hippy, arty place which is really relaxing. We stayed in a beautiful B&B which looked over trees and the sea....it was a lovely break from our hectic running about. Also ate some great fish and chips at the small marina....aaaaaahhh.

Island Thyme B&B

Marina on Bowen Island

4. Next we headed back to Port Moody for a few days for the run up to the wedding. The wedding was held at an upmarket golf club with the ceremony being held outdoors. It felt like something out of the movies with chairs all lined up. Bride looked beautiful and we had a great time dancing to the wee hours to a really cool band.

Me looking a bit glum!

Waiting for Proceedings to Commence

4. So last stint of our holiday was spent in Seattle! I loved the city so much and was gutted we had only a day and a half there. I was surprised with two nights in a five star hotel which was absolutely beautiful-products i the bathroom were by Miller Harris! Restaurants and bars were so stylish. Seattle is where the first Starbucks is as well as where Microsoft started. The library there is an amazing building so we had a walk round inside.

Seattle Library

Pike Place Market

The Space Needle

Catch Me If You Can (the musical) which we saw on our last night.

And that was our time over so we travelled back up to Vancouver and flew home. Would love o go back soon. My suitcase on the way there was already 1kg (Oops!!) over the limit so unfortunately did not have much scope for shopping. Did buy a few things in Sephora and Lush so will post about that.

I want to thank my family, my personal chef, my dog groomer.........

2009-08-14T00:43:00.000-07:00

So I arrived back from Canada yesterday to find out I had come runner up in the lovely Laura of liparazzi.blogspot.com Miss World Competition!!!! Very exciting!! I had so much fun dressing up-and am now thinking it would be a great theme for my Hen night (other thought was 20s flapper girls). Such a cool competition idea.

She was also lovely enough to give me my first award!! I should really go away more often!

I'd like to nominate some blogs for the award:

1. Witoxictity (witoxicity.blogspot.com) A fabulous writer who puts my natterings on to shame! Really sweet and supportive blogger.

2. Courtney (glamoursacrifice.blogspot.com) Great blog with reviews on original products. My first follower :-)

3. Moodeve (moodevesbeautyworkout.blogspot.com) I first got into beauty blogs and yout tube videos by finding moodeve's reviews. She has fabulous taste and I really trust her opinions.

4.Saskia The Style Fairy (saskiathesalsafairy.blogspot.com) Great blogs about fashion and style. Gorgeous blogger with great FOTDs and photos.

5. Natalya (filthygorgeousmakeup.blogspot.com) Beautiful blogger with fabulous You Tube videos. Amazing style, one of the first bloggers I followed.

6. Muhsine (bubblegarm.blogspot.com) Really creative, beautiful blogger with an artistic eye. Great ideas for DIY projects. Always original posts.

These are some of the blogs I love to read.

Bon Voyage!

2009-07-28T14:43:00.000-07:00

I am all packed and ready to go to the airport tomorrow morning. Will be away for 2 weeks and I doubt will have much access to the internet to post...how am I going to cope?! :-) Look forward to sharing my adventures on my return! x x

New Purchases!!

2009-07-27T10:22:00.000-07:00

I have been trying really hard not to spend money before going on holiday. It is still 2 days until payday and I have a wedding to save for...............but I had a slight glitch....here are my guilty pleasures! :-)

1. Jigsaw Sunglasses

I have been looking at these in Boots for months and resisting....but today they were on a 2 for 1 offer so I bought my boyfriend a pair too (in a different style!) and so it made me feel less guilty. I love that they are kinda retro (a bit like Rayban wayfarers) and the case is really pretty. I love the little spotty bag they give you to protect them too! Can't wait for my holiday now!

2. Accessorize Gold Necklace

I got this in the sale reduced from £14.00 to £7.00. It is really heavy and feel like really good quality. I love big necklaces and gold is really pretty in the summer. I think this will look really nice with a strapless black top and white trousers.

3. Accessorize Sparkly Flower Brooch

I really liked this retro diamante brooch...which was also in the sale! I think it will be really versatile and can be pinned to tshirts, sweaters, bags, coats....think it'll be good for the autumn to brighten up my black winter coat!

Lucky London Lasses

2009-07-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

Unfortuately I'm at the opposite end of the country but thought I'd post this for anyone who lives down south. It's a great deal if you've got an old pair of hair straightners you don't need (but not worthy of the GHD's!)

Umberto Giannini Hair Straightener Amnesty (Glamour.com UK): "Straightener Amnesty
Umberto Giannini, July 28
Calling all curly girls! If you're guilty of straightening your waves away, Umberto Giannini wants you to embrace your natural kinks by taking part in its Straightener Amnesty. Bring along your old hair straighteners to trade them in for a brand new curling tong and a stack of curl-friendly Umberto Giannini products. Sounds like a good deal to us! At 6 Mercer Street, London on July 28 between 10am and 5pm."

Products I Cannot Live Without!

2009-07-25T15:09:00.000-07:00

Here are some products that I use all the time and would recommend highly. I got a bit enthusiastic and it has turned into a bit of an epic but I'm sure you can all relate! Love reading other bloggers' favourites...what are yours?

1. Liz Earle Hot Cloth Cleanser.

I bought this in John Lewis, Edinburgh with a set of Liz earle products incl Toner, moisturiser and face scrub. Using all the Liz Earle products together my skin became really congested and irritated. This initially put me off the products but......if at first you don't succeed try, try again! (little Scottish quote for you there!). Now I use this every night and it leaves my skin feeling silky smooth even before I've put moisturiser on (I've found the problem to be the moisturiser-but my skin is VERY temperamental!!) It's a bit of a pain having to wash the cloths every few days but it is so worth it-really recommend this to everyone! uk.lizearle.com us.lizearle.com

2. Clarins Multi Active Night CreamI loooove this night cream. I'm only 26 but my skin can get dry and I feel that this gives my skin a "treatment" overnight. It is heavenly when massaged in after using the Liz earle cleanser...my skin actually looks "glowing" (Cliche alert!!) but that is the only word for it. Heaven... int.clarins.com

3. Aussie 3 Minute Miracle

I have really fine hair which I get highlighted at the hairdresser. This product smells amazing and leaves my hair soft, smooth and full of volume. It also seems to brighten my highlights for some reason?! I really have to stop myself using this more than a couple of times a week (I'm wary of weighing my hair down). I allways use this before a night out. www.aussiehair.com

4. Maxfactor Mastertouch Concealer

I used to be a Touche Eclat devotee until I tried this! I find it has the lightweight texture but covers up my undereye circles much better than the light reflecting classic. I have gone through 3 tubes over the past 6 months (and I am a fickle shopper). Maybe this is a reflection on my undereye circle issues! www.maxfactor.com

5. Juicy Couture Perfume

I love this perfume. It smells really sophisticated and last for ages but isn't heavy in that headache inducing way some perfumes can be. I never get tired of the scent which is quite fruity smelling with floral aspects (i think) Try it next time you are in the perfume department.
www.juicycouture.com

6. Sun Laboratories Self Tan Foam

I get this from Sally's Hair and Beauty but you can also get it online and on ebay. I prefer it to St Tropez personally. Goes on really smooth and dries almost instantly! You can get dressed and get on with your life while it develops. Although Fake Bake lotion gives great colour I just can't sleep when I'm covered in strong smelling lotion. Have also tried St Moriz recently which doesn't glide on as smoothly and although others haven't mentioned this I find it has a slight chemical smell. The colour is fabulous though and no streaks! It is AMAZING for price (£2.99 in Semichem) so I would go between the 2 depending on how long it was to pay day! www.sunlabs-uk.com

7. Tan Mitt

This mitt was recommended to me by a friend about 5 years ago and I would never put fake tan on without it! This one is from Soltan range from boots but I know Marks and Spencers has a similar one. I'm sure there must be other brands make them too. The mitt has a velvety feel to it and is lined with waterproof material. It gives such a smooth application with both mousse and lotion formulas. It also prevents the scary orange palms and brown nails! I wash it after use and they last a long time. I find it so much easier than latex gloves! www.boots.com

8. Lily Lolo Foundation/Powder.

I started using this about a month ago and have used it almost every day. I first heard about Lily Lolo from Natalya's Filthy Gorgeous Makeup You Tube Channel (one of my favourites :-)). I had never tried mineral makeup prior to this. I use both the foundation and the Flawless Silk powder which I apply with my Too Faced Kabuki brush. I find it gives a beautiful complection which looks perfected but not caked in makeup. I also get a shiny T zone with most makeup but this controls shine brilliantly. I also recommend the blusher which gives an ultra natural blush......there is no looking back now! www.lilylolo.co.uk

9. Too Faced Kabuki Brush

This is what I use to apply my mineral foundation. I love the colour of it -bright pink with white flowers-and it's great to carry around as it's retractable. Its an artificial hair brush so good for vegans. It makes me smile in the morning! www.toofaced.com

10. Soap & Glory Spa Butter Up

I love this range of products by the same people who make Bliss Spa products. This body moisturiser is really rich but I love how quickly it sinks in and how soft it leaves my skin. The smell is fruity and not overpowering. I'm almost finished my second tube. Can be bought in UK, Canada and USA. www.soapandglorycosmetics.com

Any queries about stockists or prices just let me know.

Entry for Liparazzi's Miss World Contest

2009-07-25T14:14:00.000-07:00

This is my entry for the lovely Laura's contest on her blog liparazzi.blogspot.com
It's a fabulous blog definitely worth checking out!!

Can I introduce you to Martini MacDuff who is Miss Scotland 2009! She is desperate to be crowned Miss World!!

In her spare time Martini gives time to several charities and is the patron of TANGO (Tanning Addicts in Need-Glasgow Organisation) which helps those who struggle with their addiction to sun beds. Martini, who is a former addict herself, makes public appearances and helps distribute fake tan to ease the withdrawal.

Martini's idol is Carol Smilie and her ambition is to to meet her one day. Her main talent is the ability to drink most men under the table, she says it has taken years of practice to achieve this.

And if she had one wish it would be of course for...........world peace x

Fabulous Contest!

2009-07-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

I just discovered a fabulous contest to win a beautiful feather hairband! Go check it out at blissfullyenamored.blogspot.com!

We're all going on a Summer Holiday.....

2009-07-23T16:05:00.001-07:00

Woo hooo! On 29th July I'm off to Vancouver, Canada for 2 weeks. I'm going to my boyfriends' brothers' wedding when I'm there. Really excited!!! We're also going to Seattle for a couple of days. Lots of shopping opportunities-any suggestions of products to check out which you can't get here in the UK?

Organised Chaos!

2009-07-23T07:08:00.001-07:00

I am not a very organised person and this is reflected in how I used to store my makeup (in the bottom half of an old shoe box in a drawer-(OCD has never been a concern for my family and friends!) Soooo-I was inspired by the fabulous Bubblegarm to use a drawer set to keep everything tidy-(check out her blog here bubblegarm.blogspot.com)

This one is also from WH Smith (a British newsagent chain) and is meant for office use. It's great to separate your mascaras/eyeshadows/blushers etc...and makes it so much easier in the morning to see what you have!

Love it! I have discovered some forgotten treasures!

If In Europe....

2009-07-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

Try Catrice!

I was in the Netherlands for a couple of days in June and while I was there I checked out the Dutch equivalent of Superdrug. They had a really nice drugstore brand there called Catrice. I got an eyeshadow base and 2 eye shadows.

The eyeshadow base is called "Stay On!" and is brilliant-just as good as UDPP....and only cost 2 euro! The eyeshadows are really well pigmented and came in a good range of neutral colours.

I checked out their website and they only give listings for stores in Germany, Switzerland and Austria but as I said I got them in Holland so I'm sure they are available elsewhere! If anyone is on holiday in Europe it would be worth a look!!

10 Random Facts

2009-07-20T14:00:00.000-07:00

As I'm a new blogger I thought I'd do the 10 Random Questions Post so that everyone can learn a bit more about me.

1. Although I was born in Scotland I went with my family when I was a baby to live in Providence, Rhode Island (the smallest state in the USA), we came back when I was 3 so I learnt to talk with an American accent. My parents have a recording on cassette of us talking and I find it really weird!!

2. I still have small stones embedded in my top lip. When I was 12 I skidded on my bike and grazed my whole face on a gravelly road. My mum spent ages trying to clean it up and remove everything but as my skin healed 2 small pieces of gravel remain. I thought they would grow out eventually but I guess they like where they are too much!

3. I have a really responsible job and work really long hours. I think this part of the reason I love to zone out with make up, shopping and beauty.

4. I once was on the TV programme The Beechgrove Garden (for anyone who has never heard of it-Beechgrove garden is the Scottish version of Gardener's World) Rock and Roll!!

5.I am allergic to Crab meat (I've only had it once-not to be repeated) but love all other seafood and have no problems with it.

6. I failed my driving test 3 times! I was just such a nervous wreck!! I even grabbed the examiner's knee by accident during one test instead of the gearstick (and I still failed!!!)

7. When I was 7 or 8 I was obsessed with beavers (the animals!!!) I know it's really weird and i'm not sure if it stemmed from the Lady and the Tramp but I even did a school project on them. ( teacher must have thought I was a bit of a strange child) Now they are being reintroduced into Scotland....alas my enthusiasm has died down somewhat....

8. In my reckless teenage years I once snogged a famous person who has just recently graced the cover of Hello magazine after getting married (not really something to be proud about-if you knew who it was!)

9. My favourite place in the world is New York. I was lucky enough to go a few months ago with a good friend of mine and we were in heaven. I always had dreams of living there but it is really difficult to do my job over there because of the strict regulations. Gossip Girl and SATC are my way of escaping there for an hour or two.

10. I have 2 gaps in my lower set of teeth as 2 of my molars never grew in. My big brother has the same thing but my other brother and sister don't. Dentist says it's a genetic trait....so glad you can't see the gap when I smile...imagine it had been my front teeth.........eeeeeek!!

Smoking Eye Kit

2009-07-19T11:29:00.000-07:00

I got this smoky eye kit a couple of weeks ago in boots and have used it loads since! It comes with 9 shadows which are organised to help create 3 smokey eye looks

1. Day Smoke - Shades of brown

2. Fashion Smoke - Uses blue and green

3. Classic Smoke - Uses classic grey/black shades

The kit also comes with 2 little brushes (which aren't great) and 3 cards which show you how to create the three looks.

Today I was hitting the shops and so I wore the "Fashion Smoke" shadows. Although they can be built up into a really vivid look I used them with quite a light hand and they work well both ways.

I have used the Classic Smoke shades loads for work too ( the lady at the Chanel counter complemented me on my eye make up when wearing them yesterday-which was a first!!)

The kit is £22.00 in Boots ($32.00 in US). I think it is great for beginners or to take away on holiday.

I Heart Shoes!

2009-07-16T10:47:00.000-07:00

Here are a selection of my favourite shoes! I love a bargain and so don't like to spend too much but when there is a sale on I like to think about the money I'm SAVING by buying them :-)

My Frilly Boudoir Black Heels

I loved these shoes when I saw them in the sale after Christmas (so much I got the in green too!!) They are by KG (Kurt Geiger) and were only £19.00!

My Studded Heel Wedges

I got these wedges in TK Maxx (a favourite of mine) a couple of years ago. They have silver studs in the heel and are really comfortable. I wore them last year to my brothers wedding.

My Christmas Red Sparkly Bow Kitten Heels

I bought these in the Monsoon sale after Christmas. They really remind me of the festive season. Always a good thing in my book! They are red suede with a diamante bow on the front.

My Superhero Purple Heels

I loved these when they were full price in Reiss so couldn't resist them when they were reduced. They are purple, patent leather with little "wings" at the back. They really remind me of superhero's costumes for some reason- don't make me invisible though!

My Dutch Gladiators

I got these a few weeks ago when I was in Zwolle, Netherlands for the weekend. They are really comfortable and look great with white trousers and ethnic jewellry.

A selection from my shoe collection-always room for more though!! Any other bloggers got a "shoe habit"??

My Dream Car

2009-07-14T15:00:00.000-07:00

I have been lusting after this beautiful car for 2 years now-the Nissan Fiagro. I can't believe they were made in 1991as they look so vintage 1960s! My boyfriend doesn't see the appeal of an old Nissan Micra which costs 10 times as much because of the shell but I am never one to be practical!! At moment drive a battered red clio with bash in side and faulty window......must save my pennies! :-)

Blissful Showering

2009-07-12T09:12:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd let you know about the fact that there is loads of bliss products in TK Maxx at the mo! I picked up this set - Carrot and sesame Body Buff set which contains a huge tub of body scrub and a foaming moisturiser. Work really well-scrub left skin ultra smooth and then moisturiser is really light foam which absorbs REALLY quickly.

Only point is scent which is really unusual-you'll probably love it or hate it (it doesn't smell of marmite though :-)

Think the set was about £13 (still on various websites for £32.00) so good find!

Gossip Girl

2009-07-12T04:25:00.000-07:00

I know this came out in Grazia last Tuesday (I subscribe :-) ) But isn't Natalie Imbruglia and Prince Harry the weirdest couple!! There must be a bit of an age gap!

Can u imagine her becoming Lady Imbruglia!!!- she would certainly bring the royal family up to date!!

Bridesmaid Dillema!!

2009-07-11T11:15:00.000-07:00

So, I got engaged in April and am soooo excited as planning the big day for May 2010! Having a church wedding and then a reception in a marquee behind my mum and dad's house.

Having 4 bridesmaids (the number just kept rising!) including one of friends from school, my sister and two friends from university. One of my Uni friends is currently working in New Zealand so added difficulty!

Last week I decided to start looking for their dresses. Was in Edinburgh with my maid of honour and my good friend from school.

My MOH has auburn hair,5ft 6in, size 10-12, quite curvy with fabulous legs.

My school friend has a very petite build, 5ft 7in, blonde hair, size 8.

My friend in New Zealand is 5ft 7in, long blonde hair, tiny waist and v. large bosoms (she'll kill me for saying that!)

My sister has really long light brown hair, 5ft 7in, and size 12.

Phhhewww.............

So started looking round the shops and soon realised, with only 2 of them this is a near impossible task!!! Despite them both being lovely and willing to try whatever I chose on....the possibilities soon narrowed as I learned."I don't like V necks" "I'm not so keen on that colour" "that shape of dress does nothing for my ankles"..........ok maybe I made the last one up :-)

Anyway, they did try on several despite the humid weather and we eventually narrowed some down. They are all going to be such beautiful bridesmaids-Glad to have fab friends!

1. Reiss Dress

Really pretty a-line dress. Also comes in a sky blue colour. Good straps for my MOH as she likes to be able to wear bra (with straps). Quite expensive but now reduced a bit in sale.

I like it but not so sure if colours are a bit bright as pink is "watermelon" so quite a bright tropical pink

2. French Connection Dress

This is a beautiful thick material in an off white colour. Really felt like a quality dress. It is almost white which is kinda controversial for wedding but I thought we could dye them, add ribbon or corsage........basically it would be like a blank canvas. My school friend really liked idea, my MOH wasn't so sure, mainly because it was strapless and didn't fit her very well which meant she would have to get size 14 and take it in....never a good thing to go a size up as all girlies will sympathise! Did I mention it was also down to £35.00 in sale!!! The dresses in shop were kinda grubby though so didn't get them on the day.

3. Warehouse dress

Was surfing the net looking at dresses and came across this really pretty silvery, pinky coloured dress (it's officially called mink). Really pretty with ruffles down skirt and a bow at back. It had thick straps which I knew would suit my larger chested friends. So my MOH managed to find one in town and try it on. She said "as soon as I tried it on I could imagine it at your wedding" and that comment had me SOLD!! I still haven't seen it but ordered 4 of them off website yesterday as worried about getting them in sizes needed. Wish I could have found a pic of the back as it is really pretty :-)

Sooo glad I did as the dress is no longer on website!!! Think I bought them out of them. Advantage of it not being in sale is we get some time to return if they are a disaster!

Fingers crossed they look as nice as the picture

Now all I have to do is find a brides dress-at least there is only one person that has to please!!

Any thoughts on the dresses? Anyone seen the warehouse dress "in the flesh"??

Hello Blogging World!

2009-07-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

So excited to start up my new blog. Have really been sucked into the world of beauty bloggers and youtube over the past few months-sooo addictive!!!
Have learned a whole lot more about how to apply makeup and the best beauty buys...not so good for the bank account!
Have also learned whole new vocabulary:-

- HAUL (buying loads of amazing stuff)
- PAN (the silver tin thing makeup comes in)
- PAYOFF (the colour result from makeup products)
- KONAD (I was kinda thinking barbarian when I heard this)
- CONTOURING ( the way to acheive supermodel cheekbones)

I have loved watching

What's in your purse
Learning about "six products I couldn't live without"
And am the proud owner of lily lolo mineral foundation and lilash growth stimulator!

Hope there is room for another wee (oh I'm Scottish) blogger!

M x