Turquoise and Coral

Just a quick colourful look that I have been loving recently. Ok yes, not necessarily very seasonal, but that hasn't stopped me sporting this combo non stop! A really fun and playful look with minimal effort. I feel like the pop of turquoise and splash of orange makes it look slightly exotic, but perhaps that's just me!

The main element to this look I would have to say is the lips, and in this department Revlon truly conquered. To achieve the orange/red shade I used Revlon Balm Stain in Rendezvous to outline and fill the lips, and a swipe of Revlon lipgloss in "Kiss Me Coral". A colourful eyeliner is also such an easy yet effective way of bringing attention to the eyes.

While I 'm finding it difficult to shrug off those slightly nostaligic thoughts of the past Hot Summer (which is evident by this look!), I am also incredibly excited for Christmas!

I hope everyone's Christmas shopping is going well!

Products used:
Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation
Rimmel Stay Matte Powder in Transparent
Benefit Coralista
Revlon Super lustrous Lip Gloss in Kiss Me Coral
Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Rendezvous
Bourjois Metallic Eyeliner in 54 Bleu Clinquant
Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner in Black
Benefit BADgal Lash Mascara

Catriona
x x x

Campout

Click here to view this look.

A camping party is a great time to relax and let off some steam. Whether it be bumming on the beach or foraging in the woods, this outfit is perfect for that laid back old school rocker feel which goes perfectly with the occasion.

The dominant part to this stylish and undeniably cool outfit is this vintage, baggy David Bowie vest. It alone provides the ultimate rocker and old school trend which is continuous throughout this look, and shows that you are really into some classic rock tunes. Partnered with these frayed, distressed denim shorts, it provides a worn in feel, which is casual yet very in this summer; spot on for lazing by the bonfire.

A pair of boots is an essential when dressing in old school fashion, and that is why we would wear these rocker, suede ankle boots with a slight heel; just enough to give you that height to show off your legs to their full advantage!

This bohemian style gold leaf hair band would look great with boho waves in the hair, and a spritz of sea spray. But then, where would we be without a pair of vintage sunglasses? Wearing brown instead of black, which may be a little too clean cut, creates a rustic vibe, and gives the brassy worn out effect which we are seeking.

The dead-on accessory to complete this look is this pair of silver cross earrings, which contrast with the gold leaf hair band. Together they allow that thrown together, effortlessly cool finish. It is the perfect outfit to wear to a chilled camping party, listening to a guitar by the bonfire. So go old school rocker this campout.

Search “Campout” in our “What to wear” tool to view all our camping outfits. Or click here to get this look.

Catriona

x x x

Family Meal

Click here to get this look.

The monochrome look has been creeping its way back into fashion recently, and played a prominent role in many designers Autumn Winter collections this year, and quite understandably.  This is a bold trend which shows sophistication and Class, which is why it is perfect for a Family Meal out. This look takes timeless pieces which on their own are stylish, but when put together make a Classic combination. It also makes for a versatile outfit which can be worn on many different occasions.

The prime piece to this look is this elegant Cream dress. The reason why we have chosen a cream dress in place of white is that it softens the overall edginess to the look, smoothing out any harsh qualities and making it a more wearable choice. The knee length and high neck to the dress create a smart and neat cut which, when coupled with this Black blazer jacket, is kept youthful and edgy.

This angular Black patent handbag provides a modern piece to the entire outfit. Unusual and unique, it ties the look together, and provides yet another statement piece to this dramatic look. Finally, you can never go wrong with a pair of black heels for a family meal, and this choice only continues the Monochrome trend which has inspired this look.

The Monochrome trend is increasingly popular this Season, and this outfit shows you the perfect way to work it. The contrast of Black and White will always be a firm favourite, as it is sophisticated and elegant, which is why I would wear this to a Family Meal, or any other event which requires a Classic touch.

Have a great week everyone!

Catriona

x x x

Holiday Night Out

Click here to get the look.

It’s holiday season, and for most of us that means sun, tanning and cocktails by the beach! So you need an outfit that will be perfect for those summer nights in the Sun spent dancing the night away. Though we may not be from a country blessed with year round sunshine, this doesn’t mean we have to stick out as a tourist. Go Mediterranean this summer with this gorgeous Spanish inspired look.

A summer essential this year is this gorgeous deep Red crop top, which is bang on trend this holiday season. When matched with these stylish high waisted shorts you will be kept cool, and have all your curves accentuated. While these high waisted shorts are fun and playful, they are also sexy, and with the Crop top create a figure hugging outfit which matches the smouldering Mediterranean style.

Ditch your flip flops as it’s time for dancing, and heels are another essential for a Holiday night out. With the help of the high waisted shorts, they elongate your leg and show off your fabulous new tan. Gold and Red are always a winning combination and when this look is matched with this pair of gold Earrings and Brass cuff the seductive Spanish style is only enhanced.

Finally, this easy yet stylish brown leather handbag is all you will need to hold the lippy and mascara for your night on the strip. Worn over the shoulder, it adds that final oomph to the outfit which brings it all together. So go Mediterranean this Holiday night out with this Spanish inspired outfit, with Gold and Red tones which mimic the gorgeous Mediterranean Sunset. 

Search “Holiday Night Out” in our “What to Wear” tool to view all our Holiday looks. Or click here to view this look.

Catriona

x x x

Back to School Style

Click here to get this look.

School fashion can be a bit of a conundrum, different groups bringing different styles to the table, and not all of them necessarily being of your taste. So why not become your own trendsetter, bringing your own style to the equation? When better to do this than on arriving back your first day of School? This summer holiday gives you the perfect time to prepare for that day, and this outfit is a real alternative yet right on trend look to help you do so.

This Leather Jacket provides you with your first alternative piece to the look; Rock and Roll yet Classic, it is sure to make you stand out from the crowd this School year. Additionally, these right on trend Feather Earrings further the alternative style, Gold always looking gorgeous with Black, and provoking an Indie vibe.

A loose pale Pink top is smart and sophisticated, which is just what you want when heading off to School. When paired with these pale Blue Jeggings which balance out the looseness of the top, it creates a cool, casual effect.

What School outfit is complete without the mandatory School Shoes, which have quite recently, come storming back into style? These Classic Black Shoes encompass the Preppy yet outrageously alternative style, and are guaranteed to last you a lifetime. But most of all, an oversized Bag is essential for School, so do it in style with this Brown Leather Bag; a great size to hold all your belongings, while maintaining the Indie side which is subtly creeping its way back into Fashion.

This outfit doesn’t follow any certain trend, but brings a mish mash of alternative pieces together to create a preppy, yet alternative look. So don’t follow the trend, let the trend follow you.

Search "School" in Dress Spy's What to wear tool to view other school day looks, or click here to get this look.

Catriona

x x x

Be Bold This Birthday

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It’s your Birthday, and you can wear whatever you want! And this outfit completely embraces that. The first thing I’m sure you’ll all notice is this eye-catching, fiery Red dress. I would wear it not only because of the gorgeous cut, but also because Red exudes confidence, and that’s how every woman should feel every day; and what better day to remember this on than your Birthday?

This bold, vibrant Red Dress is sure to keep all eyes on you, and this is a day to enjoy it!  The fit is one which skims over any unwanted curves, while the Black Blazer accentuates your waist. Not only does the cut of the Blazer and Dress create the perfect combination, but the colour contrast makes for a very striking look.  With this in mind, there is no need for jewellery; the simple yet stunning colour of the dress speaks for itself.

As it’s your Birthday, and you have a beautiful dress showing off your glorious legs, a pair of heels can only contribute to the look. Keeping it simple, I added a pair of plain Black Shoe Boots and a Quilted, Patent Black Handbag (as all girls know, a purse is essential). This Handbag is a perfect way to pull the outfit together and a handy size to carry all your favourite Make Up and Purse. It can also easily be kept on your shoulder comfortably all day with its dainty Silver Chain.

The finished look is one which practically oozes confidence. The Black of the Boots, Purse and Blazer keeps the focus on the dress, while the Red of the dress keeps all the focus on you. Take this day to flaunt your stuff, it’s your day and you are the belle of the ball.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Catriona

x x x

Festival Chic

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As a seasoned Festival goer, I have come to really appreciate having a few days where I can dress in any manner I like. Some wear fancy dress, while others dawn the rocker look. Nevertheless, the underlying theme remains the same: bohemian. Bohemia/folk is a much loved trend which is only becoming more popular, perhaps because it fits with the free spirit that is felt throughout every festival. Not only this, but it also makes for a very flattering outfit, what with its bold prints and patterns.

The first thing that caught my eye was the adorable handbag. Having learnt my lesson that it is never a good idea to lug a huge bag around with you while watching bands all day, it is the perfect option. Small and practical, but right on trend for the occasion. The tassels on both the bag and the shoes give the carefree vibe which is central at a Festival.

A chunky knit Cardigan never goes out of style, and in our English Summer, you know you’ll need one. This Cardigan with its Aztec prints encompasses the bohemian look. To accentuate its bold prints, I chose a light, dainty top, so as not to take attention away from the cardigan. Further to this, I chose the stonewashed shorts with visible pockets as they have a grungy feel, which further promotes the no fuss approach of the outfit.

To finish off, a simple metallic cuff completes and brings the outfit together. Each piece is so effortlessly on trend, something you can throw on in your tent, and know you’re going to look great all day. Therefore, I could not resist any of the items which I have chosen in this look. Each piece of clothing, when added together creates the perfect bohemian festival look. 

Click here to view where you can get this look!

Catriona

x x x

Confessions of a Shopaholic

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There’s nothing quite like a bit of retail therapy, so grab your girls and get spending! Of course, there is that mind boggling decision of what to wear...while you shop for what you would like to wear! There is one thing which is certain though, shopping doesn’t depend on the seasons. So you need an outfit you can wear all year round (give or take a Jacket). Something which you’ll be comfortable in for the forthcoming War against High Street crowds, that will look stylish. That is why I would wear this East London inspired outfit, which shows vintage Street style at its best.

This top doesn’t need to be cut in any extraordinary way to look cool, the paisley style pattern comes to life when matched with these pair of Black skinny Trousers, which keeps all the emphasis on the gorgeous detailing of the top. A pair of Gold hoops, which used to be an undesirable accessory, are now an ever growing trend in London, and coupled with this elongated Owl necklace, work together to put something feminine back into the outfit.

One thing which has in recent years come parading back into fashion is Brogues. Once seen as a masculine shoe, worn with this outfit they become Girly and Smart. Easy to wear every day, and great for all Seasons. Adding to this, this School Boy style Brown Leather Satchel continues the masculine yet now girly style, and will only look better with age. Together they highlight the androgynous mix of East London Style.

It is clear from Vintage Street style, what would have once been considered as mismatched is now incredibly fashionable. From the paisley style top down to the Brogues this outfit screams East London fashion: unconventional and contemporary. People won’t be looking at the clothes in the shop, but wondering where they can buy your outfit.

Search "Shopping" in DressSpy's "What to Wear" tool to view all our Shopping Trip looks. Or click here to view the look.

Catriona

x x x

How to Rock a Concert Look

Hi there!

So I have some very exciting news today. I have recently been writing and creating looks as an Expert Fashion Blogger on an up and coming site called Dress Spy; a Fashion website with a range of exciting features! One of the main, all be it very addictive, features of the site is creating mood boards and looks from brands such as Bottica, Miss Selfridge, Mango and many more. It also allows you to search through looks from friend's, experts and the Fashion community, who you can swap ideas and inspiration with. 

What's more, it gives you the opportunity to have your looks seen and rated by those who are experts in the Fashion community, such as Fashion Buyers, Stylists, Personal Shoppers and Journalists. Meaning it's not only a lot of fun, but you have the chance to really get your looks out there. 

Of course, it is also perfect for those who are just looking for some inspiration from others. If you can't decide what to wear to that special occasion which is just around the corner, no need to worry. Merely search through looks created by others Users or Experts and add them to your wishlist, or try out different looks yourself by creating a mood board. 

Here is one of the first looks that I created on Dress Spy, and it immediately went into my own wishlist. I must have it all! (Which is made easier by the fact that they will have special offers and discounts!).

Click here to get the look.

When deciding on the perfect outfit to wear to that amazing Concert you managed to bag tickets for, it can be overwhelming. You want to dress to impress, but you also want to be comfortable enough to dance the night away. In this time of indecision, no matter what concert I am heading to, I go for a look which I know will never go out of style: the rocker look. Dating back to when Led Zeppelin and MotorHead ruled the music scene, this look is timeless and will always be appreciated. Therefore, if the look was going to be truly timeless, it had to be Black; a very flattering colour which will always look good.

This look has a sexy and rebellious quality.  This Gothic leotard with feminine lace detailing is easily complimented with these tight Black Jeans which, together, accentuate all the right curves, whilst still leaving everything to the imagination. No need to bare any flesh, this look is so striking you’ll be turning heads.

Next, leave your heels at home!  These Boots are perfect for all the dancing you’re going to be doing, whilst keeping with the chic yet grungy look that is so popular. And what better way to add to the rebellious rocker look than a Leather Jacket. Another item which is a firm staple in my wardrobe, it straight away adds that extra oomph, making the outfit truly Concert worthy.

To complete the outfit, I added a Gold pair of false flesh tunnel earrings (allowing you to look the part without committing) and a rocker pair of Sunglasses. Who says we can’t wear Sunglasses at night?! On the whole, this outfit would be perfect for any Concert, as it is adored by Pop Fans and Metal Fans alike.

Search “Concert look” in our “What to Wear” tool to view all our Concert looks. Or click here to view this look.

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Catriona

x x x

Get the Sculpted look: Sleek Contour Kit

Sleek MakeUp Contour Kit in "Light" RRP £6.49

A sculpted face is often seen as a sign of beauty, defined cheekbones being sought after predominantly in more recent times following the leadership of such celebrities as Kim Kardashian. Yet, only now am I starting to see how beautifully a small amount of shading and highlighting can define and enhance your natural features.

Sleek MakeUp has beeen a well loved brand in the Beauty Community for years, so I've been itching to get my hands on their Contour Kit for a long time now, as it is one of their bestselling and most well known products. I chose the shade Light, as I have Fair skin, however they also cater for Medium and Dark skin, all of which are very flattering.

Left: Pressed Contouring Powder. Right: Highlighter.

The Pressed Contouring Powder is a soft matte Brown, which provides a subtle warmth to the skin that is very buildable, allowing your contour to be as subtle or as prominant as you wish. I myself prefer a subtle contour, which I achieve by taking an Angled Contour Brush and lightly sweeping the powder in the hollows of my cheekbones and around the edges of my temple, blending any harsh lines out. As you may have spotted in the pictures, I have somehow already managed to make a dent in the powder with my nail, but never mind, it is still only a small dent in the amount of product given! (Note to self: cut nails).

While the Pressed Powder is very good, the Highlighter by far steals the show with its amazing pigmentation which reflects light to highlight all your best features. It gives a luminosity to your skin which looks both healthy and flawless. By dusting it on the high points of your cheekbones, down the centre of the nose and under the eyebrows, it accentuates your natural beauty.

The matte, Black packaging maintains the sleek, classy and sophisticated look that the brand go for, and has a lovely smooth texture to the outside which makes it very tactile. More than this, it is also a perfect pocket size for handbags or make up bags!

So if you are looking to achieve the sculpted look, then I could not recommend Sleek Contour Kit more. Not only is it affordable, but the quality of the product lives up to all the great things that are said about it.

I hope everyone is having a lovely weekend!

Catriona
x x x

Striking Daytime Look featuring MAC's "Lady Danger"

Recently I have fallen head over heels in love with MAC's "Lady Danger", a vibrant, head turning Orange based Red with a gorgeous Matte finish. What first sparked my interest in purchasing this shade was hearing that the popular (and ever beautiful) Girl Group "The Saturdays" all adore it...and after using it myself I can understand why. As soon as I researched swatches, I knew it had to be mine. Unfortunately not many MAC stores stock Lady Danger, but hold your fire, it can easily be purchased online at http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/.

This Coral Red looks perfect on all skin tones, but I find that it really comes into its own on tanned skin, which it compliments beautifully. The Matte finish ensures that the shade is long wearing, and keeps the bright, almost fluorescent colour vivid the whole day, making it a perfect striking Red for everyday use. However do not be fooled, this shade is not for the faint hearted. With the incredibly opaque pigmentation it makes for a real attention grabber.

With this in mind, I just had to base this Striking Daytime Look around MAC's Lady Danger, keeping the eyes and face simple so as not to take focus away from the truly astonishing colour of the lips. 

Products used to achieve this look:

Striking Daytime Look by catrionalmacleod 

Get the look!

1. Prep the face: With Moisturiser, Primer and Lip balm.

2. Foundation: Apply a thin coat of foundation. We want the base to look natural, the lips will do the rest. L'Oreal True Match gives a lovely natural glow, and is inexpensive. Use your favourite concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles. 

3. Bronzer: As I'm sure your are all aware, my favourite Bronzer is NARS Laguna. However, most shades are easily complimented by Lady Danger.

4. Eye shadow: Pick a colour that is close to your skin tone. I chose a Pink shade from my Benefit Big Beautiful Eyes Palette and used a light Brown from the same palette through the crease.

5. Liner: My favourite liner of all time is undeniably Maybelline's Eye Studio Master Precise Liner. It allows me to go as thick or thin as I like, and is easy to handle. I went for a relatively thick line, which always looks Chic with a Red Lip. I then used a subtle Plum pencil liner under the eyes.

6. Lashes: Keep it light and natural with one application. 

7. Brows: Instantly frame your face by defining your brows with a colour similar to your own brows. 

8. LIPS: If you would like to use a liner, then go for an Orange Based Red. However, this lipstick holds its own and can be used by itself when applied with a Lip Brush. 

I hope you enjoyed this daring look, I certainly enjoyed creating it and have been using it whenever I want to spice up my day. It screams confidence, and I can guarentee that you will receive plenty of compliments. This look is certain to make you a very dangerous lady!

Catriona
x x x

Return From OZ: Highlights

First of all, I would like to apologise for the lack of posts while I've been in Australia, it turns out it's a lot more difficult to get hold of the internet than I had anticipated! But after a 27 hour plane journey, I am back in the UK with lots to catch up on! But before I immerse myself back into the world of beauty, I thought I would show you some of the highlights of my trip to the other side of the world. Prepare yourselves for a lot of pictures!

Without a doubt, the biggest highlight of the trip was achieving my PADI at the Great Barrier Reef, it was one of the best experiences of my life. In Cairns we spent two days pool diving before getting the chance to dive into the underwater world below. When we finally took the boat out to the reef, as soon as we jumped in we were surrounded by shoals of fish, one of which, pictured below, was a friendly Napoleon Maori Wrasse named Wally who loved to be stroked!

One perfect blue skied day in Sydney was spent visiting Taronga Zoo and the Botanical Gardens. The Zoo was where my camera really came into its own with its optical zoom.

Melbourne was by far one of the greatest cities we've visited. The coffee is like no other I have tried anywhere else, and the food is to die for. It truly is the food and drink capital of Australia! While there, we had the chance to work at the Grand Prix and see the race from the starting line, which was both very exciting and very LOUD. Melbourne showed us how cultural and diverse Australia can be, with its skateboarding competitions and night markets, and we met some amazing people there (and consequently had some great nights out too!).

We also had the opportunity to go on a 2 day trip to the Whitsunday Islands, meaning we were able to step onto the perfect white sands of White Haven beach! The sand was so soft that it melted between your toes, and the sea so warm it felt like you were dipping into a hot spring. 

So those are the highlights of my trip to Australia, I hope you enjoyed looking at the pictures as much as I did taking them! Now that we're caught up I'm very very excited to get back into talking about some products I've purchased recently. Thanks so much to everyone who's commented and to all my newest followers!

Catriona

x x x

An Aussie Adventure Begins!

Hi there!

I can't believe it's time...my  Boyfriend and I are finally off to travel around Australia! Massively excited! This last week has gone by in a blur, it involved a whole lot of packing and organising. There has been so much to do, but I think I'll only feel ready when my feet actually touch Australian ground and I'll have no choice but to dive in head first. The most difficult part I found was choosing what to take with me and what to leave behind. You should see my bag, it seems like half the space has been taken up by Lipsticks alone! I'll be sure to post as much as I can, and put up pictures of my trip all along the way!

It's strange to think that the next time I'll speak to you all I'll be in Australia. I'm feeling a bit nervous, but my excitement definitely outweighs it! Now to get through the two day flight.

See you in Australia!
Catriona
x x x

Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain Collection

-Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stains £5.99-

From Left to Right: Honey, Darling, Cherish, Rendezvous, Crush, Romantic

From Left to Right: Honey, Darling, Cherish, Rendezvous, Crush, Romantic.

As I'm sure most of you will have noticed by now, I have a pretty large love for Lip products, and after hearing sparkling reviews last Summer about Revlon's Balm Stains I was keen to invest. I'm pleased to say that it turned out to be a wise choice and since purchasing my first shade in Honey, my collection has only grown! I've found that they've become a product I come back to time and time again. Unfortunately, I can't say whether they are a dupe for Clinique's Chubby Sticks or Tarte's Lipsurgence as I haven't tried them myself, but I've heard a lot of mixed reviews. Either way, I've been very happy with Revlon's Balm Stains so haven't felt the need to try any other brands!

What first caught my interest was the fact that they claim to be a balm. Having always had rather dry lips, I am constantly on the look out for something to soothe and soften them. As it has a gel formula,  the chubby crayon glides on just like a lip balm. It feels very smooth and leaves a light, moisturising gloss. You may also spot on first application that it has a vague peppermint scent which I've heard some people aren't too keen on, but to be honest I hardly notice it. If anything, I think it's refreshing! 

Not only are these balms moisturising, but the staying power of the stain also lives up to its word, I can truly wear these for hours without having to reapply once. While sadly the moisturising element does eventually fade, the pigmentation remains in tact, leaving a lovely flush of colour behind without any residue patchiness. Additionally, the colour is extremely buildable, allowing you to go from a light tint for everyday wear to a much bolder lip on further application. As you can see in the picture below, Darling has been one of my favourites, however more recently I have been constantly reaching for Crush, which looks quite intimidating as the balm, but on the lips gives a lovely Plum colour. 

Left: Honey. Right: Darling

Left:  Cherish. Right: Rendezvous

Left: Crush. Right: Romantic

I also think it's worth noticing the adorable packaging of these crayons. While they are drugstore,  they feel very sturdy with a shiny, colourful case to match the balm inside. What's more, the twist up aspect of the case allows easy access to the product with no sharpener required. Very handy as I honestly have no idea where I would find a sharpener this big! These are a firm favourite of mine, and I thoroughly recommend them to anyone looking for a long wearing, moisturising lip colour.

Hope everyone is well!

Catriona

x x x

Exciting News: Taylor Swift Makeover with Tanya Burr

I have a confession to make, the last couple of weeks I have been keeping a secret from you guys. A secret that has been bursting to come out. The secret is...I had a Taylor Swift makeover by the talented Make up Artist and YouTuber Tanya Burr! Trust me, it has been difficult not to spill the beans, I wanted tell you all about it straight away, but I thought it was best to wait until the video was up and running so that I could include it here.

I have been watching Tanya's videos and reading her blog for a long time now, so when the opportunity arose to have a makeover by her for the DailyMixTV channel she recently became a host on, I jumped at the chance. It was wonderful to meet her, she was just as lovely in person as she is on screen and most importantly, very chatty, which kept my nerves at ease while having cameras pointed at me. Although this was my first time on screen, I'm not sure I'm a natural on camera! In addition to meeting Tanya, it was also incredibly interesting listening to her tips and watching her choose the products to achieve the look. I especially loved the winged eyeliner, something I have been using most days since. She did a truly amazing job, and I plan to track down some of the products used so that I can recreate the look myself!

Here is the video for my Celebrity Makeover:

The makeover was also a great excuse to have a day out in London! My Boyfriend and I don't usually have much time off work together so it was an incredible luxury having a weekday off to spend as we pleased.  I flaunted the look all around London, feeling like a Celebrity with my immaculate make up! We had a gorgeous Lunch of Bruschetta (my favourite), then took our time walking around shops and taking in the sights. I also made sure we went to Selfridges to check out all of their fantastic counters.

I had a really great time being made over in the style of the gorgeous Taylor Swift, and hugely enjoyed meeting and shooting with the lovely Tanya Burr and the DailyMixTV team!

What does everyone think of the look?

Catriona

x x x

New Hair: Blonde Locks!

Straight after having my hair coloured.

After a couple of washes.

Ok, admittedly not very Blonde, but the Blondest I have been in years. I go through stages with my hair, I'll love it one second, and the next I'm thoroughly bored of it, and that is exactly what happened this time. When I had my fringe cut in, I was in love! I didn't feel the need to use any heat, so would merely wake up, curl my fringe with a big round Brush and I'd be ready to go. However, the fact that it needed to be trimmed non stop did not help its case. I gave up going to the Hairdressers every few weeks and took the trimming into my own hands (scary!). This was fine for a while but in the end I gave up, terrified of making a wrong cut every time it needed trimming. 

Needing a new look, I weighed up my options. Adamant that I'm growing my hair I couldn't drastically cut it, so I decided that the next best thing would be to have it dyed, and what better colour when you're jetting off into the sun soon than Blonde! True, I was scared of frying the ends of my ever growing mane, and I won't lie my hair isn't in the best condition its ever been in, but deep conditioning has become my best friend which is helping to nurse it back to health! I went for highlights, which included some honey and very light blonde colours, as well as my original colour. I am so happy that I took the plunge and plan to add more highlights the next time it needs colouring - a while away yet, I'll let it regain its strength first!

Hope everyone had a relaxing weekend!

Catriona

x x x

Top 5 Red Lipsticks: The Search for the Perfect Red

As the Snow continues to rain down, and the UK turns into a Winter Wonderland, I have been wearing a Red lip an ever increasing amount. I find Red a perfect shade for this time of year as it adds a pop of colour to an otherwise dreary day. 

A strong Red lip is one of my favourites as it makes a look instantly elegant. It radiates confidence, even having the power to become a person's signature look, as evident by the gorgeous Marilyn Monroe. However, finding the perfect shade of Red is a whole other story. Some may like bright, vibrant Reds, while others prefer a dark Vampy Red. Individual preference plays an important factor in the hunt for your own Perfect Red. As a person who loves Lipsticks, I thought that it was about time to introduce you to my own Top 5 Reds!

Maybelline Super Stay 14HR Lipstick in Non-Stop Red

-Maybelline Super Stay 14HR Lipstick £6.99-

A recent favourite, this shade provides a vibrant red with Orange undertones. The texture is very matte, without being drying, and lasts for hours. 

Rimmel: Lasting Finish by Kate Moss in 01

-Rimmel Kate Moss Lipstick £5.49-

Kate Moss' Lipstick in 01 is a dark, chic lip with a creamy texture. While I must admit that the Lipstick does not succeed in maintaining its vibrancy, for this amazing colour I certainly do not mind reapplying.

Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Candy Apple

-Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter £5.00-

This Lipstick is great as an everyday Red. It is a gorgeous subtle colour which moisturises like no other lipstick I have tried, meaning it has a lovely gloss! I recently wore this in my Rapid Whites review.

Barry M Lip Paint in 121 Pillar Box Red

-Barry M Lip Paint £4.49-

I have fallen head over heels for this one. Being a bright Tomato Red, it is almost close to being Orange. Not only is it comfortable on the lips, but it has amazing longevity. I wore this in my last review for the NARS Laguna Bronzer.

MAC Matte Lipstick in Russian Red

-MAC Russian Red £14.00-

One of MAC's most well known, Russian Red is a matte dark Red shade with quite Blue undertones, which allows your teeth to look at their most pearly White. Perfect for a sophisticated look.

From Left to Right: Maybelline Super Stay, Rimmel: Kate Moss Lipstick, Revlon Colourburst, Barry M Lip Paint, MAC Russian Red.

If I were to choose one shade which I class to be my perfect Red it would  be MAC's Russian Red. This shade oozes class, while being versatile enough to be worn both day and evening. It also provides a gorgeous true red which can be difficult to find. With one swipe of this bold colour, I feel confident and ready for the day!

Which is your favourite?
 I would absolutely love to hear any other recommendations!

Catriona

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