Mac Mineralize SkinFinish 'Stereo Rose' | Review

Mac Mineralize Skin Finish 'Stereo Rose' £22

Having worn this solidly for over a month now I feel it is about time that I popped up a review. 'Stereo Rose' is a re-launch for the 'Fantasy of Flowers' Spring 2014 Collection and when I saw this was making a comeback I popped the date in my diary to be sure it wasn't missed! 

It has such a velvety, soft texture and it is very pigmented so be sure to build it up a little at a time - you don't want to end up looking like a doll! This may be due to my translucent skin tone, if you have slightly darker, sallow skin you may need to work a little more. It gives off a gorgeous sheen to the face, if you are building it up you don't need to worry about looking like a disco ball. It is a noticeable glow without being over powering or sparkly, a perfect day to night blush. 

The coral/ peachy colour is the perfect shade for summer. I would say it leans more towards the peach side of things as opposed to the coral however, you can also note some golden and bronze tones running through the product adding some extra dimension. I apply it to the apples of my cheeks and top of my cheekbones for a highlight. The lasting power is great too, it lasts for a good six hours before I even need to think about a quick top up. The packaging is huge which I was quite surprised at for a blush, a generous amount from Mac meaning it is a good investment. 

If you are a lover of highlighter and a glowing face then this should be popped onto the shopping list. If not, then this may not be up your street. I personally love the product and have been getting good use of this on a daily basis.

What's your favourite MSF?

Lori x

March Favourites | Video

MARCH FAVOURITES VIDEO HERE

One of my favourite posts to write has to be my monthly favourites. I love sharing with you all of the products I have been loving over the last month. As we head into April I have lots of lovely products to share with you from the month of March. This month, I decided to change it up a little and pop my favorites post into a video for you all to watch! I started up my new YouTube channel a few weeks ago and would love you all to pop over and subscribe to keep up-to-date!

Lori x

Smashbox Halo Hydrating Powder | Review

Smashbox Halo Hydrating Powder £31

Powder has never really been my thing. I've never been overly oily so never felt the need to add more product to my face. However, over the last few months my skin has began to change dramatically, one minute I'm suffering from shiny face syndrome and the next it's super dehydrated, so the hunt for a good powder began. I have used some before when I was younger and didn't really notice much difference (I was a makeup novice at this time). They tended to feel quite heavy and drying though as opposed to anything else. I remembered having the Smashbox starter kit from years ago, which proved to be a complete waste of money as the shades were all too dark but the powder was so silky and lightweight, I ran to my nearest counter to see if my memory was correct.

One of the best things about this product is that it shaves off the product by twisting the top in a circular motion. Whoever came up with that deserves a raise. No more wasted product or careless spilling - hoorah! This also turns the pressed powder into a loose powder finish which makes it easier to apply. Pressed powders are more harsh, in my opinion, they can feel much more cakey and heavy on your skin. The Halo Powder mattifies the skin yet still allows some luminosity to glow through. Goodbye shiney face, Hello healthy glow! 

Unlike a lot of loose powders, this is not translucent, It does come with a bit of coverage which is great if you are looking for something to throw on for a lazy day! Or if you want to give your foundation that polished, flawless look without the excess shine from your liquid, then this is the powder for you. You can choose from four shades; Fair, Light, Medium and Dark so there will surely be one that fits the bill.

It may seem a little steep coming in at £31 however, you are getting a whopping 19g which is absolutely amazing! I have never seen so much product from any other brand for that price. In fact, you would probably pay more money for less product with other brands. I use mine religiously everyday which has been for the last month and a half and there has been hardly any product touched! 

What powders do you love?

Lori x

Surprise Birthdays

Dress: Miss Selfridge

Necklace (Silver): FCUK

(Blue): Gift

Shoes: No Clue, I've had them since I was like 15 (still haven't grown!)

Bag: Matalan

Watch: Jacob Ellis

This weekend saw myself and Craig take a trip to the capital and surprise our friend Bryan for his birthday! Sneaking around Edinburgh was so much fun, lurking around the corners to make sure we weren't spotted! It would certainly give the game away! For anyone who watched my YouTube Spring Haul video then they would have seen this purchase from Miss Selfridge. Fuschia pink isn't my usual colour in fact, any shade of pink isn't my usual colour! There was just something about this dress though that made me purchase!

I have been loving a longer length lately, I can't actually remember the last time I wore a mini dress. They make me feel more confident and comfortable, I don't need to keep pulling at my dress on a night out which is never an attractive look for anyone! The shift style is so flattering and the floaty sleeves give a beautiful sixties vibe to the outfit. 

Teaming colours with fuschia pink can be a hard task however, I have always loved opposites and remembering I had these electric blue numbers in my wardrobe I knew it would be a match-made in heaven! Continuing on with the blue theme, I doubled up these two necklaces to create a huge statement. The blue shining through on them. Right through to my electric blue nails in the form of 'Baker Street' by Nails Inc.

It was a great night through in the capital celebrating with great friends!

Lori x

Ashtree House

Valentine's Day came a day later for myself and Craig. Due to work and his cousin's engagement party we decided to treat the following day as our V.Day. Having just had both our 21 birthdays at the end of the year, we decided that none of us needed any presents - the surprise bouquet that turned up at my door on Friday doesn't count, apparently! So we decided to head away on an overnight, spend some time together and that's exactly what we did! We headed to the Ashtree House Hotel in Paisley which is a beautiful country house situated just off the main street. On arrival we were greeted by the lovely owners and shown our room on the first floor. When I opened the door we were both completely blown away, the room was absolutely beautiful and huge - as was the bathroom! Equipped with a flat screen TV, couch, king size bed (which FYI, is possibly the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in) a walk-in, power shower and the largest bath ever! The roof and some of the walls could have done with a quick lick of paint but for what we paid for the overnight it was nothing we couldn't put up with. We also had a gorgeous view over the town, we had definitely found a little hidden gem!

Most of the hotel guests were heading to a wedding and so the hotel restaurant was closed for the evening. We were recommended a restaurant at the bottom of the road and after a quick look on trip advisor and spotting that it was #1 out of 97, we quickly booked our table! We headed off to Cardosi's, literally at the bottom of the ridiculously steep hill our hotel was on, and were welcomed with open arms. The food was delicious but the portions were far too much! I had the Chicken Balmoral, chicken and haggis in a peppercorn sauce on top of a slab of veg and mash, however I was given two chicken breasts stuffed to the brim with haggis and a mountain of mash. I was only able to finish one of the breasts and even that was a struggle. Craig opted for steak and could only eat the meat, none of the extras that came with, it looked as though we had hardly touched our meals because there was so much waste.

Outfit wise I popped on a pastel pink slip dress, floaty and cute for Valentine's, then threw the lilac cardigan on top as the straps are so thin I wasn't entirely comfortable flashing so much flesh. I had spent so long curling my hair then ended up throwing it into a messy ballerina bun - typical! I thought it went well with the softness of the dress, pulled some strands loose and voila, job done. Make-up was kept simple too, I have been enjoying a more natural look and only using products to enhance my features as opposed to slapping it all on!

*Cute Valentine's Photo*

After the best nights sleep in the world's most comfortable bed, we headed to breakfast and of course had to have a fry up. Been a while since I have had a full breakfast but oh my, it was delcious! The staff were very friendly and attentive, nothing was too much. We sat at the window to enjoy the view and the sun was shining brightly, nothing but perfect! If you are ever in the area, looking for a lovely getaway or even a place close to the airport for a quick stop-off then I would highly recommend the Ashtree House Hotel. 

Hope you like this post!

Lori x

Swinging Sixties

Blazer: Marks and Spencers

Dress: Missguided

Tights // Boots: Primark

Earings: Swarovski

An unexpected afternoon lunch was on the cards this dreary Monday afternoon when my Mum invited me along to join her and her friend for lunch - Who am I to turn down a free lunch?

I always have and probably always will, love the sixties era. There is something so beautiful and chic about the style that I just adore. The women of the sixties weren't afraid to wear bold colours and patterns or experiment with crazy eye make-up - think I was born in the wrong era. When I saw this high neck skater dress on Missguided I knew that it had to be mine! Due to the cold weather it was essential to pop on thick black tights, although the dress is on the short side, I'm sure tights would be on regardless. It's funny though, white is never a colour I opt for regularly, in fact it's probably a rare occurrence you would catch me in the shade resembling my snow-like skin - I always feel that it can wash me out. However, there was something about this dress that made it into my basket and quickly hit the 'check-out' button before I could turn back!

This blazer was a present for Christmas which I haven't had a chance to wear yet. Lets be honest, it has been far too cold to step outside without a ski suit on, never mind a blazer. Two, my blazer may be ridiculously pretty but it is also ridiculously hard to pair with anything patterned. Noting that I was wearing a plain white dress I seized the opportunity to pull this off the hanger, I think I heard it squeal with excitement about it's first (of many) outings!

You may have noticed that I have been messing around with my photos over the last few weeks. I am trying all different things; outdoors, indoors, settings, styles - trying to find what's best for me. I'll get there eventually! If you have a preferred style then please let me know what you like best?

Lori x

Friday Club

Shirt: Primark

Jumper: River Island

Skirt: H&M

Boots: Office

Friday Club! It's been so long since I have been able to go. Friday Club consists of all the family (well those who can) going to my Gran and Grampa's every Friday where they provide home made soup, rolls and loads of cakes! Throw in all the goss of the week and this creates Friday Club! Favourite day of the week - well, when I can go!

I have been working loads of the Christmas period having taken on extra hours at work and so I haven't been able to go for ages! Sad times on my behalf. However, I was there this week (well, technically I am putting this post up on Monday so it will be last week). 

This look might be a little 'schoolie' for certain people but personally, I love a collar! I think they are so cute and chic and they never go out of style. I tend to wear jumpers with some form of collar, I don't feel it is complete without one. I love the rubberised style of this jumper, so unusual and unique to anything I have ever seen before. I will be honest, when I first received this (it was a gift) I was undecided as to whether I liked it or not but when I tried it on I fell in love. It is also very warm and cosy! Although, being in my Gran's house wearing this probably wasn't my best idea. You know that way when your house is at that perfect temperate - not too hot, not too cold - just the right temp for you to drift off into a deep sleep, well that summarises my Gran's house, every time you go!

Wearing bronzer which is pretty unusual for me. Don't get me wrong I don't go nuts with it because being as pale as I am I find that some can just look like I have a dirty face - ain't nobody want that! I am using the Sleek contour palette, I love it, one of my favourite bronzers to use! Teamed with loads of Elizabeth Arden highlighter and Nars Red Square lip pencil on the lips. What a gorgeous shade this is! Leans more towards orange than red, never something I would have thought would be nice on my skin but oh, how wrong was I! A must buy!

Oh, also, just got myself a wee hair chop. I have been growing my hair the past few months and although it has grown loads,I have just got past that awkward flicky out stage - that place that everyone hates! Was needing it shaped around my face since growing out my fringe. Went for a blunt cut on the bottom with choppy layers!

Let me know if you like this look!

Lori x

Christmas Panto

Scarf: Gift

Top: New Look

Jeans: New Look

Jacket: George at Asda

Boots: Kurt Geiger

Bag: Paul's Boutique

Lipstick: Mac in 'Glaringly Hip' 

Yesterday I was off to the panto with the family! It is a tradition every year for me and my family every year to head off to panto land and we all have an absolute ball! The tradition started when I was seven and I was a child dancer in the pantos (I performed in them for four years, from ages seven to eleven) and every year my group would be performing on my birthday (Boxing Day) and my family would always come along to see me and the cast would sing happy birthday to me on stage! Great memories. Afterwards we headed out for dinner, this holiday season has been filled with family time which I have loved! 

This new camera loves to show off just how pale I am!

Hope you like this look!

Lori x

And I Want To Thank You

All through life we are faced with the highest of highs and the lowest of lows - with a little in-between from time to time. As of last week my life took a lovely turn for the road upwards thanks to all of you! I was one of two winners of the 'Inspired Magazine Guest Blogger Competition' and although I am still in shock and completely overwhelmed I wanted to say a big, huge, massive THANK YOU! I started blogging because I had a secret passion and desire to do it and finally with a little encouragement from my inner fear I finally began - I have never been so glad I did. Who would have thought that just over a month of blogging has presented me with such an amazing opportunity!? Not me anyway!

For my first post I thought I should do an 'About Me' and introduce myself to those of you who don't know me and a thanks to everyone who does and helped me to win this amazing opportunity (or those who attempted to silence me by liking my page that I posted 10 thousand times - I am eternally indebted to you all). Unfortunately I wasn't able to post that article as the website is based solely on fashion and beauty but I still felt the need to thank everyone who has been reading my blog over the last two months and helped me win this amazing opportunity! I won't let you down!

Yesterday I got my first article published which you can view HERE!! Feeling oh-so Carrie Bradshaw at the moment! Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for my articles over the next month.

I look forward to writing for you all over the next month - finding you all the greatest buys and bringing you all of the latest trends! If you have any suggestions for topics or what you would like to see then feel free to let me know!

Thank you all again

Lori x

Your Glasses

Jacket: Lipsy

Top // Shoes: Primark

Jeans: River Island

Hat: Granny's Knitting

Nail Polish: Maybelline Color Show 120 Urban Turquoise

You may notice I am wearing the same hat as yesterday's post - that is because, well in all honesty, I love it! You can't beat an original and especially as it was knitted by my granny it's a special item for my wardrobe. You will see me sporting an array of colours and because we are heading into winter and I love all form of hats and ear-muffs etc I'll be wearing them lots! The thing with these hats is that they are so versatile you can wear them in so many different ways! I may do a post later on different ways to wear them - thoughts?

Shock horror I am wearing jeans! Today called for a casual and comfortable day so I headed straight for the denim. I'm usually a skinny jean type gal but opted for more slouchy jeans today. I like the way they hang right on my hips and are loose around my legs. They give a laid-back vibe. 

Nothing better than a plain black tee and biker jacket. The biker is tight-fitted so it doesn't go over kill and take away all shape making my outfit too boyish. My leather jackets always start to make appearances around autumn / winter time as they are thick and provide heat when the snow starts to fall!

Added colour to my nails in this Urban Turquoise shade. Really like it although I have to say I find it more green than turquoise but it's still really lovely on. Never tried the Color Show by Maybelline and have to say I really like it. Very thick and goes on very well - hardly any mess which is unbelievable for me! Not quite sure if it will over-take my love for Barry M but it is definitely a good alternative.

Hardly any make-up today as I decided I would wear my glasses out for a change - just want to clear this up. I do actually wear glasses as I have pretty shocking eye-sight, it has improved but still, you fellow long-sighted people will feel my pain! I was asked the other day if I used them as an accessory and didn't really need them. No, I definitely do, although I do find now that glasses are quite cool and aren't as 'frowned upon' as they once were. I'm not embarrassed to wear them - I just choose not to when I am heading out.

Got a great mascara the other day on sale for around £3.50 (checked it online and it's usually £7.19 - bought mine in Morrisons on sale) and I used it for the first time yesterday. I am wearing it in the photo above as although I was wearing my glasses I wanted to coat my lashes. The mascara is Rimmel Glam'Eyes Lash Flirt and I honestly didn't expect it to be that great but wow, my lashes were huge! I am so fussy with mascara and I am always on the hunt for my 'ideal' mascara. The brush is really straight and thin and I usually prefer larger brushes to help fan out my lashes but this was seriously great! Highly recommended ladies.

Hope you like this look!

Lori x

Fallen Floral

Shirt: Gap

Blazer // Jeans // Bag: New Look

Yesterday I headed out on a shopping spree with my Mam and we decided to head up to The Centre in Livingston for a change. The weather was horrible yesterday, very dark and gloomy which instantly put me off wearing any dresses or shorts. Looked out my shaper jeans (feel like I should do a proper review on these as they have made an appearance in a few of my blogs, let me know your thoughts? Would you like a review?) Went for the lighter shade today and teamed them with this gorgeous floral shirt from Gap.

I am not a Gap shopper, in fact, it is very rare you will find me in a Gap store however I just happened to pop in to one when I was in Glasgow last week with Craig (boyfriend) who was looking for a long sleeved white top - which, fyi, is apparently impossible to find! No where except Gap sold them and I mean no where! Literally hit up every store before going into Gap as a last resort. Anyway, slightly off subject, I spotted this number and had to have it!

Another pink number from me - shocker! Maybe I'm starting to convert... 

I know this won't be to everyone's taste as it is most definitely bold but I felt it was perfect to brighten up my day (since the weather wasn't going to bother to do that). Wanted to keep the girly-ness of the shirt to a minimum so dulled it down with my black blazer - wardrobe staple - and a black handbag.

Foundation: Maybelline Dream Satin Liquid Light Porcelain 

Blusher: Maybelline Expert Wear Blush 77 Rose // Sleek contouring kit

Concealer: Revlon Colourstay in 01 Fair

Mascara: Smashbox Full Exposure Jet Black 

Brows: HD Brow Palette

Eyeshadow: Creaseless Cream Shadow Liner

Lipstick: NYC Lip Balm in shade 350

Kept my make-up look to a minimum today as my shirt is as bright so opted for nude lids and lips. As you can see I refrained from my liquid eye-liner today which I may start doing more often to give a more natural look and finish. Used my gorgeous NYC lip balm in shade 350, to give my lips a little extra shimmer. Who knows, maybe I'll try and add this look into my casual weekdays? Possibly not - I do love my liquid liner after all!

Hope you like this look!

Lori x

Where The Sequin Spell Fell

Blouse: Primark

Black Top (Worn Underneath): H&M

Skirt: Warehouse

Shoes: Amanda Wakeley

As a belated birthday present to my Dad I took him out to our local restaurant Benkaz for a meal! If you haven't been here before be sure to check it out. The food is absolutely amazing, I have never been disappointed! I phoned up earlier on in the day to book and asked if they could organise something a bit special and they decorated our table with balloons and banners. Was really lovely and a great touch for my Dad! 

Anyway moving on from talking about the food, which left me absolutely stuffed! Too. Much. Cheesecake! I didn't have any particular outfit planned for tonight as it turned into a last minute decision to go now as opposed to the weekend. 

This skirt was one that I got months ago and hadn't worn, tags and everything still on it and so I thought why not? I love the contrasting colours of sequins with the blue and white. It's styled to be quite dip-dye except the colour doesn't change from top to bottom it's just blending in and out throughout the skirt! I think this skirt is so versatile and you could really dress it up for a night out. I wanted to show off the black band at the top and opted for tucking my blouse in.

My blouse was one borrowed from wee Ann's closet as I couldn't find anything in mine to go with. I found this gorgeous black one with a pussybow tie at the front - which I love! I think pussybow's give anything a classic edge and makes it quite girly. I prefer to tie the bow lower as opposed to at the neck to give it more of a laid back feel. The blouse is sheer and so I decided to pop a plain black top underneath to be more civilised in a restaurant, with my Dad.

I absolutely adore these heels! I got them as a present around a year or so ago and how amazing are they? Who doesn't love a pair of Amanda Wakeley's? Not a huge sling-back lover as I tend to find they just fall off my feet, however these are very secure. I also like the fact that they aren't too high and easy to walk in. I am really not a fan of massive high heels - unless it is an ankle boot, then I can concur a mountain! - because I actually can't walk, and there is most definitely nothing worse than seeing a woman unable to walk in her shoes! What's wrong with a smaller heel that you can stride in?

Went for a pinky smokey eye tonight, thought I'd change it up a little and add some colour in with some orange lipstick thrown into the mix just for added effect.

Hope you like this look!

Lori x

The Belle of the Ball

13 Bank Street

Falkirk

FK1 1NB

___________________________________________

  

Dress: £189

  

Dress: £375

 

Dress: £299

Dress: £20

 

Dress: £49

  

Dress: £55

  

Dress: £65

 

Dress: £35

Yesterday I had the absolute pleasure of heading along to 'The Belle of the Ball' Boutique, based in Falkirk which is only a short drive from me to begin my first review! I've been so excited about this all week! I was met by the lovely and extremely helpful owner Lisa who made myself and my mum (also photographer for the day) feel right at home! 

Now who doesn't want to spend their day playing dress up?

I got to test drive some of the beautiful stock draping the walls! Being the only stockist of Primavera in Scotland, I had the privilege of getting to wear and snap some of the beautiful dresses. The purple sequins dress above is a Primavera number and it was absolutely beautiful on! I adored the train on the dress and would be a great investment for a ball or prom if you really want something to stand out! The dress stocks only one of each special occasion dress so if you want it I would be quick on the up-take! I think this is such a unique touch to the store as it means you'll never need to worry about turning up at an event in the same gown! (Every girls nightmare!!)

The Belle of the Ball stocks a wide variety of labels from AX Paris, La Femme to Sticks and Stones and Papparazzi both by Mori Lee. There really is something for everyone! From floor length to shorter styles the price tags can be anything from £15 up.

Another trait the store has just recently began is a 'Pre-L<3ved' section where you can sell your own dresses via the store, as long as it is two years old or less and is obviously in great condition! So if you have any gowns gathering dust and cobwebs in the back of your closets be sure to take them down here and get more information on this.

All of the dresses above are just some of the items I went mad over! I was literally like a dog with two tails and could have spent the rest of the day trying on everything else, however, I felt that I had enough material to satisfy all you lovely followers! Plus, I honestly couldn't handle any more beautiful, sparkly gowns! I mean, have you seen the gorgeous floor length black, sequin number?! Isn't it amazing!

I also want to say how beautiful the actual boutique is. Anyone who knows me understands how much I hate racking through clothes rails and messy stores! I like to be able to see where clothes are and other sizes available - even in sale racks! The store, as you can see from pictures above, is immaculately laid out and the changing rooms are very Hollywood-esque with the gorgeous light up mirrors - really great extra touch! You are sure to feel like a movie star here!

Myself and the lovely owner Lisa

I would highly recommend this boutique to anyone looking for something that is extra special - You are sure to find something that will tickle your style buds! I had a fabulous afternoon with Lisa at the store and shall hopefully be heading back soon to top up my wardrobe must-haves!

Make sure you jump over to The Belle of the Ball on;

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Lori x