F*** Valentine's!

Valentine's Day is less that a week away and for some, it serves as nothing more than a cringe-worthy reminder of singledom, for others its the ultimate night to 'pull', and for others it's a night of extortionate Domino's orders and reacquainting  themselves with the ultimate duo - Ben.. & Jerry. *hallalujah*

But Fear not! Valentine's day is a holiday, single or not, and there are some incredible offers that restaurants, shops, bars and spas throw out there. What's a box of chocolates and a rose compared to an incredible meal (without having to share your dessert), and an evening of pampering at a spa?! It's also a great time to give yourself some good Karma, babysit for your friends with children so they can have a night out (and I guarantee it'll be worth it - not just for the karma!), make someone's day and visit someone you know will be alone - do you have a grandparent or family member that might appreciate some company? There are plenty of ways to survive the holiday of love and come out of it feeling pretty darn happy with yourself.

*Quick note to couples - don't be this guy...*

1. Be your own bloody valentine! 

Of all the times to get yourself a gift, Valentine's is the time. That watch you had your eye on? Need to get your hair done? That extra special pair of jeans? DO IT. Get your house/room some flowers (anything but roses) - they smell incredible and brighten up any space - making you feel HAPPY! Spend time cooking dinner, get something you love and take time to cook it, present it well (on an actual plate, with actual cutlery) and make sure it's done right! (do you want a starter too? pick the wine well, what about dessert?) Put some time and effort into yourself. Presents - check! Flowers - check! Dinner - check! Pick a good film, read a good book, snuggle up in a bed with some hot chocolate (more wine) and just thank Christ you're as awesome as you are!

2. Be someone else's valentine!

Did you know that the original story of Saint Valentine is a tale of sacrifice and martyrdom? (joys of Google.) Why not spend the day doing things for other people? BE GRATEFUL, it may sound harsh and depressing, but just think on it - you might not have 'a valentine' *boohoo* but what about the people who have lost their mother's on mothers day? Or fathers on fathers day? There are a lot of worse things out there than being single for one more day. The love of your life may well be right around the corner, but for some people certain holidays will always be painful. Valentine's may hurt this year, but it hurts a lot less knowing that next year might be very different! So why not spend the day with people who will really appreciate it. Take roses to a home for the elderly, or someone you know who has lost their partner. Has a friend just gone through a break up? Why not show them a bit of love, cook some dinner together, have some wine, watch some films, just have a chilled night - what's the sense in you both being alone?!

There might also be good opportunities to babysit for some friends, letting parents have some romantic time to themselves? They'll be cooking you dinners, inviting you to parties and generally just indebted to you for a fair while - not to mention the good karma you'll have racked up for yourself! Giving out roses, food or just your company to those in need is a great way to make someone else happy this Valentine's, and I guarantee it will make you happy too.

3. Hibernate until it's all over!

If seeing humans just isn't for you on Valentine's - then don't! Stack up some DVD's or books, make yourself a picnic, get the wine in, your favourite Pj's, face masks, nail varnish etc. out and emerge the day after Valentine's day looking better than ever! Do all the things that you NEED to be alone for - wax off the tash, clip your toe nails, eat something carby and fart yourself to a flat stomach, watch a whole season of Sex and the City guilt free, walk around naked - do whatever the hell you want! A full night dedicated to guilty pleasures and you'll surface in the morning feeling spoilt, grateful and damn lucky that no-one saw what you did last night!

4. Get Ahead!

While some go out as a single with the only intention of returning as a couple, other's are pampering, the couples are coupling - grab the opportunity by the cojones! Take this time to knuckle down on a work project, get some extra research done, perfect that presentation or do all those emails you've been putting off. If you're unemployed, then spend the time ramping up your CV (you can totally speak fluent Finnish), applying to jobs, writing cover letters etc. - it may sound a bit dull, but focusing on yourself and something very much worth while can only come up roses! Impress your boss, get a boss, or be the boss! (Just don't drink and job apply - dangerous)

5. Go out! 

If you know you're likely to dwell and the idea of being alone just isn't appealing, then sod it! Go out, glam up, dance, and whatever happens.. happens... Bars, pubs, clubs, even churches throw all sorts of valentine's parties and offers on tickets and drinks, may as well take advantage!

6. Stay in! 

Get your friends, get your face masks, get little 'secret valentine' (like secret Santa.. you get the idea!) for one another, get the wine, the films, the food and you're all set. CHICKS BEFORE DICKS!

7. Drink through it! 

(Cue flashbacks of my freshers week...) This one's pretty self explanatory. Just do as Fred and Ginger would do and "call the whole thing off!" - sod it, just get bloody pissed. By the time you open your eyes the whole affair will be over. sorted.

8. Two words: Booty. Call.

It's valentine's, you've eaten every chocolate in sight, you've spent you 'lingerie and date' fund on booze, it's hit 11pm... if you fingers just so happen to dial that number, of that guy.. what's his name? then you can't be held responsible for the consequences. (Just try to kick him out before you fall asleep, once Valentine's is over - reality sets in again. It's a Cinderella situation, as long as he's gone by morning - nothing. happened.) 

9. Take the time to take your mums advice!

Spend the day eating properly, drinking enough water, exercising, doing your washing, tidying up and just doing all those things your mum used to nag you to do. Sort out your finances, cancel that subscription to 'mizz' magazine you've had since you were knee high to a grasshopper - exchange it for a grown up mag like 'house and home' or something else all sophisticated and adult. Purge your wardrobe. CALL YOUR MOTHER! Have her as the voice in your head, taking good care of yourself and doing the things that SUCK, will make you feel a whole tonne better (especially when you turn up to work and - instead of joining the hungover couples in purgatory - you look sprightly, well groomed and healthy. Lovely :) )

Just do whatever you want for the night! It's about showing a little bit of extra caring, for yourself, a stranger, a friend, your job or a good bottle of red - either way it's the time to put a little bit of extra effort into happiness. It is only 24 hours after all! Take advantage of it and don't let it go to waste - we don't have a lot of holidays and even less that prescribe a good dose of self love!

I'd love to know how you guys will be spending your valentine's days and any survival plans you might have! Let me know if you liked this post in the comments below :)

Until next time!

Amber x

(see also: Why love sucks: http://mashable.com/2014/01/30/love-facts/)

Morning Skincare routine (Winter)

As the winter stretch seems eternal, and the urge to envelop ourselves in blankets forever and ever becomes ever more prominent (and increasingly inevitable) a good skin care routine to comfort and protect the skin from the harsh winter winds is essential.

As someone who resembles an under-bridge-troll in the morning (regardless of hours slept, alcohol consumed or even if i'm woken up by Ed Westwick, in the buff, holding a bunch of flowers in one hand and some seriously strong coffee in the other), it takes a fair bit of coaxing for me to leave my bed at all, let alone engage in comprehensible conversation or even function as a human.

My morning skin care routine is long enough to give me time to wake-up, easy enough to do whilst still half-asleep, and nourishing enough to give myself a little love first thing in the AM. It is quite extensive and I understand that most people don't like caking on as many creams as I do (I like to layer up my face as well as my outfits in winter), but this is just the routine i've found that works for me and i'm always open to suggestions! :) 

So here we go! Step 1. - CLEANSE WITH BIODERMA 

                            

The first thing I do (after washing my hands and splashing cold water on my face) is a good sweep of Bioderma to remove any excess night-time products, left over shampoo or conditioner and oils/general sleep-ness from my face. Bioderma is, quite frankly, the absolute tits. I'm not quite sure how well I would be able to fare in a Bioderma-free world and for anyone who hasn't yet given it a try - I urge, beg & pray for you to try. (I've put the links for where you can get all products mentioned at the bottom of the post). It feels just like water, is great for sensitive skin and is the best cleanser in the world. Fact. 

STEP 2. - TONE WITH KIEHL'S CALENDULA TONER

Next up I use a good splash of my Kiehl's Calendula toner, I find this really helps as a final step to make sure my face is totally clean, fresh and ready to go. It makes skin super soft and relaxed and helps to clear pores and give a really even, bright skin tone, full of herbs and alcohol free

STEP 3. - EYE SERUM: ESTEE LAUDER ADVANCED NIGHT REPAIR EYE

After cleansing and toning, I apply my eye serum (giving my face time to absorb the toner and dry and just breathe for a bit). I use this on my 'eye bone' (I'm sure it has a technical name but lets just go with eye bone for now) sweeping it across and up to the end of my brow, then i go back round in small circles, and gently pat in any excess. 

STEP 3.5 - EYE CREAM: EMU OIL

Next up is eye cream (I've inherited terrible dark circles - thanks mum - so my eye area needs quite a bit of attention). I love the Emu Oil eye cream for the mornings because it's really nourishing, simple and isn't filled with chemicals or junk, not too intense and not watery either, just a great little product that does exactly what it's needed to do. I apply this in exactly the same way as the serum but take it a little higher to cover my eye brow bone (I know, my biological knowledge astounds even me). 

(please excuse my shocking computer skills, I hope this helps?)

STEP 4. - FACIAL SERUM - ESTEE LAUDER ADVANCED NIGHT REPAIR / ORIGINS MEGA BRIGHT 

Once my eyes are cared for, I move onto my facial serum. Depending on how my skin is feeling or what I'll be doing throughout the day, I use either the Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair or Origins Mega Bright serum. (If my skin is feeling a little delicate I sometimes use the Origins Mega Mushroom). I put this all over my face and neck and gently pat in until absorbed.

STEP 5. - MOISTURISER(S)

Moisturiser is the next step in the facial recipe. I am unashamed to say that I am a total moisturiser whore. I pick them out of my draw like a fat kid in a candy store, I love to layer them up for a really intensive injection of moisture and to creat a barrier against the nasties of city life. For the past few weeks I've been fairly loyal, my favourite combination is the Clinique dramatically different moisturiser, followed by Origins GinZing, and finished off with Kiehls Ultra light daily defence SPF 50+++ (which is always the final step, regardless of the season). 

STEP 6. - LYMPHATIC DRAINING 

Once my face is nicely clean and well fed, I like to start the day with a little lymphatic draining to wake my skin up. I've been using the Eve Lom draining techniques. You can watch a video of Eve's trademark draining techniques here: Eve Lom Video

(I find this also gives me a little bit more time for the moisturiser to fully sink in before applying my make up)

And that's that! A little long winded and product-heavy but i have combination to dry skin usually and in winter I just feel as though skin needs a little extra help to stay plump, hydrated and protected. If any of you have tried any of these products or have any suggestions for products that you love to use in the morning, please let me know in the comments below as regardless of how full my morning routine is, there's always room for a new step! 

Until next time! 

Amber x

For Bioderma: http://www.monguidesante.com/bioderma-maID=14.html

For Calendula: http://www.kiehls.co.uk/skin-care/by-category/toners/calendula-herbal-extract-alcohol-free-toner

For ANR eye serum: http://www.esteelauder.co.uk/product/685/24552/Product-Catalog/Skincare/By-Category/Eye-Care/Advanced-Night-Repair/Eye-Serum-Infusion/index.tmpl

For Emu Oil: http://www.emu-oil-well.co.uk/p/moisturising-eye-cream/21

For Mega Bright: http://www.origins.co.uk/products/8670/Skincare/Range/Dr-Weil-Mega-Bright/index.tmpl?cm_sp=Gnav-_-Skincare-_-Dr.WeilMega-Bright

For ANR: http://www.esteelauder.co.uk/products/8241/Product-Catalog/Skincare/Collections/Advanced-Night-Repair/index.tmpl

For Mega-Mushroom: http://www.origins.co.uk/product/3860/11116/Skincare/Category/Serums/Mega-Mushroom-Skin-Relief/Advanced-Face-Serum/index.tmpl

For Clinique dramatically different: http://www.clinique.co.uk/product/11095/26651/3--step/DDML/NEW-Dramatically-Different-Moisturizing-Lotion/index.tmpl

For Origins GinZing: http://www.origins.co.uk/products/10950/Skincare/Range/GinZing/index.tmpl?cm_sp=Gnav-_-Skincare-_-GinZing%E2%84%A2

For Kiehls moisturiser: http://www.kiehls.co.uk/skin-care/by-concern/healthy-skin/ultra-light-daily-defense-spf-50

Valentines: Naughty or Nice?

V-day is fast approaching and whether you're part of a pair or a single pringle this year, it's always nice to dress up a bit and do something special. Below are a few different looks ranging from cute and girly innocence to down right filthy (a combination of the two is always bound to go down well if your single ladies night ends up with some company...) 

For those of you who love all things girly, cute and just down right adorable, here's my little inspiration boards for some pretty and feminine outfit ideas :)

 

And of course no outfit is complete without the perfect lingerie.

"I love to wear lingerie. The problem is that men always rip it off too quickly. When women are dolled up in lingerie we feel sexy, so let us wear it for five minutes!" - Karen McDougal (Don't worry Karen, that's why we invented the strip tease)

*Valentines hint - a good trench coat paired with some beautiful lingerie is all the outfit you'll need. Throw on some heels and red lipstick and you're set for a damn good night ;)*

For those of you who are a little more adventurous or want to embrace the valentines spirit and release your inner sex goddess...

Ooowft ;) 

and never forget...

"Elegance does not consist in putting on a new dress" - Coco Chanel

You don't have to go out and buy anything new, you just need to wear what feels comfortable and right for you. If that means your PJ's for a pamper night, your favourite cocktail dress, lucky pants or birthday suit, Valentines day is all about feeling confident, comfortable and enjoying yourself (although the comfort can understandably be sacrificed for the right pair of shoes or that thong that definitely doesn't warrant its price tag for the amount of material it's made from). All you need is perfume, lip balm and some confidence.

“A woman should wear perfume wherever she wants to be kissed.” - Coco Chanel 

(well, perhaps not everywhere..) 

I hope this little post gives you some ideas for V-day, i'll be posting some ideas for things to do on the day, whether you'll be having a girly night, date night or a night in with your cat - it's a holiday, may as well make the most of it! If anyone has any Valentines tips or ideas then please let me know in the comments below :) 

Until next time! 

Amber x

January Haul part 2: Make up

As promised here is the make-up part of my January haul (apologies that it is now of course no longer January, but there we go!)

I didn't go too mad with make-up as i'm pretty happy with what I've already got at the moment, but there were a few bits and bobs that I wanted to try out so i figured the new year was a great excuse to splurge out and purchase a few goodies :)

First up was a Scandaleyes liquid liner from Rimmel...

Honestly, I was on my way home from work, my liquid liner died a terrible death that morning and I was going out to dinner that evening and just needed an eyeliner. I picked this one because of the pun (I know... perhaps I was delirious or just really, really tired, but I was sold by a pun and there we go) anyway the power of the pun actually lead me to a great find, I loved it so much I went and bought the other, more precise, Scandaleyes liner too and then went back again to pick up the sort of flesh toned liner (to combat red, hungover eyes). I really like the precision of these and they are such an intense black, often i've found they can seem a bit dry and take a couple of layers, but these come out really well and aren't at all dry. Totally great, easy to use, staple liners. *approved*

Next up was an eye and cheek palette from the Kardashian Beauty Collection...

I was super excited to try this palette because on the website the colours looked perfect, however, when it arrived the colours aren't true to the picture at all. My initial thought upon opening was "&%!!$$*& it's %&**!!!$ tiny", for its price i expected something a lot larger. When I tried the colours out, they pretty much just aren't pigmented at all. Worse than that - most of the colours are glittery/shimmery (personal preference, glitter just doesn't suit me at all), so needless to say I was pretty bummed. The packaging also looks pretty different, on the website it looked as though it was metal covered in actual sequins (its actually flimsy plastic and a bad sticker). BUT the silver lining to this failure is the blush section. The colours are absolutely amazing, they look so youthful and healthy and glowy and the highlighter is absolutely fantastic. Every time I've worn them i've had compliments about it and it seems to really make a difference to any look. So not a total failure there then!

Speaking of disappointing eye palettes, my next was a little throw-in-at-the-counter-to-avoid-having-to-talk-or-be-sociable-in-the-morning purchase. I bought this little eye shadow trio from H&M...

 

It was my first ever make-up purchase from H&M aaaand... I probably won't bother again.. I really struggle to find white/off white/cream shadows that actually show up on my face (thanks alabaster skin), and these were no different, the lightest colours were just a no-show, no pigmentation at all, (still not convinced they aren't just translucent). The brown however decided to have a field day and is super pigmented, but doesn't blend, loves to hide in creases and the whole thing is just a bit of a fail. yay impulse purchases!

Onto something slightly more successful.. The L'Oreal Nude Magique Eau de Teint foundation & BB powder...

For a while now i've been on the look out for a really light foundation, I've tried Estee Lauder Invisible fluid (which I loved), the Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua (was average, good, but over priced), the Yves Saint Laurent Touche eclat foundation and youth liberator foundation (both too heavy) among many others, and I decided that for what it is - a watered down foundation basically - that it was ridiculous to spend obscene amounts of money on (I can literally hear my mums pride). So I figured why not try the Nude Magique? And genuinely, it's my favourite. It glides on and feels so unlike any foundation i've had before, it's super soft and fine and sits a little like a powder, blends easily, is the perfect amount of coverage and lasts a really long time (which was a surprise!) So I had to go back and try the powder to match (it's a sad day when you hit pan of your old powder... goodbye Mac, it's been real..) The powder isn't as awesome as the foundation, it's a little harder to blend in, but to set make up it works really well. Overall both products impressed me. Am I slowly being converted to drug store make up...?

I've really been enjoying tinted lipbalms for a glossy lip finish lately and it made me remember how much i love a good gloss! I wanted something I could just throw on, something semi-sheer, natural, quite nudey for everyday glossage (definitely a real word), and picked up this Rimmel Vinyl Gloss in 130 'take a chance'...

  

Honestly there isn't too much to say about this, it tastes a bit like marshmallow which is nice, but other than that it's pretty unspectacular, handy if i'm out - ish, it takes a while to build it up enough to get to a point you can see it at all, the brush doesn't really pick up a lot of product. It's just not great really.. Don't think i'm a drug-store convert quite yet..

HOWEVER, following the disapPOUTntment (come on, that is pretty good..) anyway, following the gloss-fail, I decided to FINALLY jump on the Lanolips band wagon and give it a try, unwilling to shell out for the original, I opted for the slightly cheaper 'with colour' version...

aaandddd YES LANOLIPS! Absolutely in love, will be purchasing the original and any other lanolips product I can possibly get my greedy mits on. It's quite hard to coax out if it's chilly, but once you do it's so worth it. It's incredibly thick, and it sticks to your lips, but doesn't stick your lips together (I understand that's an odd concept to comprehend, and if i knew how it did it i'd tell you, but I don't, sorry!) It's just amazing, hugely recommend! If anyone is umming and aaring about 'do i? don't it?' DO IT! yes, yes, yes.

Lastly was a product I used to own many moons ago, forgot about, lost, and decided to give a second chance to. The Mac Prep&Prime Beauty Balm with SPF 35...

As the Nude Magique has a semi-powdery finish, I wanted something that was equally sheer, but also a bit creamier and slightly heavier moisture-wise. I went back to the old faithful Mac BB, I love that it has SPF (I now wear factor 50 everyday), and has a good range of light shades, most BB creams tend to be far too orange for me. It's just a really nice, light, caring, simple product that does what it says it'll do without fuss. It's basically a light, moisturising foundation with SPF that lasts all day and feels like a day cream. Thanks Mac :)

So that was it! The final and concluding part of my January Haul! If you've tried anything new for January that you've loved (or hated!) please do let me know as I love trying new things (and knowing what to avoid!) Thanks for reading :D