Tag: Addicted to blush

I was tagged by my sweet Melbourne blogger friend Emma (aka emmabovarybeauty), and a self-proclaimed #blushfiend, to do the Addicted to Blush tag and the timing was ripe!  From a regular person with a meagre/normal collection of around 4 or so blushes when I started blogging in 2011, I now have in excess of 30 so I'd say that qualifies me as a blush addict, or to put it much more nicely, a #blushfiend! 

Now onto the questions and there are some toughies in there...

 

 

What colour blush suits you the most?

 (clockwise from top left:  theBalm - Hot Mama!, Tom Ford - Love Lust, Physicians Formula Happy Booster - Natural, Canmake - CL03, Face of Australia - Outback Nutmeg, Bloom Sheer Colour Cream - Coy, Smashbox Blush Rush - Chiffon , Revlon Photoready - Coral Reef)
 

I'd have to say any variation along the coral to peach spectrum because those shades add colour and warmth to my face and I don't look too dolly cheeked - and as you can see above I have no end of choices available in that colour family! I'll always gravitate to those colours first when I'm shopping for a new blush.  In spite of that...in my heart I would have loved to say bright pink because those blushes always look so pretty but in real life it just ain't happening baby!
 

 

Pressed/cream/loose blush?

Can I choose two out of the three options here?  I love pressed blush for the ease of application especially on bleary eyed mornings, when I'm getting ready for work before the sun comes up but then on the other hand I love cream blushes for how they give luminous life back to my sometimes flat and dull cheeks - cream blush gives me a very youthful dewy look.  If cream blush wasn't quite so fiddly I'd probably lean more towards the cream and I am collecting cream blushes more and more so once I have completely mastered the art of cream blush then you'll have to ask me again!

 

 

Favourite shimmery blush?

 (Left to right:  Physicians Formula Happy Booster - Natural, Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush - Mood Exposure)

 

In terms of shimmery blush choices, after sitting around being admired more than used for the longest time Physician's Formula Happy Booster in Natural has recently become an almost daily favourite for adding that naturally peachy glow.  Also I have to mention the plummy Hourglass Mood Exposure for the cooler months as I'm picking it up again. 

 

Favourite matte blush?

 (Left to right:  Illamasqua Powder Blusher - Naked Rose, Laura Mercier - Fresh Peach)
 

Now this matte blush seems to be just about everyone's favourite but, honestly, the one I reach for most consistently is Illamasqua Naked Rose for just the lightest wash of dusty pink on my cheeks - and it literally does take the lightest pat of the brush into the pan to pick up enough colour. Just to add something different from everyone, Fresh Peach blush in my trusty old Laura Mercier Lingerie palette is also a favourite pat and go shade.

 

Favourite cream blush?

 (Left to right:  Bloom Sheer Colour Creams - Shy, Coy, Tint)
 

I'm going with my little trio of Bloom Sheer Colour Creams because they were my first cream blushes and they feel so emollient on the skin without being too slippery, providing just the right amount of colour for a natural glow - even that scary old pot of Tint on the right translates to a soft berry on the cheeks. Of course I have to single out one favourite from the trio of favourites and that has to be the peach toned (of course!) Coy seen below...

 

 

Favourite drugstore blush?

(Left to right:  NYX Mosaic Powder Blushers - Rosey, Plummy)

My NYX Mosaic blushes in Rosey and Plummy are my favourites because of their versatility and also for the ease of getting a multi-dimensional look just by swirling the brush around the pan.  After consistently using Plummy over the past few years I always knew I would have to buy more from the Mosaic range and Rosey hasn't disappointed either. 

 

Favourite high end blush?

(Tom Ford Cheek Color - 01 Love Lust)

 

Tom Ford's Love Lust is a favourite not just because it's from Tom 'freaking' Ford but because the colour is a beautifully wearable peach shot with a subtle golden glow.  I hoarded this for ages (because of the Tom 'freaking' Ford factor and being too pretty to use blah, blah...) but once I started wearing it I realised this really is a quality blush from the velvety texture to the flattering warm glow it gives me.  It's too pretty NOT to use!
 

 
 

Favourite bright blush?

 (Revlon Photoready - Coral Reef)
 

Hmmm...I like blushes which may look deceptively bright in the pan but translate more softly on the skin and Revlon's Photoready cream blush in Coral Reef does just that.  I like applying this one with my fingers to melt the colour into my skin.

 

Biggest blush disappointment/regret?

(MAC Powder Blush - Immortal Flower)
 

I feel terrible knocking a MAC blush (of all things!) but MAC Immortal Flower was a disappointment because it just does NOT show up on me! It's extremely pretty in the pan but even for the once blush-shy me this is not enough.  I don't know...maybe I should try it again in the depths of winter?

 

Best blush packaging?

 (YSL Flower Crush Palette - Rosy Blush)
 

I'll interpret that as meaning the most attractive packaging and for me it was definitely YSL's Flower Crush Palette Rosy Blush from the 2014 Spring collection - I mean, just look at it *sigh*.  Those of you who've known me long enough will know just how obsessed I was with getting my hands on it and I don't regret it for one second.  And, yes, I have used it!
 

 

What's on your blush wish list?

I have two picks on my wish list:  Stila's  Field of Florals Convertible Color palette (hopefully on its way to me) and any of Milani's Rose Powder blushes.

 

Number 1 Holy Grail blush?

Ooh that's a toughie and I'm not going to stick my neck out that far - I'm still looking for that one perfect blush!! Until then I guess I'll have to keep collecting ;-)

 

****************************

Does anyone care to answer that last question?  What's your number 1 HG blush?

  

 

YSL Spring Collection 2014 picks

So my first makeup purchase of 2014 was driven by a rapidly building obsession for orange lipstick.  My second, and third - both featured here - were driven by a longer held obsession, acquired from the moment I first eyed YSL's Spring 2014 collection at the start of the year.  I have a well shared weakness for pretty things and the YSL Flower Crush collection seduced me instantly with its combination of floral embossed gilt packaging, pretty spring colours and the promise of...

 

 "Whorls of petals. A rush of roses and peonies.

A whirlwind of a thousand flowers envelops the Saint Laurent woman in a soft, feverishly sensual cloud. Flower crush..."

 

I gritted my teeth, saved my money and held out for the Australian release, ready to literally swoop on that counter. As it happens I didn't do the swooping but my partner in YouTube crime did - thank you Ling for performing my personal shopper duties yet again!  I was initially deciding between the 5 colour eye palette, Pivoine Crush or the Rosy Blush and in the end decided on both.  Call me indecisive but I think I was very decisive when I made that choice.

Pivoine Crush Ombrés 5 Lumières Eye Palette

 

 

 

The YSL website describes this palette as:
 "A collector eye palette with 5 vibrant eye shadow shades inspired by the perfect spring flower storm..."

 

Indeed the palette design itself has a highly collectable appeal. The bowerbird in me attracted to pretty shiny things was powerless to resist it based on that alone! The bright colours within are a bit of a departure from my usual choices of purples and taupes and in the palette they actually look a little too bright for comfort - I don't want to look theatrical (or as though I have an eye inflammation!) but swatching quickly put any concerns to rest.  The mostly warm shades are all surprisingly soft, even when applied over primer.  Some of the shades have a subtle sparkle but there's nothing over the top in the selection.  If you're after a very bright or shimmery look then this may disappoint but for someone like me who likes to dabble in colour in a subtle everyday way it's going to be perfect and I look forward to experimenting: 

 

 

 

 

Rosy Blush Duo Collector Face Palette

 

 

YSL refers to this beauty as:

"...a creamy powder that sculpts and illuminates the complexion. A collector face creamy powder palette that displays a graphic motif to unveil 2 marble pink shades that swirl and unravel an arty rose petal motif."

 

The blush is a duo of non-shimmery soft pastel pink blush swirled with a golden pink highlight shade in a ridiculously pretty, rather organic looking design in the pan.  YSL recommends the matte pink shade be used for sculpting the cheeks, then applying the golden highlight on the cheekbones however I've been swirling both shades together for a subtle pink glow on my cheeks - maybe because I'm fair skinned I find this works beautifully for a daytime look and I just love it because I get a healthy pink glow without anything too obvious.  Yes, there is a bit of sparkle but not too otherworldly for me so I am 100% in love with this!

 

  I can see that if you have medium to darker skin this won't do much for you as a blush, although it could probably still work as a highlight.  I've also read it can be layered over other blush to add a subtle glow.

 

Swirled and swatched on my arm:

 

These pretty things were both very much an indulgence for me but I don't regret them at all - like I said I'm a sucker for pretty and these are undeniably pretty and, importantly, wearable too. If you like pink then this might just be your thing. Both of these items are limited edition so you need to be quick to snap them up!

 

Until next time.



February's farewelled products (and beauty diet update)

Another month of the usual beauty product carnage - and I've been doing pretty well on the beauty diet too! So well that I'm now reaping rewards and finally shopping for items on my wish list.  I'll save those for another post (or two)...

 

 

Hand and body care

 

No facial skincare this month funnily enough.  All body products this time!

 

12) Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (500ml) - My reliable old in shower soap-free Cetaphil makes a return to the empties, although I've downsized to the 500ml bottle because the 1 litre was too impractically big for the shower caddy.  Expect more of these throughout the year, especially when winter hits and my skin gets that sensitive dry skin itch happening again.

 

13) Soap & Glory Hand Food (50ml) - This was gifted to me by a close friend and I immediately fell in love with the scent! The scent is the highlight of this hand cream for me (sure it does contain Shea Butter, Macadamia Oil and Marshmallow too) so I can feel the need building to explore the Soap & Glory range in search of more of that delicious scent.  Oh yeah, back onto the hand cream:  I didn't find it too greasy and it penetrated well. It's not a super heavy duty hand cream so I'd probably need something richer in the cooler months although it's perfectly fine as an everyday handbag option.

14) OPI Expert Touch Lacquer Remover (120ml/4 fl.oz) - On par with my average of around a bottle per month this is my second bottle for the year.

15) La Clinica Dry Skin Relief Body Butter (250ml/8.5 fl.oz) - Ling's getting me onto La Clinica in a big way so this is going to be the first of a long list of La Clinica products I'm going to finish over the coming months.  This rich body butter is scented with Vanilla and contains Organic Rose Hip Oil, as well as Sweet Almond Oil, Shea Butter and Sandalwood Oil.  Further down the list it even contains Patchouli and Ylang Ylang which explains the exotic aroma - vanilla with a bit of added depth and mystery so this is your everyday vanilla body butter's sexier friend.  I found this very thick and rich so learnt very quickly that a little goes a looooong way - use too much and it can sit on top of the skin - used sparingly gets the best results and meant this jar lasted a long time too.

16) Natio Wellness Body Scrub (450g/15.8 z) - Yet another deliciously scented body product! I love all the products in Natio's Wellness range and they all have the same wonderful pomegranate scent.  This almost jelly-like scrub contains sugar, apricot seed powder and "antioxidant pomegranate" so it can be applied on dry or damp skin for a gentle exfoliation.  It also leaves the skin feeling rather silky and moisturised afterward. I must admit I do tend to use too much when the product comes in a tub, scooping out generous handfuls but I did enjoy using it.


 

Hair care

 

17) L'Oreal Professionnel Volume Expand Volumising Root Lift Spray for fine hair (125ml/4.2 fl. oz) - I really didn't love this product.  Rather than lifting my hair it made it almost sticky to the touch and look more in need of a wash when it had been just washed.  It's not like I was using that much either, as I sparingly spritzed twice or maybe three times over my entire head.  Not repurchasing this one!
 

 

Cosmetics

 

As you can see there's been more progress with the makeup empties on my beauty diet! Since writing this post I've finished another item so I'm now up to 7 for the year.  Joining me on this downsizing exercise are Anissa and Norlin and we have been cheering each other on all month.

 

18) MAC Frost Eye Shadow (Vex) - If I tell you this is the second pan I've finished of this particular eye shadow then you'll get the idea of how much I love it. This multidimensional shimmery beige/green/pink shade works beautifully on its own or paired with a deeper accent. I will repurchase at some stage I'm sure.

 

19) No 7 Lipstick (Blossoming Pink) - I won this lipstick a few years ago in a blog giveaway from the empties queen herself, Claire of UK blog Eyelining Obsessions.  I had no trouble finishing this glossy mauve lipstick at all because it was very much a MLBB for me and went with literally everything.  I've just visited the Boots UK website and this lipstick still appears there but is out of stock - I'm pretty sure it was a LE but I'd be happy to be corrected on that!

 

20) MAC Slimshine (Gentle Simmer) - Discontinued and I bought it a while ago.  It was a very pretty glossy peach nude but it disappeared very quickly from my lips and obviously in the tube too.

 

21) MAC Lip Glass (Sizzle Peach) - Another old LE lip colour from an old holiday collection.  Kind of weird silvery peach with yucky chunky glitter.  I suppose I could have just thrown it out but opted to wear it around the house instead.  That probably makes me seem kind of weird too now that I ponder it. 

 

Fragrance

 

These two fragrances were Spring/Summer favourites so it makes sense they gave it up last month...

 

22)  L'Occitane - Pivoine Flora (EDT 75ml) - Notes:  bergamot, grapefruit, green notes, peony, magnolia, violet, vanilla, cedar, musk.  I saw this soft green floral as very much a spring scent. It's soft and subtle, with no sharp edge and a work-appropriate everyday choice.

23)  YSL - Elle Summer Edition (EDT 90ml) - Notes:  Grapefruit, sambac jasmine, pink pepper, benzoin, amber.  A summer favourite fragrance and I would repurchase either this or the original Elle because I've loved wearing both.  I love the layers of this fragrance as it clearly starts off with the fruity grapefruit freshness then settles down to the amber base. 

 

 So that's it for the February empties!



VIDEO POST: Collective Haul (Bite Beauty, Dior, Hourglass, L'Oreal, MAC, Napoleon Perdis, YSL & more!)

It's been a while but Ling and I finally had the chance to record another video! 

 

This time we share all of the beauty booty we "accumulated" during October via gifts, free offers and obviously shopping.  Sit back and relax in front of your computer screen while we take you through and give some first impressions - mostly good but there was one notable disappointment...

 

Brands and products featured:
 

 Bite Beauty Luminous Creme Lipstick - Rose

Butter London Nail Lacquer - Scouse

Dior Vernis - 658

Face of Australia Carnivale Nail Enamel - Between the Flags

Face of Australia - Gentle Make-up Remover

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder - Dim Light

L'Oreal Color Riche nail polish - Atomic Purple, Neon Turquoise, Flashing Lilac

 MAC Ri Ri Hearts MAC Collection - Hibiscus Kiss Powder Blush, Ri Ri Woo matte lipstick

Milk - beauty wipes

Napoleon Perdis - Cream Blush, Lip Gloss, Lashes to Lashes Mascara 

Pati Dubroff Lip Balm Crayons - Bare Petal, Dark Orchid, Honeysuckle, Persimmon, Rosebloom

She lipstick - Afina

YSL Glossy Stain - 104

 

Until next time...

 

 

August's farewelled products (2013 edition)

Continuing with my voracious beauty consumption (and helped along by travel sizes and samples) I finished a heck of a lot of products in August! I hope you're not in a rush to get through this post.  Seriously, I was thinking of just going through all of the products with a quick yay or nay this time...

 

Skin care

75) & 76) Sasatinnie Rose Makeup Remover Wipes for Sensitive Skin (10 wipes) - Simply because of the small number of wipes in the packs I got through two packs in August. I haven't changed my mind about these wipes since last month - I still love them for their gentle effective makeup removal, the lovely rose scent and they way they leave my skin feeling lightly moisturised afterwards.  I have two packs left but I'm alternating with another brand at the moment.

77) BE Fresh Make-Up Remover Wipes With Cucumber (25 wipes) - This pack of wipes was hanging around open from before my overseas vacay so I only had a few left to finish off.   BE is a Priceline Australia skincare brand and the wipes are the first products I've tried in the line.  They're alcohol free, contain aloe and do the expected gentle but effective job of removing my makeup.  They have a good texture and feel wet enough to do a thorough job.  There are a few other varieties in the line so I think I'll take a further look.

78) Cyber Colors Gentle Eye Makeup Remover (59ml/2oz.) - I bought two bottles of this little dual-phase remover from Sasa in Hong Kong.  It's yet another dual-phase remover in an endless selection of the same - these removers are all interchangeable which is fine because I love them as long as the price is right! Would I buy it again? Sure because it was inexpensive and performs with the same effectiveness as the other brands I've tried in removing all kinds of makeup, including waterproof.

79) Biore Release Steam Activated Cleanser (147ml) - I got this mint-infused, 'steam activated', oil-free cleansing gel free with a local magazine.  The invigorating (overpowering) menthol and the steam activated cleansing beads are supposed to deeply penetrate and scream CLEAN! skin in the daily shower.  It did a good job of waking my skin up in the morning but I did find it a little too fresh and nasal-clearing for me.  This would be a better choice for those with oilier skin (and less sensitive nasal passages) than mine.

80) Skinlite Cucumber Essence Mask - I'm just getting into sheet masks and this mask was the first I tried from my Hong Kong bundle.  I don't know that I can effectively rate these yet because I am such a newbie so I'm not sure what my expectations should be!  This mask was enriched with Vitamin E, Phyto Collagen, and Cucumber extract and promised to soften skin texture and relax taut and dry skin after 15 to 20 minutes of use.  I found the mask's serum felt a little tacky on the skin even after I patted it into my face but I did wake up with soft skin the next day! These masks are an inexpensive fun way for a little enforced relaxation and a little extra skin pampering.  Next mask please!

81) YSL Forever Youth Liberator Serum (30ml/1 fl.oz) - A rare skincare indulgence for me these days! I figure serum and moisturisers are a good area to splurge on quality ingredients if I'm going to indulge so...  This serum was quite a watery formula so it absorbed well and made my skin feel instantly refreshed.  It claims to make skin look more luminous, smoother, firmer and more plump, reducing the appearance of wrinkles - everything this little middle-aged duck needs really!  It certainly did make my skin feel smooth and plumped so I'd probably buy this serum again when my wallet can justify it. 

82) L'Oreal White Perfect Laser Anti-Spot Brightening Essence (5ml) - I think skincare essences are an alternative to serums because they are applied under moisturiser.  In any case this is the first essence I've tried.  5mls went a long way and I got a week's worth of use out of the tiny sample tube.  It was enough to pique my interest too because I loved how smooth it made my skin feel and any whitening product takes more prolonged use to see real results in reducing pigmentation.  Trouble is the White Perfect Laser range isn't available in Australia! Online shopping here I go?...

83) Nivea Light Feel Daily Face Veil Lotion SPF30 (50ml) - I was using this as my everyday moisturiser/sunscreen overseas and whilst it was okay - and definitely effective as SPF protection - I don't know that it felt light enough for me as my skin did appear a little slick, more so than dewy.  At the drugstore pay point I prefer my good old Neutrogena which I've reverted to using at the moment.

84) Natio Ageless Firming Night Cream (45g/1.5oz) - I don't wear night cream every night so this tub lasted a very long time.  The goodies in it are Vitamin C, organic rosehip and evening primrose and it definitely did make my skin feel firmer without feeling greasy.  Natio is a super affordable natural skincare option I enjoy using so I wouldn't hesitate to buy more in future.

85) La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP Lipid Repleneshing Body Balm (7ml/0.2 fl.oz.) - I turned to a stash of samples in desperation when I had a winter flare-up of eczema on my neck and wrists.  I used five of these anti-scratching balm sachets and the thick unscented balm instantly soothed my prickly itchy skin.  I've now bought a massive full sized pump bottle of the stuff for skincare emergencies.  'Nuff' said.

86) La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Intense Soothing Care (5ml) - This is meant to soothe and relieve dry facial skin but, yup, I used five samples of this on my limbs too! Naughty me! Means I can't tell you what this feels like on the face but it certainly felt wonderful on my body.  Soothing and very well absorbed and left my skin feeling silky.  I'll infer from that it would probably feel good on my face too if I needed extra moisture!

87) Avon Anew Platinum Night Cream (1g) - I used this sample for a single application between jars of night cream.  I remember it made my skin feel velvety soft and absorbed well but I can't say anything beyond that.  It's targeted at the more mature market with its claims of restoring the look of sagging skin.  Maybe if my jowls start driving me to distraction I might just buy a jar to really road test it, hmm?

88) Benefit Triple Performing Sheer Oil-Free Facial Emulsion SPF 15 (sample) - This is triple performing because it "hydrates, protects and comforts..." the skin. I used this sample for a few days and really loved how it felt, and I also loved the non-greasy finish it left on my skin.  If only the SPF were higher I would snap this up for a summertime facial moisturizer.

Hand and body care

89) QV Flare Up Wash (150ml) - This is the second bottle I've finished recently as a hand wash. See my earlier empties review here.

 

90) Bandi Purity Nail Polish Remover (120ml) - I bought this Korean (Hello! It mentions Gangnam on the bottle!) green tea/jasmine scented polish remover from Bonjour in Hong Kong.  It did a good enough job of removing my nail polish, had a great spill-proof design, and I enjoyed the novelty of the scent! Gangnam style indeed!

 

91) Bath & BodyWorks Warm Vanilla Sugar Shower Gel (59 ml/2 fl.oz.) - I was obsessed with this shower gel!  The vanilla scent was delicious without being overly sweet and the lather was so rich and soft.  Love it! LOVE IT!! If anyone wants to send me some more across the seas I will be eternally grateful - I'm already eternally grateful to Liz for introducing me to this shower delight!

 

92) OPI Avojuice Ginger Lily Hand & Body Lotion (30 ml/ 1 fl.oz.) - I've used these little bottles before and find the avocado oil formula to be incredibly moisturizing and well absorbed.  I used this as an overall body moisturizer.  The ginger lily scent was a little sweet for my taste but not overpowering.

 

93) OPI Avojuice Cran & Berry Hand & Body Lotion (30 ml/ 1 fl.oz.) - Ditto my last comment. Again the scent was a little sweet.

Hair care

 

 94) John Frieda Luxurious Volume Shampoo (44 ml/1.5 fl.oz.) - I don't normally review shampoo and conditioner because I use the same salon line month in month out but these were free with a magazine and were going to transform my fine hair right?  I liked the colourless gel shampoo formula and this cleansed my hair without leaving it feeling matted as some more detergent-like shampoos can do.  Nice soft floral scent too.

 

95) John Frieda Luxurious Volume Conditioner (44 ml/1.5 fl.oz.) - This was a thick white cream conditioner which while rich, rinsed out well, and left my hair feeling conditioned without being weighed down or limp. 

96) John Frieda Luxurious Volume Fine to Full Blowout Spray (30ml) - I'm actually more keen on trying out John Frieda's Root Booster Blow-Dry Lotion from the Luxurious Volume line because it is meant to thicken the hair strands but this one was the freebie.  I sprayed a few pumps over towel-dried hair and combed it through.  I liked the lack of stickiness and it did keep my very relaxed blow-dry in place.  I'm not a huge one for elaborate styles (my emphasis is on drying more than styling!) so I still want to try the Root Booster just to get more volume and thickness out of my no-fuss hair. 

 

Cosmetics

 

97) Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick (240 Undressed) - I've raved about Rimmel's lipsticks before and Undressed is my perfect caramel-beige nude. The Lasting Finish lippies are very pigmented and long lasting and as a lipstick lover I highly recommend them.  Honestly, these lipsticks are such good value at under 10AUD! 

 

 



Fragrance

 

98) L'Occitane Voyage En Mediterranee - Labdanum (EDP 75ml) - I am so genuinely sad to have finished this LE fragrance.  Well - almost finished.  There's one or two applications left in the bottom of the bottle I can't quite get to.  I'm going to have my husband prise open the top of the bottle because I absolutely must have the last few drops. Notes: Citrus fruits and spices, Labdanum (a woody shrub with a warm amber scent), benzoin, vanilla.

 

99) Tom Ford Sahara Noir (EDP 5ml) - This is a strange one and I always knew it was going to polarize opinions.  I grew to like it but my husband strongly disliked the rather smoky scent.  I remember it was described as an ode to incense but it more closely reminds me of wood fire.  Top notes:  "Bitter orange, Levantine cypress and cistus essence Orpur®".  Middle notes:  "Frankincence essence Orpur®, cinnamon, cool papyrus extract, rose absolute from Morocco and Egyptian jasmin with honeyed and animalic shades of beeswax from Burma".  Base notes:  "Labdanum absolute and ambreinol (an intense natural labdanum fraction), cedar, frankincense resin, benzoin, vanilla, oud and balsams".

 



And that's all for this month folks! 



What's in my fragrance wardrobe?

This is one of those "come and take a peek" type of posts where I'm sharing another little bit of my beauty-related self with you!

This time I've opened up my fragrance wardrobe to share the full sized fragrances I have on current rotation.  "On current rotation" is the thing here:  I do have a few more still in their boxes but I always worry about fragrance spoiling once it's been opened and exposed to light, heat etc. so I try and limit the number of what I have open at any given time.  Yes, I'm a department store queen when it comes to fragrance so there aren't any indie brands here - although I need to get me some education on that.  Help and recommendations please!

Clockwise from bottom left:

 L'Occitane - Voyage En Mediterranee - Labdanum (EDP 75ml)

Notes: Citrus fruits and spices, Labdanum (a woody shrub with a warm amber scent), benzoin, vanilla

I bought this scent on a whim going through the airport a few years ago because I loved its warm amber notes - amber fragrances always get my attention!  I originally wore it as a cold weather scent but now I've found it works rather well for me on warmer evenings too because it has a sensual oriental undertone to it. With its vanilla base this also works well layered over my chocolate scented Chocomania body lotion from The Body Shop to create a warm gourmand scent which isn't too sweet or cloying.  I'm just sad this is no longer readily available.  Sadly, as with L'Occitane's previous L'eau Ambree, these amber based scents have been discontinued.

Bulgari - Mon Jasmine Noir (EDP 50ml)

Notes:  lily of the valley, sambac jasmine, musky nougatine, vibrant wood

This was a gift from my husband and while the soft floral scent wouldn't have caught my nose's attention I do find it quite pleasant and easy to wear.  Jasmine seems to be the predominant note and although the fragrance is soft - I hate saying this - and inoffensively safe enough for day wear I save it for the evening - in particular date nights with my other half!

YSL - Elle Summer Edition (EDT 90ml)

Notes:  Grapefruit, sambac jasmine, pink pepper, benzoin, amber

I'm a fan of the original fruitier, woodier Elle fragrance and bought this version as my summer scent on a whim (and because it was on sale).  I like the lightness and freshness of this version but ultimately I'm a true fan of the original pink bottle with its woodier base notes.  I save this fragrance for weekend wear only - and then only for warm, sunny days!  Somehow I don't want to break the connection with this scent, summery weather and fun - go figure!

MOR - Marshmallow Perfume Oil (9ml)

Notes:  Vanilla musk, jasmine flower, sugar dipped rose petals, white carnation, cotton candy

Get the idea this is sweet scent? Yes, oh yes, and I don't particularly understand the reference to marshmallow as this fragrance definitely smells like musk candy to me.  I bought this because I actually liked the marshmallow scented hand cream but I find this is just a little too much for me.  Worn sparingly on rare occasions only!

Versace - Bright Crystal (EDT 30ml)

Notes:  Iced accord, yuzu, pomegranate, peony, magnolia, lotus flower, acajou, vegetal amber, musk

I bought my first bottle in the same size for a travel-sized scent, then liked it so much I bought another - mostly because it reminded me of that wonderful vacation.  It smells quite crisp and slightly green to me for a floral scent. Very summery and a favourite choice for the weather we've been having because I smell so fresh when I wear it.

L'Occitane - Pivoine Flora (EDT 75ml)

 Notes:  bergamot, grapefruit, green notes, peony, magnolia, violet, vanilla, cedar, musk

I bought this last spring when I was looking for a lighter, fresh scent for the season.  I love how this scent rides the balance of floral and green so while it is very feminine it still has that clean freshness that I love in the warmer months.  This is one of my everyday daytime scents because it's so versatile.  Good for the office or  worn as a casual weekend scent.  

So there you have it - you've had a little peek into my fragrance wardrobe.  I can see I'll be including some richer, warmer fragrances when the weather cools down but these are my current go to's.

What are your current favourites?

REVIEW: October's farewelled products

It probably sounds crazy but every time I have a few days off from work it seems like I have less time for the quieter pastimes like blogging - there's just way too much other stuff to do with the family!  We're nearing the end of a 4 day long weekend down here, hence my mini absence and the explanation for the lateness of the empties post.  Well, here it is now and I've surprised myself again with the amount of products I managed to finish over the past month...

Skin care

101) Neutrogena Healthy Defence Daily Moisturiser SPF 30+ (40ml)

This is my favourite facial sunscreen because it's light enough to go over my usual moisturiser without leaving my face feeling like an oil slick.  For my original review click here.

102) Maybelline Express Care Eye & Lip Makeup Remover (90ml)

Out of curiousity (and just so I don't rest on my beauty laurels) I'm currently trying out another product but I already know I'll return to this budget makeup remover.  See my original review here. 

103) Avene Eau Thermale Extremely Gentle Cleanser (200ml)

This soothing cleanser saved my skin from burning, raw irritation (here) so I can only sing its praises too.  I would certainly repurchase if my skin has another bout of sensitivity. 

104) Yes To Cucumbers Soothing Hypoallergenic Facial Towelettes (30 towelettes)

While I liked the cucumber and aloe scent I didn't love these wipes as much as I'd expected to because my skin actually felt a slightly tight and tingly after using them and I had to use a night cream afterwards.  I probably won't repurchase.

105) Missha M Signature Real Complete B.B Cream Cleansing Tissue (sample pack)

I have no idea what the ingredients are in these wipes because it's all written in Korean!  Yes, these wipes are made of delicate tissue, rather finer than the usual thicker material and they have a rather unusual, albeit not unpleasant scent about them.  They gently wiped away my makeup and I didn't feel tight after using them so that's a plus.  I have no idea on price etc after searching online so I'm a bit up in the air as to whether I'd actually go to the effort of buying a pack!

Hand and body care

106) OPI Nail Lacquer (Kalahari Khaki)

This was my first ever bottle of OPI polish so I feel a bit sad about getting rid of it.  It was used just about all the way to the bottom of the bottle so I can't complain about that!

107) OPI Original Polish Remover ( 120ml/4fl.oz)

My ninth bottle for the year. 

108) Natio Lavender and Rosemary Hand and Nail Cream (75ml/2.5fl.oz)

Natio is one of my favourite local skin care brands and this product was another winner for me. I loved the natural oil scent of this hand cream and how well it absorbed into my skin.  The 75ml tube is a good size for the handbag too so I would easily repurchase this one!

 

109) L'Occitane Ultra Rich Shower Cream with 5% Shea Butter (250ml/8.4 fl.oz) 

Oh how I looooved this stuff - so divinely creamy on my skin in the shower, and it has that wonderfully slightly nutty scent about it! Damn shame about the price cos I hate the idea of washing $30AUD of product so quickly down the drain.  I tried to make it last as long as possible by alternating with my Cetaphil cleanser so it took me a couple of months to finish, but still I'd hesitate before buying it - until I feel like another skin care splurge anyway (Gah!) 

 

110) Dove Silky Nourishment Body Cream (300ml)

The only criticism I have about this fluffy, instantly absorbed and divinely scented body cream is that it doesn't also come in a tube so it doesn't travel well - a shame because I'd love to take this budget beauty everywhere! A definite repurchase.  My full review is here.  

 

Cosmetics

111) Essence Silky Touch Blush (10 adorable)
I actually finished a blush pan! Woo-hoo! I wore this little blush almost everyday to work because it was such a soft, natural shade for me. It did need a touch up after lunch but for a product which costs a mere few dollars that is not much of a complaint really. The only reason I won't repurchase is I have "magically" accumulated quite a few blushes over the past year or so. For full review and swatches click here.

112) YSL Touche Eclat (Sample)
Using this illuminating concealer again reminded me why I'd used it for so many years - it's actually pretty good as a multi-tasker as it brightened my under eye area and provided enough coverage for areas with light redness. Ultimately the problem is the price - At $55AUD a tube this is enough to pay for three of my Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch highlighting concealers! Granted the Maybelline's not packaged in a gorgeous gilt tube but it-does-the-job. Maybe next time I travel overseas I'll consider the YSL as a duty-free indulgence but for now I'm happy doing without.

 

Fragrance

113) Herve Leger Femme EDP (50ml)
I don't normally buy my fragrance from Avon but this one wasn't too bad, although perhaps a little too sugary sweet for me to wear every day.  It's a woody-floral fragrance with notes of "...Chinese Magnolia, Sicilian pink grapefruit, orange blossom, honeywood, hot benzoin tears (what?!?), cypress and vanilla." In terms of the packaging I do like the bandage bottle design which is synonymous with Herve Leger.

So, that's it for another month of beauty consumption!

Vita :) 
 

REVIEW: June's farewelled products

We're officially half way through the year.  Not sure if I should be cheering or crying?!  I STILL haven't finished my lipstick ban but I have finished these bits and pieces over the past month - I swear I have nearly finished that ban.  It's just that long lasting lipsticks are, well, so long lasting (even in the tube!)...

Skin care

56) Yes to Blueberries Age Refresh Brightening Facial Towelettes (30 towelettes)

These wipes had quite a tart scent because of the apple and lemon peel included in the organic blueberry formula. Honestly? These are the least impressive cleansing wipes I've tried so far - they're not as moist as some so sometimes one wipe wasn't quite enough and they left my skin feeling a little tight,  meaning I had to use a night cream afterwards to feel comfortable.  One plus is the resealable flip-top opening but I definitely won't be repurchasing these.

57) Yes to Blueberries Age Refresh Daily Repairing Moisturiser (1.7 fl.oz/50ml)

Sweetly scented and very rich, I only needed a tiny amount to moisturise my face so it went a long way.  I learnt very quickly to be careful not to overdo it because it could become greasy and filmy on the skin. Good value for those who want their moisturiser minus the SPF and a single pump of the bottle dispenses just the right amount.  Nice but not special enough for me to repurchase.

58) L'Oreal Gentle Make-up Remover for Eyes & Lips (125ml)

I used this bottle up just to clear out my backlog of products.  It's a good, effective and gentle makeup remover but you probably know I've now switched my love to Maybelline's slightly cheaper, and much better packaged version.  I've got no more of these up my sleeve and I won't repurchase unless Maybelline discontinue their makeup remover!

59) Biotherm Age Fitness Power2 Active Smoothing Care (0.16fl.oz/5ml sample)

This teeny weeny tube gave me just enough product for three mornings and I was already seduced on the first morning!  The cream is light and absorbs easily into the skin and the scent - it's like a shower fresh wake me up - I loooved it.  I've read that this cream contains pure olive leaf concentrate, pure olive extracts and antioxidants and is targeted at reducing the signs of aging.  I'm intrigued enough to put it on my wish list.

Hand and body care

60) Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturising Lotion (12fl.oz/354ml)

This lotion was 'prescribed' to me by my doctor a few months ago when I was suffering with dry, itchy, hyper-sensitive skin.  This thick lotion contains natural colloidal oatmeal to provide long lasting soothing moisture and menthol for its cooling anti-itch properties. The minty menthol scent thankfully fades away quickly so it doesn't clash with any perfume.  It was a godsend when I was suffering and I slathered it from shoulders to ankles.  I would definitely use this again if I have another bout of sensitive, itchy skin.

61) Palmer's Skin Smoothing Lotion with Alpha/Beta Hydroxy & Shea butter (250ml - 8.5fl. oz)

This the second bottle I've finished for the year because it effectively controls my ongoing keratosis.  Yep, I'm onto my third bottle!

62) Manicare Nail Polish Remover (125ml)

Of course I have to include an empty bottle of polish remover in my monthly empties! The formula in this budget remover includes acetone with tea tree oil and vitamin E.  Slightly less effective than my usual OPI but I'll turn to this as a good cheaper alternative. 

Cosmetics

63) Essence Glossy Lipbalm (Pink Dragonfruit)
Here's the proof I've finally finished my lip gloss ban! This lovely fruity scented gloss was a juicy, vibrant pink with an almost indetectible shimmer and I know it only cost me a few dollars. Cheap and cheerful but sadly I think these have been discontinued in Australian stores at least. I'd definitely snap up more if they were still available here because the little tubes are so easy to tote around in my pocket.

64) YSL Touche Eclat (01)
The last one in my stash and the end of an era in my own beauty journey.  I used to swear by these luxe illuminating concealers for years until I discovered other newer, cheaper, and frankly better coverage versions. This was the first of its kind so it was groundbreaking when it was launched. Even though I've moved on I'll remember it fondly...

65) Rimmel Volume Flash x 10 Mascara (001 Black)
I don't want to tell you exactly how long I've been using this budget mascara - just know it's been way too long because it just goes on and on and on... It promises up to 10 x more volume and this creamy mascara does a pretty darn good job at thickening the lashes.  If I have to be picky about it, I did find it was a little too wet when I first used it so the formula needed to dry up a little to get the perfect creamy consistency.  At around $10AUD I would definitely repurchase. 

 

Fragrance

 

66) Narciso Rodriguez For Her Musc Collection EDP LE (.04fl.oz/1,2 ml sample)
I'm a fan of Narciso's Essence Eau de Musc and got this as a free sample when I made my Eau de Musc purchase. This fragrance has "...dominant aromas of musk, with aromas of ylang-ylang, jasmine and orange blossom". 

That's it for another month of empties!

Vita :)

Lipstick/lipgloss ban update (and a little wishlist)

For my Friday night post I thought I'd give you an update on how I'm going with my lip product ban - and to help motivate me to get there!

At the start of the year I pledged to finish 5 lipsticks and 5 lip glosses to make at least a small dent in my collection before I bought more of each.  Well, I've been at it for 6 months now and I can finally see that proverbial light at the end of the tunnel getting bigger and brighter.  7 down, 3 to go...

Let's have a look at the 'lovely' (actually a bit icky, sorry!)  lipstick stubs - Rimmel Asia and MAC Crosswires.  I'm wearing Asia almost every day lately because it's such a versatile shade but as it's a long lasting lipstick formula I don't need to reapply all that often and it's taking ages to get there - obviously the Rimmel Lasting Finish lipsticks are ridiculously good value for money!  The coral Crosswires is a MAC Cremesheen so it's a softer, glossier formula and you can probably tell it's broken at the base of the stub and has become a bit mashed in the tube.  This seems to be a common problem I have with this formula, they invariably break at the base.  At least it's about two-thirds of the way there now so I'm getting pretty close! 

L-R:

Rimmel - Asia

MAC - Crosswires

Now I've only got one of my nominated lip glosses to finish but it looks like it's got competition!  It's either going to be the pink Dragonfruit Glossy Lipbalm from Essence or my nude creme Berry Heavy Rotation Enamel Gloss...

L-R:

Essence - Dragonfruit

Heavy Rotation - Berry

Do I have a wishlist for when I finally finish? Yes I do!  I want...

Chanel Glossimer - Wild Rose

And...

YSL Rouge Volupte - Forbidden Burgundy - Thanks Larie!

What's on your lipstick/lip gloss wishlist?

Until next time

Vita :)