The Best of 2017 // Beauty

I'm a little bit late to the 2017 roundup party, but better late than never! I'm also thinking of doing a skincare favourites of 2017 since I haven't done a skincare routine post in a while! Anyway, I tried to keep my 2017 favourites to products I actually discovered in 2017 and were new to me last year, but there are a few (three to be exact) repeats from 2016, and also a few products that I got in 2016 (perhaps toward the end of the year), but really loved in 2017. Do check out my 2016 favourites because I still absolutely love all of those products and many of them are still in my everyday rotation and could have easily been mentioned here! Also it wasn't purposeful, but I've actually got 17 products here, so it's my top 17 from 2017!

In the Spotlight // Liquid Foundations

Welcome to my foundation station where we're looking at my foundation rotation! Gotta throw in all of the rhyming words ;) I am here with another instalment of my 'In the Spotlight' series (or rather, reviving it) where I take a look at all my makeup collection through different categories, whether it be a type of product or a brand. Over my time of wearing makeup, I've cycled through quite a few different foundations! Here are the ones that have managed to stick around, and that I actually do wear! For reference, my skintone is light-medium with yellow undertones and I have pretty oily skin. I'd say I'm around a MAC NC25 (though I've never actually been shade matched lmao), and not all of my foundations are perfect matches haha :P

Empties #15

Time to empty the trashbag into a dishevelled-chic flatlay! Probably the last empties of the year and I'm proud that I've gone through so many products. Enough with the preamble, because I know this post is going to be rambly as ffff!

Battle of the Anti-Fatigue Foundations

You could call it a coincidence, but within the last couple of months, both Rimmel and Bourjois have reformulated their Wake Me Up and Healthy Mix foundations respectively. I was very kindly sent both of them to review, and it didn't take me long to realise they were both claiming very similar things! Firstly, they're both "anti-fatigue" foundations that contain vitamins which are supposedly better for your skin! I'm not so sure about the actual efficacy of vitamins in foundations - I don't know about you but I don't really wear foundation for its skincare benefits. But anyway, as foundations - they're very similar formulas so I thought it would be worthwhile comparing them!

Collective Haul // May 2017

Technically, this is my first haul this year - and I'm pretty proud of that fact! I really haven't bought too many new beauty products this year, but I happened to go ham in the last month! To be fair, May was my birthday month so I was spoilt and got a few gifts, had some loyalty club bday perks and just plain felt spendy! Let's dive in because there's a fair bit to get through!

Monthly Favourites // May 2017

As always, May has come to a close quite quickly! It was my birthday month so I was fairly spoilt, got my fair share of loyalty program freebies and had an amazing night out mini golfing with my buds! I actually did quite a bit of shopping this month too (haul to come! Once my final order arrives...), so there will be plenty of new reviews and content coming soon! I've got a few assessments in the coming couple weeks, but I'm free after that! I have a select few favourites for this month, but some new products that I thought I'd share with you!

What's In My Travel Beauty Bag(s)?

So I leave tomorrow for my three week trip to the US! I feel like I've been waiting forever for this trip to come, and now that it's here, I feel so unprepared! Why must I procrastinate in every aspect of my life?? I'm pretty sure I've never shared with you guys what products I've taken travelling in the past, usually it's nothing exciting, especially makeup wise as I'm never really bothered much in that department! I figured this trip I'd put more effort into my face as I'm going to some big cities (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Denver!). I tried to pack light, especially considering I'll be buying a WHOLE LOT while I'm there, but I may have overdone it on the skincare... :P My excuse is that my skin is actually pretty good right now and I don't want to mess it up! Plus I'm gone for three weeks so I cant just switch it up for an off week, y'know? Also, ignore the weird lighting in these photos. It was raining pretty heavily today! Plus, my camera decided to start acting up and basically died. Just before my trip of course!! I had to wipe the settings and I have no idea what they were to put it back to what it was lol. Ended up being a bad connection between the lens and the body which a quick clean fixed (for now...). 

The Best of 2015

Hallo humans! I'm finally getting around to wrapping up my favourites of 2015! I hadn't thought of what I would put in this post (was probably procrastinating lbr), but when I sat down to write up my list, there were quite a few obvious picks! I had quite a bit of trouble narrowing it down, and will probably throw in some honourable mentions too heh. I decided to go about picking the products I used and loved during 2015, not necessarily new products of 2015, though I did get quite a few of them last year. I'm also not mentioning products I got in the last couple of months, but you can catch up on those faves in my November and December favourites posts! Anyway, enough rambling, let's jump in before this post becomes 10000 years long!

TAG // Addicted to Blush

If there's one thing you probably know about me, it's that I love me some blush. Being (probably) my favourite item of makeup, I've amassed quite the collection! The only thing from stopping me buying up a storm, is that my drawer is pretty much full to the point where I can't close it...(lol jks, that ain't stopping me). It's only fitting, of course, that I do the Addicted to Blush tag created by Kat! Thank you to the lovelies Lena and Jennifer for tagging me, and keep reading for my answers!

The Best of 2014 // Makeup

Kiddies, it's time for the big 'un. The pinnacle and summation of 2014, documented in makeup products. I didn't want to make this post too long, and really tried to pick the products I used and loved most throughout 2014. I also didn't want to repeat anything from 2013's favourites, so products like the Dolly Wink Eyebrow Powder or Lorac Pro Palette which I used and loved immensely, haven't been included. Speaking of 2013's faves, looking back, while a lot I still like, others I've completely ignored. Funny how opinions change! Also, APOLOGIES for the slightly grainy/off photos, the weather was shitty this day, and I had to edit the crap out of them! BUT anyways, I've done reviews for most of the products, so they'll be linked where applicable!

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-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.

Because I'm Happy

Bourjois seems to have some of the best base products, everyone seems to love their primers, foundations, concealers and powders! I for one have only tried their Healthy Mix Serum Foundation which initially I too loved, however slowly realised it did not work for my skin type. Cue in the Happy Light Foundation, which has now become a firm fave and still gives me a similar natural, dewy-ish finish without any of that oily business!

Packaging-wise, like Bourjois's other liquid foundations, it comes with a handy-dandy pump - which also happens to be peachy-pink, my fave. The standard 30mL comes in a slim glass bottle. Seems pretty sturdy, just make sure not to drop it!

A note on the shades, there aren't many. I have the shade 52 Light Beige which is actually a pretty awesome match. It doesn't oxidise at all - if it does it's not noticeable. Basically, I'm the second lightest shade which is unheard of. I'm definitely not pale, and am firmly a medium-yellow skintone, so you get the idea of how horrendous the shade range is. It seems to have planted itself in the medium range, the four shades (available in Australia) don't extend to either of the extremes which is very unfortunate for pale or deep skinned ladies! Bourjois really needs to get their shade-game together!

As for the foundation itself, I really love it. It has a lightweight, vaguely gel-like consistency which blends really well into the skin. I tend to apply it with a buffing brush but fingers work too, as well as a sponge. It really buffs into the skin, leaving a very skin-like finish. It does claim a "luminous complexion" which I'd interpret to be glowy/dewy. It doesn't exactly give that finish but it does give a naturally flawless type look. It's not too dewy, nor too matte - very much a satin finish which just looks natural.  I've found that satin finishes tend to be my favourite, because throughout the day as a little of my natural oils start coming through, it gets to that dewy stage that I really like. Foundations with an initial dewy finish can tend to look oily throughout the day. It doesn't make any bold claims for lasting power, but I find lasting power is really pretty good! I do set with a powder just to make sure, but it sticks around for the whole day - longest I've worn it is probably 10 hours and by the end of the day, my skin is dewy - possibly a wee bit shiny in the nose area, but looks good with no touch-up on my oily/combo skin. My one qualm is that toward the end of the day, it can sort of highlight any uneven texture on the skin. Not sure how to explain it, it doesn't cling to dryness or look obviously foundation-y, but it does look a little less flawless after a while, which is to be expected to some degree. It also claims 8 hour hydration. I don't have dry skin so I can't really comment on that, but it didn't dry out my skin at all, or accentuate dryness, nor did it cause me to be really oily.

Like most foundations I tend to gravitate towards, it has a light to medium coverage, which is buildable to some degree. I probably wouldn't layer it up to much (2-3 layers max) because it can tend to get a little more obvious. I'm good with one layer and concealer - mostly because I'm lazy :P I should also note that it is lightly fragranced, like most Bourjois foundations, so sensitive skins be aware.

All in all, a really lovely foundation! It ticks all my boxes; natural, satin finish, good lasting power and light-medium coverage. Definitely one to check out if you have a shade match. I really think that this would suit most skin types! Maybe not extremely oily or if you prefer a matte finish. It retails for AUD$29 at Priceline.

PS: I'm heading down to Melbourne-town on Wednesday for about a week to visit my sister! Posts will still be going up as normal though hehe. I'm planning on doing some serious shopping, mainly for accessories/shoes/makeup for my Formal. Any local Melbournians have shopping recs or in general notable things to do down there?

Monthly Favourites // July 2014

It's July favourites time! This month went SO fast, legit. My first couple of weeks back at school were not cruisy, I was bombarded with assignments and due dates which made it feel like I never had a holiday at all!  I try to make time for commenting on and reading blog posts though it can be hard! I had a major writing sesh in the hols though, so most of this months posts, and for the next couple of months are all pre-written/scheduled posts. Anyways I have a few products that I've been really enjoying this month, that I wanted to share with y'all.

Antipodes Vanilla Pod Hydrating Day Cream

What with it being Winter and all, my skin has definitely gotten a bit drier, meaning I can get away with using a richer moisturiser during the day. This one is sooooo lovely and smells DIVINE (you were right Vanessa). While it's rich and uber nourishing, it doesn't feel heavy, absorbs well and doesn't make me any oilier throughout the day, even under makeup. I can even use it at night with rosehip oil, but I've been loving a different mosituriser for that...

Trilogy Rosapene Night Cream

(amazing segue right?) This night cream has been amaze for my drier Winter skin. It's so lovely and really quite a dense cream, though absorbs pretty well into the skin. I use it in conjuction with the Trilogy Antioxidant + Rosehip Oil which I mentioned in my last faves, and my skin has just been drinking it up. It feels uber soft and nourished. Love.

Coconut Revolution Coconut Lip Balm in Cherry

This is a sweet little lip balm that smells and looks like Willy Wonka Redskins - yerm. Doesn't really remind me of Cherry at all, which is a good thing cos I ain't a fan of that medicinal cherry scent/flavour. It is slightly tinted, and the colour is buildable (though still sheer, obvs). I find this is really nourishing, and I've really been liking the sheer wash of colour it gives, and the easy tube format. 

Bourjois Happy Light Foundation in shade 52 Light Beige

I've been wearing my Rimmel Matte BB Cream most days which I talked about in my last favourites, but for weekends or days/nights when I'm going out, I've been no doubt reaching for this foundation.I will definitely have a review up at some point, but to round things up; light-medium coverage, satin finish - not too dewy or matte, very natural - and really good lasting power, surprisingly! Love the packaging too.

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion in Original

This is a little sample sachet I got with my Naked 3 palette. Despite the rave reviews, hype and talk of this being the original and best eyeshadow primer, I actually didn't have overwhelmingly high hopes for it. I guess a few slightly negative reviews tipped the scales for me. I do really like it though, and have been using it everyday I wear eyeshadow! It works really well, my shadows only have minimal creasing by the end of the day and show up lovely and vibrant!

Jordana Fabuliner in Black

I haven't been wearing this heaps this month, my eyeliner wearing is rather sporadic, but I did a couple of times this month and really enjoyed it. It's a felt tip liquid liner, super black and although the tip is a bit thick, it still comes to a fine point, allowing thick and thin lines. I really like the lasting power of this too - it doesn't smudge, smear or fade throughout the day.

Max factor Miracle Touch Creamy Blush in Soft Pink

As I said, my skin has been a bit drier and I have a few dry patches on my cheeks (the acne isn't helping those at all either), so I've been opting for a cream blush as I find it just sits much nicer over dry skin. The finish is creamy and dewy, and I love this shade.

PS. Shiwashiful. reached a milestone of 300 followers this week! Thanks so much guiz! :')

(Hopefully noone's unfollowed me by the time this post goes up haha...)

Disappointing Products #1

Over my time as a beauty blogger, I've found plenty of products that I love and enjoy using, but I've also stumbled across some that I don't like as much. These are pretty scarce occurrences as I generally read a lot of reviews on any particular product I want to buy, or have heard in general whether a product is good or not. However, sometimes I buy into the hype and said products disappoint me, in other cases they didn't live up to my expectations or just simply didn't work out. This post has probably been long overdue and I actually had so many products I had to split it into two posts! Another will be coming soon and it actually features all lip products.

Sanctuary Spa Polishing Hot Cloth Cleanser

This isn't a terrible cleanser, and I do intend on finishing it - it cleans my skin effectively but just isn't as thick or creamy as I'd like it to be. It doesn't leave my skin feeling soft or moisturised, if anything slightly dry and craving the rest of my skincare. It's definitely nothing special and I wouldn't recommend it sadly.

Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Pre Foundation Skin Primer

One of the first primers I ever used, and I really actually don't notice this doing anything to be honest. I don't find it to smooth or improve my skin's texture, nor prolong the wear of my foundation considerably. If anything it's more of a moisturising primer, but that's why I use a moisturiser! Not worth the money in my opinion. Face of Australia makes a primer with practically the same ingredients if you're interested!

Indeed Labs Hydraluron

This has been hyped up beyond belief! I'm one of the minority who doesn't like this very much because it's an essential for a lot of people. I don't think it lived up to the hype because I really don't notice it doing anything significant for my skin. It doesn't necessarily make my skin feel good when I apply it, and when moisturiser goes over the top, it honestly doesn't feel like it's done anything. Perhaps it has helped the moisturisation of my skin, but not significantly. I just don't think I have the right skin type for this! If you have dry or dehydrated skin, perhaps it would make more of an impact.

Lush Grease Lightning

I've expressed in my review my indepth thoughts on this. I don't really think it's that effective. It is of course better than using nothing but it's just very gentle and not very potent. Also the packaging is a bit annoying, the pump is very hard to press and dispenses way too much product, mine broke anyways!

Stila Under the Mistletoe palette

This was a limited edition anyways, so I don't think you can buy it anymore. I was just very disappointed in the formulas of the eyeshadows (I do like the convertible colour included). I found them very sheer and not very long-lasting, even with a good primer. Very different from all the praise I've heard about Stila eye shadows!

Benefit Cha Cha tint and High Beam

On the whole, I was pretty disappointed in this kit to be honest (bar the lip gloss). My issue with these two very hyped and well loved liquid products is that they're so difficult to apply and blend! You definitely can't just stripe it onto the cheeks because the initial strokes will still be visible. I find Cha Cha tint actually not that long lasting, a bit drying on the lips and overall a hassle to apply. The colour is so pretty though! Besides application issues, High Beam is a bit too silvery-pink for my very yellow skintone, therefore coming off a bit ashy. I know a lot of people love these products so I was shocked when they just didn't live up to my expectations!

Benefit Coralista Boxed Powder

Well, my expectations were very high for this blush, so many people love and swear by it as their favourite shimmery peachy-pink shade. It just didn't work out for me! I actually find it to be quite sheer and on the whole a bit light, therefore it barely shows up on my skin as a blush. I will say though that the shimmer is beautiful, it lends an uber pretty golden natural glow to the cheeks. If I want any hint of colour to show up, I have to build it up. I've been using this more so as a layering blush or subtle highlighter.

Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum Foundation

Okay now, this product I actually did really like at one point, it was one of my go to foundations! I've since realised that it perhaps isn't totally matched to my skin type. It gives a beautiful dewy, natural finish to my skin but just doesn't last. I get shiny quite quickly with it, and I find it breaks up a bit around my oily areas. My biggest gripe with it though is how easily it transfers, especially when I get shiny. If I touch my face, it comes straight off. Really not the nicest thing! Also the shade 53 is too pale for me so I really haven't been using it much anyways. It is a lovely foundation though, just one I think works better on drier skinned peeps!

Rimmel Stay Matte Powder

A much loved drugstore mattifying powder that has never really performed as well as I'd like. I find myself getting shiny around 3 hours after application, which is basically like I hadn't applied powder at all. I also find that the Transparent shade isn't really transparent, and can often make me look a bit pale. Clearly I've used it having hit pan, but I've since reached for other powders over this one.

Phew! That was a long post, I hope I didn't anger anyone with a few of my more controversial products. A lot of these just didn't work out for me, most likely due to my skintype or skintone, or I just had unrealistic expectations for them!

Do you agree or disagree with any of my picks?

The Velvet Edition

First there were the uber pigmented liquid lipsticks, then came the oft-drying matte lip creams, and now, something in between is having a bit of a moment in the beauty spotlight. Known as the "semi-matte" lip product, they boast a matte finish that is softer, and not at all drying whilst still being incredibly long-wearing. One such product that has been all the rage of late is the Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet.

L-R: Peach Club, Frambourjois

These lip products are packaged beautifully - their rectangular plastic tubes with colour coordinating lids are easy to identify, and the black band and font choice add an element of chic-ness. They have a standard doe-foot applicator that apply the product easily. One issue that I know a lot of other people had was with the outer plastic seal. I'm all for sealing products to make sure they're not used, but whoa man, this plastic seal-age was hardcore. There was no perforation, and it was basically STUCK to the tube and unripable man, un-rip-able. I've included some photographic evidence for your convenience - don't attempt it with a fresh manicure, it's sure to be ruined.

Anyways! Onto the formula, which sure is a beaut! The consistency really does seem like a lip gloss, it's rather thin and not as creamy or thick and opaque as your typical lip cream product. It isn't as pigmented as I anticipated and in most cases needs more than one layer to reach opacity, but it doesn't cake/bunch when building up. These don't seem to 'dry down' like other matte lip creams, and when swatched on my hand, they stay shiny(ish). When on the lips though, they do develop into a soft matte finish - which might be due to pressing my lips together? The upside of this is that they aren't drying at all or flake/chip off. They are supposedly "enriched with evanescent oils", seems legit, though I don't find them to be moisturising. I find these still to be incredibly long-wearing, they operate like a stain, and quite a potent one at that. Without eating, they can last from 4-6 hours, with eating you get a slight bit of wear in the center of the lip, but nothing drastic. It's easy to reapply straight over the top though. Despite this, they still do transfer pretty easily (I did manage to get a little on my chin when eating), but because it's a thin and soft matte finish, it's not extremely messy.

Peach Club

Frambourjois (ignore that strand of hair, heh)

The shade range is a decent 8 colours, and while the shades themselves are pretty, I think they could've done better on the range. They're all rather deep, dusty colours, a lot of pink and red colours with not much significant differentiation. I picked two shades which appealed to me most; Peach Club and Frambourjois.

Peach Club is what I would describe as the perfect Autumnal peach. It's a deeper peach with dusty orange hints, almost pulling a bit burnt orange. I thought I would love this more than I do, whilst it's really pretty and different to my to my typical peachy/pink/corals there's something a tad...aging about it? It's just not as fresh, bright and youthful as shades typically like this. Regardless, it still is beautiful and definitely a nice warm shade for the cooler months.

For some odd reason, my lip swatch of Frambourjois is showing up VERY saturated, it's not at all like this in real life or on my computer, so I'm sorry for the misrepresentation! It's closer to the hand swatch, but still a little bit deeper. I would describe this shade as a raspberry red, like the colour of an actual raspberry. It's a pinky-red but with a touch of maroon. I really love this shade, and it's also perfect for the cooler months!

These are very unique products in my collection and have definitely become firm favourites with their comfortable feel, bold colour, matte finish and long wear! The one major downer is the price, AUD$24.00 which is down right ridiculous. Best pick up these babies in a sale peeps!

The Lip Product Addict Tag

A few weeks ago I was tagged by the lovely Sheri to do the Lip Product Addict tag. If there's one thing that I know I am, it's a lip product addict! This tag was also created by two of my favourite youtubers - Estee and Amelia - so I really wanted to do it! Keep reading for my answers...

1. Favourite balm/treatment?

My favourite lip balm at the moment is probably the Nivea Lip Butter, this one is in the scent Vanilla & Macadamia which smells delicious. I really like this lip balm, for no particular reason other than I think it's pretty moisturising for every day and it helped out when I had itchy lips. It's not super intense though, so don't expect it to heal extremely chapped lips!

2. Best eye-catching red?

In all honesty, I really don't wear red lipstick often so I don't have many to choose from. One red that I do have that is pretty bright, relatively cool-toned as well is the Jordana Twist & Shine Moisturising Balm Stain in the shade Rock n Rouge. It's very pigmented for one of these balm stain types, it has a slight sheen to it and it does stain. Not much more I can say really!

3. Best luxury and best drugstore?

I actually didn't have a clear cut answer for this one, I don't have any crazy, ultimate, absolute favourites from either category, so I just chose two lipsticks that I really like. For drugstore, I chose the L'oreal Nutri-shine lipstick in the shade Pink Nude. The formula is similar to the Revlon Lip Butters, only better in my opinion. The colour is a really pretty nuded peachy-pink. For luxury, I chose the Estee Lauder Signature Lipstick in the shade Soft Amethyst. The formula of this lipstick is really nice - it's super pigmented, but quite moisturising and sits very comfortably on the lips. The colour is also beautiful - a super wearable purple. 

4. Best MAC lipstick?

I only have four to choose from, but I'd have to say the definite winner is MAC Morange. It's a beautiful striking red-toned orange, that is super wearable. It's bold and bright, with an amplified formula, so it is very pigmented yet not drying at all.

5. The most disappointing?

I'm going to steal Sheri's answer here, but hands down, Face of Australia Lip Quench lipstick in the shade Lychee Crush. Firstly, the colour is horrendous on my skintone. This shade was getting RAVES, and it swatched as a really pretty pale peachy-pink nude but on the lips, it made me look dead and washed out. Also, the formula is terrible. It's too creamy that it slips and slides and settles into lines and it smells terrible. The reason it looks like I've used my whole tube is because I tried to redeem it as a cream blush. It worked for a while, but it didn't last well on my cheeks. My second disappointing product is actually the Rimmel Apocalips. My review of these was probably a bit lenient but I had a bad burger-eating experience with the shade Stellar. Whilst eating it somehow got all over my face, like chin, teeth, burger - it was a mess. This was a good few hours after application too. These don't set down and stay sitting on top of the lips - easily transferable.

6. Liner - yes or no?

I'm gonna go with a straight no on this one. I just can't be bothered! I'd only ever use liner if I had a special occasion - wanted my lip to last extra long, etc, etc you know the gist. But I've really only used a liner once or twice! I do have a few of the Essence Lip Liners which I do really like - they're creamy and you could even use them on their own.

7. Best gloss?

I could have answered this with a few different products, but chose to stick to the NYX Butter Gloss of which I have in the shade Peaches and Cream. This gloss is so lovely! It feels balmy on the lips - a slight thickness but nothing sticky. Amazing pigmentation, smoothing gloss and delicious scent. What more could you ask for?

8. And something extra!

I decided to chuck in the Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvets, I acquired these recently and have been loving them. They are matte lip creams but don't dry like paint on the lips. They're matte but not at all drying, with a soft feel and staining effect, making them extremely long wearing. They do still transfer a little though. I have them in the shades Peach Club and Frambourjois.

L-R: Rock n Rouge, Soft Amethyst, Pink Nude, Morange, Lychee Crush, Celestial, Stellar

L-R: Peaches and Cream, Satin Mauve, Cute Pink, In the Nude, Frambourjois, Peach Club

I hope you guys enjoyed reading my answers! I tag: Vanessa (though I don't peg you as a lip product addict, yolo imma tag you anyways), Cherie, Jen, Miss Louise, Yige, Candice, Monica & Linny and anyone else who would like to do it!

Collective Haul // June 2014

It seems there is no shortage of hauls on this blog...oops. But! I bought majority of this on sale (of course), what with all of the EOFY sales and it means more blog content - yay! Let's dig in shallst we...

Antipodes Moisture Boost MINIs - Divine Face Oil (10mL) and Vanilla Pod Hydrating Day Cream (15mL)

I didn't end up picking up the Priceline Skincare goody bag GWP, though it did look really good this year! I ended up buying this little duo from Antipodes though, it was 20% off coming down to $15. I've really been wanting to try out the brand, and apparently this deluxe sized set is limited edition so I decided to pick it up while I still could! They also have a nighttime version, though that was sold out.

Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Balm

I bought this from a shop at my local shopping centre, it's sort of like a watered-down Priceline. A couple of friends got me a voucher for there for my birthday and I decided to buy this MUCH raved about lip balm. It's  quite expensive ($20) so I was glad I had a voucher! I've been using this for the past week or so and I'm not sure how I feel about it...

Rimmel Matte BB Cream in Medium

I got a sample sachet in the mail from a facebook promotion Rimmel was doing. It took forever to arrive but I finally got it and ended up really enjoying it! Medium is a really good shade match for me and I was pretty impressed by the formula - longevity, finish and coverage. It came with a $3 off coupon which I decided to use, bringing it down to $10.

Bourjois Happy Light Foundation in 52 Light Beige

Bourjois is 30% off currently at Priceline so I decided to take the plunge and pick up this foundation (came to around $20) - I've been hearing really good things about it, particularly from Anna, and even that it's comparable to Chanel Vita Lumiere Aqua. I intended to pick up the luminous primer as well but they were sold out (probably a good thing actually...). The shade range is horrendous. There are only four shades, and they are hella dark, like I'm the second lightest shade?! Ridiculous. Regardless I think it's a good match for me and I'm super excited to use it!

Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet in 02 Frambourjoise and 04 Peach Club

I bought these a week and a bit ago when all Bourjois lip products were $10 each. These have been getting RAVES - the best liquid lipstick according to Anna, so of course I had to pick them up. They are retailing for something like $24 which is ridiculous, but ain't that the world we live in. And by we, I mean Australians. I needed to take advantage of the $10 offer, that's less than half price! Sadly, I doubt they will be this cheap again. Although the shades offered are really nice, I don't think it's the best range. These were the two that appealed to me most.

Maybelline Colour Elixir in Caramel Infused

Again these are coming into the market quite expensively - something like $18. I picked mine up for 10% off (~$16) at some VIP event they were doing at the Priceline nearest to me, but they're currently on sale for like $13. I had a swatch of them all and surprisingly I was content with just one. This shade seems to be the perfect 'my lips but better', and I'm really enjoying the formula, but more of that in a review post.

Sportsgirl Party Popper and Galaxy

It ain't a shiwashiful haul without a Sportsgirl nail polish ayy. As you can see, these were reduced (only way to go), and are super awesome matte glitters! The colour combos are really pretty and I'm really excited to give these guys a go.

Revlon Parfumerie Scented Nail Enamel in China Flower

This was actually in a duo I picked up for $10, the other shade was Pink Pineapple which I decided to save for a gift. I've already worn this and I must say, the formula was really nice. Basically opaque in one coat, shiny and it's a really striking, warm red. Can't say I was the hugest fan of the scent though (something about it reminded me of toilet cleaner? Like Duck or something? Idek.), but it actually grew on me slightly as it wore.

Noughts & Crosses Kimberly Shorts

I picked these up from Dissh for only $20! I thought that was a really good deal as they were $60 full price. I'd seen these a few months ago when they were full price, and I really wanted them, so when I saw them on clearance I just had to pick them up! They've got ma fave neon peachy-pink shade throughout, and a cool metallic gold and neon aztec-y print. Plus they're high-waisted - ma fave. Definitely won't be wearing these till Spring/Summer rolls around, but boy I'm excited to!

So that was my haul for the month, I'm really excited about the products I picked up actually! And technically I didn't pay full price for anything - those be my bargain hunting ways ;)