Ms Bubu and Her Girlyness

Hale & Hearty products review

2012-05-21T16:31:00.006+01:00

Since I started my weight loss journey this winter, I'm always on the lookout for healthy alternatives and to vary my diet. I have never been what I would consider a health freak or granola girl before. But since I started adding a few healthier choices in my diet, I realized that I like it! So why not continue on this right track?

I have been offered the chance to try some Hale & Hearty agave syrup. I thought this would be a good way to replace brown sugar in my porridge/weetabix. Hale & Hearty sent me 2 of their agave syrups: Original and Maple. They also sent me a pack of their 4 Grain Pancake Mix (well, that's a good excuse to try syrups, now!).

Hale & Hearty is a company that provides "delicious food as part of a diet free from wheat, gluten and dairy." They have a few pantry basics such as: syrups, pasta, cereals, etc.

I like the syrup, you can use them absolutely everywhere you would put sugar: tea, coffee, baking, etc. Overall, I try to avoid sugar, I don't put any in my coffee, sometimes I do in tea. But you still need a bit of sweetness in life! So for me, it's bye brown sugar in my breakfast and hello agave maple flavoured syrup.

What I like about the agave maple flavoured syrup is that it doesn't pretend to be actual maple syrup. Being Canadian, it offends me to see on the shelf a product that claims to be "maple syrup" only to discover it's actually corn syrup with a tiny bit of maple... You know, I hate false pretense!

On to the 4 Grain Pancake Mix. I liked the fact it was relatively quick to make. I did make them in a pan that was not non-sticky, and I made a mess out of it... Next time I will use another pan. It feels weird to me to eat pancakes with grains in them. It's good, but to me it's not natural.

Hale & Hearty can be found in most UK supermarkets and also online.

Quebec Haul part 1: Winners and Charity Shops

2012-05-18T16:45:00.011+01:00

As the title of this post suggests, this is going to be part 1 of I don't know how many haul posts. I'm going to try to make it not too much, but shopping as I did lately it's going to be a few.

Combination of me getting back to my normal size (more on that later), Canadian stores not in London (or stocking way better things, La Senza I'm looking at you!) and being with my friend Mel made me flash my credit card!

First place I went to was Winners. I used to live just right across it, and in London, I'm always in TK Maxx (the UK equivalent) so it was just normal to pop in there. Well, you're going to see a few patterns in my shopping...

First, I saw this gorgeous fluoro pink top (12$) and it just screamed my name. There's something about bold colours that soothes my eyes...

And then I saw this cute blue jacket. It was on sale (20$), and suit me, I grabbed it!

This one, I really have a good excuse! I was looking for a navy blue mac, and you have to admit it is stunning! It was not too expensive, but still a little more than the other things, a luxury essential (80$). And I am a sucker for nice linings...

Then I went charity shopping. First stop Village des Valeurs (Value Village). I first got this DKNY jacket (13$). Do you see the pattern now??

And I got those leather gloves (5$), as I cannot find the ones I bought this winter anymore. I have my idea on who took it, but anyway! If you read it and recognise yourself...

I thought I was finished I took a last stroll and found this beauty. Silk and sequins (10$)!

After that I went to my secret spot, I say it's secret but no one dares to go, but you find real good gems there. Like this silk top (4$). It's really sexy, can't wait to show it off!

And this paisley scarf (0.50$). Love the royal blue!

That's it for part 1. Hopefully, you enjoyed it. Let me know if you shopped a lot lately and leave me your haul links!

Update!

2012-05-16T21:34:00.002+01:00

I have been a bad blogger lately. Part of it is due to my going back to Canada, to visit friends and family. I also had a few technical difficulties. But now I finally have Internet on my own laptop and not my mum's (notice how you cannot function on someone else's computer?)

I arrived last week, staying in Quebec City at my friend Mel's place for a few days. She threw me a party on Friday and we also went out. I almost got into a cat fight with a girl, I have to say it would've been my fault but it feels so good to be outspoken in French! Anyway, it makes up for good memories!

I am now at my parent's place. They have this massive property which is also a ranch; I will try to post pictures of that! My mum says my dad is Dr Doolittle, they have so many animals and they all cling to him!

Anyway, in the next few posts I will have:
-Hauls (lots of it, I shopped til I dropped)! I went to Bath & Body Works!!!
-Reviews
-Weight loss update
-Shopping my stash at my parent's (yep, long seen makeup...I don't mind)

What are you girls been up to?

I'm on Talk Perfection! Do you have luscious lips?

2012-05-04T10:38:00.002+01:00

Talk Perfection has asked me to write a guest post on my tips and products for luscious lips. My first guest post, how exciting!

You can read the article here, and let us know your own tips!

Contagious Clubwear Pacha Bikini

2012-04-23T13:50:00.003+01:00

Hi lovelies!

I'm sorry I have been neglecting my blog lately. There`s just so many things going on in my life that even when I say I will blog on (insert day here), there's always something else coming my way. I'm not giving up blogging, but I'm just trying to work out when I can do so.

I was kindly sent a Contagious Clubwear Pacha Bikini by Aimee (she also blogs: http://www.dream1ncolour.com/). Well, that's the one I chose. Contagious Clubwear offer a variety of clubwear (yep) clothing, accessories and swimwear. They really have some original and "out there" pieces. Perfect for standing out in a crowd!

I was more attracted by the Pacha style, as it is more classic, yet with its holographic effect it is fun. Mine is black, but it also comes in pink and white.

I was really impressed by the quality of the bikini. I compare them with the others bikinis I've have before and this one has the best quality. It is stretchy but firm, which means everything will stay into place. It is also fully lined, as to not go see-through when wet (especially when you order the white one!). The holographic effect is spot on.

As I hadn't had the chance to go somewhere hot since receiving this, I cannot vouch for the long-term here. I'm actually looking forward to go to Greece with my friend Mel this summer, hopefully I'll be able to show it then! Also, when I received it, I was a size L, and I have dropped a few sizes since. Thank God for drawstring bikinis!

The bikini comes in a little plastic pouch, handy to carry in your luggage in case yours get wet!

Pacha is £25, and Contagious Clubwear bikinis range from £25-30.

What are your summer plans? Are you bikini ready?

PR Sample

Lush Face Mask and Workshop

2012-04-03T15:35:00.007+01:00

Yesterday I have been to my face mask workshop in Lush.

The mask we did (and got to take home) was Catastrophe Cosmetic, as it suits most skin type and is packed with antioxydants (like green tea, hence the link to Clippers).

Dubbed your best mate in a pot, Catastrophe contains blueberries (yum), Irish moss gel, almond oil, rose absolute and chamomile oil. It is a deep cleansing mask that can be used on a regular basis.

Making the mask was pretty simple, and all 4 of us taking part in the workshop got to do it. It was kind of therapeutic to knead the paste.

While the misture was setting, we all got to have a facial massage using Lush products, and of course, the mask! Every one of us was so relaxed afterwards that when our Lush hosts were asking us questions, we were totally zoned out!

The products used for our facials

We also got to chose a few samples of the products we wanted to try home. Since I saw one fof Amarixe's monthly favourite videos, I wanted to try the Lovely Jubblies cream. I was also tempted to try the Angels on Bare Skin cleanser and I Love Juicy shampoo.

Final result!

It was all good fun and I recommend it to anyone who likes Lush products! You can find more details on my Lush Face Mask Workshop with Clippers post.

Let me know if you go, or intend to go!

March Empties

2012-04-02T14:00:00.004+01:00

Oh God, a little bit more than a month before I go back to Canada! I have to go back to sort out visa stuff, hopefully everything will be alright (knock on wood)!

So I continue to try to finish my products. This month was a so-so month, I thought I would have more, but Oh well, I'll do better in April!

Clockwise:

Dermalogica Multivitamin Thermafoliant: I like products that "heat", I think the thermal effect is so soothing. This was a good facial scrub, not too harsh, with the typical Dermalogica smell.

Repurchase: Yes.

Radox Shower Smoothies Energy Therapy: The shower gel is good, but I got tired of the smell. It is really manly. It is energising, but I would rather have a citrusy smell that would be more feminine.

Repurchase: No, because of the smell.

Lush Snow Fairy Shower Gel: This is one of the best selling Christmas products at Lush and I can see why. I has a sweet scent,maybe for some it is sickly sweet. A good Christmas time treat.

Repurchase: Yes, next year I will repurchase.

Gilette Satin Care Shave Gel: I got this with my eppilator last year. It was the first time in eons that I used shaving gel, as I don't shave. I still used it with the epilator, it does the job.

Repurchase: Yes, but might try to look for something cheaper.

L'Oréal Lumi Magique Foundation: I received the sample in N4 Pure Beige and it suits me. I like how weightless the foundation is.

Repurchase: I might purchase it, but I'm not a fan of L'Oréal.

Arbonne Ultra-Hydrating Hand Creme: I really liked this hand creme, it's light, sinks in quick and has a fresh smell.

Repurchase: Yes, but I have so many creme to finish before.

Let me know how you did on the empties this month!

Achieving Goal!

2012-03-28T14:12:00.005+01:00

If you are "playing" Weight Watchers, you know what I mean!

I started Weight Watchers 7 weeks ago, for medical reasons. When you start the programme, they give you a first weight loss goal to achieve in your own time frame. This goal is usually 5% of your initial weight. When you achieve it, you have another one (10%), and then it's the ultimate goal.

I have achieved my 5% goal this weekend. It feels incredible! What's even better is that I'm not too far from my 10% goal either! My weight loss has been really steady, nothing too drastic. Which is better, as I know I am having an healthier lifestyle, and changing my bad habits for good ones instead of just following fad diets.

Here are a few things that helped me so far:

I have reduced the amount of coffee and tea I consumed. I now drink more green tea.
Walking. I have never been a sporty girl, so for me to just decide to go crazy on fitness is unrealistic. But I always enjoyed walking. I can go for hours and I don't get bored.
Chromium tablets. I have taken those years ago to curb my sugar (read chocolate) cravings and it was effective. I don't know why I stopped. But I just started again and I don't feel the need for chocolate or sweets.
Oatmeal. I always loved oatmeal, but I didn't like to clean the pan after each use. Now I just put the kettle on, pour hot water in the bowl, put a little milk. It tastes the same to me. I used to see a difference between oatmeal made with water vs made with milk, but now it's fine. So that means no more pan to clean in the morning!
Dance classes. I have tried a few different ones, but the one I stick to is Street Jazz. I like how we have a warming period, workout, then we practice the steps and then the choregraphy. My teacher is really good, he knows I'm not a dancer, but he still pushes me out of my comfort zone (and still be encouraging).

Are you also trying to lose weight? Or just to have a general healthier lifestyle? Let me know your tips!

January and February Empties

2012-03-19T13:17:00.005Z

I know it's almost time to do the March Empties, but since I hadn't got the opportunity yet to talk about the first 2 months of the year, I will do it now. I always try to use what I have started first and writing posts about it motivates me even more. So I am now sharing with you January and February's Empties:

Clockwise:

Unknown Brand Face Wipes: I am not a big fan of face wipes, but I always seem to receive them to test. I know it is not really useful to you as I don't know which brand it is but I include them in the empties because it feels good to finish a product anyway! Those were not exceptional, nothing to write home about.

Repurchase: Even if I knew the brand, I wouldn't. Plain ordinary wipes.

Baptiste Original Dry Shampoo: This is the first dry shampoo I tried (back a few months ago). It is alright, the scent is nice, but having tested a few other since, I feel this one leaves a bigger cast than the others.

Repurchase: No, I prefer the Klorane one.

L'Occitane Fleur Chérie Hand Cream: I got this purse sized hand cream in Marie Claire last year. I really liked the smell, so I tried to make it last, as I thought it was limited edition. I like L'Occitane products, and this one as well. At first, I thought the cream was too rich to put during daytime, but I realized that even though it is, it doesn't take forever to sink in.

Repurchase: Yes, I like how moisturizing it is and the smell too.

Cien Deo Sensitive: I don't really have sensitive skin, so I cannot really testify for this claim. I bought this because the scent is fresh yet sophisticated, But unfortunately, I didn't like the deodorant. I'm usually picky about them, so I don't really know why I bought one at Lidl. Probably because the other products from the brands that I have tried were good. But I guess for this one you get what you pay for. It might be good for someone who doesn't perpire a lot, but I'm not lucky like them!

Repurchase: No, it didn't "protect" me enough.

Nivea Happy Time Bamboo Milk & Orange Blossom Cream Shower: I always think it is hard to review a shower gel. What is there to talk about except smell and lather? This one did the job alright, I don't have anything particular to say about it.

Repurchase: No, I still have a few shower gel bottles to finish.

L'Oréal Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base: This is an ok product, but I would've like it to make my makeup stay for longer. I think that for the price, it should do more.

Repurchase: No, for the price, I prefer Mememe Seventh Heaven Face Base

Chap Ice Leashables Tropical Lip Balm: I'm not sure why this is called Tropical, as it smells like vanilla to me. It smells good, it does well, the only thing I don't like is the texture. Too hard and waxy for me. I prefer lip balm that melts and are easy to apply.

Repurchase: No, too hard.

Benefit Ring my Bella Perfume: I was glad when I have been given a sample of this perfume. This is the type of smell that I like: fresh and fruity. If you like the Escada perfumes, you should like this one (and it's not limited to a season, thus easier to find)!

Repurchase: Even though I really like this perfume, I wouldn't purchase it because I have a few Escada perfumes that are too similar, so I will use them instead of buying more.

Avon Astonishing Lengths Mascara: I think this mascara has a misleading name as I think it was more volumizing than lengthening. But it was fine by me, as I prefer giving my lashes volume instead of length. I also liked that it was a liquidy mascara.

Repurchase: I would, as I liked it, but for now I have other mascaras to finish, that are similarly good.

Clearasil Ultra All in 1 Wash and Mask: Well, I received this sample as part of their big "skincare mystery", so when I tried it I didn't know for sure it was Clearasil. The product is ok, but it reminds me a lot of the Neutrogena Visibly Clear 2 in 1 Wash and Mask. They both had the same smell, consistency and blueish colour. They are both ok products, but I'm not a fan of 2 in 1 products.

Repurchase: No, I don't like a mask that stays wet on the face.

Nair Ultra Hair Removal Cream: I go through a lot of those hair removal cream in the winter as I can't be bothered to use my epilator on long hair. Nair is one of my favourite brand for those cream and I used this one type a lot. Cannot fault it except for the smell, but then again all depilatory creams stink.

Repurchase: Yes.

How about you? Are you doing well on the Empties front?

PixiGlow and Tinkerbell Collection

2012-03-15T11:06:00.009Z

Pixi just released their new Tinkerbell collection. I always thought Tinkerbell is a fairy with lots of attitude (well she's jealous of Wendy) and that makes her more real in a way than the other interchangeable Disney characters! What do you think about her?

The collection is good mix a neutral colors with a romantic twist. My favourite product from it is the Fairy Face Palette Pixi Belle. If you liked the UD NAKED Palette but thought that the colours were a little bland, well this one is more vibrant, with 6 rosy neutrals eyeshadows. It also has 5 lipglosses and a 3-colour blusher.

Another product I really like from the line is the Straight on Till Morning Liner, a Khaki green with golden sparkle liner. It is a good alternative to browns and goes well with green and brown eyes!

The Catching Shadows Crayon is a good basic to have to use underneath your shadow or by itself. The beige colour will look nice with everything!

The Fairy Dust in Moonlight Luster will be great to add a dramatic touch to evening looks. But if you have a steady hand, you can also use it as a highlighter.

The Magic Tink Tint in Happy Thought Pink is a pink lip crayon that develops differently on each person. I am not sure I like this, as when I like something on someone and would like the same effect, I know this will be different on me. (If that makes sense?) But it is nice to know that not everyone and their mothers will have the same shade.

Last but not least is the Pirouette Pink Nail Colour. A neon pink (Nicki Minaj-esque) with tiny gold flecks. It is a nice colours, I can see myself wearing this with a tan this summer. I can't help myself to think that it's kinda different from the rest of the line, with all those neutral, romantic colours...

All in all, I certainly will be wearing these with all the pastel goodness the high street is offering us for Spring (I'm eyeing those pink jeans from Zara)!

The PixiGlow Tinkerbell collection is currently available on Pixi, ASOS and Boots websites.

Free Lush Face Mask and Workshop with Clipers Tea!

2012-03-12T18:14:00.004Z

If you love tea and Lush products, you're going to be spoilt! I just found this offer on Clippers green tea boxes (about £2). With promotional packet, you can book a blueberry facemask workshop at Lush (selected stores).

From what I have seen on forums, all the Lush store should run promotional workshops, but you have to book an appointment on Lush's website in order to go. You also have to bring the promotionnal packaging on the day.

This workshop and mask is worth £15. A good deal if you are drinking green tea!

Have you been to a Lush workshop before?

Comparative Review: Palmer's Cocoa Butter Skin Therapy Oil vs Bio-Oil

2012-03-08T14:45:00.006Z

When I first received the Palmer's Cocoa Butter Skin Therapy Oil, I thought the claims of the products were very similar to those of Bio-Oil:

"Formulated to help improve the appearance of:

Scars
Stretch Marks
Dry, damaged skin
Uneven skin tone
Aging skin"

So I decide to compare both of them. I have been testing the oils for a few weeks now, and I can say they are pretty much similar. Both leaves the skin equally soft. The Bio-Oil sinks in more quickly than the Palmer's one though. As for their scents, Bio-Oil reminds me of ginger snaps cookies and Palmer's has the brand's distinctive cocoa/chocolaty smell. I prefer the latter, just because I love chocolate, and spicy scents are not my favourite.

I don't have a lot of stretch marks and comparing the products effect on scars would be tricky as no scars are really similar. Also, I don't have lots of skin problems (I'm still fairly young) but my leg's skin was dry lately, due to the cold we had last month. Both products helped me regain the moisture I needed. A good scrub+ body oil= leg perfection!

A plus that the Palmer's Skin Therapy Oil has vs the Bio-Oil is that it's cheaper. 150ml of Palmer's Skin Tehrapy Oil is £9.49 and 125ml of Bio-Oil is £14.99 (at Boots).

Have you tried any of these oils? Or any other ones?

PR Sample (Palmer's Skin Therapy Oil)

Tag Me Tag you

2012-03-07T13:58:00.007Z

I have been tagged by Lisa-Jane from The Brunette Diaries to do the Tag Me-Tag You post. This tag has a few rules:

1) You must post 11 random things about yourself;
2) Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post;
3) Create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer;
4) Go to their blog and tell them you've tagged them;
5) No stuff about 'you're tagged if you're reading this' - legitimately tag people.

So first, the 11 random things:

I don't have a middle name.
But I have two last names, which can be annoying.
I am proud to walk with my feet parallel to each other and not in a V shape like ducks (and some people).
I like to mimic people.
I buy too many candles.
I lost 10 lbs in 12 weeks (and still counting)
When I was a kid, my mum had to tie me to my chair to make me eat because I was hyperactive. (But don't think she's mean!)
I have been wearing glasses since the age of 3.
I like charity shopping!
I have studied German in university for two semester.
I studied in Berlin for two months.

And then, Lisa-Jane's questions:

1) If you were given £100 today and had to spend it tomorrow what you buy?

Probably a combination of clothes, shoes, beauty products and candles at TK Maxx. I'm always browsing there these days!

2) What is your favourite item of clothing in your wardrobe and why is it your favourite?

My skull t-shirt, because it is cool and makes my belly look flat!

3) David Beckham, Jonathan Ross, Chico - snog marry avoid???

Pass! I never understand those question and the only one I know is Beckham. Actually make it Becham: snog and marry! Sorry Posh!

4) If you could donate money to only one charity what would it be?

Mira. It is a guide dog charity in Quebec and I like dogs and I think them helping blind people is so noble.

5) What is your favourite saying and why?

Tomorrow is another day. I try to live by it, but I'm struggling, i would love to be able to forget about things that annoy me.

6) Do you believe in UFOS'/aliens?

No. I find them boring.

7) What one thing would you change about yourself and what one thing do you love about yourself?

I would stop worrying for everything. I like the fact i can accomplish big things, like moving abroad. Even though it scares me, I'm proud of it!

8) Marmite - Love it or hate it?

Hate it.

9) What is your job and do you like it?

I'm a Press Assitant for a Tourist Office, helping journalists to publish articles about our destination. Yes, I like it, I have always read magazines and now I'm part of it!

10) Which one male and one female celebrity would you like to banish forever?

Good question! Justin Bieber? Miley Cyrus. Just because they appeal to a generation younger than me, I don't quite get them I would say.

11) Best holiday you have ever been on?

When I did a mini tour of Europe in 2008. I did a pub crawl and I just let my hair down!

My 11 questions:

Do you have any allergies, and to what?
What's your biggest dream?
The achievement you're most proud of?
Which celebrity would you like to be friends with and why?
Which magazines do you read?
Rock, paper or scisor?
Who would play you in the movie of your life?
Lipgloss or mascara?
Your next holiday destination is?
Tell me what made your day today.
Do you believe in life after death?

And I tag:

Gaby, Judy-Ann and Amelia!

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Glamour Freebie

2012-03-06T14:31:00.011Z

Follow my blog with BloglovinI'm glad good magazines freebies are back! It seems like ages ago that we weren't spoilt on the freebie front.

This month, Glamour is offering a choice of 4 Percy & Reed hair products: Splendidly Silky Shampoo and Conditioner, Quite Frankly Flawless Finishing Polish , or Totally TLC Rehydrating Mask.

I got the conditionner with my subscriber copy and picked up a shampoo with another one. I have tried the conditioner a few times and like it, but only tried the shampoo once yet. I like the fact that both have the same fragrance, I find it weird when matching shampoo and condition don't have matching scents!

Each product is worth on average £10.

Other freebies to look out for this month is Cosmopolitan offering 2 sample size Clinique products and Marie Claire giving away Neal's Yard Rehydrating Rose Daily Moisture.

What magazines (and freebies) have you picked up lately?

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Dirty Pretty Things Pop Up Shop

2012-03-03T11:20:00.010Z

Selfridges is now the host of the Dirty Pretty Things Pop Up shop, showcasing the brand's Spring/Summer 12 collection, as well as their collaboration with jewellery designe Stephen Webster.

Designers Claire Merry (DPT), Stephen Webster and Dee Murren (DPT), proud to launch their collaboration

I had the chance to visit the shop in its early days, and was amazed by the garments. If you like the "glam rock" style and neon colours, this will be worth checking out for you. Every piece is sexy and modern, with a tough edge to it (be it python prints, neon pink, shabby-chic bird prints, etc.)

The Eloise style is having a Stephen Webster makeover!

The pop up shop in Selfridges also offer exclusive pieces, such as the DPT collaboration with jewellery designe Stephen Webster. This collaboration sees their best selling Eloise style re-vamped with Webster's Envy pendant`s style. This gives us a cheekey bra made of silk and mesh winking in sahara crystals. The matching brief features teardrop crystals.

James Meller, one of the last in the underwear industry in the UK

During my visit I also had the chance to chat to James Meller, who is the director of the factory that produces the Dirty Pretty Things pieces. Mr Meller has been in the industry since his teen, and is running one of the last factory making underwear in the UK.

DPT's Spring/Summer 12 collection

The pop up shop is now running until 11th March in Selfridges.

Tell me, where do you like to buy fancy underwear?

Uniqlo Laura Ashley Tea Party

2012-02-28T15:32:00.003Z

This is a reader's event organised by Stylist with Uniqlo to celebrate the launch of their new Laura Ashley Limited Archive Collection. Last time, I promised I will try to keep you updated before I go to one of these events, so this is it!

It will be held on Thursday March 1st from 7-9pm at the Uniqlo flagship store (311 Oxford Street). Of course, cocktails and cupcakes will be offered as well as 20% discount and a gift with purchase.

To sign up for the event, visit the Uniqlo website.

See you there!

Pixiwoo's Lunchtime Masterclass Tomorrow

2012-02-23T16:18:00.003Z

It seems that the Pixiwoo sisters are eveywhere these days! Well, good for them!

If you fancy a chat with them, about launching a beauty business, be sure to pop on stylist.co.uk, as their weekly business masterclass will feature the sibblings.

Do you like Pixiwoos? Have you tried Samantha's Real Techniques brushes? Let me know!

Bjorn Borg Says Ja! to Turning the Lights Off

2012-02-21T16:33:00.013Z

Hi lovelies!

I don't like to do this, but I will do it anyway: I am sorry for the lack of post in the past weeks. Yes, every blogger says this now and then, and I am going to say it as well. The past few weeks has been busy and to be quite frank, a roller coaster of emotions. I don't want to talk about this more at the moment, but I do apologize for my absence of the blogosphere.

Well, one of the highs of the past few weeks has been being invited to the Bjorn Borg event last Thursday at the Battersea Power Station. I had no idea this would be this huge! Well, it was actually Sweden recreated in the Station: saunas, igloos, sleek wooden furniture, meatballs, good-looking people...
When I was invited to the event, I was under the impression that Swedish designer Bjorn Borg was cattering to men only. I was wrong, and glad I was because the collection is just what I like: fun and colourful. Male and females models were "unleashed" to roam the venue and play along with people, dance and even throwing pillow fights! All of this in underwear and bikinis! I think this was really dynamic and suited the young feeling of the collection. When all the guests were starting to let their hair down and get into the fun spirit, the catwalk show was on. The result of the autumn/winter 2012 collection? There again, lots of neon bright colours! LOVE!

Right after the catwalk show, everyone was invited outside (bbbbbbrrr, cold!) for a special surprise. A 4D projection. Smoke was hovering in the air, lighted by green lights. This gave a really nice "aurora" effect, in which a video showcasing the collection was projected. I've never seen anything like this before, it was like Christmas again!

Have you been to any Fashion Week show? What is your favourite designer?

Saturday's Stuff I Like

2012-02-04T20:27:00.006Z

This week was better than last week, thank God! But I still want to look on the bright side, and continue this series of things i have been liking this week.

Cupcakes

Well, I always like cupcakes, but this week was a cupcake filled one! I made those a few days ago, and I also got some at every event I went this week.

Press/blogger events

Which leads me to the second thing I enjoyed this weeks, events. It seems that all of them were concentrated this week, as I had 3! That never happened to me to have more than one event in the same week. I also liked the fact I met nice bloggers!

Cashmere jumpers

This week was so freezing, I couldn't do without these! I absolutely adore the ice cream colour. Also, the pink one was a Christmas present from my man (he has good taste!)

Leopard Prints

I just love leopard prints! The fashion magazines had tried to steer us away from it saying the in print of the winter was snakesprint, but I'm not buying it! Leopard it is :)

Free Stuff

Well who doesn't like free stuff? i got the cowboy boots on Freecycle 2 weeks ago. I still have to polish them, but they are nice quality, leather cowboy boots. I got the cashemere jumper (another one) yesterday, when I went to Portobello Road Market. The seller was asking £1 for it because of an imperfection, but I spotted another one so he gave it to me! Was nice of him!

What about you? Let me know your favourites!

#zomgbloggerbash

2012-02-02T16:05:00.010Z

Me sporting ZOMG!

I was very lucky to have been invited to the #zomgbloggerbash organized by Zoe and Rockalily to celebrate hte launch of their collaborative lipstick, ZOMG! I heard a lot about the brand before, but have never tried it, so I was definitively curious to discover the products!

I arrived there knowing nobody, which is quite daunting. But the girls had organised a "blogger bingo", where each person had a card and had to find people corresponding to the description in each box. 2 full lines gave you the opportunity to be in a prize draw!

After some time, I have met a few bloggers and was at ease. The conversations started to be more personnal and not just "bingo-based"! I was really lucky to meet Natalia, who, you guessed it by her blog name, is writing a novel! She also works for a daily paper, but I don't remember which one, so don't want to risk saying stupid things! I spent most of the night talking to Rosie and Lisa, and I also spotted a few famous bloggers such as Vivianna, Gem, Lily and probably others that I don't know about but who are famous! But the highlight for me was to have a chance to say hi to Gemma from Gemsmaquillage! She's my favourite blogger/Youtuber!

There were a few stations to visit during the evening, such as a vanity with the Rockalily lippies that we could try, one to try on some wigs and take pictures, and a cupcake decorating station! How cool is that? Every blogger loves cupcakes, but it's nice to put the amount of icing and candies we want on it. And yes, we were allowed to go overboard with the icing!

Of course I got the chance to talk to Zoe, who was, understandably, excited and nervous!

At the end of the evening, ReeRee did the prize draw and I won this cute hair pin from You're Naked Without One!

On our way home, we were treated to 2 burlesque performances. The dancers were amazing, and so much body-confident! I wish I would be able to expose myself like them! It was really empowering! Unfortunately, my pictures weren't great as I was at the back of the room.

I have enjoyed my evening so much, I wish I will be attending similar events in the future!

Have you attended the #zomgbloggerbash? Have you been to any lovely event lately?

Dancing on Ice Hair Tutorial

2012-01-30T16:30:00.010Z

Have you watched Dancing on Ice yesterday evening? I have to say: wow for the Jorgie/Matthew duel! It was so full of energy!

I was challenged to do a hair tutorial from Dancing on Ice using Schwarzkopf Osis + products. I like bloggers challenges and I love German products, so I couldn't pass this on!

While I really liked Jorgie's performance, I decided to do a version of Chemmy Alcott's curly ponytail. I think this hairstyle let the healthyness of the hair shine and also is really easy to wear on a daily basis (I'm wearing it at the moment).

I used: Osis + Shine Duster Velvet Shine Powder, Osis + Elastic Finish Flexible Hold Hairspray, Osis + Twin Curl 2-Phase Curl Cream, Osis + Body Me Volume Fullifying Volume Serum, hairbands, bobby pins, and a backcombing comb.

I started with freshly washed hair. I comb it through and smoothed it.

I then put some Fullifying Volume Serum and blow-dry my hair upside down, for more volume. While blow-drying the hair, I scrunched it a little bit, to give it some movement.

I didn't dry all my hair, as I wanted to make them curl during the night. I used Bubzbeauty's Non Heat Deep Wave Tutorial to make my curls. Before making the mini-bums, I put the Twin Curl 2-Phase Curl Cream on my lengths. I let it dry overnight with the mini-buns all over my head.

This morning, I proceeded to take off all the hairbands, My head was half curly, half wavy. I guess I slept more on one side than the other :(

To finish the look, I backcomb a section on top of my head, and pinned it with bobby pins. Then I secure this section and the rest of my hair in a high ponytail. I finished the style with some Shine Duster Velvet Shine Powder and a spritz of Elastic Finish Flexible Hold Hairspray.

This is the final result! I never do anything much with my hair, so it's good to change it! Thanks to Schwarzkopf for the challenge, and the products live up to my expectations of German high standards :)

How do you like the styles of Dancing on Ice? Do you like to re-create celebrity's looks? Link below if you do!

Pr Samples

Matalan Clearance Store

2012-01-29T17:05:00.006Z

Have you ever been to a Matalan Clearance Store? I decided to pop in yesterday and it was madness! I think I have never set foot in a Matalan store before. But this time, I told myself why not?

As I was expecting, the place was not tidy, you had rails of mismatched things in no particular order, and no size order either. There were rails and rails of stuff, mostly not interresting, but like the other places were you have to rummage around, you might find something that will make your day!

And it did! Most of the garments were under the £4 mark. On top of that, a selection of items were "buy one, get one free". I thought that almost all the store were "BOGOF", as there were signs on every rail, and there were no details about the specifics, except the obvious "the free item is the cheapeast one". I ended up having four of those in my selection. I discarded one of them in the end, as I wasn't sure it would suit me.

The reason why is that the place has no fitting rooms. Or at least, I haven't seen any. And further more, there is no mirrors. I think their plan is: "We're making it so cheap, take it home to try it and then return if it's not fitting". And I think most people don't bother returning the items that don't fit. That would explain why there are so many of their clothes in car boot sale!

I'm sure you want to see what I bought, and not just rambling about the place. But it was quite an experience! I'm not kidding, the queue to pay was longer than Primark's!

I bought 5 items:

I like how simple this long sleeve tee is. The only details are the sequined pocket and the fact it is longer at the back. This was £2.50, and is actually the item I got for free!

I told you yesterday that I love owls these days! As soon as I saw this vest, I grabbed it! I only saw this one, and it was in my size! It had my name all over it! It was part of the BOGOF promo, and it was £3.

I have been wanting an animal jumper for a while, but because I am quite curvy, it can look trashy quite easily. This one is a few sizes bigger than me, which is good, as it doesn't stretch the bunny on it, which would make it look trashy! I like how it is a lightweight jumper, I will be able to wear it mostly all year long. This was the most expensive item at £4.

Another animal jumper! This one is more subtle, as the animal is knitted in holes in the fabric (I don't know how to explain it better than that, I hope you understand). So if I put a similar colour t-shirt underneaht, the print is not visible, but if I put a contrasting colour item under, then you can see the doggy! This sweater was £3.

Ah little socks! Those are always usefull. But I find it harder and harder to find some that please me, as I am really fussy about the cotton content in it. Those were 50p, which makes it the cheapest item in the transaction, but I cheated and pay them in another one (I realized at the till that there were signs saying 1 transaction per customer). I paid cash for this one, and was really quick anyway. But the cashier was nice for letting me do this!

All of the items are 100% cotton, except the socks, which have 83% cotton. I am really fussy about the fabric in my clothes, and try to stick to natural fibres, as otherwise my body doesn't breathe properly... I was quite pleased of that, as usually cheap= polyester or another plasticky fabric.

Ok that's it!

Have you been to a Matalan Clearance Store? What outlets are your favourites? I would like to find more of those!

Saturday's Stuff I Like

2012-01-28T20:21:00.006Z

I don't know for you, but my week has been a crappy one. So I am using all the comfort I need! These are a few of the things that got me through this week!

Candles

I have been burning my candles a lot this week. Also, even though I have a lot of them, I keep on buying some more! Somebody has to stop me! This week I bought this Yankee Strawberry Buttercream on and also a For Every Body in Cherry Blossom.

Owls

Aren't they cute? Aren't they everywhere? That's alright because I love them! I just bought an owl t-shirt as weel this afternoon.

BB Creams

I have been obsessing with BB Cream for a while, but other than the Garnier one, they were not available in the UK. No7 just launched theirs this month, and I also received the Missha one I have ordered online. I have also just bought a Skinfood one, can't you see a shopping theme here?

Lush Snow Fairy Shower Gel

I am glad I got this one this season (I always tell myself not to buy it) as this shower gel not only smells yummy, but it also leaves my skin soft.

Special K Bars

Those are a good snack, I brought a box at the office for when I am hungry. I prefer the Chocolate & Raspberry one, but the Chocolate & Mint is not bad either.

What are you loving this week?

December Empties

2012-01-24T19:42:00.008Z

I am a tad late for the December edition, but I did so well that i want to share with everyone!

Mario Badescu Strawberry Face Scrub

I was so excited when I received this as I thought is smells so good! Unfortunately, I didn't thinkn the scrub was that effective. It might be good for sensitive skin though, as it's not abrasive. It would be better if the strwaberry pips were crushed, it would be more scrubbing

Repurchase: No, I like my scrubs scrubbing!

Neutrogena Deep Clean 2-in-1 wash/mask

I liked the wash part of this product, and I also like the fact it has salicyllic acid (good for oily skin). But I didn't like the mask part of it. I like when a mask hardens, but this one stayed goopy.

Repurchase: No, would buy a wash and a mask separately.

Johnson's Face Care Gentle Eye Make-up Remover

This is not gentle at all! Beware! I don't have sensitive skin or eyes, but this stung my eyes, and futhermore, didn't effectively remove my makeup,

Repurchase: No way!

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream

This is a sample I liked. I am usually carefull when trying ultra moisturizing products (because of my combination skin) but this one was fine. And it was really creamy, I would recommend for dry skin as well. A packet lasted the whole 10 days I was in Germany, so a little goes a long way.

Repurchase: Yes, I would, but now I have so much face cream for a while.

Kamill Hand & Nail Cream

Ah, I love German products! This one is no exception, it was quickly absorbed and the light smell was soothing. Another nice product for less than 1 euro!

Repurchase: Yes.

Nivea 1-2-3 Long Repair Shampoo and Conditioner

These hairproducts were good, and smelled nice, but because I only had one use of it, cannot say anything for the long run.

Repurchase: No, I like my Pantene one for now.

Dove Beauty Finish Anti-perspirant deodorant

I like the Original Dove deodorant, but this one I didn't like. The smell is pleasant, but the product itself didn't offer me any freshness in my times of need.

Repurchase: No, Ialready have a back-up, but will revert to the Original afterwards.

Made Inn Bath Gel

I got this last summer in my Portuguese vacations. I usually keep those minis, they come in handy when you travel and are not staying at an hotel! I don'T have much to say about this particular one, it does the job.

Repurchase: No, as it is from an hotel and not sold.

Molton Brown Re-Charge Black Pepper Bodywash

When I first got this sample, I thought the fact it was black pepper was weird. It's actually a men's fragrance. Nothing unpleasant but not girly enough to my liking. It is indeed energising though.

Repurchase: No, I like girly stuff.

Nair Ultra Hair Removal Cream

Even though I have an epilator, I still use depilatory cream on my legs as I cannot stand the fact it's too long otherwise. I go through these about every month. I buy them at the pound store, as Boots sell them 6 times more! It's the same product, same brand in the end! The variety depends everytime I go to the pound store, but to be honest, I am not fussed as for me, they are all the same. This is a good one, but as with all these creams, stinks something awfull.

Repurchase: Yes.

There you have it! I hope I will have as much empties in January! What about you? Finished a lot of products lately? Are you on a P10P?

Blogger Event with Daniel Sandler and Look Fantastic at FOUR London

2012-01-23T17:13:00.004Z

Last Thursday, as was kindly invited by Look Fantastic to attend a special blogger event at FOUR London, a glamourous yet welcoming salon in Mayfair.

A few consultations has been organised to make us ladies look good: hair styling, hair colouring, skincare and makeup.

The hair consultations were given one on one by FOUR London's specialists. With clients including Nigella Lawson, Yasmin Le Bon, Stacey Solomon and Lauren Goodger, I was pretty much in safe hands with them!

We were also introduced to the Doctor Duve Medical Skin Care line. His products are used with a machine that regenerates skin cells. on the picture, Ellie (leading therapists working with the Dr Duve line) shows a lady how the treatment feels. Unfortunately, I haven't had the opportunity to trat it myself, but despite looking scary, the treatment is not painful!

The highlight of the evening was to attend a makeup masterclass given by celebrity makeup artist, Daniel Sandler. Daniel is a British makeup artist who beautified the likes of Naomi Campbell, Rachel Weisz and Kate Moss. He showed us how to be timelessly glamourous using two makeup styles: the smokey eye and the red lip.

I was particularly interrested in the smokey eye part, as I feel it can easily look like dusty and dirty if not done properly (read: I have difficulties doing smokeys!)

The first thing Daniel told us was to try different colours, not just black and brown. He says he likes to use gray as it is easier to work with and goes well with anything. It is also less harsh than black.

The second thing he taught us was to use eyeliners instead of eyeshadows to creat a smokey. All there is to do is line the eyes, and then smudge it with an angular brush. One of his favourite tricks is to use a navy liner, and then go over with a black liner. So Simple!

Another tip I learned from Daniel Sandler is to use the lower lash line as a guideline to the "flick" of eyeliner for a sexy cat eye look. Just imagine where the lower las would continue, and there is your flick!

One of the tips that I was already doing is to tightline (lining the upper waterline) the eyes. This adds definition to the eyes, as well as make the lashes appear fuller.

As for the red lip classes, here is what I have learned:

The bottom lip is generally fuller than the upper one. Put on more colour to the upper lip, to make it look plumper.
Defining the cupid's bow with concealer is a great way to make the red colour pop.
Not to worry too much about the "rules" of makeup. If it makes you feel good, that is all that matters.

What struck me with Daniel is that he is such a calming person. He also mentioned this point, saying that in the industry, people who come to be made up by him are hyper stressed. In this way, he does all he can to calm them, and that's also why he always has one of his candles burning during the sessions (the melted wax can also be used as a body butter).

This was a brilliant evening. I am glad I have learned some tricks from a well-known makeup artist!

Daniel Sandler's products are available on Look Fantastic's website.

Thank you very much to everyone: Look Fantastic, FOUR London and Daniel Sandler!