Peachy lips and bright nails - perfect combo?

It is definitely getting to that time of year when all nail varnish has to change to a shade of coral, it's just an unwritten rule in my world. I have so many different shades of coral, reddy coral, orangey coral, and so on. So buying another shade to add to my collection, was nothing out of the ordinary. However, whilst searching for a top in Next that wasn't dark or long sleeved, I came across their own selection of makeup. So, here are two of their products and more importantly what I thought of them.

Nail Colour Collection in Paradise £4
The colour attracted me initially. This shade of coral leans towards a more orange in tone, which is perfect for this time of year and this shade promotes a glossy finish as with most varnishes. I wore this colour on my little minbreak to Venice, and surprisingly I only had to touch up a couple of chips while I was away.  
So longevity wise it did well, (although there was no washing up, changing nappies, cleaning etc to contend with). It dries quickly and evenly, ensuring you have a good solid base coat underneath that is. I would definitely recommend that a second coat is applied, as the first will leave gaps of colour on the nail surface. Overall, I really like the colour and depth it presents once both coats are in situ, it was a good varnish for the relatively inexpensive cost.
Make Me Beautiful Lipstick in Simply Peach £8
I am still working through my obsession with matte lipstick, so this was my final purchase before I begin to obsess about lip gloss for the next few months. My initial observation of this product was the great packaging. It is really funky, and looks a lot more expensive than it is. The texture of the lipstick is creamy and grips onto the lips with ease. (Tip: If your lips are not completely smooth, these bits will show up a lot more using this shade. Try putting a bit of Vaseline on your lips prior to application). I used a nude colour lip liner to define the shape of the lip which I think should be used. I suggest a Boots Natural Collection in Almond, a pretty good match, for me anyway.  I was pretty chuffed to receive a compliment on my colour this afternoon, as I still wasn't completely convinced. 
Certain matte lipsticks can create a dryness on your lips, thankfully I haven't experienced this to date, but I have seen many reviews claiming this to be the case for them. I have not felt any over drying or uncomfortable sensation whilst using this product, so that is a positive!

These two little products have performed really well, and I was particularly hard on them, almost looking for flaws (naughty me), but in all honesty, I can't find anything negative to say. The two colours work nicely together, especially for a day wear look. A great concept to buy a new top, and treat yourself to a new make up product at the same time, brilliant.

Have you bought any NEXT make up products? What did you think?

Until next time, thanks for reading.

Ally x

Twitter: @clarity_beauty 
      
  

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Perfect peepers

Nothing sets off your eyes better than perfectly applied eyeliner. I must admit, I'm still working on the ink liner application, that cat eye flick isn't quite there, however, smudged, smokey is such an achievable look, and one I use daily. I've decided to include two eyeliners for this post, both designed to do the same job, however one is more expensive and waterproof.

Too Faced Perfect Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner
Too faced. I love the name, and I will be honest, I bought this pencil on the reviews and description provided. I had a couple of reasons for choosing this brand, one is that I wanted a better quality pencil lead with longevity and a more durable outlook, and one that can go up against a toddler splash session and survive, hence the waterproof aspect. The other is the colour, I wanted a rich dark brown, no sparkle, just brown. It isn't cheap at £16 plus postage, so I was expecting good things.

Bloggers don't want to say anything negative about a product, but I felt a tinge of disappointment on the first application. I began to draw, as one does across the lash line and virtually lost half of the lead as it was very soft! Naturally, I gave it the benefit of the doubt, so proceeded onto the other eye with extreme caution. This was improved due to the lighter application technique, however having to be so careful is not ideal. The lead is easily worn down even with a lighter touch, so a sense of hesitation in using it everyday creeps in. On the upside, the colour of the lead is nice, with no sparkle and is a solid brown, so no complaints there. 
There is a definite positive with this liner and that is the smudger on the other end of the pencil. Once the colour had been applied, it enabled you to create a smooth coloured area across the lash line, but I wouldn't say smokey smudged, as it is too creamy and soft. The downside to a pencil of this nature is that it needs sharpening very often, hence it disappears very quickly, not a good prospect for the credit card. 

No7 Stay Perfect Metallic Eyes Pencil  
As with all these posts, there has to be a competitor to compare your argument to, and it's No7 today. I've had this pencil for about two months and it's a great everyday pencil with the ambition to create an impressive evening look too. It is different to the Too Faced lead, as it is classed as metallic, which yes it is, but not in an overpowering way. The lead is very pliable. It is soft and doesn't drag on the eyelid and most importantly holds it's composure! As I mentioned, I have worn this most days, as it is easy to apply, gives a nice impact statement on the eyes and it lasts. I have also used it underneath an eye shadow as a darker base to build up colour on the lid for the evening. The smudger is also perfectly formed and creates a smooth, smokey finish.
 
The interesting and bonus feature of this pencil is the cost. It is reasonably priced at £6.50, which I think is great for an everyday pencil. I wouldn't hesitate in trying other colours in this range and even the non metallic range.   
That's it for now, if you have any great eyeliners to shout about, drop me a line. 

Ally x

Twitter: @clarity_beauty 



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Sparkle doesn't have to cost as much as you think

 I love accessories. Bracelets, rings, necklaces, earrings, all different styles and all different prices. I especially love sparkle, and over the years, I have become a big fan of Swarovski. The pieces I have are so elegant, so unique and very affordable. 

The brand was founded in 1895 in Austria and they specialise in high quality crystal items not only for us to wear, but to glam up our homes to (must get round to looking at some of these). The company has grown into a global icon and among their numerous shops all over the UK, there are boutiques and outlets that also sell their beautiful products, as well as online. I have chosen two of my favourite pieces today. They are both very different in style, but I feel have a WOW factor whenever I wear them.

To begin, I have this stunning clasp bracelet. The embossed pattern is only on one side of the bracelet, of the famous swan split into four separate images. Then the clear crystal stones used an outline which catch the light and lift the matt and shine pattern. It is opened and closed by using the clasp, which once clicked together, feels safe and secure on the wrist, a real feeling of great workmanship. Inside, the metal is shined to perfection and the clasp adorns the Swarovski logo. The only downside is that there is no adjustment with this bracelet, but I have never needed to and my wrists are quite slim.  
The bracelet was presented in a solid box as well as being wrapped in a soft cotton drawstring bag to protect the item. I love the weight, it feels and looks very expensive and sparkles in a very confident way. This accessory would be perfect worn out to dinner with your beau or best friends, it's a real eye catcher and it will be in my collection for many years to come. 
So moving onto piece number two. I have only recently bought this item from my local Swarovski shop. The cuff is light and easy to wear, either in the day or evening, a completely different and more pliable item to the one above. It is embellished with stunning crystals on every strand of fabric, which catch the light at every opportunity. It can be adjusted to a tighter fitting by using the press studs, covered by four clear crystals. I think this bracelet is really on trend and I love the universal colour and lightweight feel of this one, but they do come in some amazing variations, so there would be one for any occasion or outfit! I find if I wear a bold colour on my nails, either a cheerful coral or vampy red, the bracelet's character really comes through. I'm looking forward to the Summer so I can throw it on and enjoy it sparkling in the sunshine! 
I have some really nice pieces of jewelry from this brand, and I have not been disappointed with any of them. I especially love the fact that although Swarovski is so famous across the world, they are still family run and you can see this in each piece. 

Storage is key for all precious items, and if possible keeping them in their original box and away from extremes of temperature and light will ensure the longevity of your jewelry. 

Thank you for reading, have a great day!

Ally x

Twitter: @clarity_beauty 


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Beautiful British brands

I just love hearing about up and coming British brands, be it in fashion or beauty. London Butterflies is just that type of brand. It is fresh, bright and bold and prides itself on being British. This is from where it sources the product ingredients, to even ensuring all packaging and products are manufactured in the United Kingdom. I have been using a mini selection of their products over the last week or so, and I am excited to share my findings with you.
Let us start with the selection. A bath salt scrub, a whipped body cream and a Body butter souffle. All of the products are packaged in a heavy glass pot with a black plastic screw on top. The weight and look of the pots immediately sets it above a high street drugstore purchase. I am a big fan of the bold silver lettering and butterfly emblem, it is clear and easily recognisable.
Dead Sea Salt and Sweet Almond Oil
Well, well, well this is just a little pot of sunshine and I am a big fan. As with most people, I am starting to drag myself into preparing my body and mainly pins for the warmer months. The easiest way to breathe some life into your skin is to exfoliate and mositurise, which is just what this product does all in one go. I have used lots of similar products, but I don't believe that I have felt the effects so soon after using them. The texture is a fine grit but not so gritty it is uncomfortable to rub over your skin. The sweet almond oil smells beautiful, a sensual and almost musky perfume. Skin is left rejuvenated and so soft, even after drying, just as if a moisturiser had been applied. I will happily use this product daily, as the salt is fine enough and the oil is super hydrating.
Winter Jasmine and Starflower, with Sweet Almond oil Whipped Body Cream 
The description of this cream is just heavenly, and the smell is too. If you open the lid and inhale, the scent isn't very strong, it is actually very delicate, and can almost appear faint. I found that once the cream had been rubbed into the skin, (which just melted into mine) then the ingredients seem to work together and a beautiful aroma is left. The texture of the cream is perfect, not too heavy, but enough to feel that your skin is soaking up some real goodness. As with most creams, leave it a little while to lose that slight sticky feeling, and all you will be left with is fabulously soft skin with a welcomed lingering scent. 
British Tundra Berries and Meadow sweet with Golden Jojoba oil Body Butter Souffle
I loved the whipped body cream, however I adore this body butter. I'm not sure if it is that time of year where my skin is craving something a bit more substantial, but this certainly hits the spot. Don't misunderstand me, it is not heavy at all, it is light and airy but with a hidden depth. The butter is a very pretty light pink, which I found to be very appealing and made me want to delve in. It is very easily absorbed, but I found my skin needed a little longer to dry off before I got dressed. 

So, we have covered texture, now to discuss the smell. All I can say, is that it is edible. The selection of ingredients is perfectly blended, and they all work together in harmony. They create a much deeper fragrance and it is noticeable even from an initial application without being overpowering. 
I have really enjoyed using these products and I am impressed with the quality and uniqueness about them. I hadn't heard of London Butterflies before, but I have a strong feeling that their brand and products will become a firm favourite with me and other beauty lovers.

What is your favourite body scrub and body cream? Why do you choose that brand? I'd be really interested to know.......

If you have any questions about this post or any others, then please get in touch.

Bye for now.

Ally x

Twitter: @clarity_beauty 
  


     

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Lip smackingly good

Lips are very important to me. I think there is nothing nicer than having a soft, blemish free and kissable pout. This little number is the key to having just that. I had to re-read the description due to the word STEMCELL, hmm not a phrase you see everyday! However, when I saw Super-food, and then glam balm, all was okay with the world. Once again I was sold on the clever wording used to entice us beauty hungry soles.  
I have been using this glam balm for a while now and it goes everywhere with me. The product itself is clear and has a floral scent to it, not surprising really as it contains Alpine Rose Stemcells. How beautiful does that sound? I have used it alone and also over the top of my lip liner and it gives a nice high shine, just under glossy and an immediate relief to my lips, even if I didn't think they felt particularly dry. If there is a favourite matte lipstick colour you like, it could be applied over the top to create a glossier effect. 

This tube of glam balm is not the actual product that you would buy, but a smaller sample that I received in my You Beauty calendar last year. I'll be honest, I had not heard of Rodial as a skincare brand, but I have been doing some research and there is a fabulous portfolio of products available, ranging from skincare to makeup, with a high profile following. Hmm can I ask for Easter presents?
To conclude, I'm loving the quality of this lip balm. I love the smell, the texture, the high shine and I really love the branding! I think if I whipped the 'real' product out, I'd be asked all sorts of questions by my beauty enthusiast friends. Although the retail price of this is £19 online, I am so impressed with the longevity of this sample tube, it will be a good investment long term. 

Thanks for reading. I hope you have enjoyed my post, get in touch and let me know your thoughts. 

Ally x

Twitter: @clarity_beauty 


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Summer is coming.....

I have found a new friend in my skincare regime. It's the Garnier Original, Miracle Skin Perfector All-in-One BB cream in Light. I'm not embarrassed to admit that this is my first experience of using a BB cream and I'm really happy with it's performance so far. There are so many choices out there and nearly every skin care brand has a similar product. I went with one that I had seen before and a brand that I trust. Usually during the warmer months I use a tinted moisturiser, and only apply foundation if I am going out in the evening for a deeper coverage. This cream is a little miracle worker, and I have already purchased the medium shade for when I start getting my tan! Ever the optimist!
As you can see, the cream is coloured and so it requires some blending, especially around the jawline and hair line. It is designed to perfect skin tone, blur imperfections, leave you with a healthy glow and provide an SPF 15, all of which I can vouch for. It's consistency is really nice, not too runny but not too thick either. The cream has a slight scent, but nothing that is off-putting. I'm using the cream as a complete moisturiser only in the morning at the moment and my ever changing skin is soft and happy. I'm still using my night cream for that extra boost of moisture overnight. I chose the light option at this time of year, as I'm a little pasty after hibernating for the Winter. I think I would struggle to make a darker shade blend well, so I advise it's best to go safe if you are not sure! 
I think this is a great alternative to tinted moisturiser and if I am honest, it covers and moisturises so much better. We are now heading into Spring, with more sunshine and a more promising weather report. This product is a little step away from foundation, allows a more natural coverage but with a sturdy confidence. Roll on the Summer so I can try the darker shade!

Bye for now. 

Allyson x

Twitter: @clarity_beauty 




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Something a little different...

Well, this is my first lifestyle post for my blog. I purchased this lovely little number in Brighton at the Neal's Yard Remedies store, I virtually floated out of the shop after inhaling all the beautiful aromas floating around. I also discovered that this company makes and sells a great collection of beauty and make-up products, looks rather nice to, (I was ushered out far too quickly)!

Writing about an oil burner and oil may seem a little random in comparison to some of my other posts, but I am really taken with it. I was having a mooch around a clothes shop called Noa Noa, and I smelt it as soon as I walked in, a clean, refreshing and uplifting scent in the air. What is that I thought? So with an elbow in the back, my hubby went up and asked the cashier, 'Oh it's a Neal's Yard oil called Women's Balance' came the answer. Right, off to Neal's Yard it is. No clothes, but definitely an oil or two please! The lovely lady in Neal's Yard new instantly which smell it was when we told her where we had smelt it, quite amusing really!
I can remember when I was a teenager having josticks, and a less expensive version of this product, but it definitely did not smell as good. The ceramic burner comes as a whole piece (as some of them enable you to remove the top). It is very basic in it's operation, add some water and a maximum of two drops of the oil, then let the heat from the night-light work it's magic. It doesn't take long to feel the impact of the oil on your senses, (I'll be chanting next), but really I feel it really relaxes me. It's almost like you become enveloped in a hug of aroma and it's quite heady. The water doesn't evaporate too quickly, but keep an eye on it so that it doesn't dry out. I have found that I needed to add a little more water rather than the oil as it lasts, which balances out the cost, (excuse the pun)!
I must say that I winced a little at the cost of these two. £16 for the ceramic burner and £9.50 for the oil, but I am glad that I chose these and didn't skimp on an imitation oil. The quality of the essence is superb and this is what makes it special. The Women's Balance blend is designed to be very good for us ladies in particular, to balance our hormones and emotions, but I feel it is perfect for any time of the month and for men to. My husband is now a big fan, and will happily set up the burner for me.

Neal's Yard Remedies sell an extensive selection of oils for vaporisation and use on the skin, all with unique qualities to soothe away those ailments or worries. The team on the shop floor are very knowledgeable and keen to help. It's definitely worth a look, I'm glad I delved in, and now I'm hooked!

I hope you enjoyed this slight detour in my blogging content, hope to hear from you.

Bye for now. Ally 

Twitter: @clarity_beauty 



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