Hauling in July ... !

Bonjour!

It feels like forever since I did a haul post so this is a big one ... although all this lot wasn't just bought in one go but rather in dribs and drabs over the last month-ish ...!

Starting off with hair ... yes well ... now that I've had my hair cut into a short bob I've decided I want to grow it into more of a 'lob' (my daughter says this is all I ever do ... cut it off then try to grow it ... grow it then cut it off again and so on and so forth!). Anyway, I've invested in a couple of appliances for starters ...

I needed a new hairdryer after my old one packed in ... ummed and ahhed for ages and in the end decided to go for a professional brand (more on that later) so went for the Diva Professional Veloce 3800 Pro from Amazon. And also the Babyliss Dual Big Hair Rotating Hot Air Styler which, in contrast, was an impulse buy after I saw the demo on QVC and decided it was the styling tool for me - so far so good!

A few clothing buys ...

This lot was bought fairly recently ... the softest off-white top ever from The White Stuff, navy linen blend dress from Gap, long sleeve basic t-shirt and another 'fluffy thing' from Next (have one in grey and how I love it for softness and warmth during the colder months!) all in the sales! The only non sale item was my new leather bag - a bargain from TK Maxx - I'm in love and can't stop gazing at it - I've never had a 'handbag fetish' but this could be the start of a bad habit!

Flowery print gypsy top (not sure it's me as I don't usually do the flower or the gypsy thing but my mum likes it!) and khaki utility skirt from the New Look sale.  Also got hold of a pair of thin khaki trousers from New Look (only £9!) and was unsure whether to keep or not as I'm rarely out of my jeans but the opinion was an outright 'keeper' when I asked for opinions over on Instagram!

Next up a few beauty buys ... some essential and some treats ...!

The essentials ... (in my book anyway!) were the Vichy Ideal Soleil Mattifying Face Dry Touch SPF 30 as I fancied something non-shiny on my kite this holiday and  Bourjois Bronzing Primer - it's meant to be a dupe for the Chanel Bronze Universel, which I have loved in past years so we'll see how it compares!

The treats ... Original Source Coconut and Shea Butter Shower Cream and Mandara Spa Shea & Coconut Body Butter on offer in Sainsburys and Rimmel Wake Me-Up Concealer (although this could be deemed as essential as I should never be without an under-eye concealer!), Rimmel 1000 Kisses Lipliner in Spice and Natural Collection Eye Liner in grey.

A couple of footwear items ...

Can't stretch to Birkenstocks this year so these will do me nicely from Primark at only £4! And finally  ... my JuJu Reilly sandals - a bargain in the Office sale at a tenner - they are so comfy - I could shop for hours in them (but I won't!) ... I want another pair!

So that's me done for a while, must try to be good now although my brother's wedding is coming up next month so that could be a problem!  What have you bought in July?

Jen x

A Random Wishlist ...!

So this is my random wishlist ... it's a bit of a mixture of bits as you can see. Once I started I could have just kept going and going (as you do!) ... it's the old snowball effect isn't it ...?

A Random Wishlist! by beautyandthebiryani featuring 80s t shirts

First up a couple of products for my poor old hair (I want them both!) ... the Aveda Thickening Tonic is expensive at around £19/100ml but is apparently meant to 'thicken hair instantly with just one use' ... need I say more?  By contrast the OGX Hydrating Macadamia Oil Intensive Moisture Mask is only £6.99 and I loved the shampoo and conditioner from this range, review here - so definitely want to try the mask.

I'll be after a new under-eye concealer quite soon and can't decide whether to spend up or save between Clarins Creamy Concealer or Rimmel Wake Me Up (can I just get them both?) and anyone who's into nude lippies wants to get their hands (or lips) on MAC Velvet Teddy .... right?

I need a Casio Retro Digital Watch ... don't ask me why I just do ... I've been dithering over the exact size and style but am swaying towards 'the bigger the better' vibe (not huge but big!) so may end up with a 'mansize' version (need to try a few on I think!).

Brown Leather Tote Bag ... it doesn't have to be/cannot be as expensive at this one, gorgeous though it is at £180 (if I win the lottery then yes!) but it has to be brown and leather - you know the sort that will go with everything?

Now for my 'randoms' Frankie Says Relax T-Shirt (apparently the original version said 'Frankie Say Relax') ...  my love for logo t-shirts is not diminishing with age (unlike my hair) and as a first time round Frankie Goes to Hollywood Fan (I have the 12" singles on vinyl) I'm amazed I haven't plumped for this one years ago - better late than never!  And last but not least ... whilst pinning to my Pinterest 'throwback' board (it gets so addictive once you start doesn't it?) I realised my need to revisit some of my old TV favourites - I was a little obsessed with Jaime Sommers so may start off with The Bionic Woman - although I've just realised I should begin with The Six Million Dollar Man after all he went through it all first right?  'Steve Austin, astronaut. A man barely alive. Gentlemen, we can rebuild him. We have the technology. We have the capability to build the world's first bionic man.' -  I reckon many young people have now no idea what I'm talking about here!

OMG (I never say OMG!) that has taken me all the way back, my brother wanted 'to be' The Six Million Dollar Man  pretty sure he had the doll and everything!

Fingers crossed I can tick some of these off soon! What's on your 'random wishlist'?


Jen x

It's A Brow Thing ...!

Bonjour!

It's true to say I have a slight complete preoccupation with eyebrows at the moment - I generally don't leave the house without my brows on and I'd certainly say they're up there with my lash obsession! At my age I'm not into the whole 'overly drawn-in thing' but I do like them to look like they're meant to be 'there' with good colour and definition - makes such a difference to one's kite ... here's my current 'brow wardrobe' ...

Clockwise from left ... HD Brows Palette in Foxy, YBF (Your Best Friend) Automatic Eyebrow Pencil in Universal Taupe, Anastasia Dipbrow Pomade in Ebony, Rimmel Professional Eyebrow Pencil in Black/Brown, Laura Geller Brow Marker in Dark Brown and Mally Beauty Brow Fix in Taupe ...

Where to start with all this lot? They all have different colours, textures and application techniques - here they are quickly swatched on paper and then on my arm ...

HD Brows Palette - you can probably see from the palette that one pan is well used - that's the Dark Brown and I use only this colour on my brows, I use Nude as a matte brow highlighter and Warm Brown/Carbon as eyeshadow sometimes. Love this HD Brow powder, it goes on so easily with the little brush (mine has broken in half though!), gives great depth and a soft 'fullness' to the brows and is really quick and easy to apply. I can't justify a repurchase of the whole palette though as I'm only addicted to Dark Brown (I'll be gutted when it runs out!) but will have to hunt around for a similar brow powder in this colour.

Anastasia Dipbrow Pomade - which I reviewed here in Ebony - I'll therefore not waffle on too much about it!  Takes a bit longer to apply until you get the hang of it but it gives a good natural brow with great pigment and is waterproof!

Mally Brow Fix - came with a QVC  kit - it only seems to come in this one colour and is not one I would have chosen for myself as it's too pale to add much definition but makes a good 'fixing' product to use over the top of something else. It has a waxy texture so tames and keeps stray brow hairs (not that I have that many to stray!) in place.  It's around £20 from QVC and isn't something I intend to repurchase as I can live without it - if you know what I mean!
YBF Automatic Brow Pencil - a product my mum gave to me a while ago - a twist up pencil with a 'spoolie' brush at the other end (which I forgot to photograph!). It has a dryer texture - almost like compressed powder but doesn't pull or tug at the skin and is a good flat brown colour. If I use on it's own I have to layer up as the shade is not as deep as I would choose, but it's great for adding extra definition or tidying up over another product. Comes in at around £18.00 for a duo from QVC and I would consider repurchasing as I like the texture.
Rimmel Professional  Brow Pencil - this is something I have used for years and will continue to repurchase. The colour is just right for me, really quick and easy to apply, either on it's own or to neaten up over the top of another product. Comes with its own little brush and is only £2.99. Easy to get hold of and a complete bargain!
Laura Geller Brow Marker - this is a good idea in theory as it's like a fine felt tip so you can 'mimic' fine hairs as you draw them in? Unfortunately the colour has a definite 'warm brown vibe' and isn't deep enough for me to carry off. Not something I'll repurchase - I don't do warm brows!

So that's my little 'brow arsenal'. Which one I use depends on how much of a rush I'm in to get out the door, what I'm doing once I'm out and how strong a brow I want! Apart from the Anastasia Dipbrow though (which is fantastic in hot weather) they will all melt or rub off to some degree on a hot day or in a warm environment (not a good look to have your eyebrow smearing across your forehead!) so I think a setting product is my next port of call at some stage!

How do you like your brows? How many brow products do you own? Which is your favourite? Sod it let's just have a coffee and chat about it shall we? :)

Jen x

Summer Loving ... !

Bonjour!

I haven't managed a monthly 'favourites' post for while but couldn't let the warm weather finally come to a close ... (sob!) ... without a brief mention of the some of the products I've been 'into' over the Summertime ...

La Roche Posay Anthelios Melt-in Cream SPF 30 - used on face, neck and decolletage - it's great for holiday, can be worn under make-up, non-sticky, non greasy and suits my sensitive areas!

M&S Formula Aloe Vera Aftersun Gel - I've bought this aftersun gel for a couple of years now - usually when M&S have their summer offers on making it a ridiculous £2 per tube! Cooling and hydrating after a day in the sun - unfortunately we didn't have as many of 'those days' on holiday as I'd have liked this year hence I have some left!

Dove Summer Glow Nourishing Lotion (Medium to Dark) - I'm rather lazy with the whole 'self-tan thing' and so use gradual tanners instead. This one has been my favourite for a while, subtle colour which can be built up over time, pleasant smell, moisturises well, quick and easy to use - job done for lazy girls!

Treacle Moon 'One Ginger Morning' Bath and Shower Gel - still hanging on in there, one of my favourite zingy bath/shower products ever!

Lee Stafford Poker Straight Dehumidifier Spray -  found this at the back of the bathroom storage cabinet (must have forgotten about it - it's a big cabinet!) - gave it a whirl and I'm hooked! A quick spray keeps any frizzies at bay really well so I'll be repurchasing and keeping at the front of the bathroom cabinet in future!

CK One Summer - I have a bit of a soft spot for CK smellies and this one is my everyday Summertime spritz. I usually pick one up on offer in some sale or other. Love the clean, refreshing scent - just smells of summer - always a good thing in my book!

Bare Minerals Warmth All-Over Face Colour - a favourite for bronzing, gives a warm healthy glow (which is actually appreciated all year round!) - full review here.

Top Shop Stage Dive - I just love orange tones and this one is a real sizzler, brilliant for the summer months, wore it on holiday this year - here.

Emma Hardie Soothing Moisture Mask - a lovely cooling mask which feels fantastic on after a hot day (or even not so hot!).  I've been using this twice a week in the evening after removing my make-up and exfoliating (after all what's the point in slathering something on over a load of dead skin cells!). I then usually warn the hubby that I look like a ghost (he doesn't mind - he's used to it!), watch a bit of tv to relax and go to bed! It sinks in overnight and leaves skin hydrated and plumped in the morning.  Another lazy girl's winner! I am so lazy!

Rimmel Kate Moss Matte 110 - I think this is one of my all time favourite lippies. I can use as a stain with lip balm or slap it on good and proper for a more full on look if needs be. A lovely vibrant summertime colour and seems to go with virtually everything - you can see it on here.

Bourjois Cream Blush in Pink Sunwear and Sweet Cherry - last but by no means least my Bourjois cream blushes. Love em to bits - have used them on holiday and at home. I want another! Full reviews here and here.

I'm still hoping that this Indian type summer thing will continue for a while - fingers crossed - I'm not quite ready to wrap up yet!

What have been your favourites this Summer?


Jen x

Face and Outfit of the (other) Night!

Bonjour!

Bit overdue this post but better late than never! So ... outfit and mug shot from an evening out with the hubby and kids a few weeks back ... yep apologies for yet another awkward pose with yet another pair of creased knees (what is it with me and creased knees?) ...  the husband never thinks to point any of this out - probably as he was impatient (as usual) to get off out, rather than taking silly photos ... men!!

Top - H &M (old)
Creased skinny jeans - Primark
Red Cork Wedges - New Look (very old)
Distressed Handbag - Top Shop (very old)

With the pooch - who happens to be sitting very smartly don't you think?

Make-up ...

Mally Perfect Prep Poreless Primer and Under Eye Brightener, No7 Instant Radiance Concealer review here, Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in Medium, L'Oreal Nude Magique Eau de Teint Foundation in Nude Beige, Mally Eyeshadow Stick in Antique Taupe and Mally Evercolor Waterproof Eyeliner in Midnight review here, Maybelline Big Eyes Mascara - review here, Anastasia Dipbrow Pomade in Ebony review here, highlight on brow bone from MUA Undressed Palette (not pictured),  Bourjois Cream Blush in Pink Sunwear - review here and good ol' faithful Rimmel Kate Moss Matte lippie in 110- review here.

And corresponding 'Mug Shot' ...

Had to take this when we got back as I'd run out of time before  - story of my life!

One day ... yes one day I'll do a proper outfit post sans 'creased knees' and make-up before the evening out!

Jen x

NOTD - Rimmel Salon Pro by Kate Nail Polish in Nymph

Bonjour!

The Rimmel Salon Pro Nail Polish in Nymph is one of ten shades that Kate Moss apparently had a hand in 'creating'. It ended up in my basket when I recently went to Boots to pick up my new specs as it had £1 off making it £3.49 ...

Rimmel say you can get up to 10 days of chip resistant colour ... you know what I'm going to say don't you? Yep ... I didn't get 10 days (I mean 10 days ... in my dreams!) but I got 3 days (with top and base coat) - which is good for me.  I can cope with 3 days.  The brush is wide and flat with slightly tapered sides (apparently it's a 'maxi' brush) but is easy enough to use (although maybe the stem could be a tad longer but maybe that's me being picky!) - the polish needs two coats (in this colour anyway), dries in standard time and has a lovely high shine to it.  I do love this colour - it reminds me of one of those lagoon type things you see in those balmy hot places!

So - yes ... I think I'll be after some other colours from this range of polishes - they're a good price and last fairly well on. I do want to make a dent in my existing nail polish collection though (that's me being sensible) so may well hold off until Autumn - I have my eye on Punk Rock which will be a perfect Autumn/Winter colour!  But let's not wish the time away - I want to experience Summer first!

Have you tried any Rimmel Salon Pro polishes? What's your most 'long lasting' nail polish?

Jen x

New Specs Haul!!

Bonjour!

Totally blaming my new specs (below) for this one! Had to pop into Boots to pick them up (check for fit etc) - it's been 3yrs since I last had my eyes tested so new specs were overdue. Of course, any 'normal' person would just walk out with their new spectacles but not me - oh no ... it's like offering sweets to a child letting me loose in there ...! I don't think I'm on my own with this affliction? Correct me if I'm wrong - actually don't ...!

To be honest everything here (apart from the nail files) was on offer. 3 for 2 across haircare - my hair is mis-behaving at the moment so I went for the No Sulphate Nourishing Care System - can't wait to try it out! The hand cream was down to £1.99, selected Original Source Shower products are down to £1 (why did I only get one?!) and the Rimmel Salon Pro by Kate Nail Polish had a quid off so only £3.49 ...

I bagged the Trilogy Rosehip Oil and Bourjois Cream Blush in 'Pink Sunwear' with my Boots points - don't you just love those Boots points!

So I actually didn't spend that much believe it or not (even my specs were half price) and it gives you such a warm feeling inside when you walk out of Boots with a large carrier bag of goodies ... doesn't it?

Have you bagged any Boots bargains recently or are you 'normal' ie able to walk out empty handed?

Jen x

Rimmel Kate Moss Matte Lipstick 110 (My first!)

Bonjour!

I've bloomin' done it - gone and bought my first Kate Moss Matte Lippie and I have a feeling it won't be the last...!  I've not been very good on the bold lip front of late - got into a bit of a gloss and balm rut but have been feeling ready to break free ....  I was going to re-introduce myself gently with a couple of subtle creations but what the heck - jumped right in with the gorgeous 110 shade from the Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate...(Moss of course!).

I saw 110 first swatched by Sam over on Honey Go-Lightly blog (which you can check out here) and instantly fell for it ...

Ok let's talk about the 110 - I did apply a little balm beforehand - the lipstick went on easily, great texture- almost velvety and not so matte that it dried up on my lips and also has a really pleasant, fresh aroma!  I love the orange tones in this lippie - it has gorgeous vibrancy to it and great pigment - it's verging on fluorescent but in a totally good way and I found it had a brightening effect on my dull old kite! So much so I wore it to do the weekly shop down at Sainsburys - it's a cheery pop of colour on a dull day!

Apologies for the messy hair btw - am in need of a cut but trying to hold off until December - you know how it is! Further apologies for only half a face - it's all I can manage at the moment (still feel like a bit of a dork and all that - plus my nose is huge and spreads across the entire blog post - if any friends or family are reading this you can stop laughing now!!).

Anyway - long and short I'm glad I trusted my first instinct and went for this beautiful bright lippie - love the Kate Moss 110, think this may be my 'Xmas do' lip colour this year! Would love to try out some more colours from the range - any recs?

You can buy your very own Rimmel 'Kate' Matte lipstick from Superdrug or check out the range from Boots - here . 

Will you be trying out any lippies from the Kate Moss Matte Collection?

Jen x