My desk space

I'm finally happy with my desk space. I try to keep to a theme. I love white walls (and if you have been to my house you would pick that up pretty easy).

Giveaway

I've just reached 500 GFC Followers this week, so I thought I would do a Giveaway as a little thank you. I was a little un-sure on what to give away...

Stella

I previously mentioned in this post that I purchased 'Stella by Stella McCartney' in a box set in the Boots sale. I've been meaning to get this perfume ever since I smelt it - which I think could possibly be a good few years ago now...

New in: Newlook wedge boots

I've been wanting to purchase these boots from Newlook but since going back to my local store to purchase them they have only had size 6's which my big feet will not squeeze into. Whilst having a look for them I saw these wedge style boots.

Review: Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish

I finally brought the Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish. I really don't know what has took me so long. With so many amazing reviews on the product I really wanted to try it myself. This is also my first Liz Earle product.

Thursday, 29 March 2012

Review: Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Conditioner

 
Must admit I purchased this from boots just under a month ago now just because I was having a 'I hate my hair day'. The Argan oil was the only reason I brought it. I haven't tried the actual Moroccan oil yet, although I probably should. I thought I would give this a try. It makes my hair shiny and detangles it a little, but didn't do much moisturising. I paired it with the John Frieda Conditioner I wrote about in this post and found they work perfect together. As the John Frieda shampoo coats my ends so well, using it everyday weighs it down. So, this conditioner stops the weighing down and then gives it shine. I wouldn't say it leaves my hair really soft but it definitely doesn't dry my ends. Has anyone else tried any products from this brand? It doesn't work amazingly on my hair but it does well at maintaining it without coating it so much.

Tuesday, 27 March 2012

Wants: Zara


 
Just a few things that I have been lusting after in Zara at the moment. Think it is a bit risky going onto the Zara website lately as they are so many nice things. Think my favourite is the handbag, although I am usually someone for a pretty large spacious bag. But it is stunning. It has rose gold hardware. Thank god, it is payday and my birthday next Thursday! :D


Sunday, 25 March 2012

Review: John Frieda Full Repair Shampoo and Conditioner


John Frieda Full Repair Shampoo and Conditioner - Boots

Thought that it was about time I was able to give my thoughts on the new John Frieda's Full repair shampoo and conditioner. I brought these a couple of weeks ago when they were pretty much new on the shelves. Think I saw a few bloggers recieving them so wanted try them out for myself, like always. And I'm so glad I did, as they are staple in my shower. If you have followed me a while you would know that I've mentioned alot about my dry hair. I use to straighten it and damaged all the ends so went to the hairdressers last year and got it all chopped off to pretty much above my shoulders. My hair can't thank me enough, but now I am left with trying to keep on top of it from frizz and dryness. This shampoo and conditioner makes my hair so soft and smooth. They are definitely my favourite. Usually the shampoos I use feel drying on my scalp, but this shampoo I can feel is moisturising as soon as I apply it. It has the same texture as the conditioner so I don't have to over load my hair with the conditioner. Think this is why the bottle has lasted so long as I normally go through conditioner like anything. They smell of a mix of vanilla, coconut and mango and it lingers just right. It's not too overpowering but it is still leaves a scent which I like. I can't say enough good things about them. I got them in Boots when they had John Frieda products on 2 for £7.50 which they often do, so they are very affordable for me. Looking at the ingredients it's full of artificial stuff that I don't have a clue what they are, but if they make my hair feel like they do, I really don't care. Think I will have to try some other products from the line.

Saturday, 24 March 2012

Empty products


These are a few products which I have come to the end of this last week. For me, this is really good as I never seem to get to the end of any products, as I have already moved on to others. This is apart from that Collection 2000 concealer which I think I am on my ninth tube thanks to my awful under eye circles. It works miracles though. I also don't manage to finish nail polishes and they just basically go all disgusting and dried up before I chuck them out. This one from Elf and Miss guided are both very neutral colours and are what I've worn throughout the winter months. As I work with a lot of paperwork my nails chip so easily and my Sally Hansen top coat isn't performing. I have a ton of mascaras which I have only used a few times, but these two are ones that I've used non stop. I love mascara and love all the different types of brushes there are which give you all the different full effects. I've just started my Clinique high impact mascara which I also used last year from the free gift in a magazine. But, this time I feel a little disappointed as last time I used it, it made my lashes really full when now it makes them stick together. Think after it dries out a little it may be better. As with the Topshop mascara, the more it dried out the better it got. The Soap and Glory wipes came with my Splendour that I got for Christmas. I hate using makeup wipes on my face as it just dries it out so badly. I keep some by my bed so I can quickly take my makeup off when I can't be bothered with cleansing. The Soap and Glory ones are pretty average but did the job. There's worse.

Thursday, 22 March 2012

Review: Revlon Lip butter in Sweet tart



Revlon lip butter in Sweet Tart - Boots

After seeing these lip butters all over the Internet since they were released in the states I have been wanting one. Even to the stage I kept going into Boots over and over again just to see if they have put them on display yet. Apparently they were meant to be released last week and then they changed it to this Monday and then again they couldn't confirm the date that Boots stores would have them on display. I didn't even bother with Superdrug although some people have managed to get some by asking and having them out of the stock drawers. The whole change of dates has definitely added to the hype. Today, I finally managed to get one. I wish I got a lot more though, but I'll be going back tomorrow after work. I really do love it. It has the most amazing texture ever and the colour pay off it stunning. I wanted to get one to try as although I had looked at loads and loads of swatches on the Internet, I still couldn't decide which to go far. 'Sweet tart' wasn't the brightest pink but it wasn't the most muted. I don't have alot of bright lip products so this is perfect. Really want to stock up on some nudes now. I really like the quilted packaging with the clear tops so they can be easily seen when stored away.
Think I'll have a browse now to decide what other shades to buy. I can never decide in store as I find the artificial lighting just makes things look so much different than in daylight, so I'll make my list and go back tomorrow. Anyone else brought any? I do feel like I am the last onto the boat with them, but they are definitely worth the hype.

New in: Matalan Spike mixed metal necklace



Matalan Spike mixed metal necklace - £7

I often go into Matalan and have a look at their jewellery which they supply the same brand jewellery as Topshop it seems. This necklace is mixed metal (although the picture quality is rubbish). I seem to be struggling with using my DSLR to get good quality images. With a smudge on the lends which I can't get rid of and I just cant find the best settings for bad lighting. As you can see in the picture it was really bright. Just can't win. Hopefully I will master it at the weekend. Hoping it is sunny and warm so I can start my project in my garden. I pretty much have a blank canvas and need to make it look pretty sharpish.

Sunday, 18 March 2012

Want: Alexander Wang Marion Bag


  








Alexander Wang - Marion

So I've fallen in love with these Alexander Wang Marion bags. They are just too cute. My fovourite colour has to be the black reflective snake print one as I love how the structure of the bag is simple but has an amazing texture. If only I had a spare £500.

Thursday, 15 March 2012

Want: Pastel blazer


Blazers: River Island, Topshop, Miss Selfridge, Newlook, Newlook

Pastels are everywhere at the moment, ready for Spring. So are pastel blazers. I've been wanting to get some coloured jeans but wasn't too sure, but now I've seen so many blazers they would be perfect to update my wardrobe for the new season. Think the rest of your oufit has to be pretty simple but can add chunky jewellery to make it look well put together. I should really stop browsing online when I'm going shopping Saturday and will have all these things in my head to get.

Monday, 12 March 2012

First impressions: Avene Thermal Spring water spray

Ave'ne Eau Thermale Thermal Spring Water 50ml - Boots

After a long Monday at work I thought I would cheer myself by going to my local boots to pick up a few little bits. I got a new conditioner and something from No 7 but I haven't tried them out yet. This spray by Avene has been something I have been wondering what it is like for a while. I use to use a Elf finishing spray to set my foundation instead of powdering and now that I don't powder I feel like I should use something to keep my face put. The thermal spring water works for lots of things. It says it can be used for Facial redness, Sunburn, Irritation, during travel, during the summer or after hair removals. Basically it helps the skin settle. After my makeup being applied for the whole day I have had a little try and I love it already. I did first spray it on the back of my hand realising that a lot of product is dispensed so I made sure I held it back as I applied it. It has brighten my skin up and I can honestly say I wouldn't touch my foundation up. I don't mind not having a full coverage foundation on but I hate when my skin looks dry and patchy. This has instantly made my skin look glowy and moisturised. As for setting makeup, I will let you know. But I do have high hopes for it already. I only brought the 50ml spray as I thought it would be the right size to go in my handbag throughout the day.

Sunday, 11 March 2012

Hair care: Current favourite styling products

 
V05 Miracle Hair Concentrate Oil | Aussie Miracle Hair insurance - Leave in conditioner | Fat Hair thickening spray | Frizz-ease Shine spray | Lee Stafford Flat iron Protection Shine mist

Thought I'd post some of my favourite hair products at the moment. These are what i use to style my hair. The V05 Miracle concentrate is my second bottle. I seriously love this stuff. At first I didn't use it on my hair every time I washed it but after realising how much good it does to my hair I have quickly switched. I some how get very dry ends, even without using any heat products on it. This helps to smooth them and moisturise them, making my hair look less frizzy and stay in place. I have been through so many bottles of the Aussie Miracle hair insurance. The smell is lovely and it makes my hair so soft. Fat hair thickening spray is something I have discovered in the last year. I have used their shampoo from the range and loved it, although I couldn't use it daily as it really dried my roots out and made my hair feel a little straw like. I quickly switched to using it once a week and after a while tried the spray instead. The spray doesn't leave your hair feel dry and full of product. I just simple spray it in my roots of my damp hair and blow dry, and it really gives my hair so much volume. The Frizz Ease Shine spray pretty much does what it says. I use it between washing my hair, as I said before my hair dries out alot and this helps it look really glossy. Finally the Lee Stafford Flat iron straightening spray is an old favourite. I've used this for years and although I don't straighten my hair I use it before blow drying. Even if I do use it purely for the fragrance, it is a staple hair product for me. May seem a lot for my hair, but when I don't use hot irons for styling a little help of some products won't do it much harm. Thinking of trying some Moroccan Oil at some point. But at the moment I'm having a browse around for some new shampoo and condition. I'm thinking some kerastase products. Although I do need a pretty moisturising conditioner and can't bring myself to stop using my Aussie conditioning treatment. Think your hair becomes use to a good product after a while and I don't realise how good something is untill I have gone back to using it after a while. Anyone else get that? Unless, obviously I find a pretty amazing conditioner. Let's hope.

Saturday, 10 March 2012

Interior: Project office













Thought I'd show some parts of my office, although it isn't complete. I went to Ikea the other night. Got a few things including a new bed, desk and chair. Had to go back yesterday though as when me and my boyfriend was putting up the bed we noticed that we was missing a pack of slats so had to go back to buy another. So that was pretty annoying. But everything is finally up now. I originally wanted this desk, but they haven't had the white in stock for ages so had to get this one. I'm pretty happy with it to as I like how I can display my stuff in the bookcase. I also got a filing cabinet which fits perfectly under it.
Now I need to decide how to do the rest of the room, but it is getting there. I also got a sheepskin rug which my dog is actually currently dragging around upstairs. Better stop him now.
I'm happy that now I have an area to sit at, and somewhere for the iMac to go once we get it. For now my Macbook can stay there. I got those little jars to store some stones and beads for my jewellery making and organising little things.
The canvas isn't staying there as you can see it still is in the packet, but I can't decide where it can go. I had to get it though, as Ikea hasn't had them in stock for the last few times I have gone.
Now my Saturday night is going to consist of cutting the dogs fur and playing fifa with the boyfriend. I'm living the life, haha. Oh, and I've updated the layout of my website. I really like it now, and it's easier to follow I think.  I also have some jewellery pieces on there which should be live tonight, just got to finish the details.

Tuesday, 6 March 2012

Giveaway winners

Thought I would announce the winners of my little giveaway. I'll give you both a tweet/email to let you know, so you can send your address. The winners were picked with random.org. Thank you for everyone who entered.













PRIZE ONE:                                                                                                    PRIZE TWO:
SHABNA ZAHEER @ SCHEINE                                                                 SAM @ SJMWELL



Sunday, 4 March 2012

Homeware: New in - Perfume tray


I've been wanting one of these silver trays for a while, but could never seem to find one. I finally got one on Ebay for around £8, which was pretty good. I don't have the prettiest perfumes but for now I can hold them all in this tray. Hopefully this makes them look tidier. When I get some more perfume I can then store away others, like the Britney Spears one which is embarrassingly hiding in the background. I would love to one day have it full of really pretty bottles instead of the brightly coloured ones I have. I'm going to ask for Narciso Rodriguez for her Eau de Parfum for my birthday as ever since smelling it in a tester in a magazine I have been in love. Love how it is a very mature scent compared to my floral collection.
Now I'm getting back to my website coding for my Truly Allure shop. I have been sat at my Macbook since 1pm today and haven't stopped only to eat my sunday dinner quickly. Hopefully it is getting to the way I like it. Monday's always come round too quick and I want to get my website finished so I don't feel like I have wasted a day relaxing. I better then sort out my office as there is stock and jewellery everywhere! Thought  I was going to order my Ikea desk today, but it is sold out online and in basically every store. So hopefully it will come back in stock shortly. Always happens when I get some money.

Saturday, 3 March 2012

New: Truly Allure jewellery preview


I'm currently sorting out the new jewellery stock for my website. Thought I'd show a couple of pieces which will be on my website tomorrow night. Today has gone so quick. Went to do a bit of shopping and picked up the Real Techniques by Samantha Chapman Stippling brush. I did try to take some pictures but the lighting is pretty bad. I'll show you tomorrow. I'm still really tired from a busy week at work but I think I'll relax watching my usual you tube videos and catch up on a few blogs.
I've got into tumblr again, if you'd like to follow me it is here. Also, my giveaway ends on Monday, so if you'd like to enter the link is here. Hope you're having a lovely weekend.

Friday, 2 March 2012

Wants: Spring transition

Metallic makeup bag - Topshop, Clutch - Zara, Blouse - H&M, Trousers - H&M, Chanel Polishes, Sutdded vectras - Topshop, Bikini - H&M, Clutch - H&M, Bobbi Brown tinted moistriser - Debenahms,  Narciso rodriguez Eau de parfum, Bikini - H&M, Belt - ASOS, Viktor & Rolf - Flowerbomb limited edition, MAC Creme blend blushes

Feel like I've been away from my blog for so long, but it was only Sunday. Been at my parents half the week as well. It's gone so slow with work. But Monday is payday! Think the thought of actually having some money to my name has got me through the week, even if most my pay is going to my mum to pay her money back. Oh dear. Anyways, I've been browsing online for anything and everything these past nights. I love transitioning clothing from Winter to Spring. Gets me really exciting for Summer. I never did like Summer that much, but I definitely do now. As you can see I've got a little too excited and have been looking at H&M's offerings of Bikinis. I was after a bikini from H&M last year but whenever I went in, the one I wanted had sold out. Going to buy some early this time. Can't wait to book a holiday.
When I get paid I want to buy a Cross trainer. Didn't think of putting it on this pic as it isn't as pretty as everything else.
The perfumes are another thing I'm always after. Really need Flowerbomb as I have kept stopping myself before. And how nice is their limited edition bottle? It's beautiful.
Been having a look at the MAC website and decided I need some new blushes. Can't have enough. The Bobbie brown tinted moisturiser looks perfect for me. I need something which isn't so heavy. I've found that with having dry skin the more sheer it is the better it keeps my skin hydrated. If I have anything I need to cover up, like my under eye bags I can just conceal.
Now i think I will go back to looking for some more Spring clothing. Hope you've all had a lovely week.