January 23, 2014

JANUARY EMPTIES


Haven't done one of these in a while! I don't have a whole lot of skincare/makeup empties this month - didn't keep much around after new years - but have managed to collect a few things from my hair routine stash. I generally go through them fairly quickly, but always forget to include them in a post, so this is a good chance to share some of my favourite hair styling products!


Batiste Dry Shampoo for Brunette Hair
I've been using Batiste for some time now, and it's definitely my drugstore dry shampoo of choice. I actually bought this without realising there a version for dark and deep brown hair, but am loving the coloured range altogether because it doesn't leave any obvious white marks on my almost black hair. I generally go all out with dry shampoo, and don't always brush through as much as I should (especially when I'm in a rush), so this works out really well because it blends into my hair colour.
Repurchase? Yes.

Tresemmé Keratin Smooth Heat Protection Shine Spray
I absolutely love the original Tresemmé Heat Tamer Spray, so I was very interested in this when I first saw it in store. To be honest I don't find a big difference between the two - they both protect my hair from heat styling - but I've taken a liking to the scent of this Shine Spray (smells like you've been to a salon) so I'll probably make it my new staple. I can't say much about the 'shine' part, though I'm not too fussed since I don't need the excess oil or shine.
Repurchase? Yes.

Bumble & Bumble Thickening Hair Spray
I've tried and tested numerous thickening hair sprays, powders and serums, and this is one of the first that works on my hair. I have very fine limp hair, so it sits quite flat on my head, especially when in between washes (I wash my hair every other day). I have been on a search for something that would give me more 'umph' for the longest time now and this spray is the winner. I only need 3-4 pumps on the roots, a little blow dry, and it keeps my hair voluminous all day long. This isn't exactly cheap though, so do use sparingly!
Repurchase? Yes.

January 18, 2014

BURBERRY PRIMROSE HILL PINK


I know, it's another lipstick post - but this one is about a year overdue. I rediscovered this product when I was going through my collection for my 'Top 5 Luxury Lipstick' post. I bought this little Burberry lipstick back in 2012 (which seems like a decade ago now), but never had the heart to ruin the gorgeous and iconic design on the bullet. Primrose Hill Pink is my very first lipstick from Burberry, so I guess that's why I was so precious about it (even though it's not a limited edition or a special release). It has since been forgotten, so I feel like I owe this lipstick some love - here goes!


Burberry Lip Cover is a lightweight formula that contains 'nourishing oils' to hydrate the lips whilst ensuring intense colour payoff. I think they have really nailed it, this lipstick is something I can wear even on my dry lip days, without worrying about it irritating or making my lips dry out even more. The colour yields an almost opaque finish with just one swatch, even on my dark pigmented lips! It also lasts surprisingly long, and leaves a nice stain even when the product has worn off.


Primrose Hill Pink swatches very bright pink on my lips - I've seen it wear more coral on others, so it may apply differently depending on your complexion. Jump below for comparisons!

January 14, 2014

MY TOP 5 LUXURY LIPSTICKS



This was difficult. As much as I love drugstore makeup (see related post here), I do tend to splurge when it comes to lipsticks. I adore high-end brands, and even though I know sometimes it really just comes down to packaging, I'm a total sucker for the allure of a 'luxury' product. I'll probably change my mind on these once the new spring/summer collection is out, but for now, here are my top 5 picks for luxury lipsticks!


Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Liberté
An oldie but definitely a goodie. I don't know if you can see clear enough in the second image (at the top), but the bullet is twisted all the way - I've almost used this one up! Liberté is a beautiful soft coral that can be worn for any occasion. It applies quite sheer, so it wears a little pink on me due to my natural lip colour. Though not moisturising, the formula literally glides onto the lips and sits very comfortably without been drying. I have yet to repurchase the exact same lipstick (because I never finish anything) but Chanel Liberte might just be the one!


YSL Rouge Volupte Shine in 12 Corail Incandescent
I could never do a favourites lipsticks post without throwing YSL in there, I LOVE this brand, especially the lip products! YSL Rouge Volupte Shine and Chanel Rouge Coco Shine are actually very similar in texture, but I do find that YSL has better lasting power and are generally more pigmented. Corail Incandescent is a gorgeous pinky coral that is great for brightening up any complexion. I've been sporting this one for most of the Aussie summer and I still can't get enough!

Jump for the rest of my picks!