The Sunday Snippet #3

This week I was lucky enough to have a week off work and spent the majority of my time with my loved ones; enjoying the sun. So far this year we haven't had a 'real' summer here in the UK, it's been mainly humid grey skies and ALOT of downpours but this week our prayers were heard and we were blessed with golden sunshine and scorching heat. So, we went to the beach for a few hours and absorbed feel-good atmosphere... Whilst watching the fellow beach goers I couldn't help but notice the vast range of female body types and it was a true reality to check. In my head, everyone is walking around with big boobs, a tiny waist, curvy hips and flawless skin but that really isn't the case at all (who knew?!). This probably sounds ridiculous that I'd have this perception of the world but when picture perfect models are are inescapably flooding the media in shopping malls, the TV and social media it's no wonder why so many women feel the pressure of the seemingly 'perfect' body type. It reminded me to feel blessed in the body I was given and not compare myself to Instagram models or put myself down. This is something we should all be doing and also, regularly remind ourselves (and others) that we are are beautiful and sexy, no matter what shape or size we are, or what the media has to say about their unrealistic version of 'perfect'

On another note, I'm loving dungarees at the moment! Dresses, shorts and the traditional dungaree all seem to be taking pride of place in my wardrobe and you may have seen, in The Sunday Snippet #2, I featured a 90's denim dress from TOPSHOP. I just love how easy they are to wear, an edgy spin on the classic jeans and T-shirt. I actually got these black dungarees from Newlook and as they're fitted, they're particularly flattering. I've worn these with anything from a crop top and sandals, for summery feel, to a baggy white T for a casual look. A lot of people have said they like dungarees but are unsure what to where them with. My advise? Pinterest. Pinterest has endless outfit ideas, for your chosen item, so it's easy to find inspiration and create an outfit that works for you.

As I had a moment spare today, I decided it was time to stop procrastinating and give my make-up drawers a good ol' spring clean; it's one of those jobs I always put off but once I get going it's actually quite enjoyable. When you're only using a handful of products regularly, it's easy to forget what you actually have... Re-organising is the perfect opportunity to route through all your products and remind yourself of everything you own. You'd be surprised how often you fall in love again with a forgotten lipstick or blusher. Anyhow, I got these drawers from Muji, Oxford Street. The 5 Drawer is perfect for starting out, the drawers slide smoothly and one drawer can comfortably hold 22 lipsticks, so you won't be short on space. Beneath the 5 drawer I have two 2 Drawers which have a larger depth so perfect for storing large or bulky items. What I love most about the Muji acrylic storage is they have a wide variety of stack-able styles to accommodate all your storing needs. I think they're fairly priced, easy to clean and your products are always easily found. 

Neeks ☯

Fresh Faced Summer Make-Up

Whilst we've all been loving the summer weather, there are days when it is SO hot that many of us feel it's completely pointless putting any make-up on, in fear the scorching sunshine will melt it all away and make you look like wax work from Madame Tussauds. I too, used to have the same fear until I realised it's all about what products you use and how you apply them. Of course, it's nice to wear minimal make-up in the hot summer months but there are occasions when you do want to make an effort and for me, today was one of them. I love this look because it's well balanced, fresh faced and it doesn't appear cakey or too much. The soft pink lip adds a summery touch whilst the eye make-up compliments the rest of the look. So, here's how I did it...

FACE

After completing my usual skin care routine and priming my skin, I began by applying a light layer of Estee Lauder Double Wear. I won't go into too much detail about this foundation as we all know how fabulous it is... The coverage, the feel, the dreamy texture but most importantly, even in the hot humid weather we've been having recently, it's not going to budge! I then concealed any imperfections and highlighted under my eyes with Bourjois Healthy Mix Concealer (full review click here). Next, I used Bourjois Chocolate Bronzer (ok, so I know that's not it's official name but it looks and smells like a chocolate bar so hey ho). I contoured under my cheek bones, jaw line, forehead/ temples and dusted the apples of my cheeks with H&M Powder Blush in 'Pink Coral' (full review click here). Lastly, I set my base with Maybelline Super Stay 24Hour Powder, this is a great powder to use if you're prone to oily skin or are wishing to extend the longevity of your base... I always apply my powder last as it blends all the components together nicely and ensures everything stays in place. Finally, I highlighted my cheek bones with BarryM Illuminating Strobe Cream in 'Frosty Pink' for a fresh glow (full review click here)

EYES

Before anything else, I always apply my brow products first as once complete, it gives you a frame to work with, when applying your eye make-up. Today I used L'Oreal Paris Brow Artist Genius (full review click here) and Benefit High Brow to highlight my brow bones. I then primed my eye lids with Urban Decay Primer Potion to ensure my eye shadow doesn't fade or crease. From the Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette I began by patting 'Suspect' onto my eye lids, with flat brush. I then used a large fluffy brush to blend 'Snakebite' into my crease and lastly, finished by adding a small amount of Pistol to the outer corner. To complete, I used Bourjois Liner Feutre to naturally line my upper lash line and Benefit They're Real Mascara to add length and definition. 

LIPS
To finish my look I used MAC 'Please Me', a matte, long lasting lipstick that doesn't dry out my lips or melt under the sun. This is one of my favorite lipsticks as it's so versatile and although it's quite girly it isn't toooo pink.

Neeks ☯

10 Beauty Tips

1. The Perfect Smokey Eye

It seems we're all taught to apply our eye liner after our eye shadow. In some cases, this is correct but if your goal is to create a smokey eye then it's a whole different ball game. Begin by applying your base shadows. Next, apply your eye liner and then apply your crease and outer corner shades. This will create a perfectly blended smokey eye with no harsh lines.

2. Exfoliate Your Lips

Okay so this isn't news but it's no good splashing out on a pricey lipstick if you're not going to get the most out of it. Always exfoliate your lips regularly to soften them and remove dead skins cells. I use coconut oil and a baby's tooth brush or flannel; you don't want to use anything too harsh (or rub too hard) and using something hydrating like coconut oil will nourish your lips whilst exfoliating. Having soft hydrated lips will ensure a smoother lipstick application and make it last longer.

3. Always Apply Your Concealer After Your Foundation

Seriously. Although you can buy high coverage foundation that doesn't mean you should apply a thick layer. Foundation isn't supposed to cover everything hence the name 'foundation'; it's simply a base to work with. Once you've applied your foundation you will clearly be able to see where concealer is needed.

4. Save Your Shattered Palette

We've all had to go through the devastating loss of broken blusher or eye shadow but there is a way you can salvage your product. Put some rubbing alcohol in a small spray bottle (you can buy both at drugstores/ chemists) and spray generously on your broken product. Then, take a coin wrapped in a tissue and use it to press the powder back together. Leave to dry over night et voila! Good as new.

5. Apply Your Powder After Your Bronzer/ Blush

After you've finished applying your base it's common to reach for the powder next. Don't. Apply your bronzer and blusher as normal and then, using a big fluffy brush, lightly dust your setting powder over the top. This will blend everything together harmoniously and ensure your make-up stays in place. 

6. Find Out Your Face Shape

We're now living in an age where highlighting and contouring, as part of your daily routine, has become the norm (even if it's only slight) We're lucky to have access to the hottest tutorials and techniques with just a click of a button but it's important to remember that the person doing the tutorial knows their face shape and what they are showing you works for that face shape. So, finding out yours will enable you to seek the best advice and techniques and the likes of Pinterest make it easy to establish your face shape and where to apply your make-up.

7. Don't Always Reach For Black Eye Liner

Like most women, I love black eye liner. In fact, I mostly wear black eye liner. However, even if you're heading to the club, you don't need to apply black eye liner to your upper and lower lash line. If you're wearing heavy eye liner on your upper lash line and also apply it to your water/ lower lash line, this can actually make your eyes appear smaller than they actually are. Instead, opt for a dark eye shadow, it makes a huge difference.

8. Cover a Blemish Correctly

As a teenager, I made the mistake of thinking light reflecting concealers would some how distract attention from my blemish. I then began to realise it most certainly has the opposite effect and if ever a flash photo was taken it stood out like a sore thumb! Instead, use a matte colour-correcting concealer (green based to counteract redness) and using a cotton bud, gently pat the product directly onto the blemish. Using a cotton bud will also assist with the healing process as it will prevent any bacteria spreading.

9. Highlight The Center Of Your Eyelids

No matter what kind of eye make up I'm planning to do I always complete the look by highlighting. I think we're all familiar with highlighting the inner corner and brow bone but using a highlighting powder, gently apply in the center of each eye lid. This will not only make your eyes appear more awake but also instantly bigger and brighter.

10. Wash Your Brushes With Baby Shampoo

I think we're all guilty of putting off washing our make-up brushes but it's vital to prevent bacteria building up and invading all your cosmetics. Make-Up brush cleanser can be pricey and some can be too harsh for certain bristles, causing them to lose softness, fray and even start falling out. I'll use a proper brush cleaner ever now and again but the majority of the time I use Johnsons Baby Shampoo, it's super gentle and mild so won't cause your brushes any harm. What's more, as it contains oil, it easily lifts away any product build up.

Neeks ☯

The Sunday Snippet #2

Well what do ya know, it's Sunday again. Feels like only yesterday I was writing my first 'Sunday Snippet'- it's like I blinked and suddenly a whole week flew by! Other than work, I've had quite a relaxed week and put a lot of time into planning new and exciting posts. My blog has never been fashion focused, it's certainly beauty based, with the odd lifestyle post here and there but I'm not one to write about my OOTD or current wishlists. However, as my blog is beginning to evolve, I thought why the hell not? I've always loved 90's fashion and what was the main fashion point of the 90's? DENIM, lot's and lot's of cringe worthy denim (I think we've all seen the infamous Britney & JT pic) So, I saw this cute dress in TOPSHOP but they never seemed to have my size in stock. Then, out of the blue, I saw a girl trying my size on in the fitting room... I overheard her saying she wan't gonna buy it and thus it landed in my thankful hands. I love the way TOPSHOP have kept the 90's style, whilst making it current by simplifying the design and keeping it short. Pair up it with your snazziest trainers and baggy T or dress it up with a a heeled sandal and Summer 16, we're ready for you.

I've also been loving the Barry M 'Coconut Infusion' range recently. It's blended with coconut water/ oil to hydrate and care for your nails whilst delivering a gel-like finish. I've found, once applied, they're super shiny, long lasting and with nine tempting colours to choose from you're sure to find your perfect summer shade. What's more? They will all compliment your tan beautifully! My personal favorites are Flamingo, Sunkissed, Aloha and Starfish. I personally find the two nude shades perfect as they're not too pink, not too brown and not too pale. Flamingo is a fun peachy orange, foolproof for the beach! However, my number one has to be Aloha, a bright raspberry pink.

Today was spent how Sundays should be. I headed off to the beach with my loved ones and with the sun beaming down on us, we collected interesting shells and had a good old natter. There's something pretty amazing about the sea. Although it's a force to be reckoned with, I've always found it calming and feel kinda free just watching it. As we sat by the shore, with the wind in my hair, my mum offered a wondrous piece of advice. 'Feel the wind and imagine it's blowing through you. Through your hair and your face and your brain. Imagine it's blowing all your worries, problems and negative energy behind you'... Lovely.  

Neeks ☯

L'Oreal Infallible Collection

I seem to be slightly obsessed with L'Oreal recently... Maybe it's because overall the brand displays a high-end vibe but for high street prices? Or maybe it's just because it's always on 3 for 2 at Boots. Either way, I've noticed I've some how managed to accumulate enough L'Oreal products to fill a whole shelf and among these treats I hold three popular products from the almighty Infallible range.

Annoyingly, Mother Nature blessed (or cursed) me with oily skin which left to it's own devises, can get a little crazy... So a foundation with strong staying power is essential. I mean there's nothing worse than catching your reflection half way through the day and practically blinding yourself as the light reflects off your shiny face (this seems to happen to me quite often). I'll always be a die hard fan of my beloved Estee Lauder Double Wear but at £30 a bottle it's not always affordable to splash out. Thankfully though, we can rely on our high-street brands to save the day with affordable prices and L'Oreal is renowned for delivering high quality cosmetics that won't break the bank! 

The Infallible 24H Foundation was top on my list to try. A high-coverage foundation that disguises the appearance of fatigue and blemishes as well as staying fresh for 24 hours? Yes please! I must admit, it was difficult to find the perfect shade and it's not the easiest of foundations to blend so would recommend applying this with a beauty blender (sponge) but once applied it does deliver high-coverage with a lovely glow. Disappointingly, it only stays put up until about lunch time and is in no way 'touch proof' as they claim. I have to wear glasses at work and found the foundation transfers onto them, leaving foundation-less patches on the bridge of my nose (even though I primed my skin before hand and set the foundation with powder) Okay so inevitably, when wearing glasses all day there's bound to be slight marks but out of all the foundations I've used this foundation has been the least resilient; it's safe to say I wouldn't even consider wearing this on a night out.

I decided I needed to go down the Infallible 24H Matte Foundation route and applied it in hope of a better result. Positively, it does deliver a long lasting matte finish and is somewhat water/ steam resistant but it didn't give me a natural appearance and it was so very obvious I was wearing a thick foundation. I persevered with it for about a week, experimenting with different application techniques and sandwiching it between a range of primers and powders but broke up with it after reading the ingredients. It contains so many parabens and chemicals that I simply couldn't bring myself to use it anymore.

On a positive note, I do love the Infallible Powder Compact and have re-purchased it twice already. Although it's a pressed powder, it's quite loose so one swish of a brush is plenty. It evenly sets my foundation and delivers a flawless finish without drying or caking which is perfect. I love that it comes with a handy mirror and sponge for on the go touch ups, definitely in my top three for high-street powders! Honestly, I'm disappointed that I didn't fall madly in love with this range, I really wanted to! And although these foundations weren't my cuppa tea, I have read other reviews which have sung their praises so it just goes to show that it completely depends on your personal preference and skin type. 

Neeks ☯

L'Oreal Paris Brow Artist Genius Kit

Aloha! 

I'm just gonna cut to the chase on this one because I'm too excited about this product to begin with an elaborate introduction. So, meet my new brow BFF! L'Oreal Paris Brow Artist Genius Kit This isn't a newly released product in fact, it's been around for a while now but I tend to steer clear of experimenting with my eye brows. I think we've all experienced a brow dilemma, when trying something new, so once we find a product that works for us we naturally stick with it but this has certainly encouraged me to branch out a bit more! As a fair red head, I have naturally blonde eye brows so I get them tinted to a medium brown but finding the perfect shade, in a product, has proven difficult. They're either too dark or too cool and sometimes appear grey (?!) but whilst browsing for new beauty buys, I casually picked up the light-medium shade, and to my surprise it was perfect so this is a definite recommendation for my fair haired beauties!

I love the compact packaging, I mean it's basically a tardis! It's so sleek and dainty yet it includes a good sized, high quality mirror, brow wax, powder, a double ended brush and the cutest pair of tweezers! The quality of this product is what impressed me the most and I honestly believe it's worth every penny. Normally, with an item like this I find when the actual product is good, the brush it comes with is completely useless and so it gets tossed aside along with the many other free brushes; only to be used for face paint or nail art. However, this super soft high-density angled brush works wonders to create defined lines and structured angles. The only fault I have is the handle is too short to use on a daily basis so I have being using my regular angled brush more often than not. Saying that, it won't go to waste as I'll certainly be using it for on the go touch ups and whilst travelling.

When I first used the wax I felt skeptical as it seemed barley noticeable, although it has a very smooth consistency, which made it easy to shape and define my brows in the way I wanted to. However, when I applied the easy-blend powder it was like BAM- instant transformation! I wouldn't say it was essential to brush my brows afterwards (as it is with other brow products) but doing so did add a certain sleek-ness.  Admittedly, it does take longer to apply than a pencil or brow mascara but for the finish I think it's worth it. What's more, it stays in place for 12+ hours and is somewhat smudge proof so you can rely on this to cater for all your brow care needs. I personally wouldn't recommend this to someone who's a beginner in brow defining or looking for a quick fix but for those of you who's brows are precious I'd highly recommend.

Neeks ☯ 

When The Body Shop Brings You Argan Oil

Aloha!

Most of us have grown accustomed to the large array of so called 'miracle oils' that have flooded our beauty counters and there is one for every skin type, occasion and purpose. We have oils such as coconut, almond, hemp seed, jojoba, moringa, tea tree and even olive oil; all on a mission to to deliver the promise of having beautiful skin (and hair). Although, I have no doubt that these oils are beneficial, I do think it's easy to become swept up in the latest oil trend and have high expectations. So, argan oil. Is it just another fad? Or are they onto something... 

Argan oil was primitively, a tribal ingredient, found in Morroco before it exploded onto our shelves with numerous articles and adverts singing it's praises. But why argan oil? Why not coconut oil... or jojoba oil? I needed to find out and we all know the best way of doing so is to try it. Now, I know you can get the little tubes of argan oil at the til in Primark (for about £1!) but I felt like splashing out on this so I headed to The Body Shop, where I purchased the shower gel, body lotion, body scrub and not to my surprise they were on offer (The Body Shop always seem to have offers on). 

Wild Argan Oil Shower Gel

This soap-free shower gel gives you loadsa bubbles (v. important) and surprisingly a little goes a long way. After using it I felt very clean and it didn't dry out my skin or cause any irritation. I don't know how I would describe what argan oil smells like but it's unusual, not too sweet and almost edible. Basically, it's lush. 

Wild Argan Oil Body Lotion

I think when people hear 'oil' in a body lotion it can sometimes put them off as they feel it could be greasy or leave a residue or not absorb very well. This body lotion absorbs almost instantly, it leaves my skin feeling super soft, supple and even gives it a slight glow. It doesn't cause my clothes to cling and my skin feels hydrated and smooth. 

Wild Argan Oil Body Scrub

I've always been obsessed with The Body Shops body scrubs and this one was no exception. It's vigorous without being too harsh and easily lifts dead skin cells, whilst replenishing my skin; leaving it feeling revitalised. For some reason this didn't feel like I was using a regular body scrub, it felt like more of a treat and although it left a slight residue, it wasn't greasy at all. 

After using these products for a while I can definitely see what all the hype is about. The high vitamin E content and fatty acids are the science behind why this oil has immense hydration powers and the anti oxidants found in this oil also promote healing so this would be ideal for someone with very dry, irritated skin or even Eczema suffers. Furthermore, I tend to get odd blemishes on my shoulders but since using this soothing formula, it's barley noticeable. I've also noticed my legs are less irritated after a shave them which is great as it's something I've always battled with. My skin feels more supple and as argan oil increases skin elasticity, there's no reason why this couldn't benefit those with stretch marks or even promote anti aging. My verdict? Not a fad but a fabulous find.

Neeks ☯

Welcome 2016! FREE GIVEAWAY

Aloha!

Sigh** The ball balls are placed in the empty Quality Streets tin and have been returned to their attic abode; ready to gather dust. Christmas presents have been placed specifically in a home to suit and it's no longer acceptable to eat mince pies for breakfast and start drinking at 11am. The reality of leaving the festivities behind and returning to our normal routine is a sad feeling for most and as the long month of January approaches us all, I've been doing a lot of reflecting... Sadly, in the last few months blogging has had to take a back seat. Honestly, I was stressed, overwhelmed and confused for more reasons than one and everyone reaches a point where something has to give right? 2015 brought a lot of surprising challenges for me; I have learnt from them, I feel stronger and after taking a break I've been able to focus on my own wellness and now I'm feeling refreshed and am looking at things from a lighter point of view. 

One of the main learning curves I've faced is to always look at the bigger picture. When you're in a difficult situation or feeling low it's easy to focus on the negatives and before you know it, it seems like the worst thing in the world. You can feel trapped, alone and stuck. I've realised that by taking a step back and thinking logically, taking time to lick your wounds and talk to those you love it suddenly doesn't seem so bad. Okay so I know it's easier said than done and I'm still practicing this myself and I've found it helps to look back at a time when you were feeling a similar way... it worked out in the end right? 

To begin 2016 we decided to pull back the shades, clear out the clutter and have a good ol' spring clean! We treated ourselves to some new bedroom furniture and a couple of treats for our home yano candles, fairy lights... Small things that make a big difference! It really does do you the world of good and even if you can't afford to splash out, Primark certainly have lovely candles that smell delicious and don't burn a hole in your purse. So, to celebrate the new year I thought I'd  kick start my first blog post of 2016 with a free giveaway...

Monu Skin Firming Moisturiser 

This professional, hydrating moisturiser is perfect for dry/ sensitive skin and contains essential oils and marine collagen to plump and firm as well as nerolli and lavender to tone and tighten. 

Monu Spa Rosewood Riving Mist

Perfect for when you're skin is feeling tired and dull. This refreshing mist smells amazing with it's lemon, rosewood, sandalwood and geranium extracts. Suitable to use on all skin types, you can spray it lightly over make-up to set or use it for a cool refresher on those hot summer days.

Lumiere d'Hiver Super Comb Prep & Protect 

This lightweight conditioning spray is the perfect hair tamer. It de tangles, making combing a breeze, stregnthens, repairs and nourishes. It's also 100% Vegan, gluten/ sulphate and the best part; paraben-free.

So to get your hands on this free tantalising trio simply comment below with your new years resolution and follow Just Neeks on TWITTER / BLOGLOVIN &OR FACEBOOK. You have until 31st January 2016 when I will be announcing the winner, good luck!

Neeks ☯

Applying A Base (Foundation, Concealer, Powder)

Having a good base is key to any make-up look. After a good consolation with your client and  prepping the skin properly  (see 'Consolations & Prepping The Client (Skin Care)')it's time to start make-up application. 

Foundation: 

In this session we learnt how to apply a good base using the Dermacolor Foundation Palette. Choose your shade by comparing it to the clients jaw line, it should blend in perfectly. You may need to mix foundations or use a tiny bit of Illamasqua white foundation to lighten. Many people also like to mix a primer in with their foundation instead of applying it underneath, we use the Illamasqua primer, which comes in matte or satin (depending on the look you are going for determines which one you'll use. 

Main:

Using a large buffing brush, buff the foundation into the skin, blendng the ears, hair line and as you blend down the jaw and neck, stretch the neck up (gently) to avoid lines. 

(TIP- facial toner removes make-up out of hair easily!)

Detail:

Now, using a smaller, longer-haired blending brush, focus the foundation up and around the nose. Ask your client to open their mouth slightly so you can focus around the lips and also, by using a puff to support the eye area, use backwards and forwards motions to apply the make-up. Remember to get right to the lash line, underneath and in the inner corner.

(TIP- we use a puff to lean gently on the face to prevent melting the make-up with our fingers and also it's nicer for the model!) 

Concealer:

Today we used the Dermacolor Camouflage Palette. You want to use a concealer 1 or 2 shades lighter than the clients foundation. You can also mix the concealer in with a tiny bit of foundation if you want to. Use a small, long-haired blending brush to conceal blemishes and under the eye. 

(TIP- under the eye you have a soft part of skin and underneath you have a bone, don't apply below that line!)

YSL Touche Eclat light reflecting pen is amazing for under the eye area as it has light reflecting pigments in. However, be careful because it contains metal, and a lot of people have reactions to it. 

(TIP-never apply light reflecting products onto blemishes, it won't hide them it will make them stick out even more!)

Set:

Empty some powder onto the back of your hand (we used the Illamasqua Translucent Loose Powder) and using your puff, roll the powder onto the forehead and down the t-zone. Then, using a fluffy brush, lightly apply to the rest of the face and powder over the eye lids. 

(TIP- the more powder you put on the eye lids, the easier it will be to blend your powder eye shadow!)

This is the base I did. My model is Phoebe, her skin type is dry/ sensitive skin and she gets redness in the lower cheek area. 

'never tell a singer you've got a sore throat' 

Neeks x

Autumn Tag

Aloha!

I haven't actually done a tag yet, but as it's raining outside, I've been reading other people's blogs/ tags they've done and it seems like a fun little thing to do. So, here we go! 

Favorite thing about Autumn?

Autumn is probably my favorite season, it's cold enough to wear a nice leather jacket, over a nice dress, with boots. But it's not so cold that you have to wrap up in a big winter coat. My favorite thing about it is how beautiful all the leaves look, deep reds, oranges and ambers have a very comfy/ homely feel.  

Favorite drink?

A cuppa tea! Nothing beats it, I do really love hot chocolate and vanilla or cinnamon chai but I think it's a bit too early for that, they're deffo Winter/ Christmassy drinks for me. 

Favorite scent/ candle?

Me and my boyfriend are big candle lovers and are always burning incense (all year round) so I don't really have an 'Autumn fav' as such, but if I had to choose probably Muji's tin candle in 'Hinoki Wood' (£3.50) it's amazingggg. 

Best lipstick?

Pink is very in this Autumn so that's a must have but I am still in love with plum lipsticks, especially L'Oreal Colour Riche Intense in 290 Plum Passion. With a gentle smokey eye it's easy to wear and puts a modern spin on the classic 1920's look. You can see what the lipstick looks like by reading my review.. http://justneeks.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/on-go-make-up-review-loreal-color-riche.html

Go to moisturiser?

I naturally have quite oily skin so usually go for a mattifying moisturiser. However, Autumn is the season where everything starts getting colder and it can be quite drying for my skin, so I change to a combination moisturiser, to keep the balance. My favorite set of moisturisers are from the Garnier Moisture Match range, which you can read a bit about here.. http://justneeks.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/review-garnier-moisture-match.html

Go to colours for the eyes?

For day time, a simple brown smokey eye never fails. I have green eyes, fair skin and ginger hair so it compliments me really well and fits in perfectly with the season. If I am going out bronzes and golds work a treat too but you need to be careful not to look too Christmassy! 

Favorite singer/ band/ music to listen to?

It's not like I have an 'Autumn playlist' but I do tend to drift away from the generic summery/ feel good songs that people tend listen to on holiday, BBQ's, the beach or on a night out. My favirout songs at the moment are..

Favorite outfit to wear? 

I don't necessarily have a fav, but layering is essential, especially in Autumn. I don't actually own this outfit, I just wore it in a fashion show, and it's definitely inspired my autumn wardrobe!

Coat- Next £70

Blouse- Next- £18

2 tone jeans- Next- £28

Boots- New Look- £25

Hat/ Necklace- Accessorize- (unknown sorry!)

Autumn treat? 

A new jacket or pair of boots! I like to buy things that are versatile so I can wear them with lot's of different outfits. I've had my eye on a Harrington jacket, that I saw in a vintage shop, so may have to treat myself to that. It's not exactly 'on trend' but if it's vintage and you can work it, who cares right? I'm sure with a leather trip top, tartan shorts and boots it will look fab! I also really like blushers and usually treat myself at this time of year to maintain a healthy glow.  

Favorite place to be? 

At home, curled up on the sofa, watching telly! Or outside (if it's not raining) on a nice walk so I can admire the autumn scenery. 

Well that's it, the 'Autumn tag' what are your favorite things about Autumn?

Neeks x

L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Quad REVIEW

Aloha!

Firstly, I would like to say that I am superrrr sorry for not blogging in ages! I’ve recently started a 2^nd job that leaves me with hardly any time at all *sad face* but I will be blogging whenever I have the chance *happy face*. So today’s entry is a review on the L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Quad in 'E4 Marron Glace'. L’Oreal says on the Boots website that the shadows, in the quad, are ‘perfectly matched’, ‘easy to use’ and it will ‘make your eyes look their biggest, brightest and most attractive’. Pretty bold statements to make so I thought I’d try it. 

£7.99- Boots

I reallyyy like the look of the packaging, the shape of the product is nice, the gold mirror boarder looks classy and the way they’ve puzzled the shadows together looks really good. However, when you feel it it’s quite plastic-y and light, which makes me think that it could easily break in my make-up bag. 

So what do you get? Each quad has a different set of 4, you just need to pick the one that you think will suit you best. They are supposed to be a base, crease, outer corner and highlighter. Looking at them, the mid-brown and dark brown look quite matte and the grey and highlight just look a bit shimmery but let me tell you, the highlight is glittery! In fact, so glittery that I had to take off all my make-up and start again because it had fallen all over my face and into my eyebrows. Trust me, it was definitley not one of those 'just brush it off with a powder brush moments' this was a '-_- where's the face wipes' moment.

  

Although, it looks good when you first buy it, after one use, the shadows lift and fall onto all the shadows around it (big no no) it meant I had to clean it up every time I used it and it's nearly impossible to get it completely clean. The double ended sponge is good as one end is rounded and the other is angled, to so you can be more accurate. I did use it once but still prefer my trusty make-up brushes. 

On the back it has a tiny (really tiny) diagram. They’ve labelled the shadows 1-4 and showed you where you’re supposed to put them. Okay, this is actually a good idea for those who haven’t really experimented with make-up before but if someone applied the highlighter, the way L'Oreal have explained, they would literally end up with a line of glitter. Also, I don't think, L'Oreal have taken into consideration then some people have less eye lid, or a deeper crease to work with, so that could be quite tricky for them. 

I decided to apply it my own way, without their highlight. I applied the grey as a base, the brown in the crease and the darker brown in the outer corner. The colours do actually blend really well and it's build-able so easy to turn from a day look, to night time. 

Overall, I do like how it looks but it definitely isn't the easiest quad I have used , so I wouldn't recommend it to someone who wants something quick and easy. The colours are matched well, so I'll give L'Oreal that, but it didn't make my eyes the  'biggest, brightest and most attractive' I wasn't expecting miracles or anything but I probably won't be re-purchasing this. 

Neeks x