Why Don't You... #2

This weekend why don't you...

1. Wear your least worn shade of lipstick.
2. Wink at an attractive stranger.
3. Experiment with false lashes.
4. Braid tiny plaits in your hair. (@IntoTheGloss)
5. Be hedonistic, do what gives you pleasure. 

The Routine: Hair #1

Having naturally dry and coarse hair, I can't afford to skimp on my hair routine as I'd be left with a giant ball of fuzz on top of my head. As I've had my hair coloured with foils I use Wella SP Colour Save shampoo and conditioner to preserve the colour. The conditioner isn't as moisturising as I'd like it to be for dry hair but it does leave it smooth none the less. Every second wash I use L'Oreal Professionnel Absolut Repair Cellular masque which contains lactic acid and is so nourishing. It leaves a beautiful gloss and it's the type of product which will leave people asking, 'Have you done something with your hair?'.

For extra moisture I use Loreal Professional Mythic Oil in the Rich version. A tip for oil products is too use them as soon after you finish washing your hair as it will absorb better. I read this on XOVain and it's the truth, it will change your hair game. Just stick a bottle in your shower, after rinsing out your conditioner, use 2-3 pumps and massage it into your ends and mid-length. It works so much better than when you use it on dry hair.

Spotlight: Eve Taylor Aromatherapy Candle

I've been loving this aromatherapy candle from Eve Taylor. They're made from 100% plant wax and essential oils. Mine's a patchouli blend so it is very soothing and grounding. What makes these candles different is that as they melt at a low temperature, emollient oils are unleashed which can be used as a massage balm. I think they're great as a weekly, meditative treatment and I've got Oskia's offering on my wish list.

New In: Lush

Left to right: Big Blue Ballistic Bath Bomb, Pillar of Fizz, Silky Underwear Dusting Powder, The Comforter  Bubble Bar, and American Cream Hair Conditioner

Today some goodies from Lush arrived in my mailbox, I'm so pleased with how fast it arrived and the two samples included (not pictured). I got Big Blue which smells like lavender however the lemon keeps it smelling refreshing and not like the potpourri in an old person's home. It also has pieces of seaweed which unleash as the bath bomb fizzles away so if you're not into things floating around in your bathwater maybe side step this one however it reminds me of the ocean and because I'm emotionally five years old I just pretend I'm a mermaid. When you want to escape from your paperwork, I recommend this bath bomb.

The Comforter smells like a blackcurrant lolly and bubbles really well. It lives up to its name and is my favourite, most purchased product from Lush. To store my bath bombs and bubble bars I also got the Pillar of Fizz, made from recycled containers, to keep them safe from the humidity of my bathroom which can ruin the product. Bath bombs are also great stored in a cupboard because the scent fills the whole space and makes clothes smell wonderful.

For scent alone, I ordered American Cream. I only got the small size because it's not my favourite conditioner (my hair needs something more conditioning), I just love having it for the smell. It is reminiscent of Guerlain's Shalimar, a citrusy vanilla. I wish Lush made it as a perfume.

Last of all I got Silky Underwear which has a lovely jasmine fragrance. I love these dusting powders because they contain corn starch as an absorbent instead of talc. Cocoa butter is also included so it leaves your skin silky smooth.

The Capsule: Femme Fatale

femme fatale (n.) lit. 'fatal women'; an alluring women who will ultimately bring disaster to men; a siren

To me there is nothing as enchanting as a cat eye. The feline shape elongates eyes making them truly alluring. If you have round eyes make sure to not follow the natural lash line down as it can droop your eyes. Instead stop at around the last quarter and wing up.

On the lips go for a deep rose. Either apply to center of the lips with a tube and smudge outwards for a wine stained lip or apply another coat on top for deeper colour. I suggest a brown-based red such as Rimmel's Lasting Finish by Kate Moss Lipstick in 11 (Kate Moss and a creme brûlée scent, need I say more?).

Keep the rest of your face fresh with a sheer wash of foundation over Nars Pro-Prime Pore Refining Primer for an even, velvet base. Skip filling in your brows especially if you have small lids or deepset eyes as it will keep the eye from looking too heavy. Mascara-free lashes keep this look from being 'pretty' and adds a dangerous edge.

Products// Nars Pro-Prime Pore Refining Primer, Nars Eyeliner Stylo in Carpates, Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate Moss Lipstick in 11

Background image: Sylvester Henriksen photographed by Alex Franco for RUSSH, August 2013

Lust List #1

From top (clockwise): Nars Body Glow I, Lipstick Queen Endless Summer Lipstick in Stoked,  Soapwalla Deodorant Cream,  Nars The Multiple in Copacabana, Soap & Glory Sit Tight- Lower Body Firming Formula

1. Nars Body Glow I- Summer's coming and I want to be a golden goddess. Body glow is a shimmering chocolate, gardenia fragranced oil which will make you golden without staining clothes.

2. Nars The Multiple in Copacabana- When I go out at night I want my cheekbones to scream "LOOK AT ME!". Plus I really want to try a Nar's Multiple.

3. Lipstick Queen Endless Summer Lipstick in Stoked- Lipstick Queen has been on my to try list ever since I saw it in Kit two years ago but I'm slack and haven't gotten around to it. This lipstick goes on apparently more muted than it looks in the tube. Hopefully will be a my lips but pinker lipstick that resides in my makeup bag for the summer.

4. Soapwalla Deodorant Cream-  Deodorants scare me to be honest. They contain all sorts of nasties. I want my deodorant to be free from aluminum, petroleum, and other harmful chemicals. I've heard great things about Soapwalla's offering and unlike some aluminium free deodorants it is certainly cheaper. AND it's vegan and not tested on animals, think about all the lil' bunnies you just saved.

5. Soap & Glory Sit Tight Lower Body Firming Formula- I don't have cellulite which is what it's intended for but will it make my thighs look magically better? I don't know. Soap & Glory's one of my favourite body care lines and it has good reports so I don't think I can go wrong. I'm going to waste my money and report back. You're welcome.

The Capsule: Hedonism

hedonism ( n.) the pursuit of pleasure; sensual self-indulgence; the ethical theory that satisfaction of desires is the aim of human life

Beauty and hedonism go hand in hand. It doesn't matter whether it's found in a luxe perfume or a sleekly packaged lipstick; it's all about the pleasure it brings. However, over-indulgence can be sickly. The key is to keep things extravagant yet simple like a single diamond, a beige leather bag, or cashmere and silk in a variation of nudes. 

For expensive looking skin- flawless and transparent- the Maquillage Lighting White Powdery UV foundation has you covered. It's powder foundation with medium coverage which is easily sheered for a translucent result. Skincare ingredients and SPF protects your skin from UV damage keeping it in top condition. The main attraction has to be the reflective pink compact with a crystal embellishment, however if that's not your taste there are a range of compacts to choose from.

Like satin for your lips, Chanel's Rouge Allure Laque in Santal is light, creamy and intensely pigmented for a perfect nude pout. Keeping with nudes, Couture is the perfect understated, shade from Ciate. For darker skin, try the nudes Maybe Baby and Pocket Money. The cute bows on the bottle add an elegant touch. 

Where a little black dress is simple, the fragrance counterpart is in excess. Guerlain's La Petite Robe Noire is sweet, rich, and smoky. Its note consists of black cherry, then black rose, and finally tonka bean, patchouli, almond, and black tea mellow it out. It's showcased in a crystalline, heart-shaped bottle which fades from black to powdery pink. 

Products// Shiseido Maquillage Lighting White Powdery UV Foundation in OC00,  Guerlain La Petite Robe Noire eau de parfum 100 mL, Chanel Rouge Allure Laque in Santal, Ciate Paint Pot in Couture

Background image: Agnes Nabuurs photographed by Ward Ivan Rafik for RUSSH, August 2013

Why don't you... #1

This weekend why don't you...

1. Make like September's Vogue Italia and get lipstick on your teeth. (@IntoTheGloss)
2. Leave the house without perfume.
3. Blend your blush up to your temples and onto your brow bone for a futuristic look.
4. Transform yourself into a club kid version of Spock. 
5. Sprinkle glitter in your hair. (@XOVain)  

Spotlight: Lots of Lashes

From top left, left to right, top to bottom: Manicare Glam Eyes in Beyonce,  Eylure Naturalites in Super Full, Manicare Glam Eyes in Jessica (double pack), Eylure Naturalites in Intense, Eylure Katy Perry Lashes in Darling (self-adhesive), Manicare Glam Eyes in Bambi, Eylure Katy Perrry Colour Pop Lashes in Ka-Pow!, Eylure Katy Perry Lashes in Oh, Honey!, and Ardell Accent in 305 Black

I have to do the makeup for a drag styled photo shoot coming up and Priceline had some good deals on false eyelashes; the two go hand in hand. The deals that I took advantage of are finished now but every so often they pop up so if you're interested in false lashes definitely keep a look out on them.

Let's start with Eylure. Their Naturalites are really light on the eye and they are quite long so they are great on larger eyes. Out of the two, the Super Full are the most natural looking with long length and are the easiest to apply. However, they are not a true black; I think they're an alternation of black and dark warm brown. The Intense have a thicker band and are very full so if you're new to lashes I'd stay clear. Also, if you have small eyes or thin natural lashes they might be too heavy and definitely noticeable on the eye. They are both $12.99 AUD from Priceline.

Next from Eylure are the Katy Perry Lashes. I accidentally purchased the Darling lashes which are self-adhesive. Personally I prefer ones without adhesive on them. The Darling lashes do not have the same texture as a natural lash and look quite synthetic. The band is also quite short. The Oh, Honey! lashes however are a great length for most eyes and easily cut down to suit the length of your eye. These are similar to a individual lashes strung together so are very light on the eye and easy to apply. The individual lash strands are a bit thicker and blacker than the Super Full Naturalites. $14.99 AUD each.

The Katy Perry Colour Pop lashes in Ka-Pow! are feathery double layered lashes with black on top and violet on the bottom layer. The lashes are criss-crossed and very full due to the tiering. They are my favourite dramatic lashes out of the bunch and are on the pricy side at $16.99 AUD.

I also purchased the Ardell Accent in 305 Black which I wouldn't wear by themselves unless I had naturally long and thick lashes as it would stand apart from my natural lashes. Accent lashes are great to add on top of a full set to 'oomph' them up. If you have round eyes or small eyes they also help elongate the eye. These lashes are similiar in texture to the Eylure Katy Perry Lashes in Darling so they aren't my favourite accent lashes. Not shown are the Ardell Demi Whispies in Black which are probably my favourite natural lash. They are great for beginners as they are demi and don't need to be trimmed. They also provide drama without looking over the top and fake. As the name suggests they are whispy so they make a really great flirty eye. At $9.99 AUD they are the cheapest of the bunch .

My favourite lashes are the Manicare Glam Eyes as I find them easier to apply than the Ardell but more affordable than Eylure lashes at $11.99 AUD for a single pack or the more economic $16.99 AUD double pack. I always ignored the lashes until I picked up the Miranda pair which impressed me so much I went out and bought more.  Most of them have natural drama while being light on the eye. Just watch out for the ones which have really thick bands. My top picks are the Bambi's which provide a doe-eyed look,  Jessica's for a full yet natural look, and the Beyonce's for a more starburst effect. At the moment there is still a 3 for 2 deal on these lashes so definitely check them out.

The Face: Club Kid Spock

Have you ever wondered what Spock would look like if he didn't become science officer of the USS Enterprise and instead found himself on Earth in the late 1980's NYC party scene (most likely in a narcotic haze)? Well, here's how to recreate it, you're welcome.

1. To get that mixed Vulcan-human facial architecture tape your forehead ensuring your skin is clean to get the most out of the adhesive. I part my hair at my temple and place the tape above the corner of my brow, pull up and around my head and secure at the back of my neck with medical tape. I repeat on the other side and then cover it with my hair. Another easier alternative is the Mark Traynor Miracle Face and Neck Lift.
2. Next I glued down the ends of my brows with a glue stick so I could foundation over them.
3. Then for foundation go for a matte finish one to two shades lighter than your natural colour. Choose the coverage you're comfortable with. I used Revlon Colourstay Combination/Oily in 150 Buff. 
4. To get Spock's angular cheekbones I used Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder in 20 as a contour. Don't forget the temples, forehead, and jawline. 
5. To finish off the eyebrows fill them with MAC eyeshadow in Copperplate going upwards until they reach a slight point. Then brush through with Lash and Brow Gel Mascara from Essence. 
6. In homage to the original Spock I contoured under the inner brow bone with a grey blue eye shadow. To get the shade mix Copperplate, used on the brows, with Illamasqua's Powder Eye Shadow in Anja (a matte, sky blue). Then with a slanted eyeliner brush go with Estee Lauder Pure Colour Gelee Powder Eye Shadow in Cyber Green (a metallic, almost black green with gold shimmer) starting half way on your lower lid going outwards until you reach your desired thickness then swoop up. Imagine a horizontal line going across where your inner brow starts and stop there. Then drag inwards to the inner corner of your eye. Then fill the rest in and remember to blend with a clean brush afterwards. 
7. Get right into the  base of your lashes with Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Eye Pencil in Onyx as well as your upper water line to ensure there are no fleshy gaps. Then add three coats of Diorshow Extase mascara in 090 Black starting right at the roots for thick, dark lashes. 
8. For an apricot nude lip, Nars Pure Matte Lipstick in Film Star was patted onto the lip. 

The Capsule: Ethereal

e·the·re·al adj.

1. Of lightness and insubstantiality; intangible.
2. Delicate.
3. Of the celestial spheres; heavenly.

Although I adore a red lipstick and shimmering eyes sometimes there is nothing better than nothing. Okay, so I lied; there are three things but I'm not talking no-makeup makeup either. A true ethereal look is a clean complexion, strong healthy nails, and a delicate scent.

T Mat Shine Control from Chanel's Purete Ideale range promotes clear skin. It can now be found as the Purete Ideal Mattifying Fluid containing marine bio extracts which stimulate the skin's natural antibiotics to keep the skin's micro biome healthy. Its hybrid gel-cream texture is also refreshing and light on the skin. As it's mattifying it will keep shine at bay and give a more poreless appearance.

Neatly manicured nails can do wonders for your overall appearance. A file will remove chips which can catch on items and tear your nail. If your nails are stained from nail polish (the worst offenders being yellows and reds) a quick buff over will show a cleaner, smoother layer of nail. Advanced Hard As Nails from Sally Hansen will also strengthen your nails with nylon and hydrate with retinol and copper peptide. Nails will be left protected with a beautiful, glossy finish.

One spray of Balenciaga Paris will leave you with a delicate breeze from a secret garden of violets and carnations. A mossy wood accord like the earthy smell of foliage after rain helps ground the intangible floral notes. It is a truly ethereal experience.

Extra tip: A white eyeliner (or beige for medium to dark skin tones) can be used as a highlighter in the corner of your eyes, brow bone, and cupid's bow. Make sure to blend for a naturally fresh look.

The Month: September

My first favourite from the month that was September was the Duboa hair brush in 60 medium. After my hair was viciously thinned from a dodgy cut, I vowed to brush my hair once a day to stimulate the scalp and promote growth. I went out and repurchased this brush as the nylon pins reach the scalp perfectly and detangle without causing damage to the hair. Even when I had thick hair the brush did a fantastic job.

Peter Thomas Roth is one of my favourite brands. Not only do they use high quality ingredients but their products are results driven so I don't mind spending a bit more money on them. The Laser-Free Retexturizer has been going strong for a year with twice weekly use but has sadly only one more left (which I'm really looking forward to). It is such a good exfoliant and there is nothing it doesn't do (except wash your dishes). Jojoba beads act as a scrub while papaya enzymes break down dead skin cells and then glycolic acid peels revealing brighter skin. It smoothes the texture, evens skin tone, and refines pores. Then to really top it off it moisturises with sweet almond, mango, and apricot oils. But did I mention it contains dragon's blood? So dragon's blood is the name from sap derived from the Dragon Tree which has numerous skin healing properties which you can read about in depth here. In the Laser-Free Retexturizer the main property of dragon's blood is to promote repair of skin tissue via the compounds proanthocyanidin and taspine which it is rich in. As I have oily skin it is really important that I exfoliate and this has to be one of my favourites as my skin is really left smooth with a healthy glow after use. I'm looking forward to repurchasing this once I've used up my other exfoliants as it's price has recently been reduced from $79.95 to $57.95 AUD at Mecca Cosmetica. (note: my grandmother loves this too!)

Ever wanted mini disco balls for nails because the silver glitter nail polish in SL122 from Korean brand The Face Shop does just that. It's very satisfying when people can't stop staring at your nails but slightly annoying when you catch yourself in a daze staring at your own.

RUSSH is my favourite magazine of the moment/most of the time/of all time and the August issue was no exception. It's an Australian independent fashion magazine which is published every two months and has on point global content and a clean aesthetic. The beauty section is also always spot on and inspiring. Definitely check out their website as it's packed with great content and updated daily.