Peluxe

Lily Loves Lola

2012-01-19T22:05:00.000Z

I'm sure you've all heard of Victoria at Lily Loves Lola - and if you haven't I suggest you open a new tab now! - just as I'm sure you've noticed that she's recently branched out into crafts.

The Lily Loves Lola blog now has a shop extension selling cutesy friendship type bracelets, and every now and then a chunky knit. Victoria was kind enough to send me three of my favourite charms. I was only actually expecting one, but after listing my favourites she wrapped them into a cute little bundle, with an even cuter business card, and sent them on.

I chose the silver peace sign, tiny silver star and tiny silver cross which I thought complimented each other well. I've now got my eye on the wish charm bracelet, which is new to me!

Each of the friendship bracelets are priced at £2.50 each, with five different colour choices of thread. There are also chunkier charms, silver bracelets and earrings currently available on the Lily Loves Lola store (also on Etsy as well).

I've placed an order from Victoria before, delivery is fast and cutely packaged. Although I've never had any problems, I would be confident in saying that she will deal with them as best she can to make your experience perfect.

Lily Loves Lola was actually one of the very first blogs I ever followed and I'm still an avid reader today. Having met Victoria in person, there isn't a better person I'd like to support!

So go shop, read, tweet and Facebook her if you haven't already!

**Gift

Aussie More, More, More!

2012-01-18T13:28:00.002Z

Coming back from Uni before Christmas, I was greeted with a massive bottle of Aussie Miracle Moist and a blow up version too!

Yes, Aussie have listened to what you have to say and have blown up (geddit?) their bottles. You now get 500ml of shampoo and 400ml of conditioner. Not quite sure why the conditioner didn't get a little bit more expansion as I always finish conditioner a good few washes before the shampoo anyway! Anyone else?

Us angels were given the challenge of seeing just how many washes we could get out of these enormous bottles. I've been tweeting my progress along with #AussieMore. The more creative the better, and it's at this point I have to say, this challenge was made for Lauren who has impressed me with how many different styles she's squeezed into the challenge!

I'm not the most creative with my hair and having my new waver on hand, that has been my go to look over the festive period.

I've just completed wash 25 and my conditioner is finished! I still have a fair few washes left in the shampoo by how it feels, and I'm backed up with the next which I received from Aussie's Holly as a little Christmas gift!

I've been following everyone else's progress and love seeing how creative some people have been getting. But, creative or not, my hair is smelling luscious every day and is feeling silky soft.

What are your most creative hair styles?

**PR Sample

Babyliss Waving Wand

2012-01-13T20:46:00.000Z

I've been on a mission to find the perfect hair tool since I found out what a hair tool was. Having really thin, naturally straight hair creates quite the challenge to find something to keep curls/waves in tact for longer than a couple of hours.

The Babyliss Waving Wand is nearing perfection and after seeing it on Vivianna Does Makeup I tracked it down in the Boots sale for around £20.

Unlike other wands I've used, this barrel is an squashed oval shape, which is what gives the wave more than a curl. Some pieces initially hold a curl but it drops almost immediately. There is no clamp which makes it a lot quicker and easier to wave.

It has four heat settings, of which I use the highest, 200 °C. It heats up just as fast as GHD straighteners, it's ready to use almost immediately. The red light will flash then remain constant once it's fully heated.

This is the nearest I've come to the beachy waves I crave. It still doesn't have great staying power, but the looser the curl, the less it's going to last! I section my hair off to do it in layers and it takes about 10 minutes for my whole head to have waves, but I pretty much always go back in to add more waves throughout so it bumps it up to 15 minutes.

Here's the type of thing you can expect;

For some reason my right hand side is always significantly neater and looks a lot more done. I guess practice will eventually make perfect and I'm just trying out all the different heat settings to find which works less.

Regardless, this hair tool is going to be in my collection for a lot longer than others that haven't measured up to my ~~picky~~ high standards.

Do you have any ultimate hair tool recommendations?

Lush haul

2012-01-09T16:48:00.000Z

I've seen so many Lush gift sets in people's Christmas posts! I've become a little obsessed since I received the little snowman bundle and having the bath at my parents' to take advantage of.

I snapped up some of the last few Christmas packages while I was moving around the store, makes a great change from the bright yellow bags!

Everything bar the 'Big' shampoo, which I reviewed here, I've never used before. The majority of this was influenced by countless Lush hauls that have popped up on YouTube in the past few weeks.

Tea Tree Toner Tab

80p each

I picked up three of these and used my first one last night. I'm going to do one more then you can expect a review! Anything that promises to clean out the behind the scenes area of your skin sounds great to me. 80p for a basic facial is an absolute bargain!

You've Been Mangoed Bath Melt

£2.95

I'm really looking forward to using this. I've never tried any of the bath melts, but sitting in a body buttery tub of water sounds so luxurious.

Keep It Fluffy Purple

£2.30

This came in orange as well, but I think they smelt pretty similar. This is new to Lush so I had to give it a try. It smells very similar to the overall scent of a Lush store, with a bit more musk.

Geo Phyzz

£2.60

Another new addition to Lush! This smelt a lot nicer in store, obviously my nostrils were overcome by something else. It's very earthy and natural and I think it's the sandalwood scent that is most prominent.

I have just two weeks left of baths to utilise so there will no doubt be more Lush trips to come!

Any recommendations?

One thousand.

2012-01-09T12:35:00.002Z

Just a super quick post to say a massive thank you! Yesterday I woke up to 1000 followers and I couldn't appreciate you all more.

I want to make 2012 the year of the blog as I've been reading more than ever recently, just need to get on to some posts I have lined up!

Thank you all for sticking with me through my breaks and my blogging limbo! If there are any posts you wish you could see on Peluxe just leave a comment below and I'll try my best to put my own spin on them.

Thank you Thank you Thank you!!

Phoebe xx

A look back at 2011

2012-01-02T19:58:00.000Z

I've seen so many Facebook statuses of people glad to see the back of 2011, but it was actually a great year for me. I kind of hate Facebook around Christmas/New Year or any occasion where everyone will be putting the same generic status up or trying to buck the trend with a sarcastic comment that falls flat.

After my bitter post last year, at least I have 2011's resolutions to look back on. I think I can tick off two and a half of them. This years resolutions are on Tumblr. Can't say I'm taking them all too seriously, you shouldn't wait until December 31st to change things!

2011 was the year I...

**Picture heavy!**

Did a solo skydive!

Visited my brother in Texas, flew to San Franciso and drove Highway 1.

Worked Newcastle Fashion Week (with Jess & Jes) and met Lee Stafford!

Decorated my room.

Got sun burnt in Spain. Still dealing with the 'tan' lines.

Moved into my first proper Student house.

Got my first ever internship at Latest in Beauty in London.

Worked London Fashion Week and sat Kate Moss and pals.

Got my first luxury designer piece for my 21st...

...And had a months worth of 21st celebrations to go with it.

Won meet and greet tickets to The Saturdays.

All in all shaped up to be a pretty fabulous year! The 21st would have done it just on its own..!

I've loved looking through everyone elses 2011, link me yours below if you've done one!

Here's to an even better 2012!

Christmas Gifts

2011-12-31T14:43:00.000Z

Doesn't Christmas seem like a distant memory? It was barely a week ago yet my Christmas decorations are already beginning to come down and it's all been overshadowed by the over rated night of the 31st.

I've loved seeing what others have received for Christmas. There are some very lucky girls among you!
I think this is the first year I didn't ask for a 'big' present, Christmas' past have been Friends box sets, designer coats and I'm sure the ultimate Barbie dream house was in there at one point.

This year I instead got lots of bits, here are a few.

I've seen Bridesmaids popping up in nine out of ten Christmas present posts. I've already watched it twice since Christmas, trying to make sure everyone I know has seen it!
Someone also tweeted they'd tracked down the Girls Aloud lash set for a bargain £10.50 in the Debenhams sale! That's just over £2 a pair, for some really good, reusable lashes. Any lash fans that can locate them (no longer on the site), it would be a worthy investment!

I finally have plans for this evening, very last minute and still not finalised. Needless to say there will be a lot of merriment and not much else.
I hope everyone has a fabulous new year and I can't wait to see what 2012 has to offer!

Happy New Year!

Kardashian Kolors

2011-12-27T22:53:00.001Z

'Tis the season ~~to be jolly~~ for me to receive goodies from across the pond. Yes, with my brother now living in America it means I can take advantage of his suitcase and pack it with American necessities.
Nail varnish of course.

Any Kardashian fan can't have missed the release of the Kardashian Kolor nail varnishes back in late November - I think we all know they're great promoters, if nothing else - so I picked my favourites and shipped them to my sibling.

They come via Nicole by O.P.I which is the same medium taken on by Justin Bieber (yes he even had a nail varnish range).
They apply extremely true to colour and with my trusty O.P.I Start to Finish top coat have great staying power.

I restrained myself with the order and out of the 13 strong collection, I just chose my 3 favourites.

Follow me on Glitter

Khloé Had a Little Lam - Lam

Showing up a lot lighter than it is. More of a murky green.

Rainbow in the S-Kylie.
Apparently identical to O.P.I's Rainbow Connection from the Muppet's Collection - FYI.

You can see the rest here.

I ordered mine off Walmart.com (here) for $7 each and very reasonable shipping to the US. They are available in the UK via ASOS at £8 each, which isn't bad for a hint of O.P.I in your collection and some great shades, in my opinion. There's a momentous amount of glitter to ring in the new year with!

Absolutely obsessed with Follow Me On Glitter and currently sporting Khloé Had a Little Lam-Lam on my tootsies.

Regretting not committing to Disco Dolls but otherwise very impressed with the ones I picked!

Merry Christmas to all!

2011-12-24T21:48:00.001Z

Wishing you all a very merry Christmas and a jolly new year!

I hope you all get everything you want and more.
Hoping one of these is an adorable puppy with a large bow around his neck.

love Phoebe x

La Roche-Posay Effaclar K

2011-12-23T22:17:00.001Z

~~hey that rhymes~~
This is probably the wonder product of all wonder products. I thought it for a little while with Mario Badescu, but that has since let me way down. This has yet to do so.
Laura on Buy Now Blog Later convinced me to buy this ~~among many other things~~, but it's probably the best peer pressure I've had in a while.

Effacklar K is said to "gradually exfoliate the skins texture" which made me a little wary when I read after purchasing. I definitely wouldn't describe it as an exfoliator, definitely not a traditional one anyway. I'd just describe it as a must buy. Now.

Laura said she was spurred on to buy this because of 'bastard' chin spots. Which is *touch wood* my only problem area with bad skin.

I've been using this just over a month; applying to my T Zone every night before moisturiser and every morning before make up.
The problem area is pretty much problem free at the moment. Granted the Christmas diet isn't helping matters, but even with that thrown in it's a lot clearer than usual.
It's gotten to the point where I brave a make up free face almost daily, which has only happened a hand full of times in the past.

It sinks in fast (although I always give it 5 minutes before piling anything on top) and doesn't have any scents. It's the chemical scent of unscented if that makes sense, nothing strong though.

It retails at £13 for a 30ml tube and it's worth every penny. I usually only use it on the areas prone to breakouts and I'm maybe a quarter way through after 6 weeks of using it.

I can happily declare this will be a staple in my skincare routine for the distant future. It beats out Mario Badescu Drying Lotion any day and teamed with Emma Hardie, my skin has never looked better.

Personality Injection

2011-12-15T15:25:00.000Z

Christmas shopping is done, the snow has finally arrived and I'm home for the festive season! The rest?

**iPhone 4s
I finally have this gem in my life! I never thought I'd get so excited over a phone, but this is the highlight of the season so far. So many boredom fixers in Siri, a camera on par with my digital and I can finally access Facebook from my phone again. Win.

**Accent Nail
I've been wearing one nail a different colour ever since Jennifer's Body, but I've got on board the glitter train recently and got some use out of my Gosh Nail Glitters.

**Aussie More
Came home to a huge Aussie box in my bedroom. Inside was an excellerated version of their new 500ml bottles. Currently taking part in the #AussieMore challenge on Twitter to see just how many washes they hold. Needless to say, my hair will be smelling delicious for some time.

**Festivities
I'm in the mood for Christmas now! It took some time, but I think me coming home to a decorated house is what did it. I managed to get every present bar one in one session (did you know Meadowhall is now open until 11pm?!). I have an evening of present wrapping ahead of me, the best part in my opinion.

Currently Instagram-ing more than ever!

**Snow!
I don't think there are many that are getting excited about the imminent snow arrival, but I for one love it and we had our first dose of it this morning. Still not understanding how London got a good covering and Newcastle got nothing... Either way West Yorkshire has some and I'm only hoping there's more on the way.

Now just to work on New Years Eve plans and I'll have the season sorted. Have any of you got anything fun planned?

All Fired Up

2011-12-13T13:34:00.000Z

This post does nothing but prove that constantly refreshing Twitter, will have its pay offs. On Thursday I retweeted one of Rimmel's many competitions and only ended up winning!
In my opinion definitely more worth while than a goody bag of make up to add to my ever expanding collection. I bagged two meet and great tickets to see the Saturdays in Newcastle!

We picked up our VIP passes then made our way up to the meet and great. They each came round to speak to us and I have to throw in that Rochelle and Una both said we looked really nice and Frankie complimented our outfits.
Wish I'd got some outfit shots, pleather trousers, oversized red tee and sky high chelsea boots. I opted out of a night out dress which I'm so glad of. There were people in trainers, then I would have turned up in a barely there dress and bare legs? Trousers were a better decision.

I wish we could have got a shot with all of them together!
They were all really nice and really good live, which if I'm honest I wasn't really expecting. Their supports were NVS (I think!) which we missed while we were meeting them and Oh My! Which I'd never heard before but I really liked them.

We were seated behind Joe McElderry as well, who made a swift exit before the show finished but tweeted that he really enjoyed it.
The Saturdays mashed up Moves Like Jagger with their first single which I really loved. I always love a successful mix of songs!

Thank you so much to Rimmel! Just shows you have to be in it to win it, so wait on Twitter for some more awesome competitions.

Inis Moonlight

2011-12-08T12:52:00.001Z

If you cast your minds back a few months, you might remember the Inis fragrance I received from Fragrances of Ireland. While I loved the scent, I wasn't sure the unisex title fit me. I didn't enjoy the typical male scents I was getting from the fragrance.
Fragrances of Ireland contacted me again after the review to offer me the new Inis Moonlight, which they felt may be more 'me'.

Inis Moonlight is described as;

"utterly feminine and romantic fragrance with a wonderful light and airy feel to it, with soft notes of mandarin, water and peach, there are rich deep florals of rose and jasmin which add warmth and depth to the fragrance"

I definitely prefer this to the original Inis scent. It's a lot muskier and definitely more feminine. It would be a perfect first date fragrance. I would say that the scent is quite mature, it suits me fine, but it does remind me of something my mum would like.

The bottle is beautiful. A deep blue fading to frosted glass, with Inis etched in silver. It's a perfect representation of moonlight and looks great lined up next to the original.

I would recommend this if you like a warm, musky, feminine scent that can be worn through the day and into the night. It last on the skin well and I constantly catch it throughout the day.

Inis Moonlight is available exclusively from Perfumes of Ireland at £29.95 for 100ml.

For the first 25 readers to email me their address details, they will receive a free sample of the Inis Moonlight fragrance!

**PR Sample

OMG Glitter Crackle!

2011-11-28T23:12:00.000Z

Just in time for the party season! Perfect.
A glitter crackle top coat, by 17. I bought it on a whim when I clocked it in Boots and on first swatch wasn't overly impressed, skip to a full hand application and WOW.

This is over two coats of China Glaze's OMG, which I think compliments it perfectly. The glitter on the crackles is so much better in person, but hopefully you can see it a little in these very SLR pictures. ~~Cheers bud.~~

Currently loving this top coat and experimenting with shades it will go with (FYI O.P.I's Do You Lilac It? is perfect).

Spotted in Newcastle, Eldon Square Boots for £3.99

Paris Hilton by Elegant Touch

2011-11-26T10:00:00.000Z

People seem somewhat sceptical when celebs go into the cosmetics market, but everyone who's anyone has their name branded across perfume, with tans, falsies and clothes range in the offing.
This is written to you from an uber Paris Hilton fan. I've loved her since she was really noticed in The Simple Life, granted there's a bit more love with Nicole by her side... But none the less, my obsession is still ongoing.

Her range of cosmetics began with her self titled Paris Hilton perfume, she now has her name on just about anything, with the latest being false nails and eyelashes.

I was sent the 'Natural Beauty' set, which includes nude, french tipped nails and 'heavily flared' lashes.
I questioned the natural title of the lashes when I first saw them, but they don't look half as scary on.

They apply easily and maintain the curved band. I've worn them out once and I can see a few more uses in them yet. They remind me of the original Cheryl Cole lashes from Eylure, the application is the same and the thick band and grouped lashes gives the same definition.
These are for the brave, they are a little too unnatural for me. I prefer quite natural volume with some fakery in the length.
They lasted all night and I'd compare the staying power of the glue to that of Eylure.

False nails aren't new to me, but I still relish in the experience every time they're applied. The pack comes with 24 different sizes, to me, looks like one small and one large for each nail. There is also a mini nail file and a vial of nail glue included.

I found a perfect fit for each nail. You're instructed to apply the glue straight onto the natural nail, then press the fake nail over top until the glue has dried.
This is exactly what I did, it's a lot easier than applying the glue to the false nail and trying to position it correctly.

The tiny daisies and embellishments give a detailed twist to the normal french manicure, but definitely tick the 'Natural Beauty' category. The nails are just the right length for me, you could be fooled into thinking they're natural, especially if you paint over them with your own colour.

Depending on the amount of glue you apply, they last well. I've had to reapply both the index fingers a few times, but the others lasted great.
As always there is a little damage to my nails after removing them but it's nothing too bad. If you find there is too much dried up glue left behind, gently buff it off with a mild nail file, but you will need to leave some damage to grow out. The price of beauty!

The Paris Hilton range currently has four designs in nails and eyelashes, ranging from the pink tipped Super Girly to the diamante encrusted Glamour Lashes.
These are definitely for the Paris's amongst us, the girly girls.

The false nails (£6.59) and false eyelashes (£5.06) ranges are available now from Superdrug and Tesco.

*PR Sample

Outfit of the night

2011-11-24T10:00:00.066Z

While I like to think I make an effort on a daily basis, the Newcastle night life I've become accustomed to means I get to play dress up whenever I go out. And having 3 new wardrobes to raid courtesy of the flat mates means I'm having a styling dream right about now.
These are some of my past (and favourite) night out outfits.

Top row L-R

Top, River Island; Skirt, H&M; Belt, River Island; Heels, ASOS; Bag, H! by Henry Holland; Necklace, Sunken Rose

Top, New Look; Shorts, MissGuided.co.uk; Heels, New Look; Bag, ASOS

Top, Topshop; Shorts, Primark; Heels, Next; Bracelet, Primark; Necklace, Accessorize

Bralet, Topshop; Skirt, Cotton On; Heels, Nine West; Bracelet, ASOS

Bottom row L-R

Dress, eBay (here!); Belt, River Island; Heels, Schuh; Bracelet, H&M.

Dress, Forever 21; Heels, Primark

Top, H&M; Shorts, Topshop; Heels, Schuh

The eBay dress (first on the bottom row) is one of my absolute favourites, mainly because of how cheap it was! £6! I has a cute cut out back with a bow detail as well.

Last night's outfit is the last one, courtesy of a mixture of wardrobes. It's another revealing back piece with a loose tie that falls above the waist.

For those of you, like me, who are back people ~~it's the new cleavage~~, invest in a good stick on bra. I parted with £25 in Fenwicks for mine and it's perfect. The key is to avoid the stick on chicken fillets, too heavy, and avoid the thick material ones, they never stick enough.
Instead, you want thin, completely adhesive material. Head to the lingerie section and track down the 'Eve's' concession, with the stick on bra in a box!

Batiste WILD giveaway! CLOSED

2011-11-22T16:08:00.002Z

I never like to turn down the chance of a new Batiste fragrance. To me, it's the ultimate dry shampoo and while I'm still in hope that one day each fragrance will be released with a 'hint of colour' the colourless fragranced versions still keep me loyal.

The most recent was surprisingly delivered to me with a cute little Lenny the leopard and a pair of Tipsy Feet bundled together. The shoes are quite a genius invention, the folding shoes idea I've seen before, but these come housed in a little clutch that opens up into a shopper so you don't have to look so much of a fail brandishing your heels around at the end of a tipsy night.

The new fragrance has to be one of my new favourites. It's described as 'a feminine and daring oriental aroma' with top notes of cocoa, a floral heart and base notes of wood, vanilla and musk. It has a very perfumery feel to it. I've seen some people not liking overly scented hair products, but I for one love them. Especially when you catch a burst of the scent randomly throughout the day.

Batiste Wild is available exclusively at Boots at £2.99 for 200ml

With the surprise, I accidentally got offered one to review and not aware of the mystery package I now have a spare! So this is your convenient chance to get a hold of one.

Rules:

Be a follower of Peluxe
Leave a comment with your email or Twitter handle for me to contact if you win
UK only!
If the notified winner doesn't respond within 2 days then I'll be choosing again
The giveaway closes one week today on Tuesday 29th November at 23.59 GMT
Any entries after this time won't be published and won't be entered.

Perfect opportunity to be among the first to try out the new scent! Good luck!

**PR Sample

Going matte

2011-11-14T15:41:00.000Z

Despite owning a decent matte top coat for nearly two years, I rarely go for matte nails. Something about the awful durability and the fade factor that I don't like.
After Tumblring my life away and seeing some rather inspiring blog posts, I matted. With a trusty base of OPI's Light My Sapphire I added China Glaze Matte Magic.

I bought mine from Head2Toe Beauty, which is a US site. I got mine delivered to my brother in America, but I'm almost certain they ship internationally and they have every China Glaze and O.P.I you could want.
For an easier option, pretty much all 'high street' brands are doing them in the UK now. Namely 17, Rimmel & Models Own.

Can't say it lasted the longest, but it's definitely interesting to look at. I'll be picking up the Matte Magic more often.

Personality Injection

2011-11-12T15:42:00.001Z

Another mammoth gap in-between these types of posts, but at least I've been keeping you up to date with my shoe buying, dressing up, accesorizing antics.

**Winter
Is it wrong I'm really happy winter is finally here? I finally get to whip out my new coat, the millions of gloves I always rediscover and the snuggly socks in bed is just the icing on the cake. Actually can't wait for it to snow.

**The red cups
Yes! Starbucks red cups are here again! Another sign winter is here. They make it taste so much better and Starbucks get so much more of my money at this time of year. Gradually working my way through the Christmas drinks menu. PS, severely disappointed with the white hot chocolate. Apparently they always have it, but I've only just tried it - it's not the best.

**Dominoes
Had the biggest Dominoes this week. Honestly don't think I've ever been as full. Their pizza menu is to die and I get so excited tracking the pizza after you've ordered. But, being the spice-phobe I am, ordering the Spanish Sizzler may have been an error. Tongue on fire.

**PR Sample

**Clear out
Had a mammoth clear out on my weekend at home. Found year old tan and got all excited to apply... It was green. Didn't fancy looking like the Hulk so it initiated an uber product clear out. It's so much easier to get ready when you don't have millions of products you never to choose from to scour over.

**Blogging mojo
Happy to say that after almost a month off last month, I am back to enjoying blogging. I always feel awful saying I re-enjoy it. But if you ever get writers block or feel like blogging is a chore, just take a break! For most, it's meant to be a hobby, something for fun! So if you force it you're just going to lose the fun side of it.

**Bloggers
Have been discovering (and re-discovering) some amazing blogs recently, which is another thing that's got me back into blogging. A belated congratulations to everyone who won or who was nominated at the Cosmo Blog Awards! I'm so glad the blogging is getting more recognition now. Happy to randomly see some familiar faces popping up in magazines!

Some new and old faves; Kenza, buy now, blog later, LUCYJOURNALS, Nicola Claire, London Travel Geek and the besties struggling in the world of new bloggers! SNAPINDEX, daisylvb

Have also been loving Tumblr, have an embarrassing amount of fun on there. Some faves of recent;

Until next time folks!

The magnetic trend

2011-11-11T09:17:00.003Z

My nails are generally where any trends will lay. I'm not one for updating my entire wardrobe every season but I will try and channel some style on my nails.
So after the matte, the crackles and the dalmations comes the magnetic.
I was lucky enough to sample the style at a press day when I was in London and it amazed me! Easily amazed...

I love that it's also available on the high street through 17 (who also have a matte top coat for those late on the wagon) and was glad to receive two of their shades.

Teal*, Gun Metal*

For £5.99 from a brand like 17 my hopes were high. £6 for one nail varnish does seem quite high when the majority are around the £4 mark.

Application is simple. I found that the thicker the coat the better the magnetized affect worked, and the same goes for holding the magnet as soon as you've applied the varnish to the nail. If you try doing your whole hand then going over them with the magnet it doesn't bring out the greatest affect.

Likewise, the affect isn't consistent. It didn't have the same look on each nail and on some it just didn't work at all. I tried to flip the magnet so it would give a vertical wave as well, I wouldn't advice that. Magnets don't like being vertical apparently.

I am generally impressed with the overall finish though. There may be a few duds on a few of your nails but overall, unless you're staring at them, you'll only notice something a little bit different than your regular straight finish.

I'm definitely in to the trend, the only logical next step for 17 is for them to release a whole range of colours as the magnet itself is separate to the bottle.
Oh, and don't worry about adding a top coat. I initially thought this would ruin the affect, but it only makes it more supreme with the gloss. Or, go the way of Lipglossiping and mattify.

17 Magnetized Nail Polish is available in four shades, each priced at £5.99.

Exclusive to Boots

Last day to enter my Dove giveaway!

**PR Sample

Accessorize

2011-11-08T09:44:00.000Z

Seeing as I'm loving Louis to the max, being the bag-a-holic I am, I have to find ways to update it every now and then. It might be a classic bag, but it's nice to add something a bit edgy to it.

This comes in the form of a fox tail. Which I've had my eye on since Edinburgh. Unprepared to part with £16 in Topshop for their version, I scoured the internet and found Aldo's very purse friendly £8 option.

Still have a dream of the Topshop one as it falls so much nicer. Have since seen a massive red one being toted by a fashionista in Newcastle city centre which swayed like an authentic fox tail!

Will scourer eBay until I find the perfect faux fur.

How do you update your favourite purchases?

Product giveaway with Dove! CLOSED

2011-11-07T13:56:00.002Z

Just in time for winter - which seems to have kicked in today in Newcastle, still wearing my coat inside... - I'm running a giveaway for six winners to get hold of one of the Dove Indulgent Nourishment Body Lotion.

Each winner will receive one bottle each to see them into winner and deeply nourish their skin with the rich blend of nourishing cream and shea butter extracts.

Press Image.

The rules

Follow Peluxe, obviously!
Leave a comment of any description with your email or Twitter handle
Contest will end at midnight on Friday 11th November 2011
Only one entry per person.
Tweet for a sneaky extra enter! Mention @Phibster

Think that's all... but if I sneakily remember another rule I'll slip it on the end... ha!

I will announce the winners over the weekend, if the winners don't respond within 24 hours then I'll select a different winner.
Hope that's simple enough for you all!

Good luck to you all!

**PR Sample

Featured on...

2011-11-06T13:29:00.000Z

Today I'm featured over on The Make Up Pixie!

Go give her blog some love and see my contribution in the Interview tab :)

Lumiere Cosmetics

2011-11-05T09:27:00.068Z

I've only ever dabbled in mineral make up, with a brief experience of Maybelline's Mineral Power powder foundation, which I loved.
A few weeks back I got a tweet requesting me to trial Lumiere Cosmetics. I received a generous package with an array of all their products.

I received three of their Loose Eye Pigments. I stayed safe in their 'Brown & Natural' range.

Bittersweet*, Burnished Bronze*, Cafe Latte*

As you could imagine, they apply similar to Barry M Dazzle Dusts. They are much smoother though. I have used a primer every time I've worn them, with which they never creased and all stayed on well minus the Cafe Latte, which faded quite fast. This might be because it's almost always in the corners of my eyes.

I also got two of their blush pigments. I've never used a mineral blush and with my favour of dewy skin, wasn't sure I'd like the finish.

Adobe Sunset*, Poppy*

Adobe Sunset would definitely be suited for much paler skin. It didn't make much of an impact on my complexion.

On the other hand, Poppy is probably my new all time favourite blush. It gives such a great natural looking flash and while it obviously doesn't offer dewy skin, the extremely matte formula means it offers a flawless look to your make up.

I tapped a little of the product into the lid, then swirled in my blusher brush. They are brilliantly pigmented so you don't need too much.

For the whole face, I received two of their Face Base powders. I chose both in 'Light cool' which may have been a little too light for me on reflection.

Veena Velvet formulation*, Cashmere formulation*

The Veena Velvet formulation is my favourite, it doesn't have any shimmer in it which is just what I like. This is meant for normal to oily skin and it suits mine fine! You can build it up to medium coverage. With a little concealer on my blemishes this is perfect coverage for me. It makes your skin look so smooth. I use a kabuki in a bigger lid and blend it out all over my face.

The Cashmere formulation, I haven't used as much. It is meant to leave skin with a 'soft silkiness'. It does leave skin feeling good, but with any blemishes or skin discolouration this is a much lighter coverage which isn't for me! If you don't often need concealer then this will definitely be better for you as it's quite a light coverage.

Lumiere Cosmetics is an American site, but it delivers internationally and offers sample 'baggies' or jars for each product before you commit. They're all really reasonably priced, especially for the variety of sizes you can choose from. Delivery is fast and as far as I'm aware, they welcome anyone to apply to trial their products. You get to choose your own shades of foundation and from their variety of eye colours.

**PR Sample

The Thing is...

2011-11-02T22:19:00.001Z

So I already used this title on Facebook, but couldn't resist sharing how witty I am again. Haha!
Halloween, obviously the other day. Quite a last minute decision, we went out as Thing 1 and Thing 2. Can't believe how many people didn't know who/what we were?! Did nobody read Cat in the Hat as a child!?
Then Jess was our master as a Gothic bride. Ended up having a really good night, despite the majority of my Halloweens being awful because of how packed it gets. Don't think I have ever seen as many people walking around Newcastle before.

So glad I wasn't the usual cat/fairy/witch this year.
Halloween'd up the Things a little with a bit of back combing, darker eyes and ripping the tights... I absolutely loved being a Thing for the night.

Shame there wasn't a cat with us actually...

GLITTERbomb.

2011-10-28T20:16:00.001+01:00

Yet another birthday related post. I promise one day the presents and celebrations will stop... One day. This instalment is a belated delivery from my best friend. I spotted these heels in Schuh just over a month ago and fell in love.
I got them in a 6, normal shoe size, but usually a perfect 5 in heels. They fit like an actual dream, it's as if they were made for my feet.

Schuh Glitter Heel Court High Heels

Topshop have a near identical pair for the same price, with an extra dose of glitter if this just isn't enough for you.

Both are beautiful but I definitely prefer mine. Thinking they will go with anything, hoping they are comfortable. Well, as comfortable as high heels can get.

Already heard the tip of dousing the glittered heel in hairspray to help it stay on the actual heel. Only hope this works wonders because they would be nothing without that glitterfying.

So excited to show them off on their first outing, counting down the days.

Edinburgh

2011-10-24T19:11:00.000+01:00

Final instalment of my 21st was a belated trip to Edinburgh with everyone from Uni. As it was my 21st I thought something other than a regular Newcastle night out was necessary. So, we took the scenic route up and explored Edinburgh.

Not knowing the city, the night out was a little adventure. We took the advice of waitresses, taxi drivers and anyone in a short dress and settled on Silk.

Dress - Dress Up Topshop

Heels - Primark

Cuff - Urban Outfitters via eBay

Watch - Michael Kors

I did absolutely love Edinburgh as a city, but I have to say there was a significant lack of dressed up girls. We stuck out amongst the jeans and tees, scarves and coats that seemed to populate night clubs.

We spent the day wandering around the city and through the castle gardens. Never knew how epic Edinburgh castle was! Sounds stupid I know, but couldn't help staring at it whenever it was in view.

Obviously had to have a browse around Harvey Nichols, currently in turmoil with what to spend my birthday money on! Had my eye on this Marc Jacobs purse, but when the time comes to hand over the money... It doesn't look so appealing.
Now tossing up between these two, the latter in a berry shade. Loving berry.

Both images taken from Selfridges.com

Officially the longest birthday celebrations I've ever had. I guess that's why they call it the big 2-1.

Inis: The unisex cologne

2011-10-21T17:34:00.001+01:00

A while back I was contacted by Fragrances of Ireland offering me a sample of one of their best selling 'colognes'.
I checked out the unfamiliar website, with home grown brands and new fragrances galore, I went for it.

Prior to this I'd never smelt a unisex fragrance, and the only one I'd heard of was that of Khloé and Lamar. I could only imagine it working out better for the girl. A girl can get away with wearing more masculine scents, not sure the same can be said about a gentleman wearing pour femme.

I was expecting a fresh scent, with it being named 'energy of the sea', but it is surprisingly musky. It reminded me of Issey Miyake 'Leau Dissey' for man, one of my all time favourite masculine scents, but despite how much I like it, I'm not sure I can get away with wearing it.

For me, the scent just reminds me of a male, so catching the scent on me throughout the day - plus side, it lasts for ages on your skin - just felt a little unnatural.

The bottle is beautifully understated. Frosted glass with 'Inis' defined in the centre, packaged in a seemingly ocean inspired box.

The overall design, scent and feel for me is a clash of two worlds, but both from the wrong side. To me, it's a masculine scent, in a feminine bottle, not sure I'm set on the unisex fragrance world just yet.
Regardless, if your man can take the design, it's a cheap dupe for Issey Miyake. Unisex set or not, it is a beautiful scent.

Inis Cologne Spray is available from Fragrances of Ireland now, starting at £19.95 for 30ml.

**PR Sample

The 21st

2011-10-19T15:51:00.001+01:00

A rather belated post, but seeing as I did my wishlist over on Lauren Loves, I always said I would 'reveal' what I got.
This was probably the best birthday ever! Celebrations are still ongoing, still awaiting presents, have managed to see so many people and still have a weekend in Edinburgh on the agenda.
I was significantly spoiled this year, to a point I really didn't expect.

So, what happened?! Well, way back on the 1st, my actual birthday, I was in Amsterdam for the weekend. I have family over there, so tied it in with a 1st birthday. I worked it in perfectly for the nicest weekend weather wise, summer dresses and legs were whipped out in force.

And for the actual gift? Well...

Louis Vuitton Speedy 35 Damier Azur Canvas

So much better than expected! The only downside is that it's now made me crave every thing Louis!

I came home to such a cute surprise. Flat filled with balloons, cupcakes and a banner from all my flat mates. It has only just been taken down, 3 weeks on.

As well as that they also surprised me with some Disney Couture action that I have wanted from months. What more could I ask for?!

MAWI for Disney Couture Minnie Gold Plated with Swarovski Ring

On top of all those fabulous gifts, I got spoilt by the boyfriend by way of Michael Kors. The much sought after rose gold watch. Along with Nerd Ropes and Angry Bird toys, to satisfy my not so sophisticated side.

Michael Kors MK5314 Gold Bracelet Watch

How lucky am I?! I'm going away with my Uni friends to Edinburgh this weekend as a belated proper celebration. Of course we went out as soon as I was back from Amsterdam too!

Got my younger friends craving their 21st now. Such a huge thank you to anyone who spoilt me and all those that wished me happy birthday on Twitter :)

I think I'm going to like being 21.

Return

2011-10-17T18:50:00.000+01:00

I've been away from the writing side of blogging for a month (as of next week), but it feels like so much longer. I can use the excuse of coming back to Uni and celebrating my 21st...

But, basically, I'm back! End of!

Expect to see my presence a little stronger on here, I'm hopefully back in full force.
So, until next time...

Personality Injection LFW

2011-09-28T16:02:00.001+01:00

I've already covered the actual fashion of London Fashion Week in my last post, but it is obviously so much more than pretty models strutting down the catwalk.
I figured it needed a little sum up of my favourite moments, other than the fashion.

**Somerset House
I wasn't lucky enough to have any prestigious invites, but on the rare occasions we had a morning off, we went to Somerset House to just take in the atmosphere. Being a serial people watcher, this is probably the best environment to do it in. Everyone is 'done' to the nth degree and there just seems to be such a good vibe about the place.

Photo credit Victoria Carter

**Celeb spotting duty

Might not be cool, but I love the 'Where's Wally?' feel to people watching and spotting a celeb. Over the week we spotted half the Made in Chelsea cast, 3 out of the 8 Dirty Sexy Things, Kesha & Jade from the Sugababes, Shingai Shoniwa of the Noisettes, Diana Vickers, among others, but, most noteworthy, Kate Moss, front row at James Smalls.

**My first Snog

After hearing every Londoner rave about it, I finally got to try Snog. Have to say, so deliciously yummy and such a nice little place, but £5 for basically 2 scoops of ice cream? Not convinced. Might be a one timer. Although they are generous with their little taster pots.

I opted for natural yogurt, white chocolate stars and mini oreos.

**The graduates

There were continuous exhibitions on at Freemasons Hall throughout the week, I had the chance to have a quick look around them and there were some truly amazing pieces in there. I would have such a feeling of pride if my designs had made it in there.
One of the stand out pieces was the dress made of fountain tip nibs, which actually vibrated. I think there's a video on the Vauxhall Fashion Scout blog or Facebook.

**And the rest...

Already having a bit of culture shock being back in Newcastle and back at Uni. Can't wait to be back at Fashion Week next season!

LFW: Vauxhall Fashion Scout designer round up

2011-09-24T22:52:00.001+01:00

You may have noticed a slight absence of me on the blog, entirely down to my jaunt to London Fashion Week.
I was lucky enough to get a position on the Vauxhall Fashion Scout team at Freemasons Hall, so spent Wednesday to the next Thursday working so damn hard and having an amazing time.
If any of you have the opportunity to work fashion week, take it. You get exposed to so many people, PR, celebs, other interns, and despite what everyone thinks, the fashionista bitches are few and far between, everyone is genuinely friendly.

As I said, I was working for Vauxhall Fashion Scout, which represents the up and coming designers. I saw all but one of the shows while I was in the building, only missing about six over all.
While a lot of it was less 'ready to wear' and more just a true form of art, some I have fallen in lust with. Below are my favourite pieces from a few of the collections.

By far my favourite was Florian Jayet;

Image credit Lucas Seidanfedan @ Vauxhall Fashion Scout

Image credit Victoria Carter

Georgia Hardinge;

With some brilliant hair involved;

Image credit Lucas Seidanfedan @ Vauxhall Fashion Scout

Izmyalova;

Image credit Lucas Seidanfedan @ Vauxhall Fashion Scout

Image credit Victoria Carter

And one of the best shows I've ever seen, Ziad Ghanem. An actual fashion show, as opposed to just walking up and down the catwalk.

Image credit Lucas Seidanfedan @ Vauxhall Fashion Scout

There was some absolutely brilliant shows and brilliant collections, all properly covered on the Vauxhall Fashion Scout blog. Such a great experience to see them all.

I'll do a personality injection post with a bit more of my weeks experience. Needless to say, I will definitely be back there next season.

The Skin Tint

2011-09-17T07:38:00.001+01:00

Obviously this has had a pretty significant presence on the blogs, but since I won mine in Sarah's recent give away I figured a little credit was due her way, so I'm sharing my thoughts.

I used to be a tinted moisturiser girl through and through, but it seems leaving my teens has done the opposite to most people and had a 20s break out. Coverage is needed.

The Liz Earle Skin Tint is a little bit more than your standard tinted moisturiser, but unfortunately just doesn't cut it for me.

Given that 'Skin Tint' isn't exclusively a tinted moisturiser, it shouldn't really be comparable to one. But to me, that's what it is. A tinted moisturiser with a little extra coverage.
The liquid is thick but blends out seamlessly. The lack of heavy coverage is there in the title, 'Sheer'. For those of you without blemishes, this could work wonders, but no matter how minor the blemish, I have struggled to build up enough coverage with this product alone.

Skin flaws aside, this is a great little product. Perfect for the perfect. Flawless skin will reap only the benefits in this as it glides on and brings that covetable glow to the skin.
The colour range isn't great, but for my relatively pale skin, shade 2, beige blends out to fit my colouring well. There is the darker 'Beach' and lighter 'Bare', but it's unlikely these will satisfy everyone.

£21 will get you 40ml of Liz Earle's first first foray into make up. For me, this is in reserve for when my skin decides to play nice. There are so many high street tints that will do the job just as well, for me at least, this kind of product doesn't require a big budget to impress.

Who among you are still waiting to try this for yourselves?

**Won in a giveaway!

Personality Injection

2011-09-14T09:57:00.008+01:00

Been a while since the PI was on Peluxe, but as I'm about to be thrust for the first time into the buzz of London Fashion Week, I figured a bit of personality is just what I need to carry the blog over for the week!

**London Fashion Week! I've managed to get a chance working throughout the week, with Vauxhall Fashion Scout. I've been told to prepare for crazy busy days and days where there won't be much to do, needless to say I've also been instructed to wear comfortable flats.

**Alton Towers. Went on Monday with my boyfriend and had some adventures. Namely having my fingers cleaned by a little crustacean (just got why it's featured cleaning everything in Nemo) and having my boy try and win me a piggy, only for the claw to loosen every time it got to the top of the thing and drop poor piggy back.
Oh, and still haven't been on Thirteen. Been four times since it's opening and it has had 'technical issues' every. Single. Time. Heard it isn't amaze, but it's the not having the chance to review myself that gets me.

non nail varnished talons, of course the other half's.

**Bought these from New Look (apparently no longer online) after a night deliberating, realised yes, I really do need them in my life. They are slightly elasticated ~~like the horrible roll up ones~~ so dig a little on the ankles, contributing to a rather substantial blister after walking around in comfy comfy Converse all day at Alton Towers.

**Finally did the fish eating feet thing (the professional title). See it as a one off thing personally. Kind of relaxing, kind of ticklish. It's a bit like a foot spa, as in feels similar to the bubbles, but other than being incredibly soft for the day, I didn't see a life changing difference in dead skin.

**Being back with Dexter. Currently playing catch up as I never did watch when it was on TV. Initially not my kind of thing, but season one has such a good storyline, I got sucked in. Half way through season three now and getting excited for the (US) October start of season five, hopefully I'll catch up in time!

**Having a massive Tumblr moment right now. Probably just with my lack of social life, but will hopefully continue to share the reblogging when I get back to life.

A scheduled post here, while I'm living it up on my last free day in London before getting to work. Got the scoop that a fair few other bloggers will be in and around London for various events this week so I'll keep an eye out!
I hope everyone who gets to attend the catwalks and numerous other fashion based events have a ball, can't wait to read all the catch up posts.

Need to know - NEWCASTLE NIGHTLIFE

2011-09-12T10:04:00.000+01:00

I wasn't originally intending on doing a brief education of Newcastle's night life. But with This Fashion Is Mine featuring a little freshers run down for Manchester students, I thought I would cheekily latch this on to the end of my mini series.
Click here to read through my last four posts with everything you need to know for your first year in uni!

First things first here. Let's sum it up. Newcastle is the very best night life I have ever experienced.
The drinks you need to have tried are trebles & skittles. To me, the epitome of a Newcastle night out.

Every Friday of freshers was spent at Dirty Pop at o2 Academy. Simply because you'll have people piling the deals on you, it boded well since I accidentally saw Example perform there (so much better live). The rest of freshers was generally centered around the student union, to which I don't think I've been back for a night out since.

My favourite places are Sinners and probably Bambu or Perdu in the centre.
Sinners is notoriously grimy, but it's dirt cheap and has the best vibe. For something a little more up market, but just as boiling hot, try The Basement by Monument.
Bambu is one of those 'set up for the night' clubs, it has the perfect balcony for dancing with sets of sofas easy to fall back on.

Whenever I've been to Perdu, I've spent my entire night there. Absolutely brilliant music and cheap drinks. This is for dancing. Literally dance the night away.

Just past the train station, the big club is Digital, I've only ever been a few times but it has the best selection of music 'rooms' and usually has a bit to suit everyone tastes. There is Gotham City nearby which always seems to be populated by the thirty something hanging onto their youth, with students after cheap drinks interspersed.

For a different location, the Quayside is an entirely separate night out in most cases. Bar 32 and Chase pretty much always have 3 drinks for a fiver, which include trebles. Perfect for the first location on a night out. Then finish up with Riverside. I've never even had a similar night out in Riverside. There is usually a lengthy wait but it's well worth it once inside.

Of course Newcastle has so very much more to offer, but these are just a few of my favourite places.

If any of you freshers to be need any advice then tweet me @Phibster, it's nice to have someone on hand you can ask those random questions to!

Need to know - ONE YEAR ON

2011-09-09T09:35:00.005+01:00

For me, second year is just around the corner (only two weeks away!) and I couldn't be looking forward to it more.
First year was amazing and wouldn't change it for the world, but now having the option to live with my friends, decorate my own little place again and actually looking forward to Newcastle's winter you can't get me back soon enough!

Like I said in the first year post, it really will fly by and you won't believe how fast you'll be making plans for second year.

**Don't rush into the house
When you're sorting your accommodation for second year, it's likely you'll be leaving halls behind and moving in with your new friendship groups. From personal experience I implore that you take your time over choosing your house! With my experience I would advice looking at as many houses as you can before Christmas, then put the deposit down and secure your favourite by the end of January.
While I do love my little flat, we were already looking in November I think and we only looked at four or five houses before choosing this one. After the first month your friendship groups change, make sure you've settled with the right people to live with and look at all shapes and sizes of house with a strict budget in place.

**Gather little bits at a time

If you start putting aside bits and bobs for your new house early it means you can spread the cost of those homely touches. As well, go on a house shop with your new house mates and split the bill for kitchen accessories and the other little extras. While you might not all agree on what sort of décor you want, you're going to have to compromise, so get everyone together to agree to disagree.

**Get a parent on hand
Along with everyone I was living with, we're first timers at moving into a new house. Luckily one of my friends parents is a fireman and was on hand to look over the house and make sure it was safe enough. Try and get someone with a bit of house experience to ask all the grown up questions you didn't know where necessary. I hope that doesn't sound patronising but if you're anything like me you won't have a clue what to ask. My only question was, is there enough hot water for us all in the morning...

**Keep in touch
Over Christmas and Easter it's understandable just to have some time apart from everything uni and spend time with home friends, but especially in summer I made sure I made little visits to all my friends. A few nights out over the summer is all you need just to keep up with them! I've barely known them a year, but a lot of them I'm closer with than people I've known for years.

**Do it all over again!
Just because you're a second year in waiting, doesn't mean that you can't relive freshers. Get in on the deals and apply all my freshers advice once again. Another way to make more friends, get yourself out there and get some bargains!

This concludes my little 'need to know' for students. I hope someone out there found something useful! As always you can contact me on Twitter if you need any more advice that I could help with. Leave any of your own advice in the comments as well!

And, as inspired by Gwen, I'll be doing a little run down of Newcastle night life. Although it's pretty easy to navigate (especially if you're coming in as a fresher) I'll share my favourite places with you!
If you're off in the Manchester location for uni then go read Freshers in Manchester - A University Guide to Nightlife on This Fashion is Mine and keep an eye out for my Newcastle guide!

Need to know - FIRST YEAR

2011-09-07T09:41:00.000+01:00

While Uni is substantially centered around your social life, don't forget you did actually go there (and are most likely paying a lot to be there) to further your education! Don't throw away a ginormous build up of debt wasting your lectures, even if it is a 9am Monday morning start.

Here's the plan for first year...

**Budget. Budget. Budget.
This is something I wish I'd been better at. Once I realised how much money I was getting through, I divided what was left of my loan between the amount of weeks left and set aside a bit less than that for each week. If you lower your budget it means you'll have a little sum saved for that must have splurge or an unexpected payment that arises. The earlier you learn to budget, the better.
If you'll be staying in halls or away from home during the holidays then factor those weeks in as well, I was lucky enough to live quite a cushy life at my parents so had no outgoings for food or rent.

**Don't take exam period too seriously
Obviously I'm not saying go out every night and wing it, but as I've never been one to get stressed about exams, I'm constantly trying to tone them down to reduce friends' stress. Take them one at a time and revise the key facts and figures, but space it out, take breaks and still have fun! The harder time you give yourself making sure you never break from revision will catch up with you and you'll over work yourself.

**Keep mum & dad involved
You've just abandoned your parents, and for me I was the last sibling to fly the coop (is that the right saying?!). Keep them in touch, whether it be a weekly phone call or the odd text. I made sure to email my mum at least twice a week just to fill her in on any and everything I had been up to. Surprise birthday gifts or visits home now mean so much more than when you were there!

**Have friends visit
Whether they're at Uni or not, have them come up for the weekend and show off your new life and your new home town. It's surprising how much more a fun a night out can be when there is a familar face in a new town. One of my best nights out in Newcastle was my 20th birthday, when my best friend visited for the weekend. Plus, it will give them chance to bond with your new friendship group for when the uni friends come to visit you at home!

**Food shop with friends
You'll begin to notice how much food costs and how fast it can add up. You'll remember the cost of your favourite products and avoid things you once took for granted. Shopping (and cooking) with friends can really bring down the cost. Buy in bulk and prepare a few meals in advance then freeze them. Share the cost of each meal and only buy what you really need with only a couple of 'luxuries'. The little things will mean so much more when you can get them for free at home than when you realise you've gone way over budget because of branded treats.

**Embrace the basics
I used to hate buying economy food when I lived at home. I know that sounds snobby but I always assumed it was the much crappier version of the higher priced counterpart. Not true! Apart from meat, I've found the majority of basics/value/economy products taste just as good as the branded version and most of the time you can't even tell the difference. It's little things like this that will add up and save you loads.

**Explore!
Being in a whole new town means you have whole new opportunities. I loved my first few weeks in Newcastle just seeing what was there. We have taken trips to Durham and South Shields as well just to get and about in the area. Uni isn't all about the night life!

Most importantly just have fun and experience it all! First year at uni has probably been the best year of my life because of how much I squeezed into such a short time.
It might get annoying people telling you it will fly by, but trust me, it does and by the end of it your uni friends will seem like friends from childhood despite knowing them for less than a year.

Any more first year tips and tricks? Stay tuned for the final instalment tomorrow (hopefully!), One year on! And don't forget to look at Freshers and Pre Uni if you haven't already!

If any of you freshers to be need any advice then tweet me @Phibster, it's nice to have someone on hand you can ask those random questions to!

The perfect nude

2011-09-07T09:31:00.002+01:00

For all you regulars at Boots, I'm sure you're stocked up on your No7 vouchers. I pretty much always spend mine on nail varnish, making them just £2. They are excellent quality and wear brilliantly.

The following is a new favourite and was bought on a complete whim. It really is the perfect nude.

Beautifully Black is what I wanted right from the beginning and on the right So Simple. My new favourite nude.

This is two coats of nudey goodness. TWO COATS of a NUDE SHADE, with no streaks and perfect coverage. I was so surprised at how it turned out.
Beautifully Black is beautiful in its own right. A shimmery black that goes on just as easy as it is to remove, looks so much better in person.

I think it's the subtle shimmer in So Simple that makes it so wearable and the shimmer in Beautifully Black is what makes it so unique to the rest of my collection.

A great spontaneous purchase.

Have I found your new favourite nude?

Need to know - FRESHERS

2011-09-06T09:23:00.005+01:00

Most likely, you're first week at uni will consist of nights out and little in the way of lectures and seminars. Mine was a little different and I had compulsory elements of my course to attend during freshers, but it wasn't about to stop me going out.
Freshers is the one week where you can fully go for it! I was out every night, which is rare for me, but it's what needs to be done!

These are my tips for your first week...

**Don't get seduced by the offers
It's likely that big stores will put on student nights, offering a shocking 20% off, which seems so much more compared to the usual 10% student discount. In reality it's not, and going on a mad trolley dash around Topshop, with the reward of a 'goody bag' in mind may seem like a good idea, but ask yourself if you would really buy it without that extra 10% because it's not likely to make much difference.

**Take advantage of student status
Completely contrary to the last point, some companies will offer really great deals, especially in freshers, as a way to drum up more business. This is the time to look out for haircut offers (cut and colour for £30!), meal deals at your favourite restaurants that aren't McDonalds and stationary deals to stock up with for the rest of your year. If you keep a bargainista eye out, you're in for some good savings.

**Find that friend
As freshers week can get pretty out of control, find that friend that you know will take care of you if you get a little worse for wear, or at least have someone you can call at the drop of a hat if you get into trouble. I don't want to sound like your mum here, but it has to be done. Hopefully you will find someone on your level that will know when to call it a night or that will willingly hold your hair back the morning after.

**Get out there!
The first week is all about putting yourself out there, talk to everyone and anyone and make the most of the week where you can talk to total strangers without looking weird. Try to remember everyone (this is where Facebook is good) as they'll no doubt be useful at some point during the year. Build up those contacts, it's all about who you know.

**Go to your freshers and societies fair
If it's not just for the abundance of freebies that are thrown at you (you won't be buying pens for a while...) then it's a good way to get involved in more of your uni. The freshers fair is mainly companies that may have student offers or just want you to know about them, the societies fair is all the different clubs within the uni, with something for everyone. This is where I signed up for my skydive, and found out about so much more that was on offer than I would never have known about.

**Don't forget you know how to cook
I don't know if we were the minority, but me and my friends actually cooked really nice meals throughout our first year. Pot Noodles are the student stereotype, but aren't much in the way of nutrition, which is definitely needed after a heavy night in Newcastle. Don't always resort to microwave meals, get to your local market (trust me, every city centre has one, you may just have to search) for surprising deals on fruit, veg and meat that is normally double the price in your weekly shop.

There is so much more I could tell you, but hopefully you will learn a fair bit yourself, again, if you have any of your own tips to share, put them in the comments!

Make sure you read through my last post on what to do before you get there. There's still two instalments of this mini series left, including while you're there and one year on, so keep an eye out!

If any of you freshers to be need any advice then tweet me @Phibster, it's nice to have someone on hand you can ask those random questions to!

Need to know - PRE UNI MOVE

2011-09-05T09:12:00.000+01:00

It was around this time last year I read Cat's advice post on Uni and I've decided to follow in her footsteps.
This year has absolutely sped by. I still remember my first day moving into halls and my first day meeting each of my new besties. Up until then, the move to University was the biggest thing I'd ever done and while no amount of advice will ever really prepare you, at least some things will be covered.

These are my little stones of wisdom for any of you about to make the big move. This post is all the basics you need to know before you get there.

PRE UNI

** Facebook is your best friend
I 'liked' and joined my halls, my course, my freshers, my uni. Pretty much anything to with what I'd be doing I Facebooked. I met my best friend on there, in other circumstances we probably wouldn't have spoken. It put me at ease for my course, allowed me to find stuff I needed and allowed me to talk to my entire flat before I got there.

**Get the necessities, the basics and the homely touches
Basically, as much as you can carry. You're going to be living in a stark room for a year, so anything to make it just that little bit prettier and have everything you need on hand will help.
Leave anything your unsure about, then once at uni start making a list of everything you forgot. I did this then had my mum come up a couple of weeks after with everything I didn't know I'd be needing. If you're home sick then a visit will help, if you're not, you get to show off your new life, friends and home to your parents!

**Don't rush out to buy your reading list
Chances are, your lecturers aren't expecting you to read it all. Out of about 40 books, I was only expected to buy three, that lasted me my entire first year. Of course, it's course dependant, but check before you waste your money, Uni reading can get expensive!

**Have the 'last night'
Since I took a gap year, there was only one other friend actually going away to uni at the same time as me. But we still got all our friends together and had a farewell night. If not just for the great night, then it will give you fodda to fill your photo frames with!

**Tie up loose ends
Get gym memberships cancelled, jobs left well in advance, all post redirected, room cleared out and recipes learned. Make it so you won't have to go home if you don't want to.

... Now what have I missed out? Because I'm certain something vital isn't there.

Stay tuned for tips on Freshers, while you're there and one year on! Leave any of your own tips in the comments as well, there can never be too much advice on uni!

If any of you freshers to be need any advice then tweet me @Phibster, it's nice to have someone on hand you can ask those random questions to!

Latest in Beauty & the CEW Box

2011-09-03T02:00:00.000+01:00

Latest in Beauty are branching out. Into the world of 'themed boxes' they go, beginning with the Cosmetic Executive Women box. This box is packed with award winning products, some cult favourites (hi Batiste!) and some new to me, like the Dr Organic product.

Unlike the regular Latest in Beauty experience (see below), you pay £4.95 for the pre selected products. With every order you're also entered into a prize draw for over £8000 worth of beauty goodies - trust me on this one, I calculated the cost! AND the odd box also includes a golden ticket, with a full size Rapid Lash serum worth £39.99.

If you're not already familiar with Latest in Beauty, it's a company specialising in monthly samples to give you a chance to try out the millions of new products that hit the market every year. For £1 a month, paid via a text message, you personally select three different samples from three different categories, skin care, make up & fragrances and hair & body.

You are then presented with the pinkest of pink, letter box friendly beauty box, containing your hand picked samples and a swift run down of what you've received.

Sample sizes and any bonuses (like the £5 voucher) vary month on month, but you're guaranteed never to get the same thing twice (unless you want it!) and you're not under obligation to order every month. Definitely a bonus if your samples pile has been left un touched for the month.

It's definitely worth signing up, even if it's just so you're in with a chance of trying a product months down the line you have been craving. This is personally tailored sampling, specifically for you.

**Purchased with my own hard earned cash.

A slave to Emma Hardie Amazing Face

2011-09-01T13:43:00.001+01:00

During my time at Latest in Beauty, the girls got to go to the Emma Hardie event. Unfortunatley, because it was an RSVP occasion, it meant I couldn't go so last minute. But, unexpectedly, the morning after I was surprised with the gift bag from the event, that the girls had managed to swizz for me while there.
They were going into raptures about how amazing the products were and I really couldn't wait to try out what they were on about.

Without a doubt, my favourite product from the gift bag is the Professional Cleansing System.
This little set includes the Moringa cleansing balm, Rosehip exfoliating seeds and the professional cleansing cloth.

The wonder behind the product is supposed to be in the application. Each product comes with the movements in which you're meant to apply it, such as squeezing it into your cheeks and brow bone and stretching out your forehead and jaw line. This is all to contribute to the sculpting and lifting of the skin. Admittedly I have skipped this for the most part, obviously the younger you start the better, but at 20 years old, I'm not worrying about sagging skin just yet.

Firstly, I apply the balm, using a mounted finger full for the entire face. I rub it into the skin and leave it to sit for a few seconds to give a thorough boost of moisture. This is then followed by the seeds. Sprinkling a fair amount onto my fingers, I rub these around the face, focussing on the T Zone.
I've found you longer leave the treatment on the better results you get, so once a week I'll use it as a face mask and leave it on for 10 minutes plus.

To remove, I rub over with the damp, smooth side of the cloth to remove the excess, then follow with the rougher side to get any residue off and finish with a splash of water over the face.

The results? WOW. My skin has never felt smoother or softer, there isn't even a product I can compare this to.
Although the seeds may feel quite harsh, your skin can face daily use, although beware that you don't over exfoliate as it can remove the natural oils from your skin and promote breakouts. For this reason, I use this about three times a week and reap the benefits of great skin in-between.

With regular use I've seen a drastic reduction in blackheads, unfortunately, my skin is having a bit of a breakout issue at the moment which hasn't been halted by Emma Hardie, but it definitely improves the appearance of my skin tone, redness and most noticeably the feel.

I really can only say good things about this product and I'm so happy I got to try it.
Even the £42 price tag (eek!) doesn't put me off! You can buy the balm individually for £32, but with the £10 difference and the fact you'll need to restock the seeds, you may as well just re purchase the set.

I have yet to read a bad review on this system, which speaks volumes about the product. I am certain I'll be repurchasing and repurchasing, until I find it's cheaper sister.

Have you had the privilege of trying out Emma Hardie products?

**A great surprise from my boss, courtesy of Emma Hardie PR

No7 Dollar

2011-08-26T09:42:00.001+01:00

After featuring this in my most recent of hauls, Liloo asked for a swatch. So here I shall provide. With my nail stickers beginning to peel at the tips, I whipped them off and excitedly applied two coats of No7's 'Dollar'.

Added a bit of a crackle edge with Barry M's blue Nail Effects on the index.
This is two coats and the Nails Inc 'Albert Bridge' top coat.

It's a great jewel green and applies easy and smooth. I love the new brush design for my fingers, however the same can't be said for toe application. Something about the curved tip of the brush makes it difficult to get to the corners of my square based toe nails.

It's just now, on day 3 beginning to wear away at the tips, with a couple of chips on my thumb nails.

As far as I'm aware the No7 £5 discount vouchers are still been handed out, if not they are definitely still valid. That makes this ~~gem~~ jewel just £2. My next is to be spent on Beautifully Black, which was what I originally went in for...

What are your top No7 nail varnishes?

Introducing... The Ray Ban 2140

2011-08-25T20:41:00.000+01:00

Personally I think they have the same ring to them as the iconic Beverly Hills postcode. Ok, maybe not.
I had been to-ing and fro-ing over whether to buy some classic Ray Ban sunnies for such a long time, but after a £50 for £18 coupon came up on Groupon, I jumped at the chance.

I then had the choice between the classic, recognisable Wayfarers or the Aviators. I went with the latter as I seem to get so much use of my Primark dupes. Of course, the Aviators are still on my wishlist, now also with the tortoise shell Wayfarers in medium. So. Many. Options.

Here they are in all their glory. My first toe dipped into the designer designer pool.

Bought from The Sunglasses Shop, I opted for the Ray Ban 2140 Wayfarer, in small (47mm). Paying just £52 (with delivery) for a classic designer piece. Bargain right?
I had some time to kill with the web cam too...

That's one thing I can cross off my 21st Wishlist. Now onto the rest...

Passing it on

2011-08-22T20:06:00.000+01:00

I never do posts like this, but with so many people doing summary posts and including 'five to follow' I've stumbled on some real gems in the blogosphere. Of course there are my favourites which have been mentioned on here a million times. The likes of Dulce Candy, Kelanjo & Love Maegan but the following are both newbies to me and newbies to blogging that deserve a lot more love than they already have.

In no particular order;

A blog devoted to the most sensitive of skin, Gabi Katie

From the lusts to the loves daisylvb & the(snap)index

To get serious wardrobe envy Late Afternoon, Atlantic-Pacific, CHEYENNE meets CHANEL, Style Scrapbook & Cats and Rocking Chairs

Excitement conveyed by adorable pups.

And those I get excited to see a post from Kenzas, tiny sailor, LE FLASSH & buy now, blog later

Of course, always looking to fill my quota, which should I be following?!

Images taken from the world of Tumblr.

Haulin'

2011-08-20T17:01:00.000+01:00

Can't remember the last time I posted a haul on here, ~~or the last time I said haul for that matter~~ but here comes my latest.

I'm deliberating whether to post all my London goodies, after unpacking it dawned on me how I much I'd bought, but how little I'd spent. Thoughts?

These goodies are from yesterdays trip to Meadowhall with Mother dear. Meadowhall is probably my all time favourite shopping centre. The only thing missing is Urban Outfitters (and maybe Selfridges if we're nit picking) but as that would only lure me into spending money I don't have, I think I'm set.

I posted my awesome new winter coat onto DailyBooth yesterday. It's Miss Selfridge, £52 and after trying it on a couple of weeks back, decided I needed it. Nabbed the last one in my size.

The ever popular Boots No7 voucher got spent on 'Dollar' a beautiful blue/green. Had my heart set on 'Beautifully Black' after Liloo's post, but this one caught my eye.

The rest;

Stag ring £2 & boots £15

Primark

My absolute fave soap & a new one to try.

I figured Sandstone would be good for my flat of fake tanners, always need a bit of exfoliating power to get it off your palms no?

Handcuff necklace £6.50

Topshop

3 for 2 @ Waterstones.

Determined to read One Day before I see the film, heard amazing things. And, thought I'd take up the Shopaholic series again. Read the last two about eight years ago?! Some of the best books I've ever read though. Currently in the middle of A Place Called Here by Cecelia Ahern.

I won Sarah's giveaway, which means I finally get to try Liz Earle's Skin Tint. First impressions are just better than average, but my skin isn't in the best mood at the moment.

And finally, all the way from Hong Kong, the velcro bow (bought here). I always suffer from kinks after putting a kirby grip in. This keeps my hair away while I make up my face but never alters the style.

Personally, not one for public wear though.

Currently on the search for my 21st dress. Have my eye on a few dirt cheap ones from Hong Kong on ebay. Figured I may as well order them all as they're literally a fiver each (including delivery) so even if they're not 21st worthy, I'll have a few new dresses!

What have you been spending on recently?

Personality Injection in pictures

2011-08-19T09:05:00.000+01:00

Since my time in London is now donezo, I thought I'd share my ~~just over a~~ month jaunt with you via a few snaps I took.
London has stolen my heart! Even with the collapse that was the riots, I just loved it. I can't wait to be back there in just over a month for my time at London Fashion Week!

Here's to you London, you treated me well!

First trip to Las Iguanas, during Happy Hour.

Models Own & Topshop 'Gypsy Night'

I learnt to tie a cherry stalk, with my tongue.

How have you all spent your summer?
Unbelievably jealous to all those who managed to travel far and wide!

Happy Aussie-versary! One day only! CLOSED

2011-08-18T15:36:00.003+01:00

With my mother taking the delivery note without my knowing, it means I've only just got my hands on the fabulous Aussie Summer Party Pack!
You may have seen the rest of the angels putting up these contest posts, luckily I've got it up just in time for you to enter!

The wonderfully generous people at Aussie towers are offering up to seven of my readers the chance to win a summer party pack. A perfect opportunity for you to try out the sparkly, limited edition Aussie-Versary range.
You will receive one product which can be chosen, by you, from all these;

Take The Heat range – shampoo, conditioner, 3MM, heat-protection cream, heat-protection spray – For beautifully blow-dried hair wrap these products around your locks.

Miracle Moist – Shampoo, conditioner, 3MM – These heavenly products infuse moisture into dry damaged hair, leaving hair quenched, luscious, smooth and conditioned faster than you can say ‘shine on me’.

Luscious Long – Shampoo, conditioner, 3MM, leave-in conditioner – Blended with wonderful lovelies like Blue Mountain Eucalyptus extract, these products help transform weak, distressed hair into luscious locks.

I can hear you screaming WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO?!

With Aussie using any excuse to party, you just need to tell me what you're celebrating. Whether it's a beautiful new born baby girl, or just a fabulous new pair of shoes, let me know!

You just need to follow Peluxe, leave a comment on this post with your celebration, or, devote a blog post to it (and link it below) to be in with a chance of winning your very own party pack.
PLUS those winners will then have the chance to win ten tickets (yes ten!) to the exclusive Aussie ball later this year. Invite only of course.

Don't postpone any longer! You only have until midnight (GMT) tomorrow, Friday 19th to enter!

The very important Terms & conditions
1.    This competition is open to the Aussie Angels online communities
2.    Winners must be UK Mainland residents and aged 18 years or over
3.    Winners of the giveaway are to be chosen by Aussie Angels
4.    To enter, community members must write a blog post, OR comment on an Angels’ Giveaway blog post, stating how they qualify for a Summer Party pack
5.    To qualify for winning the Summer party pack, they must have something to celebrate (there are no restrictions on their reasons for celebration)
6.    Selection criteria: Each Aussie Angel will select their own 7 community member winners. Selection is entirely at each Angels discretion
7.    The Promoter will not be liable for applications not received, incomplete, delayed or damaged. Last date for receipt of entries is Friday 19 August 2011
8.    There will be up to 7 winners per Aussie Angel
9.    Winners must be chosen and notified in writing, by the Angels, by Tuesday 23 August 2011
10. The Angels must also notify Aussie, in writing, who they have chosen, by Tuesday 23 August 2011
11. A list of the prize winners will be available on www.uncoveraussie.co.uk after this date.
12. The prizes are as stated and cannot be transferred, sold or exchanged. There is no cash alternative. Only one prize per household. No bulk or third party entries accepted
13. Summer Party packs will be sent by Aussie, and all delivery costs covered by Aussie
14. By entering this competition, entrants agree to be bound by the rules and by any other requirements set out in the promotional material.
PROMOTER: Procter & Gamble UK, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 OXP

**PR Sample

Batiste XXL

2011-08-17T14:40:00.000+01:00

Another addition to Batiste's ever growing colony of dry shampoos. They have been highly featured on Peluxe and I have never found a dry shampoo that measures up, but with the XXL being a little more than just a dry shampoo, it takes some getting used to.

So, bottle in hand, I followed the instructions exactly. I used it on second day (but pretty clean) hair, that was in a whole new world of flat (even for me).

Before;

Holding the can 'about 30cm from hair', I sprayed. The distance is the key, because if you spray too close your hair becomes matted and too sticky to work with.

You then need to scrub it into your hair. If not only to remove any of the white residue (which I found minimal with this type of Batiste), then to activate the voluminous goodness lost in the roots.

It has the same texture as volumising powders such as the Lee Stafford Matt Fat Powder, only for the most part, a little less sticky as long as you spray from the right distance.

After;

While the effect isn't life changing volume, it definitely gives a great 'pick me up' to flat hair, without weighing the hair down, plus, a bonus of oil removal.

It wasn't as affective as a dry shampoo and I prefer to use it on clean hair, just for the purpose of volume. Other Batiste products definitely leave a cleaner feel and don't have to content with the stickiness and risk of matting your hair like the XXL.

This definitely hasn't replace Batiste Blush as my all time favourite dry shampoo, but is in the great league table of voluminous products for thin hair.

Batiste XXL is available now (although seemingly hard to track down) for £3.99 for 200ml.

**PR sample

Out of office!

2011-08-16T16:18:00.000+01:00

Today I've blogged over at Lauren Loves...!

As part of her guest blogger series while she suns herself in Thailand, Lauren has given me reigns of Lauren Loves for today! Head over to her blog for a look at my birthday wishlist and let me know what you think!

INS AND OUTS OF INTERNING the bulk

2011-08-09T10:05:00.001+01:00

Somehow this series didn't turn out quite as I'd planned. While the entire time down here has been great and interesting for me, it doesn't really transcribe into a blog post, so apologies for lack of intern based updates.

This week is my last down in the 'big smoke' and I'm really going to miss it! I've loved the London life and have realised how thankful I am to be working in the serene South West offices after this heat wave of a week.
Oxford Circus in rush hour and 24degree heat is not somewhere I like being. PLUS, every time I've ventured into Topshop while I've been here, I've come out with a purchase, which is rare for me and Toppers.

The newest tips;

Get tasks done ASAP It'll benefit you - less to rush through later - and your employer - you'll impress & take weight off their shoulders.
Don't limit yourself to your job description I've taken on so much more than what I was briefed with and I couldn't be happier with it. It's given me some great experience and a lot can easily be put into future projects.
For London, bump the temperature up So the weather says it will be 19 degrees? In London (I'm not sure whether it's the pollution, the tube, or the all the walking) that will easily be hotter. Don't always trust the weather man! Same goes for rain, 'a couple of light showers' is likely to mean spitting all day.
Utilise the weather! If it's a walk to the shop, or a long lunch in the park, even ten minutes of real vitamin D will definitely boost your mood and make the day go so much faster.
Don't forget to have fun After a long day and what feels like an even longer commute, it's easy enough to just sit in front of the TV until it's acceptable to crawl into bed. But, going out for dinner or drinks with friends will make the days more bearable as you have something to look forward to. Don't reserve social life to the weekends!

London's greenery.

Taking lunch in the park.

When the bestest visited.
Southbank's beach is probably my all time favourite London destination.

This may be my last week, but I'm pretty sure it's going to be my busiest, so there may still be life in The Ins & Outs yet!

Giveaway Time! Closed

2011-08-07T16:43:00.003+01:00

It's rare that Peluxe has a giveaway, I think there has only been a couple in my three years of blogging - time for one now then isn't it?!

Rules are simple as;

Be a follower of Peluxe (through any means, but pref GFC as I can check easier!)
Leave a comment - of any form - below, including your email.
UK only I'm afraid!
Giveaway closes this Friday 12th August 2011 at 23.59 GMT (any comments after this time won't be published and won't be considered, sorry!)
There will be three individual winners.

So, what's in it for you?
Well, with the re launch of Sure deodorants, including MotionSense technology. THREE lucky readers will be winning two aerosols and two roll ons each.
With August said to be the only bit of summer the UK will be seeing ~~she types as it thunders and chucks it down~~, what better time to give the Cotton Dry & Cool Pink Fresh styles to the test?

Enter now and stock up to smell fresh for the rest of the summer!

**PR Sample

GOSH Nail Glitter

2011-08-05T17:05:00.000+01:00

Ever inspired by other bloggers, I spotted an amazing nail of the day on the Yummy Mummy blog and couldn't wait to give it a go myself. She had me convinced it was a professional job.

Without meaning to, I went for the exact same colours as her from the GOSH Nail Glitter selection. '03 Grey Moonstone' & '02 Gold'.

This is glitter time for grown ups. It's a bit of a messy job, but so worth it. Holly suggested tipping a bit into the lid and sprinkling over the nail, I did it the other way and just dipped my nail into the pot.

After applying a french manicure style strip of clear nail varnish, I left it a few seconds before dipping in, then lightly sweeping away the excess. The wastage isn't too bad, but you could always work over paper then tip it back in.

I applied over Barry M 'Peach Melba' & Barry M 'Fuschia' leaving to try fully before applying the clear nail varnish. After about 10 minutes I then applied a top coat over the glitter. It didn't get the brush too clogged with glitter, just a few particles made it back into the bottle.

It requires a bit of patience and a bit of a tidy up afterwards but I love this look. It doesn't transfer everywhere either, and lasts just as long as your nail varnish.

There are ten shades to choose from at £3.99 each.

The App Store

2011-08-02T20:58:00.002+01:00

How do you know somebody has an iPhone?

They tell you.

Yeah, have you heard that one? I'm with that team. Team iPhone all the way for me.
I absolutely heart my iPhone. Beyond the amount anyone should cherish a mobile phone.
I keep seeing newbies coming on the scene, looking for the best apps. I remember my naivety when I began; what apps would last? Were they worth paying for? It's a truth universally acknowledged that the majority of people will spend their earnings on their iPhone, but then won't pay 60p for an app, going immediately to the 'top free' page instead.

Here are my picks for your new love. Paid, free, useful and bizarre;

Twitter, Facebook, Google, Wikipedia and eBay are musts haves. Get them on your touch screen immediately.

The entertainment

Fruit Ninja - perfect time waster. You literally slice fruit and watch it splat against the screen. Made even more addictive by the inclusion of blades and backgrounds to unlock.

Doodle Jump - I think this was the first game I ever bought. Simple and regularly updated with new 'themes'.

Cyanide & Happiness - Hoping you've heard of this genius comic, it's that in app form. A daily comic, usually with a bit of a taboo nature. Always amusing, every now and then hilarious.

Pose - as found from Elle Fowler, it's Instagram (see below) for fashionistas. Basically, it's outfits of the days and recent buys in a Twitter esque forum.
Improvement? Easier accessibility to browse other users. Recommendations on who you might like.

Whatsapp - iPhone's answer to Blackberry Messenger. This is free instant messaging between iPhones and can also be downloaded on Blackberrys, for those without an unlimited text tarriff.
Improvement? More BB users need to know about this app!

Photography

Instagram - I've only just discovered it (find me 'Peluxe'), but it is a genius app. You can add various affects, filters and frames to your photos then share in your feed. Share your name below and I'll find you! If anyone has managed to track down Justin Bieber's account, would be much obliged if you shared the info...
Improvements? To be able to take pictures, then save to edit later.

Hipstamatic - the predecessor to Instagram really. Different 'lenses' and 'films' give a variety of effects to photos. But, it's often slow and doesn't have the social network aspect to it.
Improvement? Easier browsing function for the effects and to run faster.

Daily Booth - another website in app form. Another Twitter esque forum, but with photography. I prefer the laptop option to browse pics, but my phone to upload (on there as 'Peluxe'!).
Improvement? To be able to see your feeds uploads only, instead of seeing all their activity.

Postcards - now this is a really useful app. Especially if you're a traveller. You just take a photo, or upload it to your phone, then upload to Postcards and for 99p (£1.49 internationally) you can have it printed to a postcard and sent out. I tried this in America and it took around 2 weeks for the postcard to surface, but it's easier, cheaper and so much more personal than buying one!
Improvement? Faster delivery times and the option to edit the photos.

Travel

Tube Deluxe - could easily go into raptures about this. The map & plan functions are my most used. It provides accurate departure times, status of the tubes, itineraries and locates your nearest station
Improvement? Ironically, you can't use this while actually on the tube. You need a signal or 3g/wifi to access information.

I can tell you on good authority that Trainline is useful, even if it is just to alleviate the credit card fee, but I deleted this due to not using... Google Maps comes on the iPhone, standard. This has helped in so many pickles I manage to get myself into, but it does eat through your battery.

And the rest

Period tracker - yeah, I went there. You just tap when you start, tap when you end and after a couple of months it can predict. You can also log other symptoms you get like mood, spots, headaches etc. Useful if you're often caught off guard.

Tune In Radio - another I only just discovered. I wondered why there was never an app for radio. It can be glitchy with reception, but on the whole is tolerable. The usual presets (I.E. 98.9 for Radio 1) aren't the same, it's best to search for a show (E.G. Chris Moyles) to find your station quickly. You can save your presets and record shows.
Improvement? To play in the background while on other functions. It cuts out as soon as you press the home screen button.

Leave your favourite apps below - always love discovering new ones!

Burberry Lust

2011-07-27T13:01:00.001+01:00

It isn't often that I post what I'm lusting after here - I leave that to Daisy - but after seeing this post on Style Scrapbook I had a moment where I fell head over heels. For wellington boots.

I missed the memo on Hunter - just don't really understand the obsession there actually, but these beauties... Whole other story.

Burberry Rain Boot £150

Am I suffering temporary insanity thinking £150 for boot shaped rubber is 'not that much'? What has happened to the bargain love inside me? (FYI my current wellibobs were £20 from Brantano back in 2008).

They look so much better in real life; case in point...

Image credit Style Scrapbook

Oh how I ~~the mighty~~ have fallen.

It seems London has brought out the designer whore inside me.

Are you a designer lover or 'Primark will do that cheaper' kind of gal?

**Edit** These were tried on in Selfridges Shoe Galleries and I decided they just weren't worth it. Turns out even expensive rubber, is just rubber.

Umberto Giannini Painted Lady range

2011-07-20T22:25:00.001+01:00

As part of my internship, I was lucky enough to see the preview of Umberto Giannini's make up range. The Backcomb in a Bottle genius is now being unleashed into make up. With sets due to be released in time for Christmas, there are some brilliant multi tasking gifts that will need to be taken advantage of.

From clutches filled with mini products, to the Party Loving Hair & Make Up Kit, that packs in every thing you'll need for a night out.

Their Painted Lady range includes a palette, which will be a permanant fixture in Boots, and on my dressing table. Taking the familiar female that adorns their hair products, the sturdy black packaging reveals 8 eyeshadows and 4 lip glosses, with a double ended brush applicator.

The pigmentation isn't brilliant, but for one who prefers sheer eyeshadow, then £10 is worth it.

I was very impressed with the gift sets, released in late August. They double up as great storage - a clutch and what I perceived as a luxury laptop bag! All filled with all your Umberto Giannini haircare products along with the individual eyeshadow which is housed in the prettiest of packaging.

I also had the pleasure of meeting Paul Gooch, who was the mastermind behind the range. He has worked on films like Alice in Wonderland, the make up in that film just amazed me. So seeing his work in person was a real treat.

All products will be exclusive to Boots, all part of the annual 3 for 2 Christmas Gift offer.
They are all amazingly priced as well, which I can't say I was expecting. Perfect way to treat yourself I say, it's not all about the giving you know.

**Gifted by the PR

Motel Rocks High Summer Collection

2011-07-18T10:14:00.000+01:00

Motel Rocks have taken the summer in full swing and have launched their High Summer collection to celebrate. Over the summer this will include four unique collections, each a little bit different to the last.

My favourite has to be the Colour Kaleidoscope range, perfect to channel the colour blocking trend and I have my eyes on the Laureen Dress in Plain Sapphire. Such a simple design but that eye catching blue is beautiful!

A collection I'm looking forward to is the Femme Fatale collection, coming soon to the site with what looks like some beautiful lace pieces, perfect to transition into autumn/winter.

The other brand new collection, available now is the Cherry Blossom Girl range. My favourite piece is the Vanessa Vest in Cherry Blossom and I love how they've styled it on the site. Perfect to pick up an otherwise boring outfit.

The Colour Kaleidoscope and Cherry Blossom Girl ranges are both available now, with Girls Who Like Boys and the Femme Fatale range coming soon!

What are your favourites from the new ranges?

INS AND OUTS OF INTERNING the first week

2011-07-16T16:36:00.001+01:00

I'm beginning to get into the swing of London - Oyster user, running for tubes and grabbing a copy of the Metro makes me think I fit in with the rest of the commuters.

I have decided to reveal my internship, simply because I'm not going to be able to tell you much if I don't! It's for Latest in Beauty, which is right up my street for a company. All about beauty and bringing you the cheaper alternative to having to buy all the new releases.

This week I have been working on drafting posts for their blog, along with a dabble in feature writing. I also got the chance to attend the Umberton Giannini event earlier this week, for the release of their new Painted Lady make up range, due to be released in time for Christmas.
I'll do a separate post to showcase the fab new products they're releasing.

Image taken from Umberto Giannini Facebook.

So, onto the tips, what I've learned in the first week;

Get your travel route and payment sorted before you leave. Numerous queues for Oyster cards, reloads, rail passes and unexpected tube closures has meant a lot of waiting around this week.
I recommend either London Tube or Tube Deluxe, as well as bus mapper for iPhone users.
Don't always trust and rely on Google maps. Firstly my phone died when I needed maps at its most, then it said I had a 35 minute walk, which I have managed to do in 15 minutes or less every day
Embrace the commute. On a good day it takes an hour and a half to get to the office, commitment I know! All you need is a good book (or Glamour!) or a good playlist and it honestly flies by once you know your route. Plus, running for trains and tubes have definitely improved my fitness, even from just the first few days!
Use Twitter as a tool! Thanks to everyone (especially Deafinitely Girly) for any message of support, along with all your useful advice. Searching other tweets has an endless supply of answers to delays, why it's so busy and so much more you don't realise you'll want to know until it happens.

I think I'm right in saying that this next week I'll really be getting into the project, so excited to see what I'll be responsible for.
For now I am enjoying lie ins (which don't seem to work as well after a week of 7am starts) and being back in a wireless internet world.

Follow my daily grind through Twitter @Phibster

INS AND OUTS OF INTERNING overview

2011-07-10T19:01:00.000+01:00

For those that read my previous Personality Injection post, you'll know I finally managed to get a relevant internship. Happy face.
I thought I'd catalogue my intern life in the form of a new series on the bloggity - hopefully this will help some of you who are lucky enough to get some work experience in your field.

So, here it is;

The Ins and Outs of Interning.

Location; South London
Period; July to August
Field; beauty

Not every day is going to filled with exciting tasks, but I know there will be a large learning curve for this experience, a curve that you can bend along with me!

source

Firstly, I am a Yorkshire girl, born and bred *insert rest of the rhyme here*. I am a proud Yorkshirian, but in all honesty couldn't wait to get out of the same old same old.
I'm going from being engulfed in fields and farm life to a concrete wonderland and a daily commute.
I'll be living in Reading for two months and making the journey into Paddington station, before trickling down to South London via the tube.
I won't be getting into specifics of the Ins and Outs, not at least until I've left anyway. I still want a bit of anonymity in this.

With any new knowledge I gain, I can share some tips and tricks of the trade and document my new Southern lifestyle.

source

Wish me luck! I'm sure I'm going to need it...

Keep on top of my daily grind through Twitter @Phibster

Teenbook Magazine

2011-07-10T10:08:00.003+01:00

I was one of those teenagers that bought every magazine out there. To begin with it was the TV Hits, Smash Hits and Live & Kicking, it then progressed to Mizz, then Bliss and J17. I'm not even sure the majority of those titles are still around, but a new one is making headway for that niche audience that need catering for.

Teenbook Magazine is filled with current fashion and beauty trends, culture, music and everything that other titles seem to miss for a large section of their target market. Teenbook is a new edge magazine.

Think NYLON for the teen market, this is just what I would like to read!
Teenbook is available online at issuu and I think it's perfect for the thousands of fashion bloggers which would love the content.

Issue one features Emily Osment (which if you haven't already got obsessed with I urge you to do so), Wildfox and Kat Graham (of Vampire Diaries/Honey 2 fame). Alongside beautifully shot fashion and jewellery edits.

Teenbook have just confirmed their second cover star, a Hollywood starlet with fashion labels, TV shows and fashion icon status, for release in September.

With fashionable teenagers taking over the world, this new quarterly title is a perfect accompaniment to their domination.

You can find Teenbook on Twitter & Facebook.

Personality Injection - The big one.

2011-07-08T11:50:00.001+01:00

No, I'm not getting married or having a baba just yet. But, this is actually the biggest and most exciting thing that has ever happened in my life, so lets bring in the asterisks.

**I have got an internship! Finally, I have bagged a 2 month position in South West London. I'm not saying where, just for a bit of privacy. But, rest assured it's definitely up my street - if you follow me on Twitter I'm bound to slip up and reveal all.
So, I'll be moving in with a friend in Reading and making the commute as of next week. So very nervous, but at least it's nervous/excited and not making me want to throw up.
*And congrats to Zoe who has managed to bag a summer job in Toronto! And I thought London was a big move...

**I am addicted to Instagram (for iPhone), that, alongside my (still successful) Project 365 means I am pissing off friends with the amount of random photos I'm taking.
Follow me! My user name is Peluxe - I've discovered some great photography on there.

Barry M Turquoise and Barry M Navy with blue shatter.

**After a rushed purchase of a second year house, we moved in last week and it's so much nicer than I remember. Fully cannot wait to properly move in and begin my second year of University in September.

**Any Sheffield based bloggers? I urge you to go to Fancie cupcakes. It is exclusive to Sheffield (Winter Gardens, Sheffield Uni SU & Meadowhall) and is the nicest cake I've ever eaten. Me and the bestie went for tea and cake in Meadowhall last night and my excitement was kind of embarassing.

**Finally, after so much exchanging and free-so-super-long-wait delivery, I got my ASOS heels. The time makes it so much worse because they've now gone to a bargain £26 in the sale.

I've been told to prepare for pain.

So, with my internship I'm not sure of how blogging service will be over the coming months, but I will try my hardest to get a few posts up for you. Please bare with me!

How is everyone else filling their summer?

Aussie Summer Soireé

2011-07-04T10:15:00.004+01:00

My wings were dusted off again last weekend as I headed down to 'that London' for another brilliant Aussie event.
All in the name of the Lusciously Lighter challenge, this event signified the end of our my Lighter Self challenge - although with exams, moving out of halls, decorating my room and a holiday, I can't say I've had the most success with it...

Anyway, we headed to Sunbeam Studios, a hop skip an a jump from Portobello Market for a day relinquishing the north/south divide among the angels.
Carla and I had a mooch around the market before heading to the event, a little tip for non Londoners, get to Portobello Market early. We could hardly move for tourists, spoons and people that loved to stop in the middle of a moving crowd.

The afternoon was filled with yummy salad, hair stylists, photography, champagne tasting and candy floss making. I was quite appalled to find I liked the cheapest (and least real champagne) sparkling wine of the tasting, in fact I found the only legitimate champagne quite horrible! Guess I don't have expensive taste after all...

Excellent group shot of Holly, Sara (new to the blogging world!), me, Carla, Lauren, Catherine and Liloo - courtesy of Carla.

I always look forward to meeting new bloggers then come over extremely shy to those new faces I was so excited to meet. The next time such a social event befalls me, I make a pact to put myself out there more. Please don't hesitate to come over to me, I'm just not one for the first move!
Hoping I didn't come off as rude to any of those that may have recognised me...

The summer dress code threw me with the awful weather that I came back from Spain to, I opted for this outfit;

As modelled in my newly decorated room;

Dress - George @ ASDA

Belt - Topshop

Brogues - Primark

Ring - VIPXO

What an excellent way to finalise the Lusciously Lighter lifestyle, although seeing my slight beach body completely disappear means I may just be beginning this journey instead of ending it.

Perfect for Summer Batiste Tropical

2011-07-01T10:00:00.001+01:00

I'm sure all of those reading this are fully aware of Batiste. It is one of my all time favourite brands and I have yet to find a dry shampoo that even comes near to competing.

Batiste have recently undergone a bit of a face lift. Releasing new size of their range, so for dry shampoo addicts like myself, it means one can will now last even longer.

I was sent the new version of Batiste Tropical and I'm still working on the same can despite using it for almost three weeks. The extra 50ml really makes a difference to the longevity of the product!

It claims to smell of 'coconut & exotic' and if any of you have ever gone for the cheaper Malibu in Tesco, it smells exactly the same (personally, it beats Malibu any day).
I think the revamped version of the Tropical scent has a slightly different scent to the original, with a bit more 'exotic' and a little less 'coconut' to freshen up your hair.

Batiste is now available in 400ml at £4.99, 200ml at £2.99 and 50ml at £1.55.

**PR Sample

Sunshine Ready with Soltan Once

2011-06-29T10:14:00.003+01:00

So, I know everyone in the UK went mental over the two day heat wave that seems to be moving on, but I've just got back from a week in Spain... So - it was no biggie for me!

Before my holiday I was kindly sent the new invisible sun cream from Soltan. It claims to give 8 hour sun protection, excellent UVA defences and only needs to be applied once.

As stated on the bottle, I found it works best if you apply a good 15 minutes before venturing out in to the sun. The days I didn't apply until after being outside for an hour or more (all in the name of tanning..) were the days I got burnt. However, my legs were thoroughly coated each morning and didn't burn at all, in fact just the right amount of sun was caught, for a nice sunkissed look.

It's a spray nozzle, great for touch ups, but I prefer to spray oodles into my hands and smother it over the vital parts on the first application.

It is the consistency of runny olive oil, which I expected to leave a greasy finish, both on the hands and on the skin. I was pleasantly surprised when there was no residue on either and it gave a great 'dry touch' finish as advertised. It blended in well and gave a nice sheen to the skin, as advertised on the above shot of my legs!

It states that one bottle should provide around six full body applications, this bottle lasted me a week with over 6 applications and I still have a quarter of the bottle left. Maybe I'm doing it wrong...

It's also water resistant up to 40 minutes in the water and doesn't have too strong of a scent. A chemically sun cream scent that only lingers lightly on the skin. But everyone loves that sun cream scent while on their jollies right? Or is that just me...?

The Soltan range is exclusive to Boots stores and is available now. Soltan Once invisible 200ml is priced at £16.99 or the bag friendly 75ml for £6.49. Soltan products are currently buy one get one free.

**PR Sample

Savanna Fashion

2011-06-27T14:21:00.001+01:00

With my necklace collection refusing to dwindle, I didn't think there would be any harm in adding another one to the mix. Savanna Fashion contacted me a couple of weeks ago to feature their products on my blog.
They gave me the scope of their website and I chose the Golden Hoop Necklace;

I absoloutely love the packaging, this is something on par with the high end. With prices suited to everybody's pockets, this really is affordable luxury.

The website is simple and easy to navigate, from clothes, to shoes, bags and jewellery there is a lot on offer from this somewhat unknown brand. Delivery was fast and as I previously said, the packaging alone is enough to make you order.

The necklace is great to add to a plain outfit, despite the near 'bling' factor it doesn't look too blingy! Worn slightly to the side so the black material isn't symmetrical around the neck, looks great over a plain white tee with a blazer thrown over the top.
This was just £12. The rest of the jewellery ranges greatly in price, so it's easy enough to find something to suit your budget.

Some of the designer scarves look great and I have my eye on this bag, to entertain me until they stock out the rest of their site.

Go to SavannaFashion.com to shop and Savanna Fashion is on Facebook.

**PR Sample

Personality Injection Deux

2011-06-12T22:42:00.000+01:00

In my head I have loads to catch you up on, but in reality the list probably ain't gunna be that long. Let's see shall we?

** I went shopping with one of my oldest friends today. We barely see each other but always get on as if we talk daily. True BFF right there.
PS bought nothing but face wipes.. exciting right?

**I'm in the midst of decorating my room (pale pink to 'Amethyst' lilac). What could have been finished is now postponed as my mother decided to rid me of grey floor tiles (chosen by the previous room dweller, the brother) and get me a squishy cream number.

** Spotted this House of Harlow lookalike on VIPXO's blog shop and knew I needed it in my life. It honestly compliments every outfit I've worn with it.

** I saw loads of people tweeting to ask where Lydia Bright (of The Only Way Is Essex 'fame') got her bikinis in Marbella. Go look at her blog as she tends to update with the majority of outfits she wears, and has just done an update post with all her latest events on bikinis.

**Have probably tweeted or linked to this video somewhere along the line, but I just rediscovered it. It's talent at its best and the first time I watched it my jaw was on the floor.

**Finally got around to trying to trying the ombré nails trend this week. Absolutely loved it and I only wish I had a bigger nail varnish collection so I could do different colours!

New blog discoveries;

Buy now, blog later - Lollipop26 is back to blogging!

Meek n Mild

Ring My Bell

WTForever21 - currently going through a lawsuit (if I'm not mistaken) but this is hilarious.

What do you need to catch me up on??

17 Nail Bar in a Bag Freebies!

2011-06-12T10:03:00.002+01:00

Just a heads up, 17 are offering a great little gift bag, free with the purchase of two or more 17 products online or instore between 15th June and 12th July.

Inside you get;

17 Lasting Finish nail polish in 'Pink Grapefruit'
17 Lasting Finish nail polish in 'Knockout Red'
Leopard print nail file
Leopard print, heart shaped nail transfers (perfect for first time nail art)

Personally I would go for this just for the Pink Grapefruit, honestly one of my all time favourite pinks for the talons. Plus, a great nod to the colour blocking trend for the season!

17 products are exclusive to Boots and prices begin at just £1.99

**PR Sample

Is This a Re-Package?

2011-06-10T14:56:00.001+01:00

Garnier Pure Active pads have been my go to skin care since I can remember. I must have started using them around age 13, and I'm still using them now aged 20. That is Pure commitment.
A few months back they stopped stocking them in Sainsbury's which was enough of an inconvenience, but I still made a special trip to Boots to stock up. Now, they have even gone from the shelves of Boots.
Disaster.

As a replacement, I opted for the next best thing;

After a few uses of these, I wonder if these are the new go to?
They feel just as strong as the original circular pads (by strong I mean sensitive skin will be burnt with these bad boys), have the same scent and seem to work just as well.
It seems Garnier have opted for a repackage and gone for the less product route. You get 25 wipes, compared with 52 pads for around the same price. That's half the product.

I've seen these hiding among the skincare products in TJ Hughes, with a descriptive Spanish label. But, until I'm back in Newcastle I can't go for a restock. And, when your favourite product is only locatable in Spanish, in TJ Hughes, you know it's probably on its way out.

It looks like I'll be settling for the new packaging and less product in order to keep my skin pleased.

Have you ever had this scavenger hunt for your all time favourite product?

**EDIT
Seems they no longer stock these either. Need some recommendations for STRONG skin care please?

Motel Swimwear Launch!

2011-06-07T15:27:00.000+01:00

Anyone who is a regular on the Motel Rocks site will have noticed their great prints on their clothes. They always manage to offer something just a little bit different from what's on offer on the high street, with some of my all time favourite night out dresses being from Motel Rocks.

After years of their customers requesting swimwear, they've finally gone for it!

In a couple of weeks Motel will be launching a limited collection of high waisted bikini breifs, swimsuits and mix and match bikini items. The graphic leopard print and 'wallflower' floral print will feature in the collection.

It's on a first come, first served basis for their debut limited edition swimwear, so sign up now for alerts of the launch.

I for one can't wait to complete this summers bikini collection with their mix and match pieces.

Will you be grabbing one of their limited edition pieces?

Nair Silky Sensations Hair Removal Cream

2011-06-04T10:00:00.009+01:00

While most people seem to avoid depilatory creams like the plague, I myself am a seasoned user. I put up with the 'scent' and rarely get allergic reactions like others seem to report. I find that the convenience and thorough ness outweighs the negatives.

When I was contacted about the new Nair Silky Sensations range, I couldn't wait to trial them to see if the pomegranate & soy or kiwi & vitamin C options would in fact conquer the smell of these creams.

The bottles and their contents are easily mistakable for moisturisers, which is just half of what they offer. They contain dual moisturisers, so you are getting moisturised while removing unwanted hair. These are perfect for use on the legs, bikini line, under arm... Wherever that hair is you want to rid!

I obviously reached for the eye catching pomegranate and soy to trial first. While applying you get the fresh scent, unlike the majority of hair removal creams but after rinsing off the familiar smell that we all hate is there, although subtle.

It's completely fool proof to use, just smooth the cream over the area, leave for a minimum of three minutes then test a patch to see if the hair comes away. If not leave on for no longer than ten minutes until the hair starts to remove after wiping over with a damp cloth.

I love these products, it really makes a notable difference to the hydration of the skin compared with other depilatory products. Yes, the notorious hair removal cream smell still lingers there but at least you get the pleasure of a fresh scent while you apply.

Nair Silky Sensations is exclusive to Boots and is in stores now priced at £6.99 each.

**PR Sample

Boots Soltan Beautiful Bronze

2011-06-02T10:00:00.001+01:00

An impending holiday and the rumoured appearance of the sun this weekend, I was looking forward to trying Boots Soltan bronze range, which I was recently sent.
I'm one who tips the scale of pale without any product help. I'd go with pasty. I like a little more than sunkissed in self tanner so a hint of bronze sounded right up my street.

There is currently a 3 for 2 offer across select tanning products in Boots, through until the 14th of June. Perfect to get your tan on before your summer holiday.

The Beautiful Bronze Self Tan Lotion was a completely unexpected product. It comes out in a light brown creamy form and dries almost instantly on application. It doubles as a good moisturiser as well as giving a light bronze colour. I found that two coats built the right level of colour, however it was verging on orange. There is a light shimmer to the product - usually something that would immediately turn me off - that worked to catch the light in the right places and only enhance the bronzed 'glow' that every one is on the search for.

The let down to this product is the smell. Initial application has a subtle sun cream scent to it, but once it begins developing the generic self tan smell is obvious. Some might love it, I happen to loathe it and it made me question whether I'll continue using this product.

The Self Tan Face Cream works in a much more gradual building way and I found three uses started to show good results, which means it's ok to use it every day. I didn't notice the self tan scent with this either which is a mega bonus considering it's right under my nose! Perfect to maintain the post holiday tan.

The Soltan Beautiful Bronze range is exclusive to Boots. Prices start from £2.49.

**PR Sample

Sephora Nail Patch Art

2011-05-31T20:44:00.001+01:00

These are easily the most simple nail stickers I have ever used. No jagged edges, no peeling at the sides and no awkward filing to remove the excess.

Simples.

Brought to me all the way from Sephora - La Rochelle, France, from Mummy dear.

Personality Injection

2011-05-30T23:22:00.001+01:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

With the magnitude of reviews that I've been putting up lately, I seem to have lost the personality that used to be injected. Yes, there may be an attempt at a joke or some kind of Phoebe-ism thrown in, but I miss the little updates on my life on here and have come to realise that the personal updates on other blogs is what keeps me reading.

While my summer isn't shaping up to be the most exciting, I'm hoping I'll have enough to share, personal life wise, to bring the Phoebe back into Peluxe.

**In the name of the Lusciously Light movement, courtesy of Aussie. I have taken advantage of not having to pay for food shopping and stretching my boundaries in terms of my usual meals. Since being home I've created lamb and olive burgers (from scratch!) and stuffed peppers. Both surprisingly delicious.

Both recipes were taken from ancient magazine clippings, but I'll dig them out if your mouths are watering...

**I've finished my first year of Uni. Completely donezo. I now await mid July for my final results, but otherwise I'm free until September. ~~Someone fill my time?~~

**I don't remember buying all that much since going to the US, but somewhere in the last month I have accumulated A LOT. So much so, that I have only just unpacked, managing to fit it all neatly away in my room, after being home for four days.

**A mini TV review;
I have watched ~~and will probably continue to watch~~ every episode of Made in Chelsea but I think it is truly awful television.
Geordie Shore is my new pleasure. No guilt needed. I send sympathies to all true Geordie's right now. As if the stereotypes of the North East weren't bad enough, they've just decreased in class tenfold.
All my American goodness has ended until at least Autumn. Bored of Gossip Girl, can't keep up with The Vampire Diaries, still obsessed with Hellcats and 90210 can do no wrong. Oh, and of the final two, the right one won America's Next Top Model.
Just waiting on the Kardashians' return now.

I just need to get the summer to pick up speed now, for all you students, doesn't time move slower when you're at home?

Nair Ultra Precision Wax Roll On

2011-05-29T20:24:00.001+01:00

There is such a feeling of accomplishment when you have perfectly groomed brows. At least for me anyway. I can rarely be bothered to do a thorough job at plucking them neatly and the 'hassle' of getting to the beauty salon always seems to out do the booking of an appointment.
When I was offered the new precision roll on wax from Nair, I agreed. Hoping, maybe, that I could cross off a necessary appointment.

It's supposed to bring salon waxing home, without the sticky ness (100% rinseable formula) or the mess of spatulas (roll on tube).

The pack comes with all necessary ingredients for the perfect wax;

I followed the steps precisely. Heat up the tube for three minutes in freshly boiled water then carefully remove and check the consistency. It was runny enough so I applied under the bulk of my eyebrow.

The roll on applicator made for easy and quick application and for the most part got only the area I wanted. Using the orange stick (their version of a spatula) I removed any 'main' hairs that had become stuck down. Covering with the white cloth, I smushed it down and ripped back.

The end result isn't quite what I had pictured and left the majority of my stray eyebrow hairs wondering why they had just been smothered with the substance.

Eyebrow straight after waxing.

When tried on a friends upper lip the results were a lot more desirable, but for eyebrows, I don't think Nair has progressed that far yet.

Nair suggest cutting the strips to the shape of the eyebrow for a better removal, but even with that it doesn't give worthwhile results. I.E you will still be plucking afterwards.

The residue washed off easily and there was minimum redness unlike with wax strips I have tried before.

The reusable nature of the product makes it value for money and it's unlikely you'll run out of the 25 strips before the product runs out, especially if you're precise.

Nair Ultra Precision Face & Eyebrow Wax Roll-On is available now for £5.99.

**PR Sample

The Difficulty of Yellow

2011-05-23T21:55:00.000+01:00

With the colour blocking and yellow seemingly everywhere on the beauty trend pages, I decided I had to channel it somewhere. Not being able to track down a suitable pale yellow liner and not brave enough to have the flash of yellow across the lids, I opted for nails.

I tried the Barry M 'Lemon Ice Cream' shade and even have to three coats it was still sheer and streaky, so instead, I opted for the 17 'Go Go'.

Applied so much better. It was quite creamy in consistency. I went for two coats on the majority and had to touch up a few nails, leaving 3 coats.

Not entirely sure I'm loving the yellow trend. It was a lot more wearable than I thought, but it definitely isn't in the race for my favourite nail shade. Plus, even with my favourite base coat, my nails still held the yellow stain when I removed it.

Maybe I'll try and channel a different nail trend for this season!

Easy Falsies Kiss Ever E Z Lashes

2011-05-22T10:00:00.001+01:00

I've become a huge fan of false lashes in the past year, but it's rare that I will get a perfect application first time, if at all. Whether there isn't enough glue, the lash isn't straight or I've applied it too far from the lash line - it's never quite right.

The advert for Kiss eyelashes caught my eye. There are strings attached to the corners of each lashes to make positioning easy and precise. Then, once applied, just pull the strings out and they're done.

I thought this would be a brilliant product and had no hesitation in picking out my favourite set to play with.
However, for me it didn't follow through. The idea was great, but in practise it just didn't happen.

Firstly, applying the glue has it's obstacles as you try to avoid loading up the tiny red strings which are sat in two tiny loops on the track line. They also become an obstacle when sticking them down, as you need to avoid securing the strings or they become difficult to pull off. Both times I used these it ended up pulling up the corner of the lash despite me holding it down with a spare finger.
The glue provided was scrapped and I used my trusty Eyelure glue as it just didn't seem to stick at all.

When using the strings to place the lash, you need to ensure that they're not twisted and you pick them up flat (if that makes sense). I found that pulling the strings to straighten the lash meant that it got flung upside down and the whole process became a whole lot more fiddly than it usually is.

The plus side is that the strings can be re threaded through the loop. I initially thought they would be one use after being pulled out. But after threading through the tiny loop after use, they're set up for the next application.

Once applied and set, they looked great. Close to the line and blended in with my liner flawlessly, probably the neatest my lashes have been applied, but not without difficulty.
Maybe, just like it is with the first ever lash application, it's a case of practise makes perfect, but for now I've ditched the strings and I'm just applying free style.

I chose number 04, which is a relatively natural looking, at least compared to my usual sets. From what was available in my Boots, it seems there are seven different styles, with some natural ish and some extreme.

I'm going to keep practising as I really want this to work out, but as for my first few tries with them, the only plus side is that the lash is applied a lot straighter than normal.

Kiss Ever Easy lashes are exclusive to Boots stores and are priced at £6.50 each.

Have you tried the new easy lashes?

Getting the Crackles

2011-05-20T10:00:00.004+01:00

The hype around the first Barry M Nail Effects was colossal. I remember searching for almost a month to get my hands on it. When I heard Barry M were going to be bringing out three new crackle shades I thought I'd be suffering the same fate, but they have changed their usual 3 or 4 on display and rows upon rows of each shade were out in Boots.

Pink Fizz & Blue Print

There is also a fourth shade available, White Frost, but I passed on that. I love the range of looks that can be created as it's never the same with two strokes.

The Boots I bought from had a range of falsies on display laden with various looks you could create. The mint with the Blue Print over top is what swayed me to more Nail Effect goodness.

This is what I created;

Sephora by OPI 'Read My Palm' & Essie 'Lapis of Luxury'

Barry M 'Navy' and OPI 'Dulce de Leche' via iPhone...

I think the majority of us have found that the thinner coat you use, the better effect you get. Trying not to overlap in the middle of the name may be a bit of a task but it is definitely worth it to have tiny cracks spreading over your base.

The shatter trend is definitely in full force as Models Own have their 'Smash Up' version to compete. I for one am this trend, a bit of an edgy.. erm.. edge to your manicure.

Sure MotionSense - Does it work?

2011-05-18T19:39:00.001+01:00

I first saw the jingle bell advert in the US and thought the UK would be missing out on the new technology as created by Sure. The new Motion Sense system claims to release 'microcapsules' throughout the day as you move. The jingle bell bracelets were worn to show just how much us ladies get through in the day.

I personally love getting a whiff of my deodorant throughout the day, if only so it reassures me I'm still smelling fresh. I got sent this almost two weeks ago and have worn it every day since.

I found that during active periods, for example a gym sesh or vigorous dancing on a night out, I picked up a scent every now and then but nothing over whelming. I liked that it wasn't the obvious deodorant scent trying to overpower my perfume. During the more active sessions, I found although I could smell it every now and then, it didn't give effective staying power and I needed to reapply if going out again.

During a regular day I didn't notice the scent very often, although if actively sniffed at it was still subtly scenting the skin at the end of the day, no need to re spritz.

The lock system of the spray is a must for travelling and I love the new design of the Sure bottles.

The slogan 'The more you move the more it works' is definitely true with the new Sure Motion Sense. It's now available in the entire Sure range, so is more than worth a try to see if you can get some freshness throughout the day.

Sure Motion Sense is available in aerosol, roll on and stick forms with prices beginning at £1.77. In stores now.

**PR Sample

Moonlighting

2011-05-15T00:43:00.000+01:00

Although I seem to have been notably (I'm hoping) absent from the blogosphere (so far have tallied ten days) today I moonlight over on Lauren Loves... as part of her blogger interview series.

Surf your way over that direction to read my interview and perhaps get a bit of an insight into my life.

I'm in the midst of a three week, final first year exam period, then service should resume.

Humongous apologies!

Back in the blue NOTD

2011-05-05T13:49:00.000+01:00

It looks like it's going to be a May showers situation judging by the forecast for this weekend, so I've cracked the blue nail varnish out again. Apparently we're set for a scorching summer - let's just say I'll believe that when I see it. Anyway, I digress before I've begun...

I remember when I watched Jennifer's Body and became obsessed with the one nail a different colour as rocked by Megan Fox, then it just stopped. When I was in America there was so many people wearing this trend, so I've brought it back.

Essie 'Lapis of Luxury' and OPI 'Light My Sapphire'

After picking up a few Essie polishes across the pond, turns out I don't really like them. I find the brush way too thin and synthetic and the formula is way too thin for my liking. The light blue Essie colour is two coats, some needed three and it's still not completely opaque. What are you opinions on Essie?

Peluxe

Lily Loves Lola

Aussie More, More, More!

Babyliss Waving Wand

Lush haul

One thousand.

A look back at 2011

Christmas Gifts

Kardashian Kolors

Merry Christmas to all!

La Roche-Posay Effaclar K

Personality Injection

All Fired Up

Inis Moonlight

OMG Glitter Crackle!

Paris Hilton by Elegant Touch

Outfit of the night

Batiste WILD giveaway! **CLOSED**

Going matte

Personality Injection

The magnetic trend

Accessorize

Product giveaway with Dove! **CLOSED**

Featured on...

Lumiere Cosmetics

The Thing is...

GLITTERbomb.

Edinburgh

Inis: The unisex cologne

The 21st

Return

Personality Injection LFW

LFW: Vauxhall Fashion Scout designer round up

The Skin Tint

Personality Injection

Need to know - NEWCASTLE NIGHTLIFE

Need to know - ONE YEAR ON

Need to know - FIRST YEAR

The perfect nude

Need to know - FRESHERS

Need to know - PRE UNI MOVE

Latest in Beauty & the CEW Box

A slave to Emma Hardie Amazing Face

No7 Dollar

Introducing... The Ray Ban 2140

Passing it on

Haulin'

Personality Injection in pictures

Happy Aussie-versary! One day only! **CLOSED**

Batiste XXL

Out of office!

INS AND OUTS OF INTERNING the bulk

Giveaway Time! **Closed**

GOSH Nail Glitter

The App Store

Burberry Lust

Umberto Giannini Painted Lady range

Motel Rocks High Summer Collection

INS AND OUTS OF INTERNING the first week

INS AND OUTS OF INTERNING overview

Teenbook Magazine

Personality Injection - The big one.

Aussie Summer Soireé

Perfect for Summer Batiste Tropical

Sunshine Ready with Soltan Once

Savanna Fashion

Personality Injection Deux

17 Nail Bar in a Bag Freebies!

Is This a Re-Package?

Motel Swimwear Launch!

Nair Silky Sensations Hair Removal Cream

Boots Soltan Beautiful Bronze

Sephora Nail Patch Art

Personality Injection

Nair Ultra Precision Wax Roll On

The Difficulty of Yellow

Easy Falsies Kiss Ever E Z Lashes

Getting the Crackles

Sure MotionSense - Does it work?

Moonlighting

Batiste WILD giveaway! CLOSED

Product giveaway with Dove! CLOSED

Happy Aussie-versary! One day only! CLOSED

Giveaway Time! Closed