Empties #17

It's empties time again! I'm a wee bit overdue this time around so I have a lot to talk about! It feels good to be finishing up products. I also did a wardrobe AND makeup declutter this past week so I'm feeling extra good about myself haha! I got rid of a tonne of makeup that I just wasn't using (or was super old) and my collection is a lot more streamlined. That being said, I still have a huge collection and way more than I actually need... haha. :P Anyway, let's dive into products I've actually finished!

Empties #13

Hellloooo... is this thing on?! Long time no see peeps! I'm back from my longer-than-intended hiatus! The past month or so has been absolutely hectic for me and I seriously had no time to even think about blogging, let alone actually taking photos or sitting down and writing a post! I've been absolutely slammed with assessment (it's been my biggest first half of semester ever), not to mention it was my sister's wedding on the weekend! It was a very DIY wedding so the days leading up to the wedding were super busy setting up the decor and the venue (and then cleaning up after!). I did her makeup on the day - along with mine and my other sister as we were bridesmaids - which was quite stressful but still super amazing! I do plan on doing a post on the products I used because I was really happy with how it turned out - I'm just waiting until the professional photos come in! Anyway, I'm coming at you today with an overdue empties post. I was going to do this a few weeks ago but I realised I didn't actually have a lot of empties, but a lot of things were aaaalmost finished so I used those suckers up! I've got a lot of products to go through so I'll try and be as brief as possible!

Empties #11

It's been a hot minute since my last empties! I try to get one of these up every quarter, but sometimes I just forget or keep putting it off until I finish a certain product because I'm sooo close. Anyway, this is the loot that I've come up with this time around!

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...). 

Empties #9

It hasn't been that long since my last empties, but wow - I've been on a roll! Either a bunch of products just decided to finish simultaneously or I've actually been using them (what a shocker). But yes, I'm trying to (sort of) make more of a conscious effort to finish products! These empties posts always end up being super long and rambly, so imma try and keep it short (ish) as we have a lot to get through!

Collective Haul // May 2015

I think it's fair to say that May has been a DOOZY spending-wise. A few excuses reasons for this: 1) it was my birthday month! #treatyoself was in full swing, I got some birthday money and gift vouchers - so I was fully justified in my spending ;), 2) some of these were gifts and giveaway wins and 3) My last proper collective haul was back in January! :O But I have been spending in between...check my instagram for some insta hauls. Oops. But after this I'm going on a bit of a semi-official beauty spending ban! I need to start saving up for my trip to the US next year (I'll be doing some major spending over there, no doubt, no doubt) and I've decided I want to re-do my makeup storage! I'm moving into my sister's old room since she's moved out and it's bigger than my current room, and so I've been getting really into homewares :P Dats gonna be my uni break project! And I'm excited. Anyway - buckle up kids, it's a long one!

Monthly Favourites // March 2015

March was a pretty busy month for me! It was basically my first month of uni where I actually started doing work, though...let's not talk about how I'm so behind on readings and should get back to doing the assignment that's due tonight! Favourites wise, I was actually grasping! Well, that's a bit extreme, but a lot is the same from last month. While I did get a boat load of stuff mid-month (thaaaanks Obsession!) I've been slowing starting to try things and wanted to test them out for a bit longer before I declared any faves! Though, there are definitely some gems in that bunch! Let's get stuck in here though!

Obsession 2015 Blogger Event

Hey guys! As you may have seen from Instagram and the like, this past weekend was the first beauty blogger event in Brisbane; Obsession 2015! I was extremely lucky to attend, and I thought I would do a post on my experience, and also the ma-HOO-ssive goody bag(s) we were fortunate enough to receive! Please don't take this as bragging, guys! I just thought it would be fun to share what we got, and if you spot anything in particular you would like to see reviewed, please let me know! I'm pretty much going on an unofficial spending ban because LAWD knows, I have enough skin/hair/bodycare to last me the next year + lel.

Empties #5

It's empties time y'all! I actually haven't done one of these in quite a while, but I've accumulated quite the load of rubbish. Since taking the photos for this post, I've actually finished up/am near finished quite a few others, so expect another empties soon!

T.N. Dickinson's All Natural Witch Hazel

Wow whee, talk about a throwback. This was featured in one of my early hauls and for those first few months, I really did love this. Its basic ingredients are pretty much witch hazel and alcohol which isn't that great. I didn't actually find it too drying, but it wasn't great. I feel like it did help clear my skin to some degree, though I've moved on to far better and brighter toners.

Repurchase? No.

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads

Dang, I loved these pads. They are essentially pads soaked in a gentle chemical exfoliant which really helped keep my skin clear, helped fade dark spots, as well as improve my skin's texture. I'm currently back using my Clarins Gentle Exfoliating Brightening toner, but I've now decided that a chemical exfoliant is definitely a skincare product I'd rather not be without!

Repurchase? Not right now, but totally in the future!

Garnier Dark Spot Treatment Night

I found this serum really helped out with dark spots, skin texture and acne - very much similar to the FAB pads. It also acts somewhat like a chemical exfoliant with the inclusion of Glycolic acid, though in a serum form. It's quite an affordable way to get some chemical exfoliating-ness in your routine!

Repurchase? I already have!

Indeed Labs Hydraluron

Contrary to everyone else, I really did not see any difference when using this serum. I used it every morning and I honestly can't say it helped much in the way of my skin's moisture of hydration. Personally I found it very disappointing. It's probably just my skin type but it was for sure a waste of money for me.

Repurchase? No.

Trilogy Very Gentle Moisturising Cream

I did really like this at one point, but in comparison to other moisturisers I've tried (Trilogy Rosapene Night Cream), I didn't find this outstanding. It was sufficiently hydrating, but I only ever used it mixed in with a facial oil. I did also find it slightly greasier than other night creams I've used.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Malin+Goetz Lip Moisturiser

I got this as a plane freebie, and it was interesting to say the least. It had a very gel like, almost a bit sticky, texture which in theory sounds like it would be totally moisturising, and while on the lips it does feel that way, I don't think it really moisturised my lips very much. It's been a while since I used it, and I honestly can't remember what it was like. I guess that's a testament to how much I cared for it.

Repurchase? No.

Beauty Care Co Makeup Remover Pads

I think these have been featured in other empties posts. These are the cheapest cotton rounds I've found - they're $2 for 200 which is a bargain! That is, however, reflected in the quality. They are a bit fluffy and come apart easily, but personally I don't mind, and for something like cotton pads, I'd rather not pay a lot.

Repurchase? Yep, unless I find something cheaper!

The Body Shop Moringa Soap

This was nice while I used it. I really do like the Moringa scent, however the soap itself isn't amazing, especially for coming from a brand like The Body Shop. It leaves my skin feeling a bit taut, and not moisturised at all. I'll be sticking to my Dove Beauty Bars thanks!

Repurchase? No.

Indola Glamour Precious Oil

This was one of my first hair oils, and I must say I enjoyed it right up till the end. It did everything a hair oil should; left it looking smooth and shiny, soft to the touch and hydrated. While I did really love it, I think the L'oreal Mythic Oil has surpassed it.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Daiso Detergent for Puff and Sponge

Probably the best thing for cleaning brushes - and it's only $2.80! It cleans brushes really well with minimal effort. 

Repurchase? Definitely!

Rimmel BB Cream Matte

I got this little sample through their facebook page and I liked it enough to purchase it! It gives a really good coverage for a BB cream, a nice satin finish that lasts really well throughout the day on my combo skin. I tend to think of it more like a lightweight, light coverage foundation than a BB cream.

Repurchase? Well, I bought the full size!

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?

Monthly Favourites // September 2014

Yes indeedy, it's the end of September, and that scares me. My university course preferences are officially in - there's no more running from my future (or lack thereof)! Pretty soon I'll be out of high school and forced to face the real world...and I ain't ready. So instead...let's talk favourites ay? I don't have too many this month, mainly because I haven't bought new makeup/stuff in ages (yay me) so I didn't have many new things to try. However, there are a few things here that I haven't mentioned on the blog before!

The Body Shop Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter
A full review of this is on the way, but as you can see, I've already hit pan on the stuff - say whaaat?! I'll be honest, I do feel like I'm going through this quite quickly, and I don't even use it every night. Most times I do use it, I double cleanse. I really like it and I guess you could say it's my first foray into proper balm cleansers. It removes makeup super well and definitely cleanses the skin - though I always do a double cleanse - with a face cloth. It thins out to a bit of an oily texture, however it doesn't leave the skin feeling oily at all. Meaning, it doesn't make my skin feel hydrated after, but it's definitely not dry at all. Regardless, a really awesome cleansing and makeup removing product!

Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner*
Aah yep, this guy's making a return! Since I finished up my FAB Facial Radiance Pads, I've switched back to this chemically exfoliating toner. I can't say which I like better, they do pretty much the same thing. Clearer complexion, smoother skin texture and overall better looking skin is what this guy'll get you!

NAT. Vitamin C Serum*
My last post was a review on this so I won't ramble, but basically I've been using this everyday as my morning time serum and it's awesome. Super hydrating, sits well under makeup despite being an oil and I've definitely noticed a difference in my skin tone. Good stuff.

theBalm Balm Jovi Rockstar Face Palette
I've mentioned this product countless times on the blog, though mostly for the two cheek products. This month however, I've been enjoying the eyeshadows! As I mentioned, I went away for a week down to Melbourne and I took this palette with me (it's super compact and awesome for travel). The eyeshadows served me well. It contains a variety of different finishes (shimmer and matte) and shades (neutral and slight colours). The textures are pretty awesome too - pigmented and very easily blended.

Face of Australia GLAMAZON Contour & Highlight Kit in Leopardess 
Sadly this little duo was limited edition - there may still be a few floating around though! I was planning to do a review but it slipped my mind, do let me know if you'd still like to read it! Basically the contour shade in this is da bomb. Yes I just wrote da bomb. It's cool-toned, dark - but not too dark, smooth and blendable. It's also actually not too heavily pigmented, making it easy to apply just the right amount to get a lurvely shadow. Definitely my new favourite contouring shade, and I totally look like I have some cheekbone-age (sadly not Cumberbatch level). The highlighter is really pretty too!

Benefit They're Real Mascara
I finally got around to using my sample size on my trip to Melbs (I still have too many unopened AND opened mascaras...sigh) and must say, was initially unimpressed! The first time I used it, it smudged after two hours...TWO HOURS. That is a short amount of time my friends. However, on subsequent uses, I made sure to powder under my eyes well, and it lasted much better. It only smudged a little towards the end of the day. Anyways, I really like the brush - it grabs onto my (very few) lashes and does lengthen and give good volume. It even helps pump 'em up a bit even if I haven't curled my lashes, making them somewhat noticeable. Definitely one of the more 'dramatic' mascaras I've used and does quite a lot with my really sucky eyelashes.

Cuponation
Y'all probably know by now that I am a bargain hunter, I shop dem sales and hold off buying things until they go on sale (I'm very stingy). I thought I'd mention a site I recently came across that basically puts together sales, deals and coupon codes in one place. The site is called Cuponation, and has offers on beauty places like Priceline and Beautybay, as well as heaps of other categories like fashion! It's super convenient and a site I'll be looking at to check for all the deals without having to rifle through individual sites/catalogues.

Broods

I do have a music favourite this month, and it is the brother-sister duo from New Zealand called Broods! They do have quite a Lorde-y feel to them (they have the same producer) but regardless, they've created some really awesome music. Like really awesome. I've been listening to them on repeat for the last month. They make for really great study music and seriously I'm still not sick of them. Some of my favourites are Evergreen, Superstar, Mother & Father, Never Gonna Change and Coattails - I know that's a lot, but seriously I love every song. Also I'm so sad that I won't be able to go to their concert here, since it's 18+, but HOW IRONIC because I'll be in New Zealand when they're here. 

September faves done and dusted - what have been your favourites this month?

*Products sent for consideration. 

This post contains some sponsored content. For more information, please read my Disclaimer.

Smelly Sunday // Moringa

Wow, long time no see Smelly Sunday! I swear it's probably been about a year since my last Smelly Sunday post, but what can I say, my nose hasn't been getting much action lately! Ahaha, anyways, I thought I might revive the series (even if it's only just for one post) to feature some products from The Body Shop, their soap, shower gel and body butter all from the Moringa line.

I actually have no idea what sort of flower the Moringa flower is, but gathering from the picture on the body butter, it's very pretty! At first I was a bit 'eh' on the scent, but it has definitely grown on me, and I now absolutely adore it! It's definitely a delicate floral that is quite reminiscent of Jasmine in my opinion. It's very soft but lush smelling, and as usual, I'm terrible at describing it! Y'all should just go ahead and take a whiff of it. By combining the soap/shower gel and the body butter, the scent really lingers on the skin, into the next day!

Moringa Soap

I may have mentioned once or twice on the blog that a daily staple for me is the Dove Beauty Bar bar soap. Unlike most peeps, I much prefer using bar soap (that is, the Dove one)! Most bar soaps I've tried pale in comparison, they either don't work up a good enough lather on the skin or leave my skin feeling tight, dry  and almost rubbery (you know the feeling, like water running off the skin? SO hard to explain!). This one seemed promising, the lather was good, it smoothed onto the skin and felt soft and moisturising, until I rinsed it off. It left that weird tight feeling on my skin! Not as bad as others, but still, it ain't no Beauty Bar which leaves the skin feeling soft and moisturised.

Moringa Shower Gel

I've tried one other shower gel from The Body Shop and my thoughts are the same; average. They seem like any other shower gel I've tried, they aren't supremely lathering or have superior 'cleaning ability' and they don't leave my skin feeling particularly moisturised either, if anything a bit on the dry side. See, reasons why I always revert to the Beauty Bars! This little mini will come in handy for travelling though.

Moringa Body Butter

I haven't tried a body butter from The Body Shop in a long time, so this was basically new for me! These are probably one of their most famous products, and I now understand the hype! The texture is very thick and heavy, but as you start working it into the skin it really spreads out and absorbs easily into the skin, leaving behind a soft, yet moisturised feel. I thought they may have left my skin feeling sticky or laden with product, but that's not the case at all! However, it's not as intensely moisturising as I thought it would be. I can still feel and smell it the morning after but to really have and sustain hydrated limbs, it needs to be applied everyday! That doesn't tend to happen because I'm too lazy...hah!

Haul // One Last Hurrah

Yup, I did some more shopping - oops. I went on one final shopping/movie trip for the holidays so I had to stock up on a few things before school started, and I stumbled upon some gems I'm really excited to share. I ended up seeing How to Train Your Dragon 2 (in case anyone cares), and it was adorable and sad, though I didn't cry (shocker there, amirite). Anyways, on with the rather small haul!

The Body Shop Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter

I finally picked this up! I've been wanting to try this for ages, but I was hesitant because it contains Shea Butter which is supposedly an irritant for acne prone skin. I've read my fair share of reviews though and no one seemed to have an issue, I've read only good things! This will be my first cleansing balm so I am very excited :D It was $26.95 so not the cheapest, but not crazy either.

Garnier Dark Spot Treatment Night Serum

This is a repurchase - I'm almost out of my current one. I wanted to try out another brightening serum but there actually weren't that many, and this one was on sale for $12.50 so I decided to pick it up again. I have to say I think it works, but with these kinds of products, it's always hard to tell! You can read my full review here.

Hurraw! Vanilla Bean Lip Balm

Shannon from Shaaanxo always raves about these and they actually sounded really nice. I spotted them at David Jones on clearance for $4.86 so I decided to grab one because I actually don't have any tube lip balms at the moment, and I wanted one for handbag/pencil case situation. I went for the safe choice of Vanilla Bean and it smells really lovely!

Face of Australia Contour & Highlight Kit in Leopardess

This is a limited edition kit that I normally wouldn't be drawn to (I already own the Sleek one), but what really enticed me was just how cool toned the contour shade was from swatches that I saw. It really looked like it would make an amazing contour product. Of course, it was sold out in my Priceline but I managed to nab it at Kmart. They were fully stocked, and my guess is because everything is in plastic so you can't even see the product let alone swatch it, which was probably a turnoff for most customers. Good for me though ;). The highlighter is really pretty too! It was only $9.25.

3 Concept Eyes Cream Blusher in Baby Peach

Woohooo, Asian cosmetics! My local-ish shopping centre is having major renos and heaps of new stores are opening, including a shop called W Cosmetics which basically stocks a ton of Asian brands, like a ton. The store is soooo nice too, the interiors are really nice, they have a manicure section at the back and like a sitting area, where my friends retired whilst I made my way around the store a bajillion times, swatching pretty much every product. Needless to say, the makeup geek within me was FREAKING OUT. They have brands like Etude House, Tony Moly, Shu Uemura, Jill Stuart, Dolly Wink, Clio, etc, etc. It was overwhelming to say the least. 

The 3CE section was adorable, I'd heard good things about the brand but no specifics. Their packaging is so nice, definitely reminds me of NARS but their price range is similar to L'oreal/Revlon which is exciting. The SA recommended their cream blushes which was one of the first things to catch my eye. The shade is a typical me colour but quite pastel-y and ethereal. The 20g tube only cost $16.95 which I thought was pretty good, this is legit going to last me forever! No doubt I'll be returning to this store, many, many times...

[Also, a quick happy birthday to Dan Smith from Bastille!!!  ❤]

Monthly Favourites // June 2014

Howdy! Favourites time again! I'm currently enjoying mid-year school holidays, which are always good because we get three weeks instead of two, but they seem to be speeding by :P. The first half of June was stressful to say the least, I had five exams spread within a week and there was little sleep to be had, and much cramming to be done. Glad to say that's over, but not looking forward to next term which is shaping up to be even more stressful...aah Grade 12...fun times. Anyway, let's crack on to the faves!

The Body Shop Moringa Body Butter

I got this travel size for my birthday and was actually really excited for it! These body butters get a lot of love in the beauty community - I've only tried one before and wasn't overly impressed, but to be fair I think it was a bit old :/ haha. This one however, I have been really enjoying! I was 'eh' about the scent to begin with, but I must say it has grown on me immensely! I actually have no idea what Moringa smells like, but it's florally, fresh and almost a bit Jasmine-y. The butter itself is lighter feeling than I thought it would be, it's been moisturising my dry winter skin really well!

Trilogy Rosehip Oil Antioxidant +

Like I said, because it's Winter, my skin has actually gotten noticeably drier, and not just on my body! I've noticed my face is a little less oily and getting a tad drier in the cheek region. This Rose hip oil has been amazing for helping moisturise my skin! I simply mix four drops in with my nighttime moisturiser and I am set with moisturised, soft and plump skin when I wake up. I've also been adding a drop to my morning moisturiser some days and it doesn't make me more oily which is great!

Puretopia Hydrating & Soothing Facial Mist & Toner

Again with the drier skin, I've been really enjoying misting this after my regular toner some days. I find it really helps moisturise, soothe and refresh my skin. It feels really lovely and I'm abiding to Caroline Hirons' whole 'double toning' thing, not that I really care that much, but it does feel really nice and moisturising.

Urban Decay Naked 3 Eyeshadow palette

Huzzah! Didn't I predict it? Come holiday time, whenever I go out (albeit...not often (I have such an eventful life...)) I reach for some eyeshadow, and this has been the only palette I've been using! To be fair, it's only really because I want to experiment with the shades, test out the infamous UD formula, etc. A review post will be coming with my thoughts, and although I love the selection of shades and have been using them a bunch, I'm not sure that I've been blown away with it! 

Face of Australia Blush in the shade Nutmeg

I won this in a giveaway and initially was not really into it, I will admit, the formula leaves a bit left to be desired. It's a bit sheer and not overly soft or smooth. I have been loving it though, especially in combination with the Naked 3 palette and the lip product I'll talk about next. It's like the neutral rosy blushes I've come to love - a nothing-y shade on the cheek - but slightly more of the peachy-pink variety. It has a slight shimmer but it's not overly noticeable. It just adds a tiny flush of natural colour to the cheeks which is very complimentary to a stronger eye look.

Maybelline Colour Elixir in Caramel Infused

This shade is pretty much the perfect my lips but better, and it's rosy, warm tone goes perfectly with the Naked 3 palette. The formula itself is really lovely and lives up to the hype. Glossy, yet balmy with no stickiness and good colour payoff.

Rimmel Matte BB Cream in Medium

Technically I haven't used this tube yet, but I got a sample sachet which has lasted me a good few uses! I really like the finish of this, it's not entirely matte but doesn't have any sheen or dewiness to it. It looks really natural and the coverage is pretty good for a BB cream, light but slightly buildable. The colour is a little orangey looking which was a bit concerning, but it seems to blend out really well, and ends up being a pretty good match for me! Good things on the longevity front too.

Collective Haul // 16 going on 17

It was my 17th birthday in May, the 11th to be precise, so I do have a bit of a haul to share with you guys! Majority were gifts from my amaze friends, but I also used some birthday vouchers I got from some shops for being part of their 'club'. I've signed up to like all of the stores haha, it's basically free money as I like to say!

The Body Shop Moringa Soap, Shower Gel and Body butter, and Passionberry Born Lippy

A couple of my friends actually unintentionally matched as one got me the soap duo and the other got me the mini body butter in the same scent! I've already dug into the body butter and am thoroughly enjoying it - the scent is definitely growing on me! I'm actually not a big fan of the Born Lippys, I don't find they do much in the moisturisation department. I used to have the strawberry one which I particularly didn't like because it was tinted and made my lips look all big and swollen. Passionberry on the other hand doesn't give off any colour, and the scent is delicious!

L'Occitane Shea Hand Cream and Almond Body cream samples

I got these for free from the store as my local(ish) shopping centre was having a bit of a 'do and the stores were having offers on. I've already tried both of these products and really like them!

e.l.f Lip Balm Tint in Nude

I picked this up from iHerb to make up the cost to get a $10 voucher off in the order for my friend's birthday gift. It was somewhat spontaneous, though I did look up a few reviews and they all seemed to really like it! The shade is a really nice peachy nude. Similar to Revlon Complex but a sheerer, glossy balm version.

Urban Decay Naked 3 palette

Aaah it is finally mine! This was the one product that I really wanted so I was ecstatic when a few of my friends got it for me. Mm rosy-neutral deliciousness is contained in that box. I can tell it's most definitely probably going to be in my June favourites.

Witchery Picnic Check Poncho

I couldn't get a dece photo of its adorable-ness so I'm using it as the background haha! Check out the link to see what it properly looks like. Yes it's from the kids section, but what can I say, it's adorable. I bought it because I had a $20 bday voucher, a $10 vouch for doing a survey, plus my mum and dad's survey vouchers, plus it was 20% off knitwear SO it came down to like SIX DOLLARS from SEVENTY. Bargain-bagger Tasha strikes again! Its so adorable and cosy - I love it!

Kmart Novelty socks in the Pug pattern!!

Ah ma gahd, LOOK AT HIS FACE. These are the most adorable socks I will ever own, though they also have a kitten print which was all sold out and hopefully they'll be mine too! I bought these because, well, just look at them, and they were only $1.50! Realistically, they look really weird on (he gets all distorted), and I probably won't wear them out but we'll see...

Mimco Pony Set in Black

The Mimcollective (I see what you did there ;) ) gives out $30 vouchers for your birthday so defs take advantage of that peeps! I purchased this little set of three hair bands with rose gold charms which were $29.95 so I didn't have to pay in (that's how I operate yo). I like that they look good on the wrist as well as the hair! BUT I would never pay money for these because the actual elastic is TERRIBLE. Like it's flimsy, thin and just plain shit. Get yo act together Mimco! I can get $2 ones from Woolies which are way better.

Assorted Earrings

I got a few pairs of earrings for my birthday as well. Excited for them, especially the blue ones from Colette as I don't have too many dangly pairs that I actually wear.

kikki.K Uppsala Small Pouch

I got a $10 voucher from kikki.K and decided to purchase this little pouch and pay in $4.95. I thought it was too adorable to pass up! I love the fruity, delicate print and I thought it would be sweet for makeup, or random bits and bobs.

kikki.K Wooden Greeting Stamp Set

So a couple of weeks down the track, I get an email to say that I hadn't spent my bday voucher, which I clearly did. I'm not complaining though! So I went in and purchased this stamp set which was on sale to begin with and so I only paid around $3 for it. Weird that, I guess the first lady must not have registered that I used it? Oh wells, like I say, free moneeeyy! [Gawd I'm so Asian]

Clutch bags from Ruby&Kit and Forever New

Both gifts from my lovely friends. I was actually in need of a clutch so these were perfect! The black one is a great size, and I'm sure I'll be using it heaps as it will basically go with anything! The Forever New one is so pretty, a light pastel blue and white. Very mod and sweet I think.

I did leave out a couple of things which I didn't think were worth sharing on here, or I forgot, or I'd already put them away, but this is the majority, and I'm very thankful :)! I also got a voucher to a cosmetics store so no doubt the aftermath of that will be cropping up soon. My fambam mainly bought me a ticket to see Katy Perry at the end of the year (YAY!), especially since tix are RIDONK expensive, like whoah dere. The Prismatic tour looks like it's going to be SO good though. Any other Bday money is going to my New Zealand trip at the end of the year as well.

I hope you guys found this post somewhat interesting, and I just thought I'd share the new things that have come my way :)

Half as Fancy

Hi guys! So I got back from my trip to Hong Kong and Vietnam yesterday! If you hadn't gathered, the posts from the last two weeks were scheduled and now I can finally sit down and write my semi-formal post! My grade 11 Graduation Dinner Dance (a.k.a Semi-Formal) was on the 30th of November (the day before I flew out!) and I wanted to share my outfit and makeup!

Products used:

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Dark Circle Eraser in Brightener

Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation in 53 and Revlon Colourstay Foundation for Oily/combo skin in Natural Beige

Sonia Kashuk Concealer Palette

Rimmel Stay Matte Powder in Transparent

I used a mix of two foundations as the Bourjois is slightly too light while the Revlon is a tad too dark. Also I find the Revlon can be a bit heavy on its own, they both don't contain SPF (well the Colourstay has SPF 6) so they didn't flash back in flash photography!

For the Eyes:

Lorac Behind the Scenes Eyeshadow Primer

The Balm Balm Jovi Palette shade Metallica 

Chi Chi Nudes Palette, second last shade

MAC Iridescent Loose Powder in Silver Dusk

Rimmel Scandaleyes Eyeliner in Black

The Body Shop Eye Definer in Moonstone

Dolly Wink Liquid Eyeliner

L'oreal Telescopic Waterproof Mascara

Ardell 120 Lashes and Lash Grip

Because my dress is black with some silvery jewels (photos down below!!) I chose to go for a mainly silver eye with a gunmetally shade in the outer corner/crease - sort of smokey but not. I popped the MAC powder over top for a bit more sparkle (also in the inner corner and browbone). I did some winged liner and put on false lashes! I actually did a practice run of the makeup which was my first time putting on falsies and I was suprised at how well I did it haha, went pretty smoothly on the day too! I don't particularly love the mascara I used but it's waterproof (didn't want any smudging!) and I was wearing falsies anyway. I tightlined with black liner and put some champagne coloured liner on my waterline. 

Face and Brows:

Dolly Wink Eyebrow Powder in Dark Chocolate

Essence Lash and Brow Clear Mascara

Sleek Contour Kit in Light

BYS Blush Trio in Coral Me In

MAC Iridescent Loose Powder in Silver Dusk

I contoured and highlighted with the Sleek kit to eek out my non-existent cheekbones. I also topped off the highlight with the MAC powder for a little extra glow and the silver shade complements the rest of my makeup, accessories, etc. I opted for a blush that would complement the lipstick shade I wore and I used the far right shade which is a rather bright coral. I applied it extremely lightly though so it didn't detract from the rest of the makeup.

Lips and Nails:

Yardley Lip Definer in Pillar Box Red

Maybelline Colour Sensational Vivids in Vibrant Mandarin

OPI Nail polish (shade unknown)

I wanted to go all matchy matchy with my lips and nails but sadly the nail polish actually dried more red than in the bottle - oh well! Haha, they were similar enough. I wanted to go for a rather bright and bold lip as my outfit was all black and I wanted to add more colour! 

YEaaH...those selfies...haha

These photos are actually from my practice run of makeup a couple of days before so my hair isn't done here! It looked pretty much exactly the same on the day. I'm glad I took these photos though because it was pretty hectic on the day because I actually did two of my friends' makeup! Yep, it was like Salon Tasha up in here, haha! 

Onto my dress! Please excuse that the photos are not up to par with most fashion bloggers - I'm not one and my mum was behind the camera, haha. The dress is from ASOS and I actually bought it near the beginning of the year (risky, because it might not fit come the day or tastes may change, but luckily neither of those happened but it was pretty tight...). It has an open back and jewelled detailing on the front so I opted for minimal jewellery and an up-do. It also has a tulle skirt which was VERY puffy and big, so my mum ended up cutting a layer off and sewing it down at points to the lining haha. You can't tell it's been altered and I like it much better! My friend Tam did my hair in exchange that I did her makeup hehe! It's a french braid crown essentially and I really like it so thanks Tam! I borrowed both the clutch which is from Mimco and the wedges which are from Wittner from my sister. I really like the detailed wedge (which you can't really see) but it's gunmetal so it matched other bits of my outfit!

The earrings are my mum's and the rings I got from Lovisa. I really like the assortment of midi and normal rings and I think they added just the right amount of pizzazz.

The Gal Pals!

I hope you found this post somewhat interesting as I spent a while compiling this post! I had a really great night and it was an amazing way to end the year off - heaps of fun! It was pretty exciting to get all glammed up haha! Now to start hunting for a formal dress...

Empties #1

Hi guys! So today I have my very first empties post! I've been collecting these empties since before I even started blogging! It takes me ages to finish products so don't expect another one of these posts for a good long while! I actually have quite a few products to talk about so I'll try to keep it brief!

First up, I have a few hair bits:

Kerastase Nutritive Thermo-reactive intensive nutrition shampoo:

I really liked this shampoo! I found it really moisturising but not to the point where it made my scalp oily. Sometimes my scalp gets a bit itchy and I found that this was nicely moisturising that I didn't experience that itchiness much. I've also tried the conditioner from this range which I really liked.

Repurchase? Maybe in the future, but I try different shampoos all the time!

Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Moisture & Shine conditioner:

I have used this range of shampoo and conditioner a few times (by times, I mean bottles worth) and while I liked it, it didn't do much. It's targeted for dry/damaged hair but I didn't find it particularly moisturising. It's pretty average in my opinion.

Repurchase? No, like I said, I like to try different ones.

Moroccan Oil:

I really enjoy using hair oils but I find they all pretty much do the same thing. It was nice and moisturised my hair, made it feel soft and look shiny. This one was noticeably thicker in consistency though, so it may weigh down finer hair. It smelled really nice and this sample lasted me quite a while.

Repurchase? Maybe in the future, though I have a couple of hair oils on the go currently.

Schwarzkopf BC Bonacure Oil Miracle Gold Shimmer Treatment:

This was a plain hair mask but it was actually shimmery, which was a bit weird but the shimmers didn't stay, they rinsed out as normal. This was pretty typical, it made my hair soft and shiny, but nothing that really wowed me and it didn't help much with damage or preventing it.

Repurchase? No, If you have any good and cheap hair mask recommendations, let me know!

For skincare:

Coles 4in1 Cleansing Wipes:

These claim to do a multitude of things but I didn't find that it lived up to those claims. The wipes themselves weren't super moist, and the actual towlettes were actually kind of scratchy. They removed makeup fine but waterproof mascara took time and effort. They left my skin feeling slightly dry.

Repurchase? No

Simple Refreshing Facial wash gel:

This was a pretty simple (hah) cleanser, pretty basic. Good if you have clear or sensitive skin, but it really doesn't do much. I used it in the morning to get rid of the oils and grime from overnight, and it did a decent job. This was just a travel size though it lasted me ages.

Repurchase? No, I've actually got another travel size of this that I'm yet to use but I wont purchase after finishing that one.

Estee Lauder Hydrationist:

This was just a sample size but it lasted me pretty well and I got a good idea of whether I liked it - which I do! Really moisturising but still very light on the skin. I just really like it!

Repurchase? I would definitely consider purchasing though it is expensive, I really want to try some cheaper alternatives.

Clinique Anti-blemish solutions spot treatment gel:

I had a smaller size of this though I found it lasted me a long long time. Overall, I wasn't a fan. It worked in the first two weeks or so, but then I just found it quite alcohol-y and didn't really get rid of pimples very well.

Repurchase? No

EOS Summer fruit lip sphere:

I enjoyed this, probably my favourite scent out of the ones I tried. I like it because it is thin in texture, therefore nice under lipsticks. But it is still nicely moisturising. I got all the product out by 'depotting' it. Stick a knife in the line next to the rim and it should pop out.

Repurchase? I've still got a few of them on hand, but I probably would in the future once I run out of them all.

MOR Lip macaron in Peach Nectar:

This lasted me a whole year! I use it every night and I find it thick and moisturises well, I can still feel it the next morning. As you can see, I've put the excess EOS lip sphere in here so technically that one isn't completely finished but whatevs. 

Repurchase? Probably not, I've actually got two more of these since I bought it in a three pack so I have heaps more to go through.

The Body shop Body Butter:

I'm kind of 'eh' on this product. It was super thick and even maybe hard to spread? But I didn't even feel it was that moisturising for how heavy it was.

Repurchase? No

The Body Shop Shower Gel in cherry Blossom:

A shower gel. I find they all do the same thing. I liked the scent, pretty subtle and floral. I don't generally use shower gel, I really like the Dove beauty bars. I received this as a gift so I took it travelling and what not.

Repurchase? No

Onto the Miscellaneous:

Kmart candles in Comforting Vanilla & Jasmine and Fig & Papaya:

I talked about the scents here so I won't waste my breath (or finger muscles?). I will say that I emptied out the wax using the freezer method. Simply put them in the freezer for a couple of hours and pry out the wax using a knife. It should pop out pretty easily.

Repurchase? Definitely, my two favourite scents from the range.

Oral B Satin Floss:

Hmm, I don't really know why I included this? Haha, didn't really like it though. It was kind of like tape? So too thick for my liking.

Repurchase? No

Blink Eye drops:

My eyes get pretty dry and red at times, this one did the job.

Repurchase? Probably

Whowheeee, that was a looooong post. If you stuck it out till the end, good job! Haha, well I probably won't have another of these posts for ages so enjoy it!