Pet Hates

I've had Charlie for 7 years now and I absolutely adore her. She is a Retriever/Collie/Labrador cross and we got her from an RSPCA rescue shelter when she was around 8 months old. They found her wandering the streets and no-one claimed her and I have no idea why because she is just so cute! 

Over the years I have noticed that Charlie has got a few pet hates which I thought I would share with you. Firstly, she seems to have taken a sense of ownership to the front door, and anyone who comes close to the door gets a friendly bark to remind them that 'that's her door'. She has got used to the sound of my family coming in and normally will meet us with a wagging tail. 

Another pet hate of hers is that she doesn't like the concept of a toy that claims to be indestructible and has taken pride in showing us that she is more than capable of destroying any toy that comes her way. On the topic of biting, she chewed the kickers label off my boots when she was a puppy much to my dismay. Since growing up she has learnt that toys and kickers aren't really her thing and much prefers a walk and a cuddle.

As with many other dog owners, it seems such a cute concept to dress your dog up. Apparently this is her biggest pet hate. I've tried sunglasses, winter hats, caps and scarves and she seems to just wiggle her way out of them within seconds. Maybe I was cramping her style? 

I would always encourage getting your pet from the RSPCA if possible as it saves vulnerable dogs and gives them a loving home. The majority of pets in there have just been abandoned with no lasting damage and they just want a happy place to live. Although the RSPCA make sure their animals have their jabs before you get them, it's so important to make sure your pets are insured. For example, MORE TH>N have teamed up with the RSPCA to provide a range of insurance policies to protect your pets. 

Do your pets have any pet hates?  *This is a collaborative post

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Extended Male Mouth Zombie Halloween Look | Blogtober

Firstly I apologies for the gruesome look. Last year I did this scary Zombie look on Andy and wanted to do something similar this year. This is just as easy as the previous look and you can create is using things you already have at home, and some fake blood. All you need is foundation, tissues, eyelash glue, fake blood, and a little bit of patience. I use the method of tissue and glue (or latex) for any type of wound or skin texture as it is super easy, you just need to let the glue dry.
To even the skin out I applied some Revlon Colorstay foundation onto Andy's skin. You don't need to do this if you don't want but it does make things look a bit better. I then filled in his eyebrows with a dark brown shadow to intensify the look. For the mouth I rolled some tissue up into a long roll and used eyelash glue to fix it in place. I ripped it a little to make it look like huge chapped zombie lips then covererd it in the same foundation to blend into the skin. The sole reason behind this is that you don't have the chance of seeing any white bits if you miss them.
To darken up the area I applied a red eyeshadow, followed by purple and black eyeshadows to create a more (sort of) realistic colour. If you just apply a red it won't look as "real". In the fake lip crevices I applied more black and blended it out. To finish the look off I applied three layers of fake blood. It does dry and won't look as wet so if you were going out to a party or something I'd advise taking spray fake blood to add a bit of wet blood to make it more scary. I do love a good Halloween look. This would also be perfect if you were going as The Joker as you could green up your hair and whiten your face and it would look pretty similar.

What are you going as for Halloween?

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Birthday Beauty Haul | Blogtober

I was incredibly lucky this year. Upon turning 22 on Monday I was shocked to see that I had been gifted some beautiful presents. I think maybe the hint that I adore Mac and Urban Decay was apparent. My boyfriend Andy had already told me before the launch of the Smoky Palette in summer that he would buy it for my birthday along with some other bits and I am to excited buy it to touch it! I love it when you have brand new products and they look so perfect you don't want to ruin them. The packaging of the Smoky palette is gorgeous and it will come in handy closer to Winter time when I'll be wearing darker eyeshadows. 
As well as the palette, Andy also bought me Up The Amp from Mac which he knows have I been looking at for quite a while. I only started buying Mac lipsticks last year after umming and ah-ing for too long and I haven't got a colour in my collection that is similar so I can imagine this is one I'll be using pretty quickly. From other family members I received the shades Brave and Ruby Woo which overall make up most shades in my Mac collection now. I was shocked to have shades I was after for ages so either I'm talking too much or they know me too well.
I had always wanted to make my own Mac eyeshadow palette and received the blank palette with 15 shadow inserts and bought myself an eyeshadow just to put in ha! It was funny to see my Stepmum thought the eyeshadows were £2.50 each so it wouldn't take me long to fill the whole thing and was open mouthed when I told her they were £10 each, oops. Since I have a Mac gift card I plan on getting the brightest white and the darkest black since I find most palettes lack pigmentation in both of these are lacking in most eye palettes. 
The Mac brush cleanser is my favourite thing to was my makeup brushes with and since I actually ran out last night this came just at the right time. To set my makeup I was so relieved to have the Deslick spray from Urban Decay as oily/combination skin can ruin your makeup in minutes if you're in the heat. With some birthday money I bought myself a Nars Lip Pencil as the colour is a stunning burnt orange-red shade which looks nothing like anything I already own. I was given some bits from Primark and Topshop too which I might do a post about soon! I'm so grateful for everything I've received and can't wait to make some amazing makeup looks using these products.

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Weeping Fairy Halloween Look | Blogtober

I love creating Halloween looks and there is nothing better than having a good play around with makeup. I decided to call this the Weeping Fairy look since if you added fairy wings and a dark dress it would be a great cheap Halloween costume. I did my makeup as usual, adding a darker blush to my cheeks and messily filling in my eyebrows. For the eyes I had a good play around with the Makeup Revolution Give Them Nightmares Palette since there are plenty of purple and black shades in there. I used the Urban Decay Electric Palette using the bright silver colour to add a bit of sparkle.
I made sure to blend everything in using a blending brush but you could leave it uneven if you wanted more of a messy/scary look. I applied a pair of false eyelashes - these had blue strands in them for added colour, but they aren't necessary. To darken the underneath of my eyes I simply smudged a black eyeshadow and added some tear lines as if I had been weeping... For the lips I used a mixture of my Mac Rebel and Pure Heroine, applying generously. For the shimmer in the middle I added the gold shade from the L'Oréal palette I've recently review and pressed it on with my finger and blended out. 
To finish off I just messed my straightened hair up but you could do your hair however you feel like. It would look beautiful with curled hair too and with anything on Halloween, you don't have to try to look perfect. For a more horrifying look simply add a bit of blood or cobwebs or some coloured contacts. I didn't buy anything for this and used everything already in my collection which makes it the cheapest look I've ever done. 

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Makeup Revolution Unicorns Unite Lipsticks | Blogtober

(Magical, Myth, Throne, Horn of Magic, Legend)
Every year Makeup Revolution bring out extraordinary palettes and lipsticks close to Halloween and they did not disappoint this year. These are the Unicorns Unite lipsticks* which are pretty metallic shades that are perfect for this time of year. They come in daring shades of purple to a bold turquoise that would fit a Halloween look perfectly. The lipsticks are £1 each but you can buy all 5 for £4 on their website which is an absolute steal since £1 each is a bargain anyway let alone 80p each if you buy them in the set.
Myth the probably the most wearable shade and is perfect all year round. All the lipsticks are buildable in colour and are fairly pigmented. They do pick up on any cracks or dry patches in your lips so exfoliate and hydrate your lips first. They're incredibly similar to the Atomic lipstick collection that came out last year aside from the dark green shade from that collection. I'm glad there are three purple toned colours since I would wear these day to day during Autumn/Winter.
The only downside to the lipsticks is the packaging. The lids tend to fall off these pretty easily (as with their other lipsticks) but for £1 you can't really complain. I just know for future reference not to put them in a bag! You can buy their lipsticks online here.

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L'Oréal Paris True Match Genius First Impressions | Blogtober

I've never, ever used a foundation that wasn't in a liquid form. Okay, apart from that awful Dream Matte foundation circa 2006 which will probably haunt everyone who used it's dreams. Anyway, I have a lot of trust in liquid foundations for many reasons. I have combination skin and liquids nicely sit on top of my skin without being absorbed too much. I can buff them in with a brush and build up the layers to perfect my look. The thought of using anything else scares me slightly. The L'Oréal Paris True Match Genius* (RRP £12.99) is a 4 in 1 product. You can use it as a primer, foundation, concealer or powder depending on how and where you apply it.

To apply the product you use the sponge provided to gently press the makeup onto the skin. Once doing this I realised I wasn't going to get enough coverage needed to use it as a foundation so if you're looking to use it purely for a foundation I'd recommend getting a beauty blender as you'll be able to pick up more product and buff it into the skin better. I don't have one so haven't used the True Match Genius just for a foundation. I think the sponge they provide is maybe too thin but maybe that's because I'm used to using makeup brushes. L'Oréal say that it has the coverage and fluidity of a liquid formula but I guess when I get a beauty blender I will probably see these results. Maybe it's just me not being used to using a sponge.
As a primer it works well but doesn't completely keep my oily skin at bay. It didn't highlight any dry patches though which was good. Using it as a concealer with a brush it gives enough coverage for undereyes and spots as you wouldn't buff it in like you would a foundation, just dabbing it on until blended. It doesn't cake which is a major pet peeve of mine with some concealers. As a powder it is just the right finish as it looks powdery (as opposed to a dewy finish you find with some multipurpose products).
I tried two shades in Linen and Rose Vanilla and although the lighter shade (on the left) matched my skin tone better, the darker shade made me look a bit more healthy. The shades are pretty good in the range as there are 6 shades available, Linen being the lightest. The compact itself is slim so perfect for storing either in your 5 stack acrylic drawers or keeping it in your handbag for a touch up.
Overall I definitely think I need to play around with this product more. From swatching on my hand it has the ability to be an amazing product, it is the application on my behalf that stops it being the perfect foundation. I'll be reporting back once buying a thicker sponger which will make it easier to apply. The True Match range as a few new products out including their reformulated True Match Foundation (available in 21 shades) which would be interesting to try out. Their Touch Magique (similar to the YSL alternative) is new out and there are now True Match blushers which come in the most beautiful colours. Their complete range is in stores now and worth checking out in my opinion.

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The Lipstick Addict Tag | Blogtober

1. what is your favourite balm or treatment?

I love my Neutrogena lip balm. I don't really have many treatments or balms but this one works great and right now I wouldn't swap it for anything.

2. what is your favourite eye catching red?

Probably Blake's Red from L'Oréal Paris. It is the perfect shade for blondes and looks stunning on the lips. Saying this, I've just had Ruby Woo as a present so my mind might change soon!

3. the best luxury and drugstore product?

I adore my Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Love Liberty. The packaging is stunning, the shape of the lipstick is unique and the formula is dreamy. It doesn't dry out the lips and is a perfect deep red. My favourite drugstore product is probably Eva's Pink from L'Oréal Paris, the colour pay off is next to none and it's only £6.99.

4. best mac lipstick?

I've just received three for my birthday so haven't had a chance to test them out yet, but at the moment it has to be Rebel. Such a cliche but it is a stunning colour and perfect for Autumn. As it gets colder and into the Winter months it will probably be Pure Heroine.

5. most disappointing lip product?

It has to be the MUA Luxe liquid lipsticks. I wore the one I have last Winter when going to the Christmas Market in Newcastle and within seconds of eating a churro nearly all the lipstick had came off and I was left with an outline around my lips and nothing else. I was so disappointed. I didn't bring it with me either so had to attempt to rub the rest off so I didn't look odd. I'd never buy them from MUA again.

6. lip liner: yes or no?

Yes! Why would you not use a lip liner? It prevents the lipstick bleeding, helps the staying power and can also add to the colour. It can intensify the colour or you can add a ombre lip with lip liners. I am currently on the hunt for some more liners, maybe Mac or Nars ones...

7. favourite gloss?

Definitely the L'Oréal Paris Infallible Mega Gloss. No stickiness, they look like a shinier lipstick and they last for about 4 hours without smudging. I stayed far away from lipglosses before this, and now I have bought it in another shade.

8. something else?

I'd love some recommendations for new brands or products to try out. I'm currently loving the Bourjois liquid matte lipsticks and have just bought the Makeup Revolution liquid lipstick gift set for Christmas and will be trying them out soon.

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Sephora Haul | Blogtober

In August I went on a family holiday to Spain and I was so excited that after four years I could finally see some sun! What made me even happier was the prospect of there being a Sephora there. I've only ever been to a few, all in Paris, and I was so overwhelmed with makeup that I bought things I could have bought over in the UK. This time I made a small list and decided to only buy things that were not available over here.
In Alicante the Sephora was pretty small. Whilst they had Urban Decay products and Too Faced, I wasn't really interested in more makeup palettes. I first headed out to buy one of Sephora's own brand lip stains since I had heard a lot about their lip products. There weren't many available so I went for a pinky-nude shade which I'm yet to try out. The aim of this product is to create a long lasting lip colour that is comfortable to wear and isn't sticky. I'll definitely do a review on them to see whether it is worth the money. The ingredients include avocado oil to nourish the lips so it will be interesting to see whether it meets my expectations.
I then headed over to the Makeup For Ever stand and picked up the HD High Definition powder which is white and would be perfect for the 'baking' trend at the moment. I have been using this to set my under eye makeup but want to give it a go to set my full face if I'm going somewhere and want to look a bit more glam. The Sephora woman noticed me standing there (in 30 degree heat with no makeup on) and without speaking a word of english handed me their green primer to block out redness. Once she had walked away I put it straight back - the only reason I was a bit pink was because I was in a hotter climate that I'm used to and my cheeks were flushed because of this.
Closer to the till I noticed that Sephora did mini shower gels and picked two up in the scents Strawberry and Peony. I most probably won't use them at the moment as the size makes them perfect for travelling. I might save them and take them to America in April before buying more shower gel over there. I'm a huge fan of sweet, fruity and fresh scented products so I already know I'll be in love with these.
I'll never love a Sephora as much as I loved the one in the Champs Elysees in Paris, until I visit one in LA! I've already started making a list of things to buy over there, but if you have any suggestions of products I need to buy I'd love to know some!

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I'm Feeling 22! | Blogtober

Today I turn 22! I didn't want to rush a 'birthday haul' style post until I could take proper photos so I may as well just show you some of my instagram photos and tell you all about my day. I woke up around half 8 despite not setting an alarm to allow me to have a lie in, typical. Andy and myself decided to go through the McDonald's drive thru to grab breakfast since I was letting myself eat whatever the hell I wanted. After making a Topshop order and eagerly waiting for my JD order to arrive, it was time to actually celebrate.

I opened my card and presents from Andy and was over the moon. I usually guess all of my presents and got every single one right this year, much to his dismay. His birthday was only 8 days ago and we finally decided on a budget in order to not spend a ridiculous amount like we did last year. After all, it's about spending time together and enjoying ourselves. I won't give away what he got me just yet, but they were good presents!

Once we came home we tucked into the Ferrero Rocher and Nutella birthday cake that Andy had kindly made me. He did such a good job and considering he never bakes and this is probably the first cake he has ever made by himself. It was so yummy and I couldn't finish a whole piece it was so chocolatey. I ended the day by watching the latest episode of The Walking Dead and then chilled out in bed. Tomorrow I'm off shopping for a few makeup bits with the birthday money I received and might include them in the haul post I'll put up in a few days time.

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23 Before 23 | Blogtober

It's my 22nd birthday tomorrow and since my previous list post was about what I did last year, I thought setting myself some more goals before I turn 23 would be a fun idea. Whether or not I complete them is a different story!

1. Buy box lights

I tend to use the natural light to take product photos and simply lighten them in Photoshop, but relying on the defused light entering through my window is just not viable sometimes. Box lights are both bulky and pricey but it would be a dream to have my own so I could take photos whenever I felt like it.

2. Buy my own camera 

I'm currently using Andy's camera which although it is great and does it's job perfectly, I'd love to be able to have my own. I wouldn't choose a bridge camera like his but would go for something more compact but with the opportunity to still take high quality images. They aren't cheap though, that's why I'm giving myself a year to get one...

3. See something live

I used to be an avid festival goer with an empty space in my heart if I didn't have tickets to see one of my favourite bands throughout the year, when it wasn't festival season. After seeing Maroon 5 in June, I haven't booked tickets to see anyone. There are a few bands I'm yet to see and would love to make more of an effort to go and see some live.

4. Go on a road trip

Since Andy bought his car in April we've done a fair few trips to and from Newcastle but now we are permanently living in Liverpool, it would be nice to have a drive to somewhere else in the UK. I'd love to explore the southern places of England aside from London.

5. Buy lots of makeup in America

Since I find out we were going to Amercia I started making a list of beauty products I want to buy when I'm over there. I'm planning to pack lightly and buy a hell of a lot over there (but mostly makeup) and would love some suggestions from other bloggers too!

6. Understand my illnesses

For the past year I've been in both hospital and the GP over joint and muscle aches. I can explain my limitations to others but on the scale of things, I really don't fully understand what I'm supposed to be doing to better myself aside from taking medications and not pushing myself too hard. It would be lovely to raise money towards further understanding of EDS and Fibromyalgia in the public eye to aid the awareness of these chronic conditions and show the seriousness of them.

7. Wash my makeup brushes more often

I am so bad for doing this. I'll do it regularly over a few weeks then completely forget and mean to do it when I'm not wearing makeup that day but postpone it. I now have three storage pots full of brushes so I need to get my bum in gear and wash them on a weekly basis.

8. Get more into YouTube

Okay so last year I achieved the goal of setting up a channel, now we actually have to post some videos to it. We have one already, but editing takes a while, especially when you aren't used to it (or should I say Andy isn't ha!)

9. Get laser hair removal

Even as a blonde I've hated having hair on my legs and underarms. It's incredibly tedious to have to shave, plan outfits and fake tanning around shaving. It would be so handy to have the hair removed!

10. Buy a macbook

This is probably not going to be achievable unless I find myself a good paying job but hey, you have to have some goals.

11. Move out

I loved my little flat up in Newcastle for my final year in uni and since moving home I have been desperate to move back out and have my own space again. I love my family, but I really want my own place to live, whether that be around the corner or a few miles away.

12. Fix my tattoo

I've mentioned this on a previous post but my tattoo is a shambles and it needs fixing. whether it be through a removal or getting a cover up. I'm definitely more of a piercing gal over tattoos despite adoring them on other people, so I think that's what is putting me off changing my 2cm cross on my ribs.

13. Be more confident

Since putting on weight and having heard a lot of people from home chat about me, my self confidence has dropped dramatically. It's made me super anxious and has not helped me at all. Hopefully sometime in the next year I'll learn to love myself a little more.

14. Throw a party

Since my 18th I've not done a whole lot of 'proper' celebrating. Whether it be a house warming, engagement or just a simple BBQ, it would be lovely to get all of my family and friends together for celebrations.

15. Learn to drive

I still haven't learned to drive and I am determined that I will do it this year! My navy blue Beetle dream is still pretty far from achieving but learning to drive will be one step closer.

16. Go for a weekend away

In 2014 I made a huge effort to travel around the UK to visit loads of different places and I've not been anywhere in the UK this year at all. I'd love to go for a spa weekend or two to relax a bit more.

17. Take a makeup class

Whilst YouTube is great for learning makeup tips, paying for a makeup lesson would give me hands on experience to apply makeup on others. I obviously know more than the average person since beauty blogging teaches you a lot, but it would be advantageous to learn from a professional makeup artist.

18. Get a full time job

It is a pain working as a self-employed gal here on my blog without a part or full time job. I'd love to go into Digital Marketing or Social Media Management and love my job. I adore blogging and will continue to blog for as long as I can picture into the future but to have a steady income to save for the future and to rent/buy a house would just be amazing.

19. Fight back at anxiety

I worry way too much for my own good. I worry about what other people think about me a lot and it has stopped me doing some things I would normally love to do. I guess part of it is because of communication - honesty is hard to come by these days and I wouldn't be as anxious if everything was out in the open, but it isn't. The next best step for me is to stop caring as much and put happiness first.

20. Have 20 Mac lipsticks

As of the day before my birthday, I have 7 Mac lippies. I know Andy has bought me one for tomorrow already but I'd love to make my way up to 20 before next year.

21. Meet some more fabulous bloggers

Having met some lovely girls at the NWMeet and via Twitter, I'd love to meet some more gals for a coffee cup of tea and slice of cake.

22. Ride in a convertible around LA

We've already sussed out that whilst we are in LA we will have to rent a car to go and see some of the things you can't get to via the Metro or bus systems. We saw (for not much more than planned!) a Beetle Convertible to hire and I definitely want to make the most of that, especially in the warm west coast sun.

23. Visit some European cities

I've always been a bit of a history nerd and I'd love to do more than visit tourist attractions. I went to Berlin and saw some amazing sights and learned so much about Germany's history from outside of a textbook. I'd love to visit Rome and do some more learning!
Do you have a bucket list?

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The Balm Voyage Vol II Palette Review | Blogtober

I've always been intrigued by The Balm, especially since nearly every beauty blogger under the sun has the Mary Lou Manizer highlighter. Having usually stayed clear of eyeshadow palettes that were not from Urban Decay, when I saw this beauty in TK Maxx for a little under £20 I thought it would be a good chance to see whether it was worth the buy or not.

I think the packaging of the palette is absolutely adorable and it's refreshing to have a palette that isn't in a plain black case with eyeshadows all in circles. The palette contains 9 eyeshadows that can be used both wet and dry and range from a cream shade for the base of your eyeshadow to a dark shimmery black for a smokey eye. Using both the shades Bienvenue and Tervetuloa, I've been creating an intense bronzey-copper look paired with berry lips and I can imagine I will be sticking to that makeup combination for the next few months.
The palette also contains four powders; a highlighter, a bronzer and two blushers. It's rare that you find yourself with a palette with these powder combinations all together that are actually of a high quality. The fact that it includes a luminizer makes me happy enough, let alone combining every feature of the palette together. At the bottom of the palette there are two lip and cheek products that I can imagine I will never really make much use out of, but is handy in case of a lip emergency. Whilst I'm not using this everyday at the moment, it's most definitely going to become a travel necessity (hence the name).
Have you tried anything from The Balm?

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Calvin Klein Sunglasses Review | Blogtober

I'd never really thought about where to buy sunglasses from or which style to buy. Until now, all my sunglasses were from Primark for £2 without a care in the world. If they were scratched, they'd go in the bin and I would replace them pretty swiftly. I'd never considered spending a bit more money on a quality pair of sunglasses that would last a while. These Calvin Klein Sunglasses are lightweight and have smooth frames to prevent them pulling on your hair. As you know, I have Fibromyalgia which means I'm quite sensitive to light and have been having migraines on and off for a few weeks, ever since I returned from holiday. These have been a bit of a life saver, as since they are light and fit your head they don't press down on your head, helping keep the light out.

The glasses look amazing on, and although I had taken the sticker off the front, you can tell from the sides of the glasses* that they're from Calvin Klein. I picked the style of these as I love a good square style that is big enough to cover all of your eyes. I have a pet hate against glasses where I can see around the lense, but that's just me. Despite wearing them and not having any scratches on them yet, I do keep them safe in their case that came with them since they are so pretty. They seem to match anything and I'm genuinely in love with them. No offence to Primark, but I probably won't be replacing these, ever.
I tend to pack most of my holiday things away as soon as September hits but these will be staying out, especially for my trip to LA! We're going next April and will definitely need them for the weather out there. I'll be documenting all of that trip so you can guarantee that they'll be making a few appearances, not only on here but over on Instagram too. They're reduced in price online and there are only a selected number of Calvin Klein sunglasses left to buy, so make sure you head over and have a look for yourself! Usually I wouldn't jump to the chance to purchase more sunglasses but come next year I think I'll be having a look for another pair of these. The colour of the lense is great, they're lightweight and they're stylish. Couldn't really ask for more (apart from that they're reduced on the website, which they are!) Have you tried any of these glasses out?

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L'Oréal Paris La Vie En Rose Collection Review | Blogtober

I've always been a big fan of L'Oréal Paris products and when a beautiful pink package arrived through my doorstep I was enamored by what was inside. Three beautiful lipsticks that smelled absolutely divine. All pretty in pink, these are the lipsticks from the La Vie En Rose collection to celebrate 30 years of their Color Riche lipsticks. Having conquered nudes and reds, they set out to conquer the biggest colour category; pink. They were created with every complexion in mind, to suit everyone out there and find their perfect shade. 
Eva's pink is a muted pink and when I saw it in Superdrug the day after the first three lipsticks arrived I knew I had to have it. It has a slightly brown undertone and looks absolutely beautiful on the lips. The lipsticks are a matte formula and this is the perfect shade for day-to-day makeup. I've always admired Eva's looks and I think this lipstick sums her up perfectly. Naomi's pink* is a lot lighter, definitely on the border of a pink-nude. It looks so similar on to my Mac Hot Gossip lipstick and will probably be my go-to lipstick. It's quite pale so suits my fair skin well but I'm never afraid of any lipstick colour!
Blake's pink* has an orange undertone, designed for fair skinned people but is definitely darker on my lips than Naomi's. The colour is gorgeous and the lipsticks being matte shades really show off the colour potential. Liya's shade is the Superdrug exclusive shade and is a grenadian pink to contrast against darker skin tones and is super bright and beautiful. The velvety smooth texture of the lipsticks make the application a lot easier, especially when apply Liya's as the bright colour needs the perfect application.
Helen's shade* is the most iridescent shade, a sheer finish to add a hint of colour to the lips to suit everyone. When I first saw this I was a little hesitant to see how pigmented the lipstick would be, as if it was completely matte it would have been a lot lighter than I'm used to. I'm glad that it adds a subtle colour to the lips and the delicate colour would suit all. 
With the aim to create velvet powder finishes, L'Oréal have definitely met that goal. I'd advise to make sure your lips are hydrated first before application, but rest assured they last for around 3-4 hours before needing to reapply. The collection hit stores on the 1st October and are currently on offer for 3 for 2 in Boots and Superdrug! They're £6.99 each which is a bargain in my eyes.

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Follow Your Dreams - Orelia Jewellery | Blogtober

I'm a huge jewellery lover. I really enjoy wearing rings and the occasional bracelet to glam up an outfit. Orelia Jewellery* have always been a big favourite of mine, especially since you can buy their products online and also in Topshop. They're always super considerate to bloggers and provide good quality jewellery to make you crave more.

Follow Your Dreams Bracelet (£15)

This bracelet has gold plating and says "Follow Your Dream" which I think is super cute. It's one size to fit all and the fit can be changed by the clasp at the back of the bracelet. I love these thin bracelets since they can add a small touch of glam to your outfit or just dress up a casual tee and jeans. For £15 it's such good quality, as most of these style bracelets in jewellers tend to be £70+ (as I know, since I have a Guess one). If it was me, I wouldn't spend more than £20 on a bracelet like this since there are so many around, so Orelia have hit the nail on the head with the pricing of this for the quality.

Minimalist Geo Ring Pack (£25)

You get three 18ct gold plated rings which can be stacked or worn alone from this pack. They feature cubic zirconia crystal detailing in various shapes.  If I'm wearing rings I do tend to stack them or have near enough every finger covered and these type in well with the other ring too. I never used to wear gold jewellery since I have blonde hair, but I'm warming up to it a lot. The band of the rings are super slim to allow for stacking and it's nicer to not have something super thick on, especially when you're wearing a lot of rings.

Open Stone Ring (£15)

I saved the best until last. The green/blue glass in this ring is absolutely stunning. When I saw it for the first time I was blown away by how beautiful it looks. The detailing is simple but effective and despite adoring the colour blue I don't think I've ever owned a blueish featured ring before. I've received so many compliments when wearing it so it's a good investment! For £15 you really can't complain.

Have you worn Orelia pieces?

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21 Things By 21 | Blogtober

I wanted to see whether I was able to complete my list before I turned 22 on the 19th October. I made this list being pretty optimistic given that the majority of this year I was in my final year of uni without a job, so well done past Laura. I think it's obvious I didn't complete the list!

1. Start driving lessons.

I still haven't even got my provisional so there is a bad start. I do want to start driving really bad but it's another money thing. I'd prefer to put the money towards a flat/house at the moment.

2. Try out a Nars product.

I achieved this! I bought the Nars Illuminator in Hot Sand and loved it. Even though it's getting a bit colder I love a good glow to the skin. I am still yet to try a Nars blusher though!

3. Go on a trip somewhere I haven't been before.

We went to Alicante in August. I hadn't been to mainland Spain before and I know it's not what I intended on the original post but it counts, right?

4. Get healthier.

Nope. Not a chance. My health isn't as good as it was last year due to being diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Fibromyalgia. I did go to the gym whilst I was in uni but since being home I haven't had as much luck!

5. Start a Youtube Channel.

I have a channel! Andy and myself set a joint one up to document our travels which you can find here. We've only got one video up at the moment but have filmed some others that just need to be edited.

6. Get my own domain.

As you can see I achieved this haha! I love having my own blog address. It isn't needed by any means, but I feel like it makes my blog look a bit more professional.

7. Buy a decent camera.

Since learning how to use Andy's camera I haven't needed to get my own one yet. If you look back a year ago at my photos compared to now, there is a huge difference! Learning how to use Photoshop has really helped too.

8. Buy a Michael Kors Bag & Purse.

Although I never actually bought my bag (thanks Mum) or purse (thanks Andy), I do have them and have been in love ever since. I don't bother with other bags or purses now so definitely a good investment on their behalf.

9. Have over 2,000 blog followers.

My Bloglovin' followers have barely increased in the past year and I'm not too sure why. My combined followers have increased by tenfold though.

10. Completed my operations on my foot.

I haven't had an operation since April 2014 and although I'm coping, it isn't ideal. It doesn't bother me too much though and it definitely would not be on my list for things to do before I'm 23.

11. Own a Tiffany ring.

Yes I did hint hint to Andy. This really doesn't bother me that it hasn't happened yet as we're both on the same page and happy for it to happen whenever! 

12. Have a graduate job.

I really did not realise how hard finding a graduate job would be. It was super tough and I didn't get anywhere. I definitely have had a change in heart about what I want to do (now Digital/Social Media Marketing) instead of just accepting whatever comes my way.

13. Bake a lemon drizzle.

I achieved this and it was amazing. Although the loaf tin method is preferred by most, a round cake really gets the drizzle all the way through the cake. Just in case you were wondering.

14. Get fit.

Yeah, that never happened.

15. Learn more Spanish.

Not sure if teaching my Dad how to say more than "two beers please" in Spanish really counts as learning more. Maybe refreshing my knowledge?

16. Try a beauty product I think I won't like.

I've been a lot more open minded about beauty products as I've began trying and testing more out. I thought I would love cream eyeshadows but I don't. I thought I would hate cream contouring but I don't. You definitely have to try things out before wearing them for a big occasion though...

17. Conquer a fear.

Could I half cross this out? I actually walked over the bridge I hate in Newcastle. Once. I mean I wouldn't do it again but I'm not as scared.

18. Attend a blogging event.

I attended the NWMeet organised by Katy & Sam which was fab! I was super nervous going because although I may seem quite a chatty person, nerves do get the better of me sometimes. Katy and Sam did a fantastic job of organising the event and I'd definitely go to one of their events again.

19. Tour America.

I don't even care about crossing this off because we're going to Los Angeles in April 2016! I won a trip over on Twitter with Soletrader and Adidas and I'm taking Andy with me! I'll be blogging/vlogging about the whole thing so keep your eyes peeled.

20. Rent a Skyline Flat in Manchester.

Didn't happen. Most probably won't be happening. We had a change of heart and realised for the money we'd prefer a 2-4 bedroom house for the same price as a 1 bedroom flat with good views.

21. Do an extreme sport.

Again with the health, I'm not actually allowed to do extreme sports now in case I dislocate something! I'd never 100% rule it out because I do want an exciting life but you won't catch me bungee jumping anytime soon.

Have you got a bucket list?

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Autumn Days OOTD | Blogtober

Makeup

Estée Lauder Double Wear foundation

Rimmel Stay Matte Powder

Benefit Brow Zings

L'Oreál Volume Million Lashes Mascara

Mac Rebel Lipstick

Soap & Glory Supercat Liner

Outfit

Top - Primark

Skirt - F&F at Tesco

Tights - New Look

Shoes - Primark

Awkward love handles aside, I love this look. I actually have the same skirt in tan too and would happily buy it in more colours if Tesco stocked them. The polo neck jumper from Primark is super soft and I went back after I'd  bought it a while ago to see if they had more in but they'd sold out in Newcastle. After my birthday next Monday I'll probably go and have a little mooch around and see if they have anything similar in this year. To take these photos, along with these photos we went to Sefton Park which is only about a 15 minutes drive from where I live. They have the most beautiful trees and boating lake there, with fountains and of course The Palm House. I've not been back since my Year 11 Prom there. I don't tend to do tons of OOTD posts since I am quite body conscious. Some health issues I've had (since birth, without me realising until last year) have nicely contributed to this but I'm on the mend and ready be healthier. I do love reading fashion posts though and taking photos so hopefully it won't be too long until I'm happier and healthier! 

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