Blogmas Day 5- Festive Nails

 One of my favourite colours to wear throughout Autumn and Winter is a deep, wine red, as I love both the purple and red undertones. I have owned Essie 'Sole Mate' for a couple of years now, but I have only recently been wearing it on my nails. It is the perfect colour for this time of year, due to the rich tone to it, and I have been wearing it pretty much all throughout the past couple of months.

To make it a little bit more seasonally appropriate and festive, I have layered on Ciate 'Snow Globe' on the thumb and ring finger, in order to inject some sparkle into the overall look. This is definitely a combination I will be wearing for the foreseeable future and it is perfect for the numerous parties at this time of year. 

What is your go-to nail look at this time of year?

Megan x

Blogmas Day 4- Christmas Gift Guide for Him

Time for part 2 of my gift guide series, and this time it is the Men getting some attention. Now I find men quite difficult to buy for at times, especially my Dad, but whether it is your Dad, Brother, Boyfriend etc, there is sure to be something here for a little inspiration.

Playstation 4 Games- Destiny
I must admit that I do not know that much about gaming, but I do know that most men enjoy playing games, whether it is the PlayStation or Xbox etc. There are games for everyone, but I know that Destiny is quite popular at the moment, so it could be a good choice to pop in a stocking for Christmas. 

Men's Grooming Treats- Origins
Men are becoming more into the whole skincare regime lately, so this gift collection from Origins could be the perfect present. It includes a shaving  and razor burn cream, moisturizer and face wash in a handy little travel bag, for any man's skincare concerns.

Chill Out Gift Box- Smart Gift Solutions
There couldn't be a more perfect gift for any man, with this hamper containing everything they could ever need for the weekend. With snacks such as Pringles, Flapjacks, Crisps, Sweets and Beer, it is certainly an essential present for a foodie. 

Check Shirt- Tommy Hilfiger
I don't think you can really go wrong with clothing, and this check shirt is a great all-rounder that is appropriate for any man in your life. It can be worn with anything, and is ideal to be worn either in the day with jeans, or smartened up with a suit in the evening. 

Watch- Hugo Boss 
A classic style of watch like this is always well received at Christmas, as it is simple enough to be to everyone's taste. The brown leather strap and rose gold features add a touch of luxury to an everyday item, without breaking the bank. 

 Roshe Run Trainers- Nike
Trainers are quite a popular gift to buy for a man at christmas, they are the male equivalent of a pair of Jimmy Choos. These can be worn dressed up or down, and are extremely comfortable, so are the perfect casual shoe for any man. 

QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Headphones- Bose
Now these aren't the cheapest headphones by a long shot, yet they are of a particularly high quality, monitering the noise around you to cancel it out. They are also comfortable to wear, due to the soft ear cushion, as well as offering controls for music and calls. Defintely one to buy to treat him. 

Twisted Yarn Scarf- Fred Perry
Like I said in my Gift Guide for Her, scarves are an essential at this time of year, making them perfect gifts to give at Christmas. This one is a chunky knitted scarf with tassel ends, made from a merino wool blend, so is sure to keep your recipient warm and cosy this winter. 

What are you buying your loved ones for Christmas this year?

Megan x

Blogmas Day 3- Winter Skin Survival Kit

 As much as I love this time of year, the winter weather is less than enjoyable, with bitter cold winds and rain taking it's toll on your skin. However, there are some products that I couldn't live without during these winter months, to help bring my skin back to life.

Moisturiser is an essential at this time of year, not just on the face but the rest of your body too. I swear by the brand Aveeno for adding some extra moisture to my skin, as it is suitable for my sensitive eczema-prone skin, due to the fact that it doesn't cause irritation to my skin. My top picks from the range are the daily moisturising lotion, as well as the hand cream, both absorbing quickly and leaving skin feeling soft and smooth. 

 Looking after the skin on your face is also incredibly important at this time of year, as unlike the rest of your skin, it doesn't get covered up, so is laid bare to the winter elements. I occasionally use this hydration mask by No7, especially if my skin is looking slightly dry and lacklustre. It adds an instant boost of hydration and moisture to perk up dull, dry skin.

 

As well as my skin, the cold weather has a serious effect on my lips, causing them to be dry and chapped. For when my lips have become sore and cracked due to the weather, I use the Blistex Repairing Lip Balm as it contains Jojaba oil, Cocoa Butter and Menthol to soothe and protect the lips. When my lips are just slightly dry however, I couldn't be without my Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm to add some moisture to my lips, through the use of Vitamin E and Peppermint oil. 

What are your winter skincare essentials?

Megan x

Blogmas Day 2- Christmas Gift Guide for Her

It is finally December, which means that Blogmas has officially started, and there is also only 3 weeks(!) left until Christmas Day. I thought I would do a few gift guides for some inspiration, with the first being suitable for your Mum, Sister, Friend, Daughter or other special woman in your life. I'm sure that there is something here for everyone. 

Movie Night Gift Bag- Notonthehighstreet.com 
I love notonthehighstreet, as they always have such unique and personalised gifts, like this movie night hamper. It contains cinema like snacks such as Popcorn, tortilla chips, American Candy and Pick & Mix. I think this would be the perfect gift for a teenager, especially for sleepovers with their friends. 

Personal Organiser- Paperchase
I love being organised, as I am sure most other people do, so this organiser from Paperchase would be an ideal gift for those who need to be a bit more organised. It has a 12 month weekly view diary, as well as notepaper, dividers for information, agenda, planner, diary and addresses to help keep more organised. 

Lush 12 Days of Christmas
I must admit I have had my eye on this from Lush for a while now, as it contains 12 of the most popular Christmas products available from Lush. There is an assortment of products, such as Bath Melts, Shower Gels, Bath Bombs and Soap, all with festive scents and appearances to get you in the mood for Christmas. 

Yankee Candle 3 Small Jars
Candles are a staple gift at Christmas in my opinion, as they is always a scent for everyone to enjoy. This gift set contains three small festive candles in the scents "Christmas Eve", "Sugared Apple" and "Christmas Garland" which I am sure would make your home smell all cosy and Christmassy. 

Grey Supersoft Blanket Scarf- River Island
I love receiving scarfs as a gift for Christmas, as they are an accessory that you can never have enough of, particularly at this time of the year. This soft grey scarf would make the perfect present for anyone of any age, as it could be worn with any outfit, keeping you all snuggly and cosy in the winter months. 

Mini Blue Satchel- Accessorize
I think handbags are a popular present to buy and receive for Christmas, and this one would be a great gift for a younger sister or friend. Satchels are a classic style of handbag, and this one is a nice, compact size, available in black, white, tan or blue. 

Large White Face Tan Watch- Olivia Burton
Watches are my favourite type of accessory to wear, as they are classic, so always add something extra to any outfit.  I have become a bit obsessed with Olivia Burton watches lately, and they would be a great gift for anybody.  This large tan one is simple, yet would add a sophisticated look to any day or night outfit so it is the perfect accessory. 

So that is my first christmas gift guide, I will also be uploading one for Men, a luxury version, as well as a stocking filler gift guide. 

 What is on your Christmas list?

Megan x

Blogmas Day 1- November Favourites

This year has literally flown by, I cannot believe that it is December already.  It is the best month of the year in my opinion, as I love everything to do with Christmas and festivity. I thought I would attempt Blogmas this year to celebrate all things festive and joyful, so let's kick it off with my November Favourites...

Maybelline The Falsies Flared Mascara

I have always had an on/off relationship with Maybelline mascaras, yet this one is definitely one of my favourites ever. It adds a decent amount of volume without clumping, yet the main aim of this mascara is to lengthen your lashes, which it does amazingly. The flared aspect of this product makes it seem like you are wearing false lashes, which is never a bad thing in my opinion. It will definitely be staying in my makeup bag for a long time. 

Real Techniques Buffing Brush

Until quite recently I used my Expert Face Brush by Real Techniques to apply my foundation, but I have now been favouring my buffing brush for base application. I find it blends my foundation in much more seamlessly to my skin, making it look like I am not even wearing foundation. I love it that much, I may need to invest in a back-up. 

Soap & Glory Smoulder Kohl- Cocoa Bean
I already have the black version of this eyeliner and love it, so I thought I would try the brown version, as I prefer to wear brown eyeliner in the day because it is much more natural. It is one of my favourite eyeliners pencils ever, as it lasts all day without smudging, whilst being a beautiful chocolaty brown colour. 

Neutrogena Visibly Clear Blackhead Eliminating Scrub
I love giving my face a good ol' scrub, especially in the winter time when dry skin becomes the bane of my life. I have really been enjoying using this one recently, as it effectively removes dead skin cells, leaving my skin feeling soft and smooth. Although it doesn't completely remove blackheads, it still makes some difference, and it will definitely stay as part of my skincare routine.

Nails Inc Kensington Church Street Snowflake Polish 
As it gets nearer to Christmas time, my nails always sport a little bit of glitter and sparkle, as I think it adds a subtle hint of festivity to any outfit. This top coat is one of my favourites as it adds the effect of little snowflakes, which could be applied as an accent nail, or if you're feeling particularly festive, to every nail, especially for a Christmas party. 

Blistex Medplus Repairing Lip Balm
Quite a random product, but it was an essential for me in November, as the cold weather really affects my lips, making them dry and cracked. However, using this made a difference straight away, soothing and repairing my lips due to the menthol and jojoba oil. A definite must have for cold, winter weather. 

Have you tried any of these products? What have you been loving this month?

Megan x

Current Fashion Wishlist

As a shopaholic, I am always lusting after quite a few items of clothing and accessories so I thought I would share with you some of the things currently on my fashion wishlist. 

Topshop Blazer

I love blazers as they just make any outfit look more put together and smarter. This oxblood jacket from Topshop is perfect for the autumn and winter months, and would be great paired with a party dress, or even a more causal outfit to add something a little extra. 

New Look Jumper

There is no better way to get into the festive spirit than wearing a christmas jumper, yet they don't always have to be so in your face. This pale blue polar bear jumper is festive enough to display your excitement, yet doesn't scream christmas, so is perfect for anytime during winter, not just at christmas. 

 New Look Scarf
Scarfs are a necessity during the winter months, as they just make you feel all warm and cosy. I love tartan scarfs at the moment, and this one is reversible, with a red tartan on one side, and a black check print on the other side, making it easy to wear with any outfit. 

Ash Jalouse Boots 
I seriously have an addiction to ankle boots, they are my favourite type of shoes to wear, and there are so many different styles available. I have wanted a pair of these boots for ages, yet they will probably remain on my wishlist for a little longer, as they are just slighty too expensive to buy at the moment, especially with Christmas just around the corner. 

Russel & Bromley Bag 
As soon as I clapped eyes on this bag I fell in love with it, as it just has everything yoy could want in a handbag. The colour of this is amazing is autumn and winter, whilst the overall design is very compact, with three zipped compartments. It would be perfect to store all the essentials needed for day or night. 

Miss Selfridge Jeans
I can never have too many pairs of jeans, they are probably one of my most worn types of clothing, as they can be worn in so many different ways. I am loving ripped jeans at the moment, and would love a pair in the classic blue jean colour, which these from miss selfridge are. I am sure they will definitely be making their way into my wardrobe soon.

Topshop Dress
I love a good party dress, especially near Christmas time, as the more sequins and sparkles the better. You can also never go wrong with a little black dress, and so I have definitely got my eye on this one from Topshop for either my 18th birthday in December, or for Christmas. 

What is currently on your wishlist?

Megan x

October Favourites

I know I always say this but I can't believe we are in November already, where has the year gone? It'll be Christmas and New Year before we know it- not that I am complaining as there are some pretty exciting things happening in December for me. Anyway, on to my October favourites and I thought I would mix it up a bit this month and include some non-beauty items as well. Let's get started shall we...

Yes to Tomatoes Daily Clarifying Cleanser

 After fancying a change from my La Roche Posay cleanser that I had been using for months, I decided to check out the Yes to range, as I had heard great things about the brand. I picked up the Tomato Cleanser, as it is suitable for my combination skin, and I have to say I absolutely love it. It is a gel cleanser, so perfect for purifying and refreshing the skin, removing oils and impurities, whilst having a certain nourishing aspect, making it suitable for the drier parts of the skin. It is my new favourite cleanser and will definitely be staying as part of my skincare routine for the foreseeable future.

  Soap & Glory Endless Glove Moisture Mask and Hand Cream

 When the weather starts turning slightly colder my hands start to suffer, becoming drier than usual. I therefore reach for this every night time, slathering it on before I go to bed, sometimes wearing gloves as well to fully maximise the benefits. It gives hands a moisturised, nourished feel, thanks to the Shea Butter and Macadamia Oils, and leaves my hands feeling super soft all day long. A must have product for Autumn and Winter.

 Lush Popcorn Lip Scrub

 As well as my hands, my lips also suffer due to the bitter cold often experienced at this time of year. I have therefore been using this lip scrub multiple times throughout the last month to exfoliate my lips and make them smooth and soft again, which this product does perfectly. This is a life saver during the Autumn and Winter months and I definitely recommend it to anyone wanting soft, kissable lips this season. 

Revlon Colorstay Foundation
I have already reviewed this product on my blog already, so I won't go into too much now, but it has become my all time favourite foundation, offering everything that I want in a foundation. It has buildable, medium to full coverage, and comes in an oily/combination variety, so is perfect for my skin type. The colour range is amazing, with something to suit everyone, whilst giving a velvet-matte finish on the skin. The only slight niggle is the lack of pump, but I can overlook that as the product is so good. 

Sleek Blush-Antique
I bought this last year, but never really got around to wearing it, as I always seemed to reach for my pinky, rosy blush tones. However, I recently decided to give it another go, and I really enjoyed wearing it. It is a dusky, almost brown toned blush, which I have never really tried wearing before, as well as a slight plum hue. I think it looks perfect at this time of year, especially with bronzed lids and a nude lip. It is a shimmery blush, so a light hand is needed when applying, but it just gives a beautiful autumn look.


Gone Girl
Everyone seems to be talking about this book, and having recently read it, I can understand why. I love books with a good plot twist, making me gasp out loud, whilst sitting on the edge of my seat, and this may be the best one yet for making me react in that way. Whilst I will agree with most people and say that yes, the ending is slightly disappointing, the rest of the novel is a fast paced thriller, leaving you barely able to keep up. I am desperate to now go and see the film, and I would recommend this book to anyone.


Autumn
Now I know this is quite a strange monthly favourite, but it is my favourite season of the year, and I look forward to October, November and December every year. I love layering cosy jumpers and wearing woolly scarves, whilst Autumn TV is the best- A cosy Sunday night in with The X Factor and Downton Abbey is one of my favourite things to do. The lead up to Christmas is also very exciting, as well as my birthday, so it is easy to see why this is in my favourites this month.


What have you been loving this month?

Megan x