2016 Festival Beauty

I remember the days when I’d rock up to Sundown (my local below-average music festival) in a pair of denim shorts and minimal makeup because “I didn’t want to look silly”; for some reason I felt that all the glitter-clad festival goers would think I was weird if I joined their clan. Well, I’m here to tell any of you who are like myself to RELAX. Maybe festivals used to be just about cute, hippie, impractical looks, but now, in 2016, the only objective is to have fun. If there’s one time when no-ones going to judge you for dressing like an absolute lunatic, it’s at a festival. Trust me. So, with that in mind, I’m here today to give you a little bit of inspiration for your festival beauty looks this year. I’m talking electric colour, gems and general glitter-central. You’re going to want to keep reading…

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Eyes

Festival eye-makeup has classically been about wearing those shades that you don’t wear on a day to day basis, to create the perfectly bright and blended ‘show-stopper’ look. So, I’ve included a couple of my favourite bright palettes here, one by Makeup Revolution and one by Morphe. The cheaper and more accessible option for those living in the UK, like me, is Makeup Revolution. Despite the incredible pigmentation of these shadows, they are not quite as easy to blend as Morphe because they have a less buttery texture.

Despite just raving on about shadows, I think that 2016 is more of an eyeliner alone year. Who can be bothered to take their enter set of blending brushes to a festival anyway? We’ve seen ‘graphical’ and ‘blocky’ beauty trends a lot over the past few months – so why not purchase something like NYX Vivid Brights Eyeliner? More of a metals fan? Nothing quite compares to the longevity of Eye Of Horus Liquid Metal Liner.

Finally, onto possibly the easiest trend of them all – GLITTER! Wear it under the eyes to disguise the exhaustion of camping or even under the brows like Gigi Hadid did on the catwalk. For a true glittery look, you’ll need more than just your average sparkly eyeshadow. Instead, opt for pure pigment, which many brands, even drugstore ones, have started to stock – like the Barry M Dazzle Dust or DOSE Duo above.

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Lips

Okay, so, first up is the controversial, colour pop obsession. Long gone is the days when lips were either red or nude. Green? Violet? Can you wear it? Hell yes. Even the drugstore brands have caught on – you can get a tangerine lippy for £1 from Make-up Revolution! Fancy going the extra mile? Turn to Coloured Raine, Gerard Cosmetics or MAC’s Blue Nectar Collection for the seriously fearless shades.

Next, with no doubt Kylie Jenner’s work, is the metallic lip. She’s even dedicated a whole selection of her Kylie Jenner Lip Kits to metallics alone. Because, well, it’s just a gorgeous way to subtly play up the lips. If, like myself, Kylie’s Lip Kits are pretty difficult to get your hands on, some great alternatives are: NYX, Topshop or MUA.

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Hair, Face and Body

Let’s talk hair. Flower crowns – they’re old news. This year it’s all about head jewellery, hair rings and you guessed it… tonnes of glitter. Gel or spray, it’s up to you, and don’t forget that glitter roots is the in thing. Take a look at Superdrug‘s own range or shop Graftobian all-purpose glitter gel at Beauty Bay.

Next on the list is your must-have face products. Liquid and cream cosmetics are your best friends at a festival for easy, quick application. That’s why I’ve picked out High Beam, Benefit‘s cult highlighter, and Halo Illuminiser in Golden Tan from H & M’s beauty line (which is very impressive, by the way). Oh, of course, you can’t forget a setting spray at events like these; my friends swear by Urban Decay’s All Nighter Spray.

And finally, beauty for the whole body… Temporary tattoos have evolved from being Bart Simpson ones for 5 year olds and sparkly faces are taken to the next level with stick on gems. Make sure that the minute people see your face, they know you’re up for a party. Add to any sparkle by dusting MAC’s glitter pot over the décolletage for a full-body shimmer and don’t forget the nails! Make life easy by opting for pre-painted stick on nails, you won’t want to waste valuable festival time stuck in a tent waiting for your nails to dry.

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In the mood for dancing the night away yet? I hope so. I’d love to hear some of your must-have festival products or even your favourite festival look – let me know in the comments below!

Emilia x

 

April It List

First and foremost, I’d like to apologise for being a bit well… slack. You see, I’d love to be able to blog all day everyday, but this damn frustrating concept called ‘doing your GCSEs’ exists. I’m trying to balance out blog-life, social-life and work-life all on top of revision and it’s proving a little tricky… Me time? What’s that? So, take this as a pre-warning; over the next few months you’ll be hearing a little less than usual from me. No worries, quantity may reduce but no way will quality be slipping!

This post, as many of you accustomed readers will know, is all about my favourite things for the upcoming month – the things you NEED to go and buy/do/wear. April’s, in tune with the current weather, is a lighter, brighter theme – products that will work even as it gets warmer. Enjoy!

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Rosie HW for Autograph Creme Blush in Camisole Blush

To be honest, ‘celebrity’ lines aren’t usually high in quality when it comes to cosmetics – and I don’t particularly rate the Autograph make-up range anyway, so it was a fabulous surprise when this product actually turned out to be as good as high-end products like MAC Cremeblend Blush (£18.50). The formula is better than anything I’ve tried previously – Bourjois, MAC, Revlon. They’re all so ‘unblendable’ compared to this! This blush is a long-lasting, super easy to apply option, perfect for those who aren’t so confident as well as those who are. It comes in a range of 4 colours – Camisole Blush is a perfect coral-toned blush for fair skin – which all blend out to a silky, powder-like finish. I highly recommend trying this and I’ve heard that the lipsticks in this collection are equally as wonderful!

Decorative Hoops

Hoops? Meh… They’ve been around for ages. But dainty little hoops with decorations make the whole concept a lot more exciting! Perfect for the boho vibe of the warmer weather, just like the earrings below – a high-street option from Topshop. So, let your jewellery take centre stage this spring and get experimenting!

Hey Honey Good Morning Facial Serum

This came in my most recent Glossybox, as it’s supposed to be great for all skin types – even sensitive. Weirdly enough, one of my close friends, Grace, had recently been raving about the benefits of honey for the complexion and I was eager to give it a try. There’s no denying, this serum feels absolutely gorgeous on the skin. Also, using it along with my Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish (staring from £6) made a noticeable difference to the brightness of my complexion – people even commented that I looked healthier! For me, although it isn’t a miracle worker for my spots, I can see it being a favourite amongst many people without the issue of teenage skin. It’s nourishing, but non-oily properties make it a great option for a lighter, summer serum.

Beyonce Ivy Park collection for Topshop

I don’t think I’ve ever been so excited about a clothing line, honestly – I mean it’s QUEEN B who wouldn’t be?! Beyonce has announced that her sportswear collection, ‘Ivy Park’, for Topshop will be released on the 14th of April. This 200 piece collection ranges from around £20 to £150; there’s something for every budget. In addition, she’s created leggings for every body shape and activity, low-rise, mid-rise and high-rise – HOW BLOODY AMAZING! Get ready for some serious shopping, girls, this is one thing you won’t want to miss.

Open-toe Boots

Although they may come across as slightly impractical (surely if you need boots on, you can’t afford to have your toes out?), I think that open-toe boots will be the item that get’s you through the winter-summer transition that we have here in the UK. I picked up these suede, chunky-heeled beauties from M&S for just £35, as I can wear them with pretty much anything – jeans, dresses, shorts. If you’re liking the sound of it, take a look at the following: Hustle Open Toe Boots (£85), Call It Spring Tan Boots (£40), Miss Kurt Geiger Saana Boots (£65).

Paul Green Trainers

I recently came across this footwear brand in House of Fraser, whilst I was supposed to be looking for prom shoes but instead was drooling over super-cool trainers. I first became a little obsessed with the idea of dressed-up trainers when myself and my mum took a trip to London Fashion Weekend. Many designer brands have always had jazzed-up trainers in their collections, but the high-street hasn’t caught on until very recently. Hi-tops, low-tops all in muted pinks and blues with the occasional pop of colour… if you’re a fan of Superga or the new Reebok ‘Spirit’ collection, I can guarantee you’ll fall in love with Paul Green.

by Terry Sheer Expert

Alright, I’ve already raved about this in my Natural Beauty tutorial, but seriously, I can’t exclude it from the It List. Similar to a BB Cream, in the fact that it’s much less heavy than your average foundation. But there is absolutely no compromise on coverage or lasting-power (which, along with shade, was a bit of a problem with bareMinerals Complexion Rescue). Even if you prefer a heavier foundation for nights out or winter, this is totally the one to get you through the summer months. Believe me, I sat in Space NK and pretty much tried every foundation in there on my face; Nars, Hourglass, Laura Mercier, Shiseido, you name it, I tried it. But, this was a definite winner.

Macaroons

I’ve always loved macaroons, no matter how crazy expensive they can be to buy – I think they’re an ideal summer treat, as they’re not too stodgy or large. One of my best friends, Evie, frequently bakes (and will probably win GBBO one day) and made some gorgeous macaroons as cake decorations. And, well, I’ve fallen in love all over again. If you live in Norwich like me and love macaroons, I suggest you try Macaroons & More or Harriet’s Tea Room.

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 I hope you enjoyed this post and that I’ve given you a little April inspiration! What are you loving this month? Let me know below!

Emilia x

 

Interior Inspiration

This isn’t something I particularly post about a lot; and that’s because the world for interior design isn’t quite as fast-paced as others, like the clothing market. But, with a new year just passing us and the dreary weather slowly starting to diminish, most of us feel the need for a bit of a spring makeover. That’s where I come in. In this post I’ll be taking you through the 3 biggest interior trends of this Spring and how you can incorporate them into your home! Here we go…

*All suggested items from John Lewis, Next, M&S, Urban Outfitters and Not On The High street*

Gorgeous Classic Modern Living Room Wooden Floor White Interior

Copper Accents

This particular trend of copper accessories has been creeping in since late 2015; we saw many high-street home stores, like Next and M&S add copper pieces to their collections. A trend perfect for the younger generation, in my opinion, this works extremely well with monochrome schemes, so it’s an especially easy trend to ‘liven up’ a rather plain room with. Fancy adding some copper to your room? How about these choices?

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Grey Luxe

If you’ve seen Kylie Jenner’s new bedroom you’ll know what I’m on about; fur throws, extravagant mirrors and black accessories all perfectly matched with a lilac-toned grey colour scheme, it screams rich girl. However, you don’t exactly have to have Kardashian-level wealth to achieve this look. Of course, our favourite high-street design companies have cottoned on and developed some affordable alternatives! If you’re a fan of this glamorous look, why not try some of the pieces below?

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vanity mirror with lights and desk

The New Retro

The new retro is a kind of muted, toned-down classic retro. It’s a modernist take on the past. No need to start going totally ‘American-diner’; simply incorporate retro accessories into an extremely modern room for an effortlessly cool ‘old meets new’ vibe. Personally, I think this is more mature than the other trends – it would look fabulously eccentric in a family home. If you’re considering it – why not purchase one of the following pieces?

An Interview With Hayleigh JM

Meet Hayleigh Jade; a gorgeous, as well as incredibly successful, fashion, beauty and lifestyle blogger. With an Instagram following of almost 60k, countless promotion opportunities and an crazily popular blog, there’s absolutely no doubt about it, this woman knows her stuff! I really believe she has a lot to teach everyone, whether you’re a blogger or not.

And so, I invite you all to take a peek into the life of this blogging idol – over to you Hayleigh!

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– What made you start blogging?

I somewhat fell into it really, I got Instagram for the same reasons everyone else does really, as a form of social media and keeping up with your friends. I have always had an interest in fashion and when I realised people began asking me where things I was wearing were from I realised people were actually interested, and it all went from there really!

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– What do you regard as your biggest blogging achievement in your time as a blogger?

If I am honest, I always degrade my blog in my own head, which I really shouldn’t so I find this a very hard question to answer as I am constantly comparing myself to other bloggers and their achievements. However being shortlisted for the Cosmopolitan Blogger Awards 2015 was exciting!

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– Who inspires you?

Victoria from In The Frow and Lydia Millen are most definitely my blogger inspirations, and then my ultimate goal would to be as successful as Kayture.

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– What is your favourite pre-spring 2016 trend so far?

Ready to wear would most definitely be thigh high boots, they are everywhere and are a really lovely both winter and spring transition shoe, especially in England where the weather is not exactly warm!

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 – What is your favourite item of clothing/accessory that you own and why?

My most prized possession is the signed pair of Louboutin’s I own from when I was lucky enough to meet Christian Louboutin in person and get my very first pair of Louboutin’s signed by him, It was an experience I will never forget meeting one of my inspirations. I also have a soft spot for my designer handbags as they are most definitely my weakness.

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– How do you go about putting together an outfit?

I tend to choose an outfit I know and love and try and change a certain element, or try and work around one item I am wanting to wear that day and build the look around that.

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 – What are your go-to high-street fashion stores?

H&M is always so amazing for simple capsule pieces you know you’ll be able to wear with so many items which is why I love H&M so much.

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– You are given the opportunity to meet one iconic fashion designer – who would it be and why?

I would absolutely love to meet Manolo Blahnik, just because I think his shoes are the pinnacle of female sophistication.

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 – How do you find promotion opportunities?

 Set yourself up an email address and make sure it is easily found so that brands that want to work with you can easily get in touch!

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 – What advice would you give someone new to fashion blogging/blogging in general?

Try and give yourself a unique angle that is true to you, don’t feel like you have to conform your images or even your style to what is successful in the present because people are most likely going to enjoy something fresh and personable. 

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– How would you suggest that a new blogger increased their audience?

This is something I struggle with very much, I feel like I am going backwards sometimes! Try and post brands you know will repost your images and then you will gain exposure through their pages, and choose your hashtags wisely!

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– What are your future plans for your blog/Instagram?

I really want to grow my blog the best I can this year, and would really love to branch out into YouTube content as well.

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If you enjoyed this post I suggest you give Hayleigh a follow – just click on the link below to check out her blog and find her other social media links!

http://www.hayleighjm.co.uk

Once again I’d like to say a MAHOOSIVE thank you to Hayleigh for giving me this opportunity and thank you from the blogging community for being an inspiration to all.

Emilia x

Spring 2016 Fashion Forecast

Yep, it’s that time again; that lovely, supposedly bright and fresh season when baby animals are born, flowers regrow and we ourselves are rejuvenated. Supposedly. In reality, it’s usually incredibly rainy, we are tired of eating salads and trying to go to the gym and spring becomes a bit of a “nothing” season. Well, let me tell you now; not this year ladies!

Spring 2016 may not bring you the promised change in weather, but it sure will bring you the promised change in all things fashion. With a few slightly altered trends transitioning from winter to spring and some TOTALLY new, it’s due to be a full-on start to the year! Below, I’m going to take you through all matter of these, explaining them and recommending how you can make them ‘wearable’… Have fun and, most importantly, get inspired!

 

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Slogan Tees/Sweatshirts

First of all, let’s start with a brand spanking new trend; of course the idea has been around for many years, but this particular style sort of just jumped into fashion as soon as it heard the word ‘spring’. In line with the sporty movement of 2016, this sort of thing is for the fun-loving, laid-back amongst you all. Slogan tops look great with simple denim counterparts for a boyish feel. Uniquely created and full of character, these are easily found in vintage stores in just about anywhere. Or, if you’re more of a highstreet girl, Topshop, Zara and Urban Outfitters have this trend down to a TEE right now (geddit?!).

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Blush tones

Fair, mauvey, pale pink tones are striking up everywhere right now, complementing the efflorescent , delicate textures of formal wear right now. Looks stunning on just about every skin tone and adds a hint of colour to any sophisticated grey/black toned outfit – what more could you want? Think re-worked pastels and you’ve got it spot on.

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BIG earrings

Prepare for earrings to be made redundant as accessories and take the front seat in the queue. Not something to be barely seen; something to make a statement with – something for the experimental girl, the brave and confident one. Inspiration has come from the glamorous girls of the upper classes and tribal culture and places like Topshop and Accessorize are making this a simple fashion to follow!

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Choppy, wild, ’60s hair

If you’ve not gathered yet; I’m a huge fan of the ’60s style coming into play at the moment; I love the idea of a doe-eyed, natural, Bond-worthy woman. It’s the definition of sexy in my eyes. Think Brigette Bardot voluminous waves and wispy fringes. This one’s for the seriously fashion-following youth; if you’re going to take a hair risk this season make sure it’s getting this style.

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T-bars and straps

Another trend that has slowly creeped in, so much so that we’ve hardly noticed! But look everywhere, catwalk and highstreet and you’ll see straps of sorts all over the footwear. I suppose it’s in sync with the retro-loving sensation of fashion right now. Just browse the Doc Marten’s or Kurt Geiger site and you’re bound to find the pair for you; I’m lusting after the Doc’s Polley Shoe at the moment!

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Croc Leather

As my mother says, a woman can NEVER have enough handbags or shoes. I firmly believe that bags and shoes are what make an outfit. Croc leather is a certainly a trend that comes and goes, but invest in a quality piece and it will see you through these fluctuations!  If you’re looking for a new outfit companion, take a look at Topshop and Zara, or even Mulberry and Vivienne Westwood, if you’re a lady of luxury.

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Seductively sheer

One of my favourite micro trends of SS16 – dainty yet sexy; all slip dresses and sheer blouses. Well mixed with the lingerie-blending-into-clothing movement. As the days get slightly warmer, expect these lace-detailed, loose-shape pieces to be lining the shelves – relaxed figures are no longer something for simply hiding your body. But, while it’s still a little on the chilly side, don’t be afraid to pull on a turtleneck under that slip dress for ultimate fashion style.

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Sweatpants

Sweatpants, joggers, whatever you call them; the classic lazy Sunday trousers. Not any more. Sweatpants, in keeping with the loose shapes trend have become something to wear out. Sport some luxe, light, hareem style sweatpants for a new take on the day-trouser. Kylie’s doing it, Rihanna’s doing it, Zendaya’s doing it – so why aren’t you?!

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Trim detailing

This began in autumn last year when fashion began looking for a way to customise minimalistic pieces and BOY has it taken off. That plain white tee? Oh it now has a blue piping trim, darling. On just about any item of clothing, be it dresses, shirts, trousers – trims everywhere, to provide a little contrast; inject a little style. An easy trend for anyone to try.

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Bomber Jackets

Obviously, bomber jackets have been around for a little while, but with recent gravitation towards boyish shapes and sporty looks, they fit right in with the fashion of the season. Every store on the high street is shouting about them and I doubt you’ll make it through 2016 without investing in one of these timeless all-weather pieces. Suede, zip-detailed, silk… Whatever your style, there’s bound to be a bomber jacket for you.

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Oriental Prints

As we’re moving away from the darker days, here in the UK, I’m starting to notice the classic floral print moving in. Last year it was all about blown-up block colour florals and dark, gothic prints. This year, we’re going oriental. Intricacy in print and gentle tones; but still something you can make a statement with. Looks wonderful on trousers or shift dresses!

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Trench Coats

As, I mentioned recently, I love the shape of wrap coats; they give anyone a curvy figure, no matter how much curve you really have and are just so classy. Trench coats are spring’s slightly lighter sister to the thick, felt, winter wrap coats we’ve been loving. They still give the desired womanly figure, but are a little more on the military side, which is oh-so-2016. Look to just about any high street or luxury brand and their bound to have their own version of this classic coat. My favourites are Hobbs‘ and La Redoute‘s!

The Right Smokey Eye For You

The smokey eye; the ultimate party eye-look for decades. Pretty much every make-up brand be it high-street or luxury has their own smokey-eye kit. You don’t need a kit specifically for it of course – it’s easy to create the same look with any other palette, you just need to choose the right shades to mix. That’s where I come in.

Classically, the smokey eye is achieved with greys and blacks, for a sultry, bold style, but as I’ve come to realise, this simply doesn’t suit everyone! Myself, well I’m too pale (as always) for those kind of colours – they look less ‘bold’ more ‘clown-like’ on my porcelain-toned complexion. Personally, I much prefer to go for a coppery brown smokey eye, as it suits my colouring much better. But, I know, not everyone’s like me! So, today I’ll be showing you a few suggestions for a smokey eye tailored specifically to your skin tone and eye colour. I’ve also included the details of how I achieved my look, incase any of you wonderful people are a) as pale as me (this is a rarity) or b) just wanting to try it out.

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Fair

Grey

A grey smokey eye will suit fair-skinned girls perfectly; think of it as a washed out classic black. I would recommend grey for those of you with green/blue eyes as it complements their cool tones and really makes them pop. Team it with a little silver sparkle and winged liner and you're set to party!

Palettes recommended above: Chanel Multi Effects Quadra Eyeshadow in Tissê Smoky (£40) and Louise Young Lulu Eyeshadow Trio (£22).

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Rose gold

 

Rose-gold is a much warmer tone - great for fair skinned people with brown eyes. If you're feeling brave, try transitioning the colour into burgundy! Anyway, much like rose gold jewellery looks great on fair skin, so does a rose gold eye - and the make-up brands know this; there's so many of these shades on the market at the moment! Above are two of the most pigmented versions I know of!

Palettes recommended above: Makeup Revolution Redemption Palette Iconic 3 (£4), Too Faced Boudoir Eyes Shadow Palette (£27).

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Tanned

Burgundy

This trend was all over the A/W 15 catwalks and seeing as it's still freezing cold outside, I think there's still good reason to wear it! I have wanted to try out a burgundy eye for so long but, with the shadows I've tried so far, it just looks a little too dramatic on me. An amazingly complimentary shade for blue eyes and a ton of palettes to choose from (they must have been watching Burberry!).

Palettes recommended above: Laura Geller The Wearables Baked Eyeshadow Palette (£28), Illamasqua Complement Palette (£34.00) and Nars 413 BLKR Due Eyeshadow (£25).

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Khaki

A must-try for you lucky tanned ladies - you can now year khaki on your eyes! Great if a classic smokey eye looks a little out of place on you, but you're still in need of some drama. This looks stunning on brown eyes and is about to be big according to the uniform/boyish style of the SS16 catwalks!

Palettes recommended above: Bourjois Quad Smoky Stories Eyeshadow in Rock This Khaki (£7.99) and Dior 5 Couleurs Designer All-In-One Artistry Eyeshadow Palette (£42)

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Medium

Navy

Suiting medium/dark skinned girls alike, navy is a wonderful alternative to a classic black smokey eye if you fancy a switch-up! Blend into lighter blues and greys, adding a little kohl to the lower lash line for a glam evening look. I highly recommend trying navy if you have brown eyes!

Palettes recommended above: MAC Navy Times Nine (£30) and Maybelline Diamond Quad Glow in Blue Drama (£6.99).

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Gold

I can't get over how gorgeous gold pigment looks on deeper skin tones; I'm so jealous! Cut the crease with a deep reddish/brown and simply use a slightly lighter brown to transition into gold - add some kohl around the waterline and winged liner teamed with multiple coatings of mascara. Contour and bronzer is essential if you're going for such a 'goddess'-like look.

Palettes recommended above: Charlotte Tilbury Golden Goddess Luxury Palette (£38) and Lorac Unzipped Gold Shimmer & Matte Eyeshadow Palette (£51).

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Dark

Classic

From what I understand, dark skinned ladies suffer just as much from the struggle of finding make-up thats suits their skin tone as us pale girls do (damn it you lucky 'beige/ivory' ones!). Eye-makeup can be especially hard to find; many colours don't even show up on your lids and you need plenty of pigment, no matter what the shade. However, the classic smokey eye, in my opinion is tailored just for you ladies - no worries of looking too bold - all you need is a high-pigmented palette!

Palettes recommended above: NYX Set Makeup Smokey Look Kit (£10) and Smoke Balm by the Balm (£13.05).

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Purple

If you're looking for a bit more colour, deep purple is what to reach for; it will look amazing hazelnut/brown eyes. Start by creating a classic smokey eye and simply blend out to purple, adding a touch of lilac at the inner corner of your eye, for a softer look.

Palette recommended above: MUA Pro Palette Romantic Efflorescence (£4).

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My Look

Thanks to my ghostly complexion, many of the above looks are too dark for me, so I usually settle for a softer copper smokey eye because these tones go well with my blue eyes. If you're going all out on your eye look, you have to be heavier with your complexion products too, although I'd recommend keeping the lips fairly neutral so that you keep the attention on those gorgeous peepers of yours.

Products used:

Base: Emite Diamond Heart Primer (£25.90), Benefit Poreless Primer (£24.50), bareMinerals Complexion Rescue in Vanilla (£26), Benefit Ooh La Lift Under Eye Brightener (£17.50), Maybelline Fit Me Concealer in Fair (£5.99), MAC Pro Longwear Concealer in NW15 (£17.50), Benefit High Beam (£19.50). 
Face: NYX HD Blush in Taupe (£7.99), Shiseido Bronzer in Light (£34), Emite Artist Colour Powder Blush in 108 (€19), MAC Skinfinish in Soft and Gentle (£24), Laura Mercier Pressed Setting Powder (£25). 

Eyes: W.O.S from Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette (£23) as a base shadow, Naked 2 from the same palette for shading above the crease, Faint from the same palette for the outer corner of the eye and outer edge of the crease, 6th shade from the left in my Makeup Revolution Redemption Iconic 3 Palette (£4) in the centre of the lid, Foxy and Venus from the Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette for highlighting the brow bone and inner eye. Rimmel Exaggerate Smoke 'n' Shine  (£3.99), L'Oreal Paris Super Liner Perfect Slim Intense Eyeliner (£6.99), Benefit They're Real Tinted Lash Primer (£18.50), Benefit Rollerlash (£19.50), Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara in Noir (£25), Miss Sporty Just Clear Mascara used as brow primer (£2.99), MAC Brow Pencil in Lingering (£14.00), NYX Eyebrow Gel in Brunette (£5.50).

Lips: Primed with Lush Bubblegum Lipscrub (£5.50), MAC Lipstick in Gossamer Wing from the Faerie Whispers collection (£15.50).

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How do you wear the smokey eye? Do you have any suggestions for eyeshadow palettes that I should try? Let me know in the comments below!

Emilia x

January It List

As many of you well-accustomed Irregular Collection followers will know, right at the beginning of each month, I publish a so-called ‘It List’ of things that I think are going to be big this month or am currently loving. Whether it’s inspired by magazine articles, blog posts, recommendation or my own experience, the It List is a collection of the month’s very best. Take a look below to see the things that made it onto list…

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• The Zara Sale

Each January, I forcefully take myself to shop the sales. Don’t get me wrong, I love a bargain, but battling your way through crowds and searching through the unkempt rails upon rails of clothes that are probably all neon or in size 20 just isn’t for me. Typically, I’d much rather be sat with my laptop on my lap, at home, doing it all online. But, after Christmas, online sales get a bit crazy too and lot’s of stock isn’t listed on line, so you kind of have to face the chaos of physical sales shopping. Topshop, Fatface, Jack Wills, H&M, French Connection… The list goes on, yet year upon year, I only ever seem to be able to find nice clothes with decent price-cuts in Zara! Their sale is organised, large, not mono-seasonal and a range of sizes are available. Here’s me wearing some of the item’s I picked up this year (in some amazingly dramatic photos by Evie Oliver)…

• Nails Inc nail polishes

I kind of forgot how much of a good formula these polishes are until I received one in this month’s Glossybox. I normally only buy cheap nail polishes because I can’t wear them very much due to school, so getting a full-size high-end one to try was such a treat! It’s a pinky-nude tone called Uptown which is available in Gel Polish on their site, but the polish alone only comes as part of sets like the 2015 AW Limited Edition Set. Just the right tone for my fair skin and two coats that glide on like water is all you will need!

• Keira Knightley

Probably the first woman-crush of my life; I swear Keira Knightley can rock any look. Her long boyish-figure and 90’s/00’s style (think Love Actually Keira) are so in at the moment. Dungarees, culottes, pinafore dresses… You name it, she can make it look amazing. Also, she will forever be my hairstyle/makeup idol.

• Blue

In tune with the weather (and probably the colour of your fingers after being outside for 20 minutes), blue is the colour of pre-spring. Be it soft or bold in colour, for wear on the feet or face, say yes to blue. If you’re a little stuck for ideas as to how to channel this trend, take a look at my suggestions below:

• The Great Gatsby

Due to the fact that I have never watched a film with Leonardo Di Caprio in it that hasn’t been great, myself and my boyfriend decided to give The Great Gatsby a try… Although it’s a pretty long movie, I absolutely loved it! A story of the glamour in 1920’s New York and the mysterious man Mr Jay Gatsby who hosted gigantic parties every weekend whilst pursuing the love of his life. It’s right up there on my list of favourite movies along with The Grand Budapest Hotel and I Origins.

• Soft brushed waves

Every magazine I flick through, every article I scroll through, this month, subtle, teased-out waves are all over it. All of the model’s for luxury designer brands are working it, all of the catwalk girls too – although it hasn’t been officially ‘announced’ as such, I predict that this will be big in the next few months, as a hair trend that coincides perfectly with the 90’s fashion movement. Frizz is no longer a bad thing; be proud of your lions mane! If this isn’t your natural hair-state, but you still want to trial the trend, I suggest you read this article!

• Rimmel Provocalips in Skinny Dipping (£6.99)

I went into Boots with my abundance of Christmas gift cards intending to purchase a Rimmel Apocalips Matte Lip Laquer (£6.49), as I’ve heard such good stuff about them, but lo-and-behold, they were out of stock. So, impatient little me purchased this ‘Provocalips’ product instead! It’s simply described as “lip colour” by Rimmel, but I’d say it’s pretty much a moisturising, not-so-matte liquid lipstick – and, BOY, do I love it! A very brown-toned peachy nude, similar to MAC Lipstick in Yash (£15.50), yet half the price – score.

• One Line A Day Project

I knew about this project a little while ago, due to seeing the One Line a Day book for sale in my local Waterstones. However, the idea seemed silly to begin in the middle of a year, so when Coco from Coco’s Tea Party (a well known fashion and lifestyle blogger) mentioned it in her New Year’s Resolution Suggestions post, I was reminded once more of the concept and began writing this year on the 1st of January. Like a diary for lazy people (i.e. me) which will no doubt be fun to read back on; you don’t even need the proper book, all you need is a notepad, a pen and 1 minute per day.

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What are your favourite things this January?

Emilia x

NYE Make-up Tutorial

As many of you followers would gather from the recent NYE fashion guide, I am a firm believer that NYE is the party night of the year; a night for going all out. So, today, I’m giving you the other side of getting ‘party-prepared’ – the make up. We’re going smokey eye, red lip, G-L-A-M! And don’t you worry, all products I use are listed within the tutorial steps below…

• Obviously before you begin, ensure that your skin is freshly cleansed, toned and moisturised. At the moment I’m using the Benefit Totally B.Right! skincare set (£15.50) that I received for Christmas – Benefit promise that you can have your money back if you see no difference in 28 days, so I guess it must be good.

• A great base begins with a great primer (one of the major cosmetics lessons I learnt in 2015). I’ve been loving Emite Diamond Heart Illuminating Primer (£25.90), recently – it lights up your complexion whilst still banishing oil. This is what I am wearing in this look.

• I’m sure you’ve all heard before, but I swear by bareMinerals Complexion Rescue (£26) in shade Vanilla (surprisingly my crazy-pale skin doesn’t even need the lightest shade!). As it is light coverage and perfect for sensitive skin, I find that it looks best when applied with my Real Techniques Expert Face Brush (£9.99).

• Next comes concealer… I’ve just switched from MAC Select Moisturecover (£15.50) to MAC Pro-longwear Concealer (£17.50) but I’ve also given Maybelline Fit Me Concealer (£5.99), a creamy, largely raved-about drugstore option a whirl. Fit Me along with Benefit Ooh La Lift (£17.50) was dotted around the lower eye sockets to brighten the eyes, whereas my more heavy-duty MAC Pro-longwear was used on particular areas of redness. All of these concealers were applied with blending sponges, both Nicka K Airbrush Blending Sponge (£6.50) which I got in December’s Glossybox  (better for specific blemishes) and Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge (£5.99).

• Finally, a little brush of Laura Mercier’s Translucent Pressed Setting Powder (£25.00) with Real Techniques Blush Brush (£9.99) (it works just as well as the Powder Brush) to set everything in place. I love this powder so much, as it keeps shine at bay for hours without drying out your skin or feeling cakey.

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Now for the fun parts – contour, eyes and lips! I always like to contour first, so I can sort of ‘complete’ my base, then eyes, then lips.

• First of all comes dark contour powder – NYX HD Blush in Taupe (£7.99) is the only contour powder not to transform my pale skin into ‘tangerines’ skin. It’s very cool toned, which is perfect for us fair-skinned ladies. I blend this in to the hollows of my cheekbones (top of ear to mid cheek) with Real Techniques Contour Brush (part of the Core Collection (£21.99)) and Real Techniques Sculpting Brush (£9.99), using circular motions.

• Then, I dab onto my cheekbones a little Bourjois Blush Exclusif (£7.99) with my fingertips and blend it with the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge (£5.99).

• Next to highlight! I begin with Benefit High Beam (£19.50), a subtle highlighter that I’ve grown to love ever since receiving it in my Party Poppers Advent Calendar. I apply this to the tops of my cheekbones, my cupids bow, the inner corners of my eyes and my brow bones – blending it with MAC Duo Fibre Tapered Blending Brush (£23.00) and Nicka K Airbrush Blending Sponge (£6.50). After that, I use my Real Techniques Angled Highlighter Brush (part of the Deluxe Collectors Edition Set 2015 (£30.00)) to sweep MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Soft and Gentle across the top of my cheekbones for a sparkle.

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• Onto the eyes – I always begin with a base shade of W.O.S from the Naked Basics Palette (£23.00) and then I use Naked 2 from the same palette to begin contouring the eyes. For this particular look, I went for a dramatic eye look, so I contoured further with MAC Cork and MAC Aromatic eyeshadows. After this, I lightened the inner corners for my eyes once more with MAC Cozy Grey and MAC Kitties, then gently tapping MAC Creative Copper onto the centre of each lid. All of these shadows are from my MAC Amber Times Nine Palette (£30.00) and all were applied using brushes from Real Techniques Starter Set (£20.99).

• With L’Oreal Paris Superliner Perfect Slim Black Intense (£6.99) I then drew a thin line, pointing towards the end of my eyebrow to accentuate the eye contouring.

• Next up is mascara; for an all out, thick lashes look with no clumps, I use Le Volume de Chanel Mascara in Noir (£25.00) over Benefit They’re Real Tinted Primer in Brown (£18.50) on the top lashes and a single coat of the primer on the bottom lashes.

• Finally for the eyes, I do my brows. Starting with a coat of Miss Sporty Clear Mascara (£2.99) on them, I then start to fill them in using small, hair-like strokes of MAC Brow Pencil in Lingering (£14.00) (the perfect match for my hair colour). With the shape of my eyebrows now sketched, I darken the ends with NYX Brow Gel in Brunette (£5.50) on my Real Techniques Angled Brow Brush for further definition. However, only a very small amount of product and a light hand is required when using the NYX brow gels. They are the perfect dupe for Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade though! Once again, I coat my brows in clear mascara to keep them in place.
  

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• Almost finished now… but God forbid we forget the showstopper! A bright red lipstick. It holds the power to glam up ANY look. First of all I prep my lips using Lush’s Bubblegum Lip Scrub (£5.50) to ensure the best application of my chosen lipstick. Then, I line my lips using No7 Precision Lips Pencil in Red (£6.75) before applying Bellapierre Mineral Lipstick in Ruby (£20). This lipstick, which came in this month’s Glossybox is AMAZING – possibly the best formula I’ve ever used. It glides on effortlessly to create an even, gloss-like shade, moisturises the lips and doesn’t even come off after eating and drinking!

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So, here’s the finished look…

I hope this tutorial has helped you decide what cosmetics you’re choosing for NYE or any party occasion really! Are there any other products you’d recommend adding to a party-ready makeup routine? Have you created your own NYE makeup look? Let me know in the comments below!

Emilia x

What To Wear For New Years Eve

Now, I would imagine that most of you reading this are of the age whereupon spending New Years Eve at home with your parents is an unconceivable idea. Instead, we dress up, frivolously splashing our christmas cash on gorgeous outfits, we stay up late; we probably have the most fun we’ve had in the whole year in those final hours of it. But, with sales raging and the weather being completely indecisive –  finding the perfect outfit can often be less than simple. Well, tah-dah, this is where I come in (think of me as your fairy godmother). Because, as you all know, there is nothing better to do in the holidays than scour the internet for more things that you REALLY need. If you receive money for Christmas this could be justified, but for me, it’s just my shopaholic ways… Below you’ll find my outfit ideas for every type of party girl, including accessories, shoes, bags, coats – the lot! Which one are you?

Oooh, the glitter-grabbing, sequin-stashing, sparkle addict; to be honest, I think every girl has a little bit of this in her anyway. If there’s time to be the show-stopper, it’s definitely New Year’s. Standing out amongst the crowds is a pretty tough task on such a widely celebrated partying night – so dazzling every onlooker is a pretty failsafe way to achieve this. Sparkles look fab with other extreme textures like fur. Make-up and accessories should be simple, to keep the attention on the dress – try to choose neutral block colours like the ones seen above.

From left to right: Sparkly Open Back Dress from River Island (£42.00), Club L High Neck Midi Dress from ASOS (£45.00), Love Triangle Strap Neck Mini Party Dress at ASOS (£35.00), Lulu Guinness Perspex Clutch (£147.00), Neat Belted Slouch Coat (£79.00), ASOS Ecuador Pointed High Ankle Boots (£40.00), Short Jacket from Zara (£39.99), Sparkling Earring Hook from Pandora (£15.00).

I’d say this is the most ‘me’ out of all these types of dresser – if Bond girls are your idols; sultry, powerful looks, the is likely to be the category for you. Gold accessories and simplistic sexiness, fur and satin, luxurious materials – if you’re going to dress up for one night, why not do it like a queen? These outfits are bound to make you feel amazing.

Showcase Mink Lace Bodycon Dress from Dorothy Perkins (£40.00), ASOS Pephem Bandeau Midi Dress (£38.00), Slinky Plunge Ruched Bodycon Dress in Navy from Miss Guided (£25.00), BCBGeneration Cropped Faux Fur Jacket in Blush at ASOS (£142.00), Black Suedette Ghillie Heeled Sandals from New Look (£29.99), Private Envelope Clutch Bag from Vivienne Westwood (£115.00), Gold Pearl Hoop Earrings from Lisa Angel (£8).

Lace; for the sweet, innocent girly girl. Not so fast! Lace is for when you want to exude beauty -but for NYE you’re probably going to want to rough it up with some boyish shapes (think bomber jacket). Nevertheless, if the enchanting qualities of lace draw you in – go for it. Maybe even add some loose waves and a bit of sparkle; but remember, you’ll want to keep makeup minimal and fresh.

Chi Chi Kendall Dress (£35.00), The Jetset Diaries Mantra Dress in Berry at ASOS (£125.00), Lace Plunge Bodycon Dress from Miss Guided (£31.00), Lightweight MA1 Bomber Jacket from Topshop (£55.00), Arial Fold Over Clutch Bag from Accessorize (£35.00),  Ravish Laser Cut Sandals from Topshop (£52.00), Love Rocks Leaf & Crystal Hair Clip from ASOS (£35.00).

This section is basically how I wish I could dress – but my figure doesn’t suit many of fashion’s loose styles and alternative cuts at the minute and there’s no point wearing something if it isn’t right for you! Notice the adverse textures and shapes – in 2015 we are no longer scared to throw them together! Tassles, metallics, geometrical shapes, sherpa… You wear that! This trend is perfect for those of you who like to scour vintage stores; you’ll find many a piece that you can revive with a modern day look.

From left to right: TFNC Bodycon Dress In All Over Swirl Sequin at ASOS (£59.99), Silver Lace Bodycon Dress from Miss Selfridge (£25.00), Fringe Jumpsuit from Warehouse (£75.00), Lacoste Rose Gold Leather Trainers (£85.00), Leather Suede Fringe Clutch from Topshop (£30.00),  Sloan Aviator Jacket from Topshop (£85), Ring Detail Clutch from Topshop (£15.00), Silver Star Hoops from Lisa Angel (£12).

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I hope this article has been helpful for you, be sure to let me know if you find any more star pieces or any amazing discounts (it is Boxing Day after all)! Finally, I hope you all had a very merry Christmas – expect lots of reviews be coming your way soon!

Emilia x