Monthly Favourites // October 2014

With just two months left of the year, before you know it we'll be getting used to saying "2015". How weird. It's actually unreal how quickly this year has past, but being my final year of high school, it's definitely been a memorable one for me! Omg, I'm talking like the year's already over. Staaaahp. Onto the favourites though, I don't have many since I've been getting back into the school-daily-makeup groove. There are a few new and notables though!

Look a' me, clawing into dat scrubby.

Soap & Glory The Breakfast Scrub

Bebs, I would love you just for your smell. But no, there's so much more to you than that. Being the first body scrub I'd ever properly used, you could say it was a bit life-changing. I've been using this pretty much three times a week since I got it and it really helps slough away all that naayysty (it's hard to convey accent over text) dead skin. It's just the right grittiness to be sufficiently scrubby for the body, but not too rough. Also it's got shea butter and a few other moisturising ingredients that leave my skin feeling oh so smooth and soft. 

L'oreal Colour Riche Nutrishine Balm in Nudy Coral

This is just one of my staple products that I use all the dang time. What you see in the photo is pretty much all I have left! It's a really basic product, but one that is perfect for everyday (for me). It's quite a moisturising lip balm with the tiniest hint of peachy-orange. I've just been using it a lot this month, and it goes particularly well with my next product.

Stila Convertible Colour in Gerbera

Yes, I know I only just hauled this, but for the almost two weeks I've had it, I've used it everyday. The colour is just such a pretty, lifting peachy-pink that isn't too cray, and really quite natural. Perfect for Spring if I do say so myself. This stuff is pigmented too - so you only need the slightest dab. Leaves a pretty, fresh, dewy cheek and lasts really well!

Bourjois Healthy Balance Unifying Powder in Dark Beige

I've been trying to resist using this because I want to finish my Australis powder but goddamn, it's so nice. Firstly, it's a really great shade match, and secondly the formula is spot on. The raves be real dawg. It's soft, "finely milled", sets and gives a matte finish without giving a matte finish. Y'all knaw m sayn. 

NARS Sheer Glow Foundation in Punjab

I actually got this little pot sample a week before my formal when I went in to get shade matched, and although I haven't really used it, from the times I've worn it (three FYI) I've been so impressed. It just makes me want it even more gosh darn. It's definitely nothing like the name suggests. It has a medium-full coverage and a satin finish. It can cling to dry spots if you aren't careful in application, but it's gorgeous and it lasts amazingly. 

ALSO, I have some exciting news guys! I got a job...at PRICELINE! What is life. Priceline is pretty much my dream job, not even lying. I'm just a casual, and technically I haven't had a real shift yet (only a trial) but it's reaaaal exciting. I hope I'll be working lots during the xmas holidays! Also, it's my first job and holy I'm so awkward, like, how to talk to people??? Haha, I got the hang of it by the end of my trial though! But yeah basically, Imma be spending my earnings straight away with dat 25% discount...

(For foreigners, Priceline is pretty much the drugstore here where you can buy all the drugstore brands!)

Haul // Mecca Treats

So, as you know, last week was my formal and I got my makeup done at Mecca Cosmetica. That means, I got to spend my dollaz on some products! I had quite a firm wishlist and I managed to pick up all three things that I wanted (even if I didn't, there would definitely be some other thing there that I would've wanted just as much!). I originally wanted to pick up the NARS blush in Gilda but it's been discontinued (in Australia at least)! Such a shame because I really wanted to try it, but regardless, here's what I picked up!

Stila Convertible Colour in Gerbera

I s2g I have wanted this blush fo eva. I actually already own a Convertible Colour in a limited edition palette, but I always forget to use it! Mainly because I really dislike the eyeshadows in that palette. The two cream blush formulas do feel a little different to each other though. Of course I went for the token peachy-pink shade, Gerbera, though it is slightly more on the pink side, and paler than my typical peachy-pinks. From my experience, they last pretty well, and also work decently on the lips! While it sits well on the lips, unfortunately the colour is far too pale and makes me look dead and washed out. On the cheeks though...it's love. 

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Ginger

Huzzah! This cult fave is finally mine! This is probably the hottest concealer out right now, and I'm so glad to have my hands on it. Ginger was actually sold out, but the gal got it sent to me from another store - what a sweetie! It's actually a little dark for me at the moment, though Custard is too light. Ginger matches well with the Sheer Glow Foundation in Punjab but it can come off a wee bit orange on some of my typical BB creams. So pretty much, I haven't been using it much since I got it, but it's promising peeps. Also, I need to use up my Maybelline Fit Me concealer, and would rather reserve the NARS for more important things than school!

NARS Satin Lip Pencil in Lodhi

I've been wanting to try these for a while too, and every time I swatch them, I'm immediately drawn to the coral-peach that is Lodhi. I was originally going to pick up one of the new Audacious lipsticks, but Lodhi seemed to match my clutch really well, and y'all know I'm all about that matchy-matchy life. Also, it was like, $10 cheaper. Still really expensive though considering it only contains about 2g of product! Regardless, the formula is gorgeous and I LOVE the colour. Money well spent. But dang I have to buy a sharpener now.

So, a lot of products ticked off of my wishlist! But, with the makeup application...a lot more products were added on. Tbh, I'm just stoked to own something NARS now! No doubt I will have full reviews up of these, these guys deserve posts all to themselves!

Formalities

As you may have seen from my Instagram, this past Saturday was my grade 12 Formal! Exciting times really. I had a really fun night, and even though my feet were killing me, I made sure to have a ball jigging it on the d-floor. It was also quite emotional and overwhelming as this is an event I've been looking forward to for years, and of course another reminder that my schooling life will be over very soon! A few of you guys asked to see some snaps from the day, so here they are!

I got my makeup done at Mecca Cosmetica. I was originally going to do it myself however I realised that the products I wanted to buy would've cost more than getting it done, so I decided to go down the Mecca route as they have literally every product I would've wanted to be used! I had a very specific look in mind (it was actually one of the MSFW looks a Mecca makeup artist created that I spotted in an email from them) and luckily the lovely gal who did my makeup did it exactly how I wanted (shoutout to Courteney, even though she doesn't know about this blog lol)! She took her time and I didn't feel intimidated to ask for certain products at all, I'm so happy with how it came out!

Products used (from what I can recall):

Face:
NARS Pro-Prime Pore-Refining Primer
NARS Sheer Glow Foundation in Punjab
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Ginger

By Terry Hyaluronic Hydra Powder
NARS Contour Blush Duo in Paloma
NARS Laguna Bronzer
NARS Orgasm Blush
Stila Kitten Eyeshadow (as a highlight)

Eyes:
Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil in Dark Brunette
NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
Stila Kitten Eyeshadow
Stila Magnificent Metals Foil Finish Eyeshadow in Kitten (mixed with Stila Stay All Day liquid eye primer)
Kevyn Aucoin Eye Pencil Primatif in Black
Chantecaille Mascara (not sure which one)
Ardell Short Flare Black Individual lashes and Lash Grip (applied myself)

Lips:
NARS Satin Lip Pencil in Lodhi 

I'm really happy with the products she picked out - she pretty much read my mind in regards to what I've been wanting to try! Though I did request a couple of things like the lip colour and foundation, and the eye look obviously. Seriously though, I love the way it came out. The wing is defining and accentuating without being too overbearing or dramatic, the glitter is super pretty yet not too garish, and the lip matched my clutch, and although it was quite bold, it didn't clash with the eyes. Also loved how flawless my skin looked yet it wasn't cakey or too matte and felt super light. The whole look lasted really well through the night, I only touched up my lips a couple of times, mostly because I wanted to be fancy and touch up my lipstick. My cheek products hardly faded and my mascara/eyeliner didn't smudge at all! It cost $90 with the full amount redeemable on products. My haulage will be coming up in a post very soon ;)

I did my own hair, and am super happy with how it came out - even though I was a little rushed. I was going for the "faux undercut/side shave look", inspired by Natalie Dormer and Sophie Turner at SDCC this year haha, here are the babes. Since my dress is quite delicate/pretty, I wanted to add a bit of edginess in the hair/makeup/accessories. I had a deep side part and my mum did a tight french braid down the side. I swooped my hair to the other side and used a 1 1/4 inch curling iron/barrel (thanks for the loan Tam!) to put in some loose curls/defined waves. I used the Kerastase Ciment Thermique as a heat protectant and it left my hair feeling super soft! Definitely a fan. I also used the Matrix Design Pulse Hair Lock Extra Strong Hold Hairspray which worked quite well. It did leave hair feeling a wee bit hard feeling if you sprayed too much - but not so bad considering it's Extra Strong! They held really well through the night full of dancing!

Dress: ASOS (available here)
Shoes: Tony Bianco (not that you can see them but here's a pic)
Ear Cuff: H&M
Bracelet: Topshop
Rings: Lovisa
Clutch: Etsy (I think, it's my sister's) and insert made by me (out of a Mecca Maxima bag haha)!
Nails: Maybelline Bleached Neons in Sun Flare

I really love my dress actually, I like how it's simple but still a little glitzy/glam with the embellishment. I really like how flowy the skirt is and the sheer panel underneath the cropped top. It looks a bit more pink in the photos online, but I still liked the colour in real life, though it was a bit more beige! The sequins were silver however I was adamant on gold jewellery, so I decided to "mix metals" and I think it turned out really well.

I really loved the clear clutch too. I was set on peachy-pink (of course) so I decided to make the insert out of what I had lying around the house. I really love the pop of colour! I think if I had gone nude, it would have been a bit too drab for my liking.

The gorgeous gals.

Something we do at our school's formals are entrances! Everyone arrives at the "pre-formal" in a vehicle/mode of transportation and walk in on a red carpet - ooh la la! It's always really fun to see what everyone comes in - usually fancy or classic cars, limos, etc but it's always cool to come in something different! We decided to hire out a trackless train and it was so fun haha! We decorated it with fairy lights, and even drove it down to the dinner venue which was only 5 minutes away - but we were choo choo-ing on the roads!

The night was definitely one to remember, such a fun time with all my closest friends, and of course it was amazing to get dressed up for the night. It makes me sad to know that soon it will be all over and weird to think that I won't see my friends everyday at school. Enough sappy times, I hope you guys enjoyed this post!

What was your formal/prom experience like?

The Makeup Addict Tag

I don't know if you can believe it, but this post is my 200th! Crazy times. Even though I've been blogging for almost two years now, it's hard to believe I've written that many posts! Pretty proud if I'm honest, haha! I thought it fitting to do the Makeup Addict Tag to celebrate my addiction, and the source of all my blog ramblings. I was tagged by the lovely Daphne - thanks so much! 

Cluttered like my soul.

1. Which product do you still keep buying more of despite having plenty in your collection?

Hmm...Everything? Haha, probably lip products. I just can't get enough of 'em! Whether it be glosses, crayons, lacquers or the conventional sticks. See? There are so many! How could I possibly stop buying them.

2. What's the one product you can't live without?

A bit dramatic, but one thing that is definitely a staple is concealer. I don't even like a full coverage face in general, I like a light coverage with select concealing. I have quite a bit of redness/acne/acne scarring so I do need a good concealer. I also need lip balm in my life, but I'm counting that as skincare, kay?

3. Favourite makeup brand?

I honestly don't think I have a favourite makeup brand. I don't own enough from one single brand to really say it's my favourite all around. A few notable brands do come to mind though. theBalm has amazing cheek products and eyeshadows (all I've tried really). In terms of drugstore, Bourjois do some amazing bases, powders and lippies, and Maybelline are pretty great all around from my experience.

4. How big is your makeup collection?

In comparison to other beauty bloggers and vloggers, I'd say my collection is pretty conservative. However, in comparison to your average 17-year-old joe, it's pretty exorbitant. I have way more than I need, and hardly use any of it even regularly - BUT I do have a good excuse. Technically there is a no makeup rule at my school, so I wear minimal makeup daily, but next year when I'm at Uni, hopefully my daily makeup will be a bit more exciting.

5. And how do you store it?

I store the bulk of my collection in an acrylic set of drawers (Keji four drawer set from Officeworks), where it is snug (yep it's pretty damn full at the moment). Lip products that aren't lipsticks are stored in glasses, tubes/pencils in a mug and 'daily' makeup in a smaller MUJI two drawer acrylic set.

6. How many items of makeup have you got in your handbag at the moment?

None? Like I said, I'm still at school (not for much longer though!) so I actually don't have a handbag per se. I carry around my Hurraw Vanilla Bean lip balm with me in my pencil case? When I do go out, I tend to only take the lip product I'm wearing that day, and empty out my bag when I get back so everything's in its right place! (I'm so anal with my makeup collection).

7. If you could raid another blogger's stash, who would it be?

Damn, how about everyone's? I'm creepy nosey about makeup. Whenever I'm at a friend's place I'm snooping out their makeup collection, or rummaging through their makeup bags. I'd really love a free for all of Anna, Lily, Estee or Amelia's collections, since they're my biggest enablers anyway! But also Jodi from Gooroo Beauty, her collection is insane.

8. How long does your usual makeup routine take and how many products do you use?

My usual makeup routine for school is quite minimal and I've documented it here, an old post but I still use pretty much the same stuff. It usually takes me about 10-15 minutes depending on what base I'm using and if I'm wearing mascara or eyeliner that day.

9. Have you ever bought makeup knowing you wouldn't use it?

Nope. Considering my collection is already superfluous, I wouldn't like to add to it with something I knowingly wouldn't use! Especially because I'm such a stinge, and would much rather buy something that I've been wanting for ages and know that I'll get my use out of it.

10. Tag a few other makeup addicts to do the tag!

I tag Cherie, Kat, Angela, Ash and Yige if you guys haven't already, as well as anyone who would like to do this tag!

I really loved doing this tag, and I certainly love reading other people's answers to it (like I said, I'm nosey!). 

A Sumptuous Cleanse

Cleansing balms have really had their moment in the spotlight lately. It all started with the Emma Hardie one, and slowly, but surely, quite a few other brands have jumped on the bandwagon with their own versions. One of which is The Body Shop. Their Camomile Sumptious Cleansing Butter has also been doing the rounds, keep reading for my thoughts!

It is packaged in a rather shallow screw top tin containing 90mL or 76g of product - which actually isn't that much! Might explain why I'm speeding through it at such a rate...I've actually hit pan on it already after using it for around 3 months on a not-so-regular basis. 

It claims to gently remove all types of makeup and leave skin feeling clean and soft. The texture itself is quite butter-like. It melts into the hands into a sort of oily texture. It's not quite an oil as it definitely feels dry in a way? It almost feels a bit silicone-y? Hard to explain, but it does remove makeup very well. When massaged over the skin, it eliminates both face and eye makeup, including waterproof products. I generally double cleanse with this product, first to remove the makeup and them to actually cleanse the face, rinsing with warm water and a face cloth. I actually would not agree that it leaves skin feeling "petal soft", in fact it actually leaves my skin feeling dry. Usually with oil type products, my skin is left moisturised, however this does not have the same effect. It doesn't leave the skin feeling dry or stripped by any means though. 

The butter does have a bit of a scent, which I actually really like. It's soft, fresh and clean, inoffensive however it may irritate sensitive skins. I doubt it though since it is marketed toward all skin types. One of the ingredients I was actually quite wary of, and was one of the things that put me off buying it initially was Shea Butter. Shea Butter is supposedly an irritant for acne-prone skin, clogging pores or something but after reading barely any bad reviews, I decided to pick it up. I have not experienced any irritation with my skin, nor an increase in acne. My skin has been really lovely! And besides, I have other products like moisturisers that contain Shea Butter and they don't bother my skin, so don't be put off by it!

Overall, a really lovely product that works well as both a cleanser and makeup remover. Honestly, it feels like a drier cleansing oil in a balm form. While I do really like it, and find it does an amazing job, I'm not so sure I would repurchase (immediately, at least), just because it does leave my skin feeling slightly dry after use. It retails for a new, lower price of AUD$21.95 here so do check it out!

Have you tried the Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter?

20 Facts About Me

I was tagged by Cherie quite a while ago to share 20 facts about myself over on Instagram, but I thought I would share them over here. I'd rather share facts about myself to you guys (who I've never met before), than people I know in real life...is that weird? I just feel way more open with you guys! There's no judgment here, right? :)

1. I am Chinese, but was born here in Australia, but my parents were born in South Africa. Got some serious multi-cultural shiz going down here.
2. I can speak some Chinese, having learnt Mandarin for the past seven-ish years of schooling. Definitely not fluent though!! I'm actually Cantonese Chinese though, so technically still can't speak the language of ma people.

3. I've lived in the same house my whole life.

4. I used to have a pet Jack Russell Terrier named Toffy.

5. Everyone in my family's name starts with a T, except my dad.

6. I have two much older sisters.

7. I wear glasses sometimes, not full time since my vision isn't so bad yet - it's getting there though. I should really just stop being in denial and start wearing them full time.

8. I obsess over old, British men. That sounds wrong and so seedy, only some old British men though. Examples include Tom Hiddleston, Benedict Cumberbatch and Dan Smith (though he isn't too much older, at least that's what I tell myself).

9. Speaking of obsessions, watching TV shows is pretty much all I do. That's probably an exaggeration but I watch a lot of TV shows.

10. Yeah, if you couldn't tell already, I'm a huge geek. My tumblr can attest to that. I'm pretty nerdy too but not that nerdy - ja feel? It's cool though, my friends are geeks and nerds too :P

11. I have a pretty good memory - especially when it comes to names and last names. I'm pretty sure I still remember the last names of everyone who was in my grade in primary school. 

12. I've only ever been to one concert in my life (if we exclude The Wiggles) which was Katy Perry. Incidentally I'm also going to her concert this year! Apparently I love me some Katy, which I do.

13. I've never even attempted to do a smokey black eyeshadow look on myself - even in the comfort of my own home.

14. I don't like being touched - like hugs I'm cool with, or casual resting of arms, but skin-on-skin weirds me out quite a bit.

15. I lose things, mainly when travelling and am flustered. I once lost a camera on a plane (a small point and shoot) filled with snaps of my South African holiday. It was somewhat okay though because both my sisters were doing most of the photo taking with their huge ass DSLRs and lenses, but yeah, moral of the story, don't trust me with your valuables for prolonged periods of time.

16. I like to collect nick nacks and trinkets, or "dust collectors" as my dad calls them, what can I say, I like cute and pretty things. Yeah, my room is very cluttered.

17. I hate taking selfies, mainly because I look crappy in them. Like that is not what I looked like in the mirror!?

18. I'm quite an introverted and shy person with people I don't know, or only know a little, but with my friends I can get CRAY. Like wow.

19. I hate swimming (and, you know, the general outdoors). I like leisurely floating, but make me do laps and I will drown. Okay, exaggeration, but I suck basically.

20. I hate talking about myself. Like when on first days of school, your new teacher asks what your hobby is - basically my most dreaded nightmare. Or saying your best qualities, or being insightful about yourself, yeah I can't do it. 

In accordance with fact number 20, I thought this was going to be quite hard which is why I was reluctant to do it, but surprisingly it wasn't so bad! I ended up coming up with them quite quickly actually. I thought you guys might like to learn more about me (the weird bits too), as I love reading these sorts of posts!

The One and Only Tag

I was tagged a few months ago by Sheri to do the One and Only tag. I'm so sorry it's taken me so long to get around to doing this, but school life just got in the way - damn you, school! Anyways, we're here now and I'm sharing what products would be my one and only of that category, my "holy grails" I guess you could say. However, in some categories, I thought of it in a way where I only have that product, so it would be a good multi-tasker, ya feel? Regardless, they're all faves and it was definitely a tough call. Especially since in some categories I don't have a product that I love more than the others, but I did my best!

PRIMER - Lorac Behind the Scenes Eyeshadow Primer

Does this count? I actually don't have many face primers, and I don't really love any of them, so I decided to go down the eyeshadow primer route. Eye primer is definitely a must for my oily lids! I really love the Lorac one, it seems to work really well to make shadows appear more vibrant, and last longer on my lids.

BASE PRODUCT - Bourjois Happy Light Foundation

This was definitely tough, I had a hard time choosing especially since this is the newest foundation in my stash but dang I love it. It's the perfect amount of coverage for me, light-medium, it's a great shade match, it leaves a satin, natural finish that lasts really well on me as my skin gets progressively dewier but never overly oily. 

POWDER - Australis Fresh & Flawless Powder

This has been with me for a good couple of years, and I've really loved it. It adds a hint of extra coverage whilst setting my makeup in place, never too flat matte or cakey looking. A really good powder, and a gem in the Australian drugstore!

CONCEALER - Maybelline Fit Me Concealer

I actually haven't tried that many concealers, but this is definitely a good 'un. It doesn't have the fullest coverage, but it looks natural and covers blemishes, scars and undereyes alike. It lasts pretty well too - the only qualm I have is that it can slightly accentuate flaky skin a bit. 

BLUSH - theBalm Instain Blush in the shade Toile

Oh blush, how you trouble me. This was hard considering blush is my weakness and I have a drawer overflowing with them. I chose the Instain Blush because damn girl, this blush be hella long lasting. It's very pigmented, yet blendable, smooth and creates a lovely flush. Toile is a strawberry coral shade that I love, and it actually looks quite natural on.

HIGHLIGHTER - theBalm Mary-Lou Manizer

Oop, another theBalm product, they just know how to do cheek products. The hype is real on this highlighter, it's gorgeous. The golden tone complements my skintone so well, it's smooth, pigmented and crazy beautiful glowy. Love.

EYEBROW PRODUCT - Dolly Wink Eyebrow Powder in Dark Chocolate

Technically already the only brow filler-inner I own, but it works perfectly for me. The cool-toned deep brown suits my hair really well, without making me look like I have black eyebrows. Filling in with powder is super quick and easy, it looks natural and it legit makes the hugest difference.

BRONZER - Nvey Eco Natural Bronze Organic Compact Bronzer

This was quite an unexpected favourite but I do really like it. I'm not sure if it's holy grail status, but I've been really loving it lately, and would be happy with this alone. It looks quite ruddy and terracotta like in the pan, but it blends really well on the skin, adding warmth, shape and shadow to the face. It's has a matte finish, and the powder itself is of high quality - soft, pigmented and blendable.

MAKEUP BRUSH - Real Techniques Multi-task Brush

I don't think I can pick out a favourite brush, but if I could only have one, I'd choose the Multi-task brush. Like the name suggests, this brush can do many things. It has foundation, powder, blush, bronzer and highlighter covered. It's dense yet fluffy, super soft and a really great shape to cater for different needs.

MASCARA - ???

I honestly couldn't choose a mascara! I haven't come across one that I've loved any more than another so have to leave this one blank. My perfect mascara would be waterproof and be able to hold a curl well, be lengthening, defining and volumising. Well that would be a super mascara.

EYESHADOW - Lorac Pro Palette or Maybelline Colour Tattoo in Bad to the Bronze

Okay, okay, I have two products but hear me out! I wasn't sure if this question meant just one shade, or one eyeshadow product. In the case of the former, I'd go for Bad to the Bronze. It's such a great bronze shade that is perfect for slapping all over the lid. It really is the perfect, everyday one shadow look product. Although it does still crease on me, it lasts longer than powder. If I could choose an eyeshadow product, hands down it would be the Pro Palette. This thing is amazing. Its shades are beautifully pigmented, soft and versatile.

EYELINER - Essence Gel Eyeliner in BBC All Night Brown
While I like my pencil and liquid liners just fine, this gel liner is the only one I really love. Shame it's discontinued. Damn you, Essence! It's a really pretty bronzy-brown with a slight golden shimmer. It's creamy, pigmented and long lasting. Also, if I only had this, it would work excellently as a cream shadow for a smokey eye or as a base!

LIPGLOSS - Maybelline Colour Elixir in Caramel Infused
This was actually such a hard decision. I was tossing up between this one and the NYX Butter Gloss. Ultimately I went for this because I feel like the formula is just a tad more translucent and glossy, but still pigmented and not sticky at all. It really evens out the lip surface making them look really good. Also, I wear this shade all the dang time.

LIPSTICK - MAC Morange (a review from the dark days of my blog, literally)
This was also quite a difficult category, mainly because I actually don't have a lipstick formula that I love more than any other. I settled for this one as it is crazy pigmented, smooth and creamy. It has a satin finish and is long lasting, but isn't at all drying. The shade is a stunner of an orangey red too.

A very tough tag that forced me to choose favourites (you're all still my bbys though!) haha! I tag Cherie, Vanessa, Yige, Daphne and Ash, if you guys haven't already done it, and anyone else who would like to!

HAUL-I-DAYS

Haulidays, hauls for days, you get the idea. I only ever go on shopping sprees when I go on school holidays, which is like four times a year, so splurges are totally justifiable, right? A lot of this haul was for my upcoming Formal. I was originally going to do my own makeup, seeing as I'm scared of people messing it up, or doing it wrong, and me being too shy to speak up about it. But, I wanted to buy quite a lot of things which would've ended up costing more than getting it done, so I just decided to book in at Mecca Cosmetica. They have legit every product I'd want to be used and the cost is redeemable on products bweheheh >:).

Puretopia Sleep & Renew Rejuvinating & Firming Night Face Moisturiser

(srsly Puretopia why the such long names) I'm nearly out of my current night cream (Trilogy Rosapene Night Cream) and as much as I'd like to repurchase, it's $45 and I thought I'd try something new! I really like the spray toner from Puretopia so I thought I'd give this one a go. It has really nice ingredients like Rose hip oil and Vitamins C & E. Even if this isn't the greatest, I always mix in a few drops of a facial oil so hopefully it works out!

Soap & Glory The Breakfast Scrub

Oh sweet jebus, I've been wanting this scrub for the longest time. Every time I go into Mecca/Kit I sniff this and cry a little inside, it smells so delicious. It's also my first proper scrub and my reasoning is that Summer is coming up - gotta get Summer ready! Lol, who am I kidding, I don't go outside. But also so I can get my limbs somewhat nice looking for Formal - scaly, lizard ness be gone! I was considering getting a scrub from Dirty Works which is the dupe brand, but I realised they really aren't that cheap! Their scrub is $13 and S&G is $16, just pay in a few extra bucks and get the real deal hey.

Decleor System Corps Lait Hydratant Moisturising Body Milk*

I was recently sent this from Facial Co and after a bit of a kerfuffle with mis-sent products, I finally got my hands on it! I've been using it and really liking it, it is a lightweight moisturiser that doesn't leave the skin feeling heavy or sticky, but rather glowy. Perfect for Summer!

Kerastase Ciment Thermique*

Kerastase has just released a new generation of their best selling Thermiques. I was sent Ciment Thermique which is a heat protectant that is thermo-activated and will help strengthen the hair fibre from within - apparently! I try to avoid heat as much as possible, purely because my hair is so damaged. I will definitely be giving this a go though, and will let you guys know how it fares!

Bourjois Healthy Balance Unifying Powder

Bout time I got this powder right? It's been raved about by just about everyone for being the 'non-powder' powder. It sets but still keeps skin radiant whilst adding a little extra coverage. Also apparently a dupe for the Chanel Les Beiges powders and Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk powder. I bought this since I hit pan on my other face powder - Australis Fresh and Flawless, plus Bourjois was doing a gift with purchase when you spent $19.95. The powder was $20. Unfortunately they were out of stock of the Bourjois GWPs, so I got an Almay one instead, which I'm quite excited about seeing as I haven't tried anything from them. Thank you Tam for picking this up for me!

Almay Get Up & Grow Mascara

The GWP came with this mascara which I'm actually pretty excited to use seeing as Emily Noel raves about it all the time! 

Almay Longwear & Waterproof eye makeup remover pads

I've also heard pretty great things about these. I tried one the other night and it definitely got off my waterproof mascara! The pads themselves are saturated in an oily solution which helps break down product. Very convenient little pads! The GWP came in a clear bag which I think will actually be quite good for in flight and things like that. 

Topshop Glow Stick in Spotlight

I've been seeing these cheek blushes and highlighters popping up everywhere online, and I spotted this guy on clearance for half price, coming down to $11. I really liked the colour when swatched, it's quite a sheeny, glowy light pink in the convenience of a chubby stick. I think it would work well as a layering highlighter, or blush/highlighter hybrid. 

Ardell Individuals Flare Short Black

I picked these up for my Formal and I decided to go down the individual lash route to try it out, knowing that they're supposed to give a more natural, fluttery lash look. I like the customisable-ness of them. I got the short ones since they seemed the best length for me - they're still longer than my natural eyelashes but nothing obscene - the long ones are CRAY. And there wasn't a set with just medium and short. I expect I can get very voluminous lashes with these - hopefully! These were $10.

Maybelline Colour Show Bleached Neons in Sun Flare

I was not aware that Maybelline were bringing over the Bleached Neons range, but they only had the nail polishes. Shame really, because I loved the look of the LE shades of the Elixirs and Colour Whispers. I was on the hunt for a pale peachy-pink polish for Formal, all the peachy pinks I have are mid-tone, and me being the fussy biatch needed something paler apparently! Nothing satisfied me in Priceline (seriously I got every peachy-pink polish to compare them (shoutout to Daphne for helping me choose ;) ), so I decided to go with Sun Flare. It's not exactly what I wanted, it's very much on the peach side of things, but I really like it and I think it will go with my dress/situation haha.

Tweezerman Mini Slant Tweezers

I picked these up on clearance at David Jones for about $11 I think, which I thought was a pretty great price! I've been wanting to try Tweezerman tweezers for ages, and trust me, my old pair of tweezers were SO old, and blunt and pretty dang terrible at doing their job. These Tweezerman ones are so damn sharp they could cut a b*tch, legit. Took me a while to master them, but they've definitely made plucking ma brows a little less stressful. Plus, the bee print is SO cute.

Jewellery - Topshop and Lovisa

I needed to pick up some jewellery to go with my dress. My dress has silver in it but since I'm so damn keen on wearing gold, I decided to go for the mixing metals thang of gold and silver. It works because the dress itself is a creamy-beige (wow it sounds so appealing) so it goes well with gold. I really liked wearing midi rings for my Semi, and decided to do the same for my Formal. I think the dress just suits much daintier jewellery. I picked up some gold rings from Lovisa and a bracelet from Topshop which has silver and gold - I think it's quite cute. But GUYS, do you see that triangle ring I bought!? BASTILLE RING. Seriously, it ain't just any old triangle, it screams BASTILLE TRIANGLE. I'm a little obsessed. Just a little.

Hope you guys enjoyed my haul! Formal is coming up very soon, less than two weeks in fact :O So yah, I'm defo in Formal prep mode.

*Products sent for consideration.

Good Enough to Eat

So, that title may be a little deceiving, BUT, a motto of natural skincare brand Vanessa Megan is, "you should never put anything on your skin you wouldn't eat!". The brand's products must have pretty great ingredients right? Right. I have to review a couple of her products; the Rosehip Revitalizing Face Oil* and Peruvian Flower Hand Cream*. 

Peruvian Flower Hand Cream

A little about the brand first, it's pretty great. They are Australian, natural and organic, cruelty free, their packaging is 100% recyclable, and much more. You can read more about them here, but they really are an awesome brand, with their products totally reflecting that. The packaging is simplistic, yet beautiful. The boxes are super informative, not only listing a description of the products and ingredients but also the benefits of key ingredients. Both bottles have handy pumps to easily dispense product, however I do wish the oil came with a dropper, the pump can sometimes squirt product out willy nilly. 

Rosehip Revitalizing Face Oil* (30mL, $29.95)

The first thing that HIT me with this product was the scent. It has a very strong, and I ain't gonna lie, overwhelming scent. It's a rosehip oil blend containing other ingredients of rosemary, lemongrass and vetiver. The scent is undeniably lemongrass, which I'm not really a fan of to begin with. The scent is so strong it almost feels like it's tingling the skin? It's actually not, though it smells like it's tingling...am I even making sense right now? Thankfully once the oil is applied and blended into the skin, the scent dissipates - I don't know if I could handle it otherwise!

The oil itself is quite thick in texture (sorry I forgot to photograph it!) and I usually use one pump mixed with moisturiser. It doesn't leave my skin feeling or looking greasy, but rather very glowy and feeling very hydrated. Not that I really care if I look like a grease-ball though - I only use it at night when I'm moping around the house. Much like a lot of other face oils, it's very hydrating. The ingredients supposedly help with anti-ageing, evening skin tone, skin firmness, minimising pore size and more. I can't testify to many of these claims, though overall I've been really happy with my skin lately! My acne scars are slowly but surely fading and it hasn't been very spotty lately either.

Peruvian Flower Hand & Body Cream* (50mL, $29.95)

This has already made it's way into a monthly favourites post, so y'all know it's good stuff. The texture is almost whipped, though still super creamy. I find one pump of the stuff is just enough to moisturise the hands adequately. It's the right amount to not have super slick hands, therefore sinking and absorbing into the skin quite quickly, leaving them feeling quite nourished. The texture isn't too rich or greasy to begin with, so it doesn't leave much, if any residue on the hands! I've been using it every night, and while I don't have particularly dry hands to begin with, this has definitely left my hands feeling super soft, noticeable even after my first night of use! It should do, considering it contains lovely, hydrating ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, coconut oil, aloe vera and vitamin E.

Perhaps the most notable thing about this hand cream though, is its scent. It contains various essential oils that overall, give it quite a unique scent, one that I can't quite pin down. I can definitely detect hints of lavender and a slight citrusy tang. It may not appeal to everyone, however I have grown to really like it. It's not too overpowering, though is very spa like and sophisticated. The essential oils used also have added benefits. Mandarin essential oil is known to banish depression and anxiety, lavender essential oil balances the central nervous system and vanilla oleoresin is calming and known to reduce stress, promote sleep and an uplifting mood. Sounds glorious hey? I'm not sure I can attest to those precisely, but inhaling the scent before bed is definitely calming, and I think I may have even been sleeping better!

Overall, using both of these products has been a pleasure really! They're just so dang lovely. Though I don't see much difference between face oils, the Vanessa Megan one is a good 'un, and the hand cream is just beautiful, even if just for the scent!

*Products sent for consideration.