Top Picks / Red Lips...

Swatched left to right

  New CID Cosmetics-Scarlet / Burberry-Military Red / Clarins Instant Smooth Lip Balm- Crystal Red Summer Collection'12 / Clarins Colour Crystal-Red Summer Collection'11 / Korres Lip Gloss-Red Pink / Miners Matte Factor Lip Cream-Deep Red.

 

After taking swatches of the lipsticks it soon became evident that Scarlet is in fact a dupe for Burberry's Military Red. The only difference being the finish, Military Red is a matte finish where as Scarlet has a sheen to it. Both gorgeous shades! 

(Left-Scarlet / Right- Military Red)

 

I love digging out my red lipsticks and stains this time of year, especially for winter and party season! Here's a small selection of red lipsticks which I reach for, whether that be day time or evening. Some are very bold whilst a couple or so are very mild and great for anyone who would rather pass on the bright bold traditional red lip. There's a red shade out there for everyone, just have a look and take your time to swatch them in the shop. I would make sure you line your lips first and cover them all over with a lip liner and don't forget your lip balm first! I swear by the Blistex Relief cream.

I would love to know your top Red Lipstick for Winter? I have the red lip from the Kate Moss Rimmel Collection on my wish list!

Sherrie xo

Organic Surge / Blissful Daily Moisturiser

 Organic Surge Blissful Daily Moisturiser* 50ml/ £8.49

My skin has now turned a little dry since the Autumn months and no doubt with Winter on it's way my skin will begin to feel tight and parched. The central heating doesn't help either and I've already begun to notice a difference in my skin. Thankfully I've had a good moisturiser which has helped protect my skin and keep it hydrated. I've been using the Blissful Daily Moisturiser which is aimed at normal/combination skin types like mine. However if you have dry skin they do have a more intensive cream suitable. The creams are suitable for sensitive skins, I think some skins are more prone to sensitivity especially this time of year.

I know I've mentioned before about Organic Surge and about the brand and their ethics, I can't stress again how amazing the cost of the day cream is. The list of ingredients is amazing, Rosemary, Lemon and Sweet Orange essential oils. These help to purify and tone the skin whilst eliminating toxins. Other great ingredients such as Green tea and and Grapeseed oil help to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. So if you often get redness or your skin feels uncomfortable and tight this would be perfect for you.

I couldn't believe the formulation, it's rich and hydrating yet it doesn't feel thick or heavy on the skin when applied. It absorbs very quickly and doesn't leave a greasy film on the skin which can sometimes feel a little strange. The packaging is plain and simple, a nice glass jar which is easy to use, not travel friendly but still sturdy. They currently have 3 for 2 on offer so take advantage and treat yourself and grab a couple xmas pressies!!

Organic Surge is 100% free from SLS, parabens, artificial fragrances and colourants.

Organic Surge is available online

www.organicsurge.com

Sherrie xo

Liz Earle Signature Lip Colour / Peach

 

Liz Earle Signature Lip Colour Peach* £14.00

Today's post is short but very sweet! I've been reaching for lots of lipsticks lately but one which I have recently been reaching for lots has been one of the Liz Earle's Signature Lip Colours. I have the shade Peach which is totally different from all peach shades I own. Instead of your peachy/spring shade this has a little more depth to it. A warm peach shade which is perfect for this time of year but in fact a shade which would look fab all year round. 

Whilst Liz Earle describes the Signature Lip colours as sheer, I would say they are slightly more than that but without being heavy. They had a lovely pigmented wash of colour which is noticeable but light. So if you're not a lipstick wearer normally I would recommend you try one of these, there's 19 shades to pick from. So I'm sure there's a shade or two for everyone. I already have my eye on a few shades!

The formulation and texture is very creamy and soft, a dream to apply. The one thing you know with Liz Earle makeup is the quality. You know the products contain the best ingredients, so while we look are best our skin is also being treated. The Signature Lip Colours all contain Vitamin E, avocado oil, and shea butter which are all key ingredients for healthy hydrated lips. I suffer badly this time of year with dry cracked lips and often find I can't wear lipsticks because they look awful on me because of the condition of my lips. So finger crossed with lots of TLC i can enjoy lipsticks, i know I will reach for this one most because of the hydrating ingredients. 

Have you tried the Liz Earle's Signature Lip Colours?

Sherrie xo

 

It's going to be a LUSH Christmas...

 

 Bubblebeard* £4.95

Christmas isn't complete unless you have a little festive pampering from LUSH. I love looking at their Christmas range each year, what with the anual return of their famous Snow Fairy shower gel. This year I have been indulging in quite a few bubble baths thanks to the delightful Bubblebeard bubble bar. I know almost all Lush products smell Lush but this is just amazing, I love the sandalwood aroma it gives. I adore the moustache shaped bubble bar, very reminiscent of Santas. You may be thinking why the stick? Well this bubble bar can be re-used over and over again, you'll be surprised how many bubble baths you can get from one moustache! Using the stick you simply swish your Bubblebeard under hot running water and watch the glistening bubbles rise. Once you're happy with your mountain of bubblebeard bubbles you can put the bubble bar back on the side ready for it's next use. Simples. I love the smell it leaves my bathroom.

 

My children both enjoyed the Father Christmas bath ballistic, he is a nice hefty size. Once in the bath Father Christmas fizzes away to reveal a jolly bright green festive colour. If you pop into Lush this Christmas make sure you pick one of these up, this is Christmas all in one! Santa, red, green, glitter and smell of mandarins! Doesn't get better than that, you just need a glass of Mulled Wine and a cheeky mince pie to enjoy whilst relaxing in your green glittery bath!

 

 Father Christmas* £3.25

Have you been picking up any of the Lush Christmas range?? If you have any recommendations please let me know!!!

Sherrie xo

Liz Earle / 24 Days Of Christmas Advent Calendar

 

 

 24 Days of Christmas with Liz Earle* £100

Only 28 Days till Christmas, so pamper yourself daily with Liz Earle till the big day!

It's the 1st of December this Saturday which means we can all start opening our advent calendars-yippee!! I still love the excitement of opening an advent calendar even as an adult, however this year I am even more excited to be opening up the 24 Days of Christmas with Liz Earle. This has to be one of those moments when you just say 'WOW'. For the first time Liz Earle have made a very exquisite Advent Calendar, full of there amazing products. A mixture of skincare, bodycare, haircare and fragrance treats all waiting to be loved and used. All housed in a beautiful sturdy set, it will set you back more than your traditional chocolate calendar, but then this is better- much better! I know which one I will be rushing to each morning. 

 

Liz Earle have a selection of Christmas gifts for both ladies and gents, plus you can visit the Liz Earle Wish List Creator on the Liz Earle Facebook page. A great way of hinting and letting your loved ones know what you're wishing for this Christmas! 

I will take a pic each day and share with you on my Instagram page so come follow me! @mirror82.

Sherrie xo

Neom / Travel Candle Gift Set

Christmas is right around the corner which is so exciting! The weather has turned really cold and chilly adding to the whole 'wintery' feel. I love nothing more than lighting a candle or two, which leads me on to today's blog post! Neom is a favourite brand of mine which I'm sure you all know by now. They have a lovely range of luxurious gift sets for Christmas, one of which is the Scent with love: Travel Candle Gift Set. Neom have picked their four most popular travel candles and gathered them together presented in a lovely chic gift box which would look fabulous under any tree!

Neom is a luxurious brand which really makes you feel special, so if you want treat someone special they would love one of the gift sets from the Christmas range. I still can't quite believe how long the travel candles actually burn for, up to 20hrs. That's 30% more than your standard premium candles, once you've burnt a Neom candle you won't want to waste your money on other scented candles which only burn for a short time and don't even smell for long either. The Travel Candle gift set is a great way of trying and enjoying four fragrances. You can place them around your home, creating different moods in different rooms.

The four scents are:

Real Luxury / Lavender, Jasmine & Brazilian Rosewood

Invigorate / Grapefruit, Bergamot & Lime

Harmonise / Pine, Cedarwood & Eucalyptus

Tranquillity / English Lavender, Sweet Basil & Jasmine.

I love them all, I have Harmonise in my front room because it reminds me of winter and Christmas. Whilst the other scents are in my bedroom, dining room and hallway. These candles really do make you feel happier and relaxed.

 

You can purchase the travel candle gift set online from www.neomorganics.com take a peek at the other gift sets as well as the lovely Christmas Wish candle and Reed Diffuser. 

Sherrie xo

NEW Colgate ProClinical A1500

 

I have an exciting post for you today, I had an amazing opportunity to test out the NEW electric toothbrush from Colgate. The Colgate ProClinical A1500 is the UK's first electric toothbrush that automatically adjusts whilst cleaning your teeth and gums. Sounds strange? I shall explain a little more, thanks to the unique smart sensors, the brush automatically adjusts the speed. Therefore changing the cleaning action, this is based on how you hold the brush in your mouth. As you can imagine this knocks the manual toothbrush off it's perch! 

The 3 different speeds change depending on the position of the brush as mentioned before, MID speed massages the gums and sides of teeth. SLOWER speed is for side to side surface strokes and then the real boost is the FAST speed which really wakes you up! The fast speed is perfect for your molars. After the first use my teeth just felt cleaner and could say they were squeaky clean- literally. Along with an auto and manual mode selection, and a clear LED display, the toothbrush features a two-minute timer to ensure that you clean your teeth for the length of time recommended by dental professionals. As well as a 30-second pacer to indicate when to move to another area of your mouth.

The Colgate ProClinical range has been developed in partnership with Omron healthcare, worldwide leaders in the manufacture of medical and home healthcare products with innovative sensing and control technology. For many Decades Omron's devices have helped people to prevent, treat, and manage lifestyle diseases both at home and in clinical practice in more than 100 countries around the world.

The electric toothbrush handle is easy to hold and control, thanks to it's light-weight ergonomic non-slip handle. An interesting fact just for you- Sonic Vibrations clean with up to 32,500 strokes/min to remove plaque. I take their word for it, I'm not a quick counter ha ha! The actual brush head is a triple clean with multi-height bristles to clean in all directions. The electric toothbrush comes with it's all slimline travel case which fits the brush head and electric toothbrush neatly. The price may be a little extravagant retailing at £169.99, however Boots currently have an amazing 50% off! So you can snap the latest electric toothbrush technology for £84.99. 

So, if you are in need of a new electric toothbrush maybe this could be the one?

Sherrie

Clarins / NEW Skin Illusion Powder Foundation & Colour Accents Compact

Clarins have done it again, they've created another beautiful striking palette which looks too good to use. But when you do, you won't want to stop! Despite the time of year I still use a bronzer and rely on using a bronzer to help me cheat that healthy glow. The Clarins Colour Accent Face & Blusher Powder* has been my secret weapon to create that lovely glow. I think this is genius! A bronzer and blusher together in one compact, thumbs up Clarins! The compact has 3 different slices of nude/bronzer shades and 2 stripes of blusher. The shades of the blusher is gorgeous. A true beautiful pink which compliments most skin tones, swirled together you create a beautiful rosy glow to your cheeks and face. I do tend to use my smaller blush brush and concentrate on the corners picking up more of the pink. I use this for the cheek area and then use my large powder brush to swirl all together mainly in the centre of the compact and then sweep this all over my face for a healthy even glow. This is limited edition so if you've been umming and ahhing I would snap this up before it's too late. You won't regret it. The packaging is classic of Clarins, encased within the traditional stylish gold compact, which is kept safe inside the red velvet pouch.

One of my favourite foundations is the Clarins Skin Illusion Liquid Foundation, so when I heard they were releasing a powder formulation my ears pricked up! The Skin Illusion Loose Powder Foundation is perfect for oily-combination skin types. Whilst it's suitable for all skin types I think if you have oily/combination skin you would benefit more. My skin is combination and since the change of seasons my skin has become a little dry in areas but only ever so slightly. Throughout the Summer my skin was oily and most foundations didn't last. So I can't wait to try this on days when I feel my skin is a little oily. I have been using the liquid Skin Illusion formulation with the powder formulation, this may seem a little excessive... BUT I assure you it's not. I use the liquid all over and then buff the powder formulation down my t-zone and over any areas which need a little extra coverage. I'm the shade Sand (108) which is the perfect shade for me all year round. I would say the Skin Illusion Loose Powder shade is almost identical to the liquid formulation but I would always recommend you pop to your local counter if you're in doubt.

The packaging is reminiscent of Clarins traditional gold packaging. The design is simple yet effective and works well. The gold chunky lid houses the brush, when twisted and taken off the brush sits neatly on top of the powder sifter. The design isn't exactly travel friendly but having said that the glass jar containing the loose powder does look pretty tough. A word of warning, just be cautious when removing the chunky gold cap because as with most loose powders, it can get a little messy and you wouldn't want to waste any product. As for the application and longevity I can report this does apply smoothly and easily, I did need to pay extra attention to some areas which is fine. However I do like to use liquid foundations this time of year so think I would reach for this more in the warmer months. Having said that I would without a doubt use this for a night out, it helps skin to remain shiny free so no worries about your face sliding off whilst partying the night away. The brush is surprisingly good and I've not reached for any other brushes at present. I do apply the Clarins Instant Smooth before hand and this amazing, another product to add to your Christmas lists!

 

Overall I can highly rate both of these products and would add them to your Christmas lists if your stuck for ideas! 

Have you seen the New Skin Illusion Powder Foundation?

PR Sample

Top Fragrance Picks / His & Hers

 

It's in all the shops so I can safely say Christmas is just around the corner, but fret not! If you're unsure what to get your loved ones or family members this year, I have 2 fragrances which are sure to make it top the top of your lists! What better fragrance to get the man in your life than the new 007 fragrance, this launched to coincide with the new bond movie- Skyfall. I love the scent, my hubby has been wearing this ever since it landed in his hand, he's a BIG Bond fan. A classic masculine fragrance with a modern twist, with notes of cardamon, apples, sandalwood, vetiver and much more.

The bottle is studded and wears the iconic 007 symbol, the nozzle is truly top secret and took me a while to figure it out! The scent has been very popular, when it first launched it outsold all new men's and women's scents. So I'm sure this will be the perfect present to buy for your dad, brother or loved one. They released a limited edition gold version available only in 50ml, this has sold out most places but The Perfume Shop does have some in stock so be quick!

James Bond 007 50ml* £24.50

The latest ladies scent which I've welcomed with open arms is the new Hugo Boss Nuit Pour Femme EDP. The bottle is very sleek and stylish, very reminiscent of the 'little black dress'. This has been my go-to fragrance for day and night, the scent is so different from anything I have which I LOVE. This is perfect for the festive season, lots of parties and dressing up. A fruity floral concoction with some of my favourite notes.

Juicy white peach adds a nice fruity aroma whilst jasmine, white florals and violet adds a nice powdery scent. Finishing off with a woody scent thanks to crystal moss and sandalwood. I know this would make a great gift for any woman. Available in sizes 30ml/50ml/75ml with accompanining body products.

Boss Nuit Pour Femme EDP* £34-£59

Will you be adding either of these to your Christmas Lists?

Sherrie xo

Burberry Complete Eye Palette #Plum Pink

 

I have a lovely review for you today, the Burberry Complete Eye Palette. Burberry have recently launched a lovely selection of gorgeous eye palettes, all comprising of 4 eye shadows. Ranging from light to dark shades. I've been lusting over the beautiful Plum Pink palette which has four very wearable shades, the main shade which stands out a mile to myself is the striking aubergine/plum shade which has a stunning shimmery sheen running through it. The other shades all work well together, I tend to use the lightest shade all over the lid and then use any of the other shades in my socket. I would say the middle shades look stunning all over the lid for an intense smokey look. Burberry recommend using the lightest shade as a base/highlighter whilst the 2 medium shades add colour and shape and the darkest matte/satin shade is perfect for an eyeliner.

The packaging is very stylish and chic which you would expect from Burberry, the palette is a luscious deep gunmetal colour. The palette is enclosed in it's very own velvet pouch accompanied with 3 mini brushes which are actually good! I would be happy to use these if travelling. I will make sure I add some snap shots of my makeup using the lovely palette soon, the typical gloomy British Autumn weather doesn't help my hazy photographs!

I've seen and often hear so many Beauty Bloggers rave about the quality of Burberry eye shadows and I can back them up! The quality is amazing, very pigmented and long lasting.  If you want to treat yourself I would say buy one of these! If not add it to your Christmas list.

Sherrie xo

Autumn Picks / Top 5 Eyeshadows

This is my final Autumn Picks post and I've thoroughly enjoyed this mini-series. If you've not read my Autumn Top Blusher Picks or Autumn Top Lipstick Picks you can catch up! I'm contemplating an Autumn/Winter Nail Polish top picks post? Let me know if you have any ideas for me!

My top Autumn Eyeshadows...

This was probably my favourite post from the Autumn Picks mini-series, I love every single one of these shadows and would wear them for day time and evening. I think A/W allows you to wear a smokey eye during the day and it's perfectly acceptable.

My first top pick comes as a pair, I bought them both last year. They work very well together and that's NARS Nepal / Mekong, I purposely bought them to be worn together. Nepal is actually a repurchase and I fell in love with Mekong. Nepal is a beautiful nude shimmer, it's more on the pink side and works fab as an all over lid shade but also also looks beautiful with Mekong buffed into the socket. Mekong is a deep muddy shade with fine flecks of glitter through it. It's so gorgeous the swatch does not do it justice. This is staple for any smokey eye, the formulation is high quality and the pigmentation is strong.

Next up is 2 eyeshadows from Clarins, these were recently launched earlier this Autumn. The 2 shades which I've been wearing individually is Clarins Silver Green / Aubergine. Silver Green is beautiful when solely worn alone as an all over lid shade. I love wearing Khaki colours on my eyes and this has to be a favourite shade. Aubergine is beautiful blended into the socket, I haven't worn it as an all over lid shade, it works best as a socket shade for myself. These shadows can be applied dry or wet to create a more intense look, Aubergine makes a striking eye liner!

My last top pick had to be a grey/charcoal shade and that is NYX Cosmetics Deep Charcoal, I love the cute simple packaging and peeked eyeshadow. The texture is creamy and soft and the pigmentation is great. I think everyone needs a charcoal shade in their stash to help create a nice soft smokey look.

Top-Bottom:

Nepal / Deep Charcoal / Silver Green / Mekong / Aubergine

After swatching them and seeing them all together, they all look so lovely and would work great in a palette! Don't you think? Maybe I could do a post on my Top/Favourite Eyeshadow palettes?

So there you have it, my Top Autumn Picks for Eyeshadows.
Do you have any of these in your stash?

Sherrie xo

Autumn Picks / Top Lipsticks

Following on from my Autumn Picks / Top 3 Blushers post I wanted to share my top Lipstick picks. I managed to keep this down to 5 lip products which was surprisingly easy.

My top 5 Autumn Lipsticks are..

Right I know the title says lipsticks but my first pick is in fact a gloss, Clarins Nude Delhi. It's from Clarins Summer collection but even then I mentioned it looked more of an A/W shade. It's a beautiful mix of mauve/brown shade with gold shimmer running through it. The colour is so pretty I wanted to take a close up so you could see how pretty it looks in the tube.

Whilst we are on the brown/nude shades my next top pick goes to Topshop Rumour Has It. This is great if you're not a big lipstick wearer but still want to feel Autumnal, this is a pretty natural tan shade which looks great with a smokey/plum eye.

The newest to my lipstick collection was from the October Glossybox, by the brand Yves Rocher Mauve. I love the smell and the formulation is creamy and very pigmented. For me this is the perfect Autumnal shade. It is on the deep side and I tend to apply this with a light hand and then dab the lipstick into my lips.

Probably one of my oldest lippies but still a firm favourite is Macs Plum, this is discontinued now but it's your classic deep plum shade. I formulation is long lasting and not drying on the lips,

My final top pick goes to Revlon Crush, whilst this isn't a lipstick it resembles a lipstick. it's one of their popular kissable lip balm stains. I love this shade and out of all the top picks I would say this is probably my most worn one, it looks lovely on the lips with Clarins Nude Delhi over the top.

Crush / Mauve / Rumour Has It / Plum / Nude Delhi

Do you have any of these in your makeup stash? What do you think of the shades?

What are your Autumn Lip shades?

Sherrie xo

Autumn Picks / Top 3 Blushers All Under £6!

Since we are well into Autumn I thought I would quickly share my favourite blushers which I've been reaching for since the trees started to turn colour. I LOVE this time of year, I always go through my make up stash and change my bright corals and peaches for more autumnal shades. When I went through my blushers there was just 3 blushers which caught my eye and that's good. Sometimes you can bog yourself down with blushes. 

So my top 3 Autumn Blushes are...

I can't believe these are all under £6, they are all very pigmented and great quality! I still can't stay away from cream blushes. I love Topshops Nutmeg, it blends well and gives a nice rustic warmth to the skin which looks beautiful and healthy. This is the most pricey of the bunch, only costing £6 which is still amazing value.

The next Blush to make to my top 3 is e.l.f Cosmetics Berry Merry blush. I did buy this last year after reading reviews it's been compared to NARS Sin. Whilst I don't have NARS Sin...yet.I have seen swatches of them both together and they do resemble a likeness in the pan but when swatched NARS Sin is more purple/mauve toned. But seeings at this costs a fraction of the price I think £3.75 is  well worth the chance. It's a beautiful deep berry shade which has fine flecks of gold in. perfect for the party season and for giving the cheeks that fresh flush glow.

The 3rd and final pick of the bunch is Sleek Makeup Pomegranate. It's probably the most scariest to look at from the 3. Very pigmented so a light hand is a must when applying this to fair/medium skin tones. I love the vibrant deep plum/purple undertones, almost wine-like. It has a subtle shimmer/seen running through it which gives it an extra POP of power. It lasts well on the cheeks and would be great to wear on a night out. I love wearing it during the day when I have very little on my eyes. Again price wise you can;t complain it costs £4.49.

Pomegranate / Berry Merry / Nutmeg

I really hope you enjoyed this post! I have more Autumn Picks coming soon so here's a sneak peek what to expect!

I would love to know your Autumn Blushers!

Sherrie xo