I make my sartorial choices based upon the weather, my schedule, my required state of ‘put together-ness’, [which, in Manchester climes dictates a uniform of black skinny jeans and a reliance upon outerwear], but the only decision criterion of my fragrance choice is my mood. On a cold overcast day, I can’t wear espadrilles and a sundress, but I can reach for Acqua di Parma’s Blu Mediterraneo Ginepro di Sardegna, a hot blend of juniper and pepper which gives me hope for summer on even the darkest mornings. Like colour, perfume appeals directly to our senses, and has the power of reinvention - in one sniff you can change your attitude faster than you can change your coat.
Read More
New season, new scent is a mantra I abide to with the same level of diligence most reserve for daily showers and teeth brushing. Each change in season is accompanied by a new scent, the latest in an ever-growing fragrance trail. Rich, deep fragrances define the cooler months whilst warm, vibrant scents capture the heady, balmy days of summer. Spring is perhaps the easiest season to capture - floral, fresh, and flush with life - the perfect accompaniment to warming weather and blooming foliage. These are my current contenders...
Read More
The first month in my new flat has meant many things - including multiple trips to Ikea, late nights spent flat-packing, a lengthy wait for Internet installation, and numerous flat parties - but notably also, the time and space with which to rediscover [and refine] my beauty stash. Throw in a few new launches [of which there are always many at this time of year] and it's been a busy month of swatching and sniffing, culminating in a lengthy list of favourites, narrowed down to the below five for your reading pleasure. Enjoy.
Read More
Despite numerous and frequent facelifts, one thing has remained a constant in the lifespan of this blog [which turned three last month!]; the monthly favourites post may have fallen from favour with some, but remains by far one of my favourite posts to compile. And, As a blog reader myself, such features not only indicate a genuine passion for beauty but also demonstrates personality and individuality in a sea of clickbait post titles. Essentially, favourites posts take us back to blogging basics - honest, transparent reviews of the products we love most
Read More
Spring is the season of fresh starts and new beginnings - there is no better time to choose a new scent. What's more, far from being typical prissy florals, the latest olfactory offerings are [quite fittingly] a renewal in their own right. Modern reinventions of classic combinations, these fragrances call to mind those first days of the year where longer days and warmer climes draw us outside; a celebration of all things green, this is spring at its most authentic.
Read More
Because nothing quite beats the transcendental power of scent, here are six luxe candles guaranteed to bring spring freshness to your home. Winter doldrums, begone.
Read More
I've been trying to stay loyal to the products I use [in attempt both to streamline my collection and to keep my complexion in check], but in the past month beauty has played a bigger role than ever in my life so it's been hard. I've had increasing exposure to and opportunities to try the latest and greatest in beauty launches - a few of which I've debriefed on below.
Read More
Beauty-wise, February for me is never about extravagant, indulgent beauty purchases - emerging from the rear end of winter with dull skin and frizzy hair calls for products that do exactly what they say they will. The past month has been one of the busiest of my life, and my lifestyle has more than reflected in my beauty picks this month; five products all with one thing in common, the ability to perform at maximum potential with minimal effort required.
Read More
February 14th falling on a Sunday means you can devote the entire day to primping and preening; whether in preparation for date night or by means of luxeing up your 'secret single behaviour'. If your sweetheart has scheduled a candlelit dinner, schedule extra prep time to indulge before arming yourself with with your beauty secret weapons [there's no underestimating the power of lipstick and perfume]. And for single gals? On perhaps the one day when it's not only allowed, but also actively encouraged to splurge on oneself, a few chic upgrades to your regular beauty routine can go a long way. At the very least, today is the ultimate excuse for a girl to indulge during a rare free moment in her overpacked schedule.
Read More
Between the post-festive slump and January blues, the month may not be everyone’s favourite time of year, but for me January is great for two things: my birthday, and new beauty launches. Whilst not all of the below are hot off the press per se, they’re all new to my routine, and as you’ll see, I’m quite smitten
Read More
Despite my best intentions, a ‘year in beauty’ post didn't quite make it into the works this year. Given the time I could easily have compiled an exhaustive list of brands and products I’ve used and loved this year, but I’ve edited it down to just ten in order to truly set the elite above and apart. These are the best of the best, each 100% guaranteed a repurchase and a permanent home in my makeup drawers/bathroom cabinet/heart. If you’re a long-term reader you’ll undoubtedly recognise these from numerous posts, and my monthly favourites roundups throughout the year.
Read More
December brought with it an explosion of festivity and cheer that couldn't help but inspire me to shake up my beauty regime just a little - see below, a do-it-all primer, a new hue of eyeshadow, and an indulgent in-shower treatment. Similarly, the weather’s effect upon my complexion called for a boost on the hydration front, and if there’s one thing I’ve learnt this year it’s that moisture can [and should] be sought from more than just one’s moisturiser. This month, replacing my makeup remover with a cleansing oil, followed up by a luxe treatment oil has been just the ticket in restoring a much-needed glow.
Read MoreInspire your last minute shopping dash with a compilation of gift edits catered to fit some of life’s most intricate personalities.
Read More
The state of one’s hands and nails betrays more than just age; there’s nothing worse than offering up a parched handshake, and chipped, mismatched nails speak a thousand [far from pleasant] words. With a little care however, this need not be the case. Come winter, continual effort is required to keep hands, nails, and cuticles in good shape, and the timeless appeal of soft palms and a set of perfectly manicured tips endures more than ever. Here’s how to up your nail care game this winter season.
Read More