What Laura Loves

How to Look Wide Awake in the Morning

2013-05-20T01:38:00.002+01:00

When it comes to ensuring you look bright eyed and bushy tailed in the mornings, the best advice I can give would be to have a good nights sleep the night before but when I work and blog full time alongside exercising and socialising, I very rarely take a spoonful of my own medicine and I am sure many, many of you are in the same boat as me.

Sometimes, when I haven't had my 8 hours, I need to fake that wide awake and raring to go look. So if you'd like to find out how to look as awake as I do here, then keep on reading!

Today I'm going to show you some of my go to products that I use when I need to wake myself up in the morning and some of my favourite fake it make up items that I use when I need to add a little extra brightening power to my face.

Shower Routine

I find that the best way to perk myself up in the morning is to start with an invigorating shower. I stumble out of bed and head into the bathroom and whilst my shower is running, I use a Sanctuary Spa Body Brush from Boots to dry brush my whole body while the water is heating up. As well as waking up the body, brushing has lots of benefits as it is an effective exfoliator, leaving skin smooth and glowing, it breaks up fatty deposits under the skin which helps with the appearance of cellulite, it aids lymphatic drainage, gets rid of toxins and stimulates blood circulation.

After body brushing, I tie my hair up in a top knot, pop on a shower cap and jump under the water for a quick wash. My shower gel of choice on these mornings is the Original Source Mint and Tea Tree Shower Gel. Packed full to the brim of real mint leaves, this shower gel is so awakening and invigorating as it leavings the skin feeling cool and tingling. It clears and opens the air ways too, making it great if you're feeling a little under the weather. At £1.15 from Boots, this is a great value, budget option.

Facial Washing Routine

Once I'm out of the shower and drying off, I like to wash my face using the Dr Organic Dead Sea Mineral Face Wash (£7.89 from Holland and Barrett).

This is my favourite face wash to use when I need something cooling to really revitalise my skin and wake me up in the morning. I work the gel formula into my skin in circular motions and then rinse it off with cool water. It really feels refreshing on my skin and leaves it feeling very clean without feeling tight and dry. It is great for my oily skin but it is also suitable for combination, blemish prone and dry sensitive skin... so basically all skin types! All Dr Organic products are free from parabens, SLS, artificial colours, fragrances and harsh preservatives so you know that you aren't going to be putting a whole host of chemicals onto your skin. Instead, this contains lots of bioactive, natural and organic ingredients like Dead Sea Mineral Salt, Aloe Vera Leaf Juice which is great for calming the skin and getting rid of redness, Extracts of Bladderwrack and Kelp, Vitamin C and the following purifying essential oils- Bitter Orange Leaf, Orange Fruit, Mandarin Peel, Pine Needle, Thyme Flower, Wild Mint and Spearmint. It is this potent mix of ingredients that work together to clean the skin, tone the skin and revitalise it, leaving it looking fresh and ready for the day.

Sometimes I'll follow up with a facial scrub too if my skin isn't looking particularly bright or if I have any blemishes or blackheads.

The scrub I'm using at the moment is the Dirty Works Pore-Fect Face Scrub (review here, buy here for £4.99) which has a strong kick of something I can only liken to mint or eucalyptus. Either way, it is a very strong, refreshing kick to waken up my skin and it is pretty good at scrubbing out my pores too.

Skincare

After I've woken my skin up, it's time to make sure that it retains its wide awake and radiant appearance throughout the day and that starts with some skincare pieces.

The first of which being the Dr Organic Virgin Coconut Oil Hydrating Radiance Elixir (£12.99 from Holland and Barrett) which is designed to rejuvenate tired and stressed out skin, which I often have.

This light weight cream gives a gorgeous radiant, natural glow to the skin. It can be used underneath a moisturiser but I find that a little too heavy for my skin so I use it alone. It absorbs quickly and effectively into the skin, leaving it feeling instantly hydrated, moisturised and nourished and that feeling lasts throughout the day. It leaves my skin with a beautiful sheen and glow that makes me look awake and as though I've had my fair share of beauty sleep. The Hydrating Radiance Elixir contains coconut, lemon peel and bergamot fruit oils, vitamin C, aloe vera leaf juice and extracts of algae, papaya fruit, mango fruit, cocoa seed, mangosteen, fig fruit and orange fruit. My skin feels really soft after using this and when I have a tan, I feel perfectly confident going out without make up on, wearing this alone on my skin.

Moving onto the all important eye area, I use the Dr Organic Dead Sea Mineral Eye Rescue Rollerball (£8.99 from Holland and Barrett) which is the most effective eye product I've ever used in terms of reducing puffy, tired eyes.

The Dead Sea Mineral Eye Rescue Rollerball contains Dead Sea Mineral Salt, Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Brewers Yeast which increases the oxygen consumed by the cells and therefore helps to energise the skin around the eye area, Rhodiola Root Extract which helps to reduce fatty deposits and boost cell metabolism, Betaine which helps to control excessive fluid build up and therefore reduces bags, Bladderwrack Extract, Kelp Extract, Bitter Orange Leaf Oil, Orange Fruit Oil, Mandarin Peel Oil, Pine Needle Oil, Thyme Flower Oil, Wild Mint Oil, Spearmint Oil, Vitamin E and Vitamin C. All of these organic ingredients come packed into a squeezy tube with a metal rollerball on the end. It feels so cold to the touch and the product inside is really cooling so it the combination of the two do a great job at reducing puffiness and dark circles and making tired eyes look more awake. I think this product works an absolute treat- I have never used anything that comes close to it! To use, I simply roll it onto my eye area in light circular motions and then I dab in any excess liquid with my ring finger. I leave it for a minute or so to really settle into my skin before applying make up.

For an extra awakening boost to the eye area, you could apply a second eye cream on top- I would recommend the Origins GinZing eye cream (Review Here, Buy Here for £21) as it is salmon coloured with reflective particles so it will cancel out any discolouration and further brighten the eye area, making your eyes look even more awake.

Make Up

When it comes to really tired days, there is only so much our skincare can do to make us look and feel wide awake. Sometimes we have to fake it too and for those days, there are two products in particular that I turn to.

The YSL Touche Eclat Radiant Touch Highlighting Pen (£25 from Boots) in Shade 1 (the original shade) is an absolute staple in any tired girls make up bag. Used under the eyes, this creamy highlighter helps to banish dark circles immediately making you look instantly more awake. It can also be used down the centre and sides of the nose, on the cupids bow, brow bone and cheek bones to highlight the face.

A more purse friendly option would be the George at Asda Under Eye Concealer (£3 from Asda) that I have reviewed here. It is just as good at brightening as the YSL Touche Eclat but it is more opaque so it is great at concealing enlarged pores and covering up large areas too.

Another way to make you look super wide awake is by using a white or flesh coloured eye liner in the waterline.

Personally, I find white eye liner to be a little harsh so instead I opt for the Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal in 005 Nude (£3.99 from Boots). This stays in my waterline all day and does a great job at making me look more awake as the nude colour makes my eyes look wider and bigger. This is the first Scandaleyes liner I've bought and I'm so impressed with it- very creamy and long lasting, I love it!

Another couple of tips I would give for making your skin look wide awake using make up, would be to create a light reflecting, youthful base with a skin perfecting foundation, light reflecting powder and highlighter. Make your eyes look wide awake with a light shimmery shadow on the lid and by curling your eyelashes to make the eyes look more open. Stick to light pink shades as these give you a pop of colour but don't darken your face, potentially making it look more tired.

My picks would be the Garnier BB Cream in Light as a base with the YSL Touche Eclat under the eyes. A dusting of the Gentle Light Powder from Clinqiue over the top with a pop of colour on the cheeks from MAC's Well Dressed Blush and a bit of serious highlighting with the beautiful Dior Nude Shimmer Instant Illuminating Powder. I'd apply a wash of colour in the form of Benefit's Velvet Eye Shadow in Bo Peep across the lid, with the Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal liner in Nude in my waterline. I'd fill in my brows using the MUA Eye Brow Pencil in Brunette to frame my face and open up my eye area and to make my eyes look even bigger, I'd curl my lashes with my favourite MAC eye lash curlers and apply lashings of my NYX Doll Eye Mascara (review here) before slicking on some of the Rimmel Lasting Finish 1000 Kisses Lip Tint and Balm.

In actual fact, I've recreated my wide awake routine today using all of these products and I've applied all of the make up products above to create this look. I had a pretty late night last night so this is very appropriate and I'm sure you'll agree I look pretty awake!

Breakfast

Of course, make up and skin care aren't the only ways to perk you up in the morning. Starting your day the right way with a good breakfast is often a way to wake you up from the inside out. Drinking a coconut based drink like VitaCoco is not only great to hydrate you but to increase your energy levels too as coconuts contain oils that are quickly and efficiently turned into energy and help to stop you from feeling sluggish and tired throughout the day. I like the pineapple one the most. If coconut water isn't your thing, try a glass of ice cold water with a squeeze of half a lemon to perk you up. I'm not one for eating a large breakfast but it really does make a difference to the day. I tend to have a slice of granary toast, which has a low GI and is therefore packed full of slow release energy, with either a chopped banana, as they're packed full of energy, or a soft boiled or poached egg which is a great source of protein, full of amino acids and keep you feeling full for ages. On a weekend when I have more time I'll sometimes add some spinach to my toast and egg.

So that's it, I'm all out of tips on how to look wide awake in the mornings. If you have any tips or miracle workers of your own then do let me know, I'd love to learn more.

What are your favourite wake me up products? How do you make yourself look more awake in the morning?

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Bleachin' My Tash

2013-05-18T23:30:00.000+01:00

Having sat down to write this post, I know its going to be one of those awkward, slightly embarrassing to write ones... but one that'll help others in the same situation too and for that reason, it's worth writing. I thought writing about hair removal cream was a little personal but it went down a treat with you lovely lot so today I'm talking 'tashes.

My hint of upper lip hair, with make up applied

Now we can't get away from the fact that the vast majority of us girlies are prone to a little upper lip hair. Most facial hair doesn't cause us much concern but for those of us who have excessive or dark hair, it can be something we're concious of and concerned about. I'm not sure which category I'd personally fall into, as I don't have dark hair and I'm not excessively hairy but for about the last year I've started to get a bit of a complex about the hair on my upper lip. When I told my friend Ray about my moustache worries she thought I was seeing things but it is definitely something I've become concious of, not so much in photographs but in natural light when I'm wearing make up and it has been making me feel uncomfortable, so I've decided to do something about it.

I've looked into lots of different treatments in terms of removing the hair like upper lip waxing but aside from the fact that it would sting like a bee, I wasn't willing to take the risk on stubbly regrowth, the same goes for facial hair trimmers and shaving. I've also looked into safe laser hair removal which would be the most permanent option for all areas of my body (imagine never having to Nair my legs again!) but for the time being, I'm trying out bleaching.

I bought the Jolen Creme Bleach from Superdrug on recommendation from one of my work colleagues. It is a hair lightening product that is designed to lighten dark hair on the face, arms, body and brow. I've used it here on my The packaging itself looks as though the product is trapped in a decade that time forgot- I certainly wouldn't have picked this product up without my friends recommendation.

Patch Test

Whenever you're doing any sort of facial hair tinting, it is important to do a patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the product- no one wants a scabby allergic reaction now do we?! I popped a 50p sized amount of the mix onto my inner arm and washed it off after ten minutes and then waited a day to see if there was any redness or irritation caused by the cream- thankfully there wasn't and I could get down to business.

Getting Started

Inside the Jolen Creme Bleach box, you get a little plastic tray and spatula, a pot of creme and a pot of accelerator powder (which looks a little suspicious), as well as an easy to follow instruction booklet. To mix the creme bleach, I scooped a quarter of a teaspoon sized amount of the accelerator powder onto the card and double the amount of the creme onto the tray and mixed them together. It wasn't as messy as I thought blending them together would be but I did use it on top of a wipe clean glass surface anyway as the tray you get in the box is a little small.

Application

First, I washed and dried my face, then I applied the Jolen Creme Bleach using the spatula to the area that I wanted to bleach, making sure that the area was fully covered. For a giggle, I also applied it to my eyebrows to show you how to lighten part of your brows. I've been growing them out, so to speak, as I'm getting a celeb brows treatment (similar to HD brows) in a couple of weeks time.

Developing Time and Removal

I left the Creme Bleach on for ten minutes, timing it on my phone as I watched a Youtube video. During the ten minutes, my skin wasn't irritated by the lightening cream, my skin felt ever so slightly tingly on my top lip but it didn't hurt or burn at all. I was a little worried that I'd put too much on as a little fell down from my top lip, like in the above photograph, but the rest didn't. To remove the cream, I used the spatula and scraped the cream off and put it back on the little tray.

The Result

I am really happy with the result- my hair in these areas has been left lightened and pale and my skin looks exactly as it did prior to the treatment, with no redness or irritation present. The instructions advised putting the cream onto the tray after removal in case you didn't find the results to be light enough and wanted to reapply but I didn't need to do this. Its a great economical tip though, that it can be used again.

I'm not sure how much the photos show the results as I don't find my camera picks up the area too much in my photographs prior to tinting but to the natural eye, I can definitely see a difference and I feel so much more confident now. I wouldn't use it on my eyebrows again, simply because I prefer to have them waxed but I will definitely be using it again on my upper lip and would definitely recommend this product.

After, with make up

I got the 30ml tub for £4.49 from Superdrug as I didn't know whether it would work or if I would like it but when I repurchase this, I'll go for the larger 125ml tub for £10.29 purely as its more economical. For those with very sensitive skin, there is a mild formula with aloe vera too so if you need a little hair lightening but need something that's very gentle then I'd go for that one.

What facial lightening products have you used?

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Pink Friday

2013-05-17T11:32:00.002+01:00

Spring is definitely here now and the summer months are fast approaching, so it's time to switch up my fragrances and opt for something a little sweeter than my cold month scents. I've been trailing the beauty list of The Hut and finally found my signature summer fragrance for this summer...

This year, I'm going for Nicki Minaj's first release, Pink Friday.

Speaking about her debut fragrance, Nicki Minaj is quoted as having said, 'Pink Friday is a celebration of my life at this moment; it is a reflection of me as a creator, and an expression of me as a woman'. Well, just like Nicki Minaj, this perfume is super girlie and bold. The bottle is certainly outrageous like Nicki Minaj herself, being over the top and in your face- it definitely makes a statement on my dressing table! Pink Friday is a sweet and fruity floral scent that really packs a punch but it has those gorgeous musky base notes that you all know I love and I swear by. I like a perfume that is strong, makes a statement and is long lasting, and Pink Friday certainly is.

The fragrance itself contains top notes of star fruit, boysenberry and Italian mandarin, heart notes of lotus flower and jasmine petals with a base of creamy vanilla, caramelised pear, sensual musks and woods. If you like Viva La Juicy (which is one of my FAVOURITE summer perfumes), Escada's summer releases or Britney Spears perfumes, then I think you'd like this.

Pink Friday is one of those fragrances that makes me feel summery and girlie, I love wearing it. The perfume would make a great gift for girls and women particularly in their teens and twenties, as well as for fans of Nicki Minaj. The packaging alone is to die for- super super girlie, very pink and very cute!

I have the 50ml bottle which is available for £29 from The Hut and there is also a larger 100ml bottle for £39 and a small 30ml bottle available for £24 again from The Hut. There's also a hair mist and body lotion available which are great for layering the scent to make it deeper and last even longer. The fragrance alone is pretty long lasting as a few spritzes on my pulse points leaving me smelling gorgeous all day while I'm out and about or at work.

Have you tried the Nicki Minaj perfume? What did you love about it?

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Cherry has a Baby!

2013-05-15T23:17:00.002+01:00

I always get excited when my favourite products are made in miniature so I'm sure you can imagine my delight at discovering that Batiste Cherry is now available in travel sized!

I reviewed Batiste Cherry in this post, when it was first launched at the beginning of last year and it quickly became one of my favourite scented dry shampoos from them. It's fun and cheeky fragrance is perfect for the summer. It smells naturally sweet, not sickly and artificial. When sprayed onto oily roots, it leaves a soft fragrance behind and banishes grease, leaving the hair looking revived and refreshed. The handy 50ml size is perfect for popping in your day bag when for refreshing your hair on the go, in your clutch bag when you're on a night out to give your hair a bit more oomph and volume, or in your travel bag when you're going away for the weekend to keep your hair fresh in between washes.

It is available for a purse friendly £1.55 from Amazon.

What are your favourite travel sized items?

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Dirty Works Detox Mask Review

2013-05-14T08:00:00.000+01:00

With the summer firmly on its way, I've been spring cleaning my exercise routine and skin care in anticipation of the long hot (more like warm) summer days. I've been enjoying going to boot camp over the last few weeks and when I get home I like to soak in the bath to ease my muscles as it's a bit of a killer. While I'm doing that, I like to exercise the art of multi tasking by applying a hair mask and putting on a face mask.

My face mask of choice lately has been the Detox Mask from the brilliant budget brand Dirty Works. It is a thick green clay based mask that helps to detoxify and revive the skin, particularly if it's looking lacklustre and dull. I apply a generous layer of this mask all over my face and down onto my neck before waiting 10 minutes for it to harden. I love the way the mask feels when it starts to dry as it really feels like the kaolin it contains is drawing the impurities out of my skin and really giving it a good cleanse. It also contains willow bark which is known for its skin clearing properties and it is packed full of blueberries which are full of antioxidants to protect and nourish the skin.

I remove the mask using a hot muslin cloth to polish the mask off my face in circular motions. I find that this combination of using the detoxifying mask with the exfoliating cloth leaves my skin looking smooth and glowing. It isn't a quick fix, not many masks are. It needs to be used in addition to a good skincare routine but if you're looking for something to detox and perk up your skin ready for the summer then this one is great!

Retailing at £4.99 for a 100ml tube from Sainsburys, this is a great option for those on a budget who are looking for a great quality skincare treat.

What is your favourite Dirty Works product? Are there any other detoxing products you'd recommend to me?

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My Everyday Springtime Make Up and a Cargo Review

2013-05-13T08:00:00.000+01:00

During the winter months, I tend to go into hibernation but as soon as the warmer weather and sunnier days hit, I like to get up early and make the most of the day. So far this spring, I have packed my days full of activities, I've become a 'yes' woman and I've been getting out there, working and playing hard.

With a busy lifestyle, I have needed a quick make up and hair routine to match, so that I can get up and go in the mornings. Today I thought I'd give you a quick overview of my routine and share with you a couple of products that have been really rocking my world this spring.

When I wake up in the morning, I complete my morning cleansing routine which I'll show you in a post shortly before scraping my hair back into a high ponytail. I use a large bun ring in my hair and after I've pulled my bobble over it into place, I plait the two sides of my hair and wrap them around the bun. If anyone would like a tutorial on this then do let me know. Then I move onto my make up.

My base is simple- Garnier Nutritionalist Oil Free BB Cream in Light (Buy Here), followed with a light dusting of the Pur Minerals 4 in 1 Pressed Mineral Make Up Compact in light (Review Here, Buy Here) and some serious contouring and bronzing with the Bare Minerals Warmth (Buy Here). I dust some of the beautiful Cargo Blush in Tonga (Buy Here) over my cheeks and run some of my Make Up Academy Eye Brow Pencil in brunette (Buy Here) through my brows and brush on one of my favourite budget mascara's, NYX Doll Eye Mascara in Black (Review Here, Buy Here) before slicking on some of the Cargo Lip Gloss in Big Sur (Buy Here).

You may notice a couple of additions to my make up collection here- the blush and lip gloss from Cargo who are a cosmetics company than have newly launched in the UK. Cargo Cosmetics have been around for a long time, some 15 years in the TV and film industry and in the make up bags of women in other far away countries and now they're finally available in the UK in Debenhams. The brand aims to take everyday make up essentials and turn them into easier to use, smarter and all round better products.

The first product I've been using is the blush in the colour Tonga which is a gorgeous dusty rose shade. Very traditional, English rose in colour and it looks absolutely beautiful on the cheeks. It looks pretty matte in the pan but it leaves a gorgeous satin finish on the skin. I could liken this shade to another blush, I'd say its beige pink tones are pretty similar to MAC's Blushbaby, only a little pinker.

Whilst being a powder, the blush is pretty finely milled and feels super smooth and silky, almost creamy when swatched. This makes it apply really smoothly and evenly, allowing it to blend very naturally into the skin. The colour pay off is great for a light coloured blush and I found that it is much more pigmented than I had expected. The beautiful pink colour lasts all day on the skin without fading or sliding off. I've found the blush to be pretty buildable too so if I am heading out quickly for work, I'll apply a light sweep across my cheeks but if I'm going out after work I'll just add a little extra to build it up into a more vibrant pop of colour.

I'm quite fond of the packaging of this blush too. It comes in a brushed metal tin that you have to pull the lid off to gain access to the product. It feels really secure which I love as I travel quite often and like to make sure that the products I'm using aren't going to break and smash in my bag.

The other product I've been applying regularly is the Cargo Lip Gloss in Big Sur.

The first thing that struck me about this lip gloss is that it is so comfortable to wear, it is ever so tacky but not sticky in texture so it sits really comfortably on the lips. It feels beautifully moisturising, almost like a lip balm and even looks hydrating. The applicator makes the lip gloss really easy to apply and it literally glides on to the lips. When swatched, it looks like a glossy lipstick, I absolutely love it. Big Sur is a neutral toned gloss that looks great alone during the day or over lipstick for a glossy evening look. It packs an awesome amount of shine and leaves lips looking illuminated and perfected with a hint of colour.

The staying power of this gloss is pretty good too. I find that the lip gloss lasts a goof 2.5/3 hours before I need to reapply which is great for a lip gloss in my opinion.

The lip gloss packaging is small and compact so it fits into my small purses, never mind my clutch bags which I love as it encourages me to take a gloss out with me and to touch up when needed for that continuously put together look.

Cargo products are available direct from the Cargo website and also from Debenhams, where the blush retails for £19 and the lipgloss for £7.50. I'd definitely look to purchase some more products from the range.

What Cargo make up have you tried? What products feature in your everyday springtime make up?

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NOTD: Models Own Artstix in Nude Jack

2013-05-12T22:56:00.000+01:00

Today I've got another quick nail polish post for you featuring the Nude Jack Artstix from Models Own who are my favourite nail polish brand. Nude Jack combines one of my favourite Models Own shades, Nude Beige with Jack Frost which was released at the end of last year in the Wonderland collection.

First up, I used the 'Paint It' shade in Nude Beige to paint two coats onto my nails. I reviewed the full size of this nail polish many moons ago over on this post but in short, it is a beautiful brown toned nude that applies like a dream and dries quickly. It is my go to shade for work and interviews.

After applying Nude Beige, I moved onto the 'Cover It' polish which is the gorgeous Jack Frost.

Jack Frost is a translucent cloudy base packed fully of soft, iridescent sparkles. Again, it applies really well, especially for a glitter polish, and dries pretty quickly too.

The Jack Frost 'Cover It' polish could be used all over the nails like I have done here or indeed it could be used on one nail alone as an accent nail or across the tips as an alternative take on a French manicure. Either way, I love the way this combination looks- soft and sparkly!

The Artstix Duo Polishes are available for £6 from Boots stores and direct from the Models Own website.

Which Artstix Duo Polish is your favourite?

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WhatLauraWore: Turquoise Darling

2013-05-11T20:40:00.001+01:00

Regular readers of my blog will know that I've lusted after the Short Beaded Prom Dress from Simply Be for months now. I lusted after it in my How to Dress for Ladies Day at the Races post, I hauled in my most recent Mini Clothing Haul and now, I've got it on!

When you're looking for an occasion dress but you don't want to go for a full length gown, then this dress is a great option. It comes to just above the knee, is true to size and is available in coral and black too but I chose the turquoise as I think it looks great on all hair colours, especially blondes and it is the ultimate shade for summer, particularly against tanned skin. The intricate beading and embroidery sparkles on the bust and shoulders of the dress and looks stunning as it catches the light. The dress is fully lined so there is no need to worry about it being see through and the light fabric on top swishes about as I walk, it's perfect. Oh and whilst I like to get my arms out, there's also a matching beaded shrug available in case you'd rather not show them off and also a full length dress if you'd prefer not to get your legs out.

WhatLauraWore:

Short Beaded Prom Dress from Simply Be

Gold diamante shoes from Faith

Skull ring box clutch from Bank

Gold diamante watch from D&G at Goldsmiths

What do you think of this gorgeous turquoise dress?

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NOTD: Models Own Artstix in Utopia Ocean

2013-05-10T13:18:00.001+01:00

The nail polish look I've been wearing this week is from my favourite nail polish brand, Models Own. This is another one of their new Artstix polishes in Utopia Ocean which combines the GORGEOUS Utopia that I've talked about previously on my blog and the beautiful Indian Ocean polish. I've written more about the concept behind the Artstix polishes in this post where I featured the Pink Stuff Artstix polish so check that out if you want to read more about Artstix themselves but for today I'll be sharing my experiences with the gorgeous Utopia Ocean.

Models Own Artstix in Utopia Ocean

To start, I used the 'Paint It' shade in Utopia to paint two coats onto my nails. Utopia is a grey lilac pastel shade that is gorgeously creamy. It is opaque after two coats. The application is smooth, even and it dries pretty quickly, as do all Models Own nail polishes.

The I jumped on in there with the 'Cover It' shade in Indian Ocean. This multi-tonal shade was initially released in the Beetlejuice collection. It is a beautiful iridescent blue polish with pearlescent soft pink undertones. Again, it's a smooth application that dries pretty quickly.

I found that the application of the Indian Ocean polish really transformed the Utopia polish into something even more special. It looks gorgeous on the nails. I've applied it to all of my nails but it could be used on top of just one nail to create a feature nail.

I wasn't planning on painting my nails this week as I'm getting a manicure at the weekend but I'm so pleased I did. This polish looks super pretty.

All that's left for me to do now is a quick tidy up around my nails to neaten up the look. To do this I tend to soak my hands in warm water either in the sink, but more often when I'm in the shower or bath, and I find that any excess polish comes off my skin naturally with ease

The Artstix Duo Polishes are available for £6 from Boots stores and direct from the Models Own website.

What is your favourite Models Own polish?

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WhatLauraWore: Springtime Casual

2013-05-10T02:15:00.001+01:00

To mark the one year countdown to our wedding, Mr WLL and I went out for a spot of lunch at a gorgeous country house hotel near where we live. I kept my outfit pretty simple but spring time appropriate as we were off to the cinema afterwards to see Olympus Has Fallen, what an awesome film. After a long day, we headed home, popped our jarmies on, feet up in front of the TV to enjoy all that our Virgin Media offers us- namely, BGT and The Voice on catch up!

I hope you like this casual daytime look.

WhatLauraWore:

Floral jean jacket from New Look

Neppy vest in fluro from Next

Wide leg linen trousers in white from Evans

Juicy Couture bag from Selfridges

Cream and rose gold bangle from Next

Rose gold chain necklace from Next

Coral and rose gold sandals from Primark

What do you think of this casual daytime look?

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Kiko Self Tanning Spray- Dark Review

2013-05-07T08:00:00.000+01:00

Over the last couple of weeks, the false tan I've been wearing is the Self Tanning Spray in Dark by Kiko who are an Italian professional cosmetics brand who have newly launched in the UK. I've been trying out lots of their products in recent weeks and I'm loving what I'm using.

I've tried many self tanning body sprays in my time but none like this as it is completely different to anything I've used before. For a start, the tan does not need to be buffed into the skin whatsoever, you're simply able to spray and go. Providing a light misting is used, i.e. so that the spray isn't held down continuously in one area causing the product to turn to a liquid rather than a spray, then you can simply spray on and go which is great for those who are in a rush or who like to apply their false tan and then go about their day. The tan doesn't have a scent which helps this too- when sprayed, there is a typical aerosol smell but once on the skin, it doesn't really smell too much of false tan.

The tan takes only 1 hour to start to show a colour and the maximum tan is achieved after only 3 hours so even if you're going on a last minute night out then you will be able to still go out looking bronzed and able to get your legs out! I find that when I have a tan, I feel so much more confident and even slimmer.

Tanning Mishap

One major factor to bear in mind when choosing this tan is that it has no guide colour whatsoever. This is both an advantage, as it means that it doesn't have to be washed off, and a disadvantage, as you can't see where you're applying it. It is a feature of the tan that you will either love or hate. Now before using this tan, if you'd asked me to use a colourless tan, I'd have refused as you simply don't know where you're applying it. However, I didn't see it noted on the packaging that the tan didn't have a guide colour and after I'd first sprayed it down my leg and discovered its lack of colour, there was no going back!! I've been applying false tan for years and even I was a little apprehensive when first applying the tan. It isn't too difficult as the spray is very cooling on the skin so if you work quickly then you can feel where you've sprayed it. The first time I applied this tan I had one little mishap on the side of my hand but apart from that, the tanning application was flawless and the second time I applied the tan, there were no mishaps at all which I was very surprised at give than it is a completely colourless tan!

Gorgeous, sunkissed tan

Whilst this is sold as a dark tanning spray, I wouldn't say that the colour pay off is dark at all. This is more of a beautiful light sun tan shade. It looks very natural and gives the skin a healthy, perfected glow. I love the colour that this gives my skin. One application isn't dark enough for a really glammed up night out for me, but it is perfect for formal events and occasions where it wouldn't be appropriate to be super darkly tanned. I'm wearing this false tan in this outfit post and in this post.

The tan fades gradually over the course of about five days. It doesn't go patchy, the colour just gets lighter and lighter which I love. It doesn't feel as though it is a colour sitting on the top of my skin, rather that my skin is just naturally tanned.

The Self Tanning Spray is available direct from the Kiko website for £11.90.

How do you feel about self tanners with no guide colour? What products have you tried from Kiko?

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WhatLauraWore: Dabbling with Desire

2013-05-06T19:22:00.001+01:00

On Sunday, I got to relive my youth at the Big Reunion concert in Newcastle. I went with a couple of friends from work, purely for a bit of a giggle at the groups of my 90's childhood. Atomic Kitten were my favourite and Kerry Katona was on top form. It was great seeing her in good spirits after the hard time she's had in her personal life over the last few years. Since we were having a few cocktails on the terrace of one of our favourite bars before the show, I wanted to wear something summery and so I opted for this gorgeous dress from Desire.

Launched at the end of April, Desire Clothing's new Curve range is the must see collection for any fashion concious, girlie girl. At the moment, there's a vast array of beautiful dresses on their website and they're adding more daily as well as gorgeous tops and jeans all to fit and flatter sizes 16-26. Their fast fashion designs are fun and flirty and showcase the latest trends. They have an AMAZING regular line too in sizes 8-16 so if you aren't plus sized, I'd still highly recommend checking them out.

The dress I'm wearing here is the Lace Top Skater Dress in Peach. This super feminine, floaty dress has an absolutely gorgeous, flattering shape that would suit many figures. The dress is lined to ensure that it is not see through and it is covered in a chiffon fabric that will skim over all lumps and bumps. To create shape, the dress is elasticated under the bust and this can be pulled down or pulled further up depending on how much you would want the fabric to hang over. I like the look that this creates, as it is relaxed and effortlessly girlie. It would actually look great cinched in with a belt too. The top of the dress features beautiful lace detailing with little capped sleeves.

The Lace Top Skater Dress is also available in Navy which I am so tempted to get for work as it would be perfect with some leggings underneath. Size wise, I'm tempted to suggest going for the next size down. I ordered my usual size and found the sizing to be very generous- I could have easily gone for the next size down or the size below that. That's perhaps because of the elasticated waist and with that in mind, if you're larger than the size 26 that this dress goes up to, then I'd still say it is more than worth trying on as the chances are, it'll fit. Go on girls, these dresses are fab!

I'm so impressed with Desire Clothing and I'll definitely be ordering from them in the future.

WhatLauraWore:

Lace Top Skater Dress in Peach from Desire Clothing

Coral studded bag from River Island

Rose gold and pink heart bracelet (haul here) from Next

Silky Smooth Natural Leather Sandals (review here) from Clarks

Did you go to the Big Reunion? Who was your fave? What dress do you like the most from Desire?

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WhatLauraWore: Graffiti Artist

2013-05-06T00:37:00.000+01:00

Another Bank Holiday weekend has been and gone and this time around, it has been full of parties and we all know what another party means don't we? That's right... another outfit!

The latest dress to hit my wardrobe is the Graffiti Print Skater Dress from Just Curvy. This is unlike anything else in my wardrobe, it's a little more edgy than the norm but still feminine and girlie with the soft skater shape. It has a gorgeous rounded neckline on the mesh top, leading to a flattering sweetheart shape on the stretchy lower material, printed with a unique graffiti design. This dress feels so comfortable to wear and looks very pretty, especially as the wind catches it. Whilst taking these photos there was a gust of wind leaving me in a rather Marilyn Monroe esq pose! I've kept the styling simple with black accessories in order to not detract from the print of the dress, although I have popped on some of these heart shaped sunnies, just for fun.

WhatLauraWore:

Graffiti Print Skater Dress from Just Curvy

Peep toe platform shoes by Anna Scholz at Simply Be

LOVE bangle from Primark

Box clutch bag from FCUK

Pink heart shaped sunglasses from Ebay

What did you get up to this bank holiday?

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Macadamia Control Hair Spray

2013-05-05T15:36:00.002+01:00

When it comes to keeping my hair in place, there's no other hair spray that does it for me than Macadamia's Control. Whether I'm wearing my hair pinned up, full of huge bouncing curls or with some subtle volume and just a few flicks here and there, this hair spray hits the spot every time.

The Macadamia Natural Oil Control Hairspray combines two of the world's rarest oils- Argan and Macadamia, and I've found that it is a pretty rare find in it's self as unlike other hairsprays I've tried, this one is actually perfect to use on ANY style I'm creating. If I want smooth and sleek hair, whether it is worn down or slicked back, I use this hair spray to keep it in place and to reduce frizz and fly away hairs. If I want some volume in my hair then I use the hair spray at the root to secure my back combing and keep my style in place. Regardless of how I'm styling my hair, this hairspray really helps to secure my style and add a gorgeous, natural shine to my hair without making it greasy. That's because it contains glycerin and soy proteins which are known to provide amazing shine when applied to the hair.

The Control hairspray is a flexible medium hold as it really holds my hair in place without making it feel dry, hard and crispy. When sprayed, it isn't a wet spray that takes a while to dry, this one is a light weight mist that is very fast drying. It makes my hair workable and still allows it to move so my style looks natural and feels touchable.

After use, it is really easy to brush out too and it doesn't flake or leave any residue on my hair which I love as I'll often wear my hair in tight curls one day but want to smooth them over to loose waves the next. Not many hairsprays allow me to do this as I find that I would have to wash my hair in between but not with this one from Macadamia, I can just brush through my hair and I'm good to go. I think this hairspray will actually be the one that I use on my wedding day next year as I'll be needing a spray that will be flexible enough to allow my hair to be retouched throughout the day but also strong enough to hold my hair in place and so far, this is the best one I've found.

I don't find that the hairspray has much of a scent which is great as many hair sprays that I use have this over powering, chemical smell that is so strong it chokes me and that's even the high end ones I've used. This one sets itself apart from the rest as it isn't like that at all. Another unique quality of this hairspray is that it is anti ageing as it contains the Amino Methyl Propanol which actively nourishes the hair. Control Hairspray is free from irritants and rich in botanicals and natural ingredients so it gives you the control and style you want without harming your hair and scalp.

The Macadamia packaging is a great addition to my dressing table too. The green and brown packaging is so eye catching next to my other products and the floral design gets me right in the mood for summer every time I look at it. Speaking of the warmer months, I've been wearing this hair spray a lot when I've been going out on nights out and found that it really holds my hair in place, even when I'm up dancing and getting a bit hot so it definitely will be able to resist the humidity of the hotter months, without making my hair look like a frizz bomb!

Control is available for £17.45 for 300ml from the Macadamia website or from Look Fantastic.

What is your favourite hairspray? What Macadamia products would you recommend to me?

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NOTD: Models Own Artstix Duo Polish in Pink Stuff

2013-05-03T01:19:00.001+01:00

Models Own are by far my favourite nail polish brand- they're excellent quality, there's a vast selection of shades and they are very reasonably priced. So you can imagine my delight when they launched their new range of polishes called Artstix which combine some of the best selling shades from Models Own in a duo polish format. They work by having one polish to 'Paint It' and another polish to 'Cover It'.

Here I am wearing the Artstix Duo Polish in Pink Stuff. It combines the gorgeous Pastel Pink polish that I reviewed many moons ago here with the gorgeous Hot Stuff from the Mirrorball collection. I tried to get my hands on this polish alone when it was first released but it sold out incredibly quickly.

Using the Artstix Duo Polish is so easy. I find that two layers of the Paint It polish and one of the Cover It polish is enough to create a really gorgeous nail look.

First of all I took the Pastel Pink polish and applied two coats. The polish applies really smoothly and looks very even after the second coat. It dries very quickly too.

After applying the Pastel Pink 'Paint It' shade as my base colour, I then applied one coat of the Hot Stuff 'Cover It' polish. Hot Stuff is a gorgeous combination of fine and chunky glitter and just like Pastel Pink, it applies smoothly and dries quickly.

Whilst the polish does dry quickly, I'd recommend setting aside a good ten to fifteen minutes to paint your nails with this as layering up 3 coats of polish does need a little longer to dry. I'm wearing the polish without a top coat to give you a true reflection of what the polish looks like however I would really recommend applying a top coat afterwards to prolong the life of the polish as I find that glitter polishes tend to chip quicker than glitter free polishes. That being said, Models Own really are the best polishes for long wear. I get about 4 days out of this nail look without a top coat and about a week with a top coat.

Whilst I've applied this to all of my nails, another way to wear it would be to paint all of my nails with the Pastel Pink and then paint Hot Stuff onto only one nail, perhaps the one on the ring finger, as an accent nail.

The idea of using a base polish with a glittery top coat isn't anything new. Over the last year, this look has become particularly popular with bloggers and beauty lovers alike and I absolutely LOVE that Models Own have taken note of this and created the Artstix. I think they're such an excellent idea as they're travel friendly, cost effective and they are great for nail polish experts and novices alike.

The Artstix Duo Polishes are available for £6 from Boots stores and direct from the Models Own website.

Which is your favourite Artstix Duo Polish?

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Mini Clothing Haul

2013-05-02T08:00:00.000+01:00

Today I thought I'd let you into a snapshot haul of some of the new items in my wardrobe.

First up is the GORGEOUS Short Beaded Dress with Back Ties from Simply Be. I first dreamed about this dress in my How To Dress For Ladies Day post and I have finally got my hands on it. Another dress that I am loving right now is the Border Print Collar Dress from AX Paris. I've already worn this dress in an outfit post here and I'll have one of the turquoise dress up in the next week.

Finally a couple of items from Next. The trousers are the Tapered Jersey Trousers in black. I got these because they're so light weight, soft and comfortable to wear. They're smart enough for work, yet feel like you're wearing PJs. I love them. I'm equally as in love with this Neppy Vest in Fluro from the Next Basics range. It is ridiculously soft and comfortable to wear both at work, while out and about and at the gym. I wore it for my first boot camp session this week and it was so great to work out in. I can't wait to show you all how I styled it for work too.

What have you been hauling recently?

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Yes To Carrots Daily Cream Facial Cleanser Review

2013-05-01T08:00:00.000+01:00

When I first bought my Rio Sonicleanse back in January, I bought the Yes To Carrots Nourishing Daily Scream Facial Cleanser to use with it and today I thought I wanted to share my thoughts on it.

The Daily Cream Facial Cleanser is the first product I've tried from Yes To Carrots. I've heard a lot about the Yes To lines so I had really high expectations from the brand.

I've used this on and off for the last few months both with and without my Rio Sonicleanse and I have to say, I'm not a fan of it but that's not to say I don't think it's a good product.

To apply as per the instructions is pretty easy, simply wet your face and apply the cleanser onto the skin in circular motions before rinsing with warm water and patting dry with a towel. The cleanser feels incredibly thick and creamy. It is made up of 96% natural ingredients including organic carrots, shea butter and aloe vera, it is paraben, SLS and petroleum free. It is definitely very nourishing and seems to sit on the skin to the point where I find it a little less than easy to remove. With that in mind, I think this cleanser would be perfect for those with dry to very dry skin skin as you can feel it nourishing the skin and I think it would bring a lasting softness to that skin type. I wouldn't recommend it for those with oily skin like myself as it does remain on the skin after use and I think that this would pose an issue when wearing make up. Another feature to consider is that the cleanser is fairly heavily scented, in my opinion. It reminds me of Parma Violets and whilst I do like the smell of them, I am not so sure I like my skincare to smell of them. The scent lasts on the skin too if you don't wear make up on top.

The Yes To Carrots Daily Cream Facial Cleanser is available for £9.99 from Feel Unique.

Which Yes To products would you recommend?

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Help Me Pick My Fancy Dress Outfit!

2013-04-30T11:14:00.000+01:00

In June it'll be my friend's 26th Birthday and she's having a party at her house. Of course I accepted the invite but on closer inspection, it's a themed party... 80s themed. That means I need a costume!

After my Manuka Doctor review post where I dressed up as a bee, I'm sure you're all aware that I'm quite partial to the odd fancy dress occasion, but this year I'm a little stumped. My friend is the kind to go all out and really go to town on the party and her costume, so for me, nipping to the local fancy dress shop on the day just won’t do. For this party, I really need to plan ahead!

I was born in 1988 so I can't really draw on my own 80's fashion for inspiration as I doubt romper suits and baby grows would quite cut the mustard.

I do have a “Made In The 80s” t-shirt from a few years back hanging around somewhere, that I thought I could perhaps wear with leggings and leg warmers…although I doubt I'd find it and the chances of it still fitting are next to none, so I am essentially in search of a new outfit.

When I think of 80's fashion, I imagine crimped and curled hair, jelly bracelets, sports luxe, loads of neon, bright clothes, leg warmers, oversized clothes - so that's what I've been searching for online.

After a lot of searching, I have found a great website for fancy dress called Fancy Dress Ball, which seems easy to navigate and they’re reasonably priced – which is a plus, as I’d rather keep this expense to a minimum, as it’s just a one-off occasion wear.

There are SO many options to choose from, which made this outfit planning process a lot less stressful. I eventually managed to narrow my choices down to three... but now I need YOUR help to decide which one to buy!

Madonna's got nothing on me...

So the first of my 80's fancy dress idea is the 80's Wild Child Costume, which comes with a black and gold top, jacket and tutu, leggings gloves and a headband. So all I'd need to do would be to tightly curl my hair, ruffle it up a bit and wear some white heels.

My second choice is the 80's Party Girl Costume, which is a more bright and colourful take on the 1980's. It comes with a camisole, corset, reversible pettiskirt and leg warmers - but I definitely think I'd have to get a brightly coloured wig and some jelly bracelets to go with it.

My final choice is the 80's Let's Get Physical Girl, which is a fantastic sporty take on the 80's. This look is all about the brights and comes with a leotard, crop top, shorts and a plaited headband so all I'd need to add would be some bright coloured leggings and some beads!

As you can see, I'm spoilt for choice so I'm really looking for your recommendations as to which look to go for.

Which is your favourite outfit?

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Win An Hour Back

2013-04-29T23:30:00.000+01:00

This month, the clocks sprang forward into Spring but in turn, we all lost a precious hour of our day. This got me thinking about what I would do if I were to have that hour back. Of course I could spend it snuggled up in bed or catching up on the soaps but I could do that at any time. If I were to get that hour back, it should be something special.

If I were to get an hour of my day back, I'd spend it with Mr WLL. We're getting married next year and we're both working so hard in the run up to it that any time we get to spend together is precious. We love going for long walks in the countryside and finding somewhere to stop for afternoon tea. We love quaint little sandwiches, scones and cream tea.

Sounds like a great way to spend that lost hour doesn't it? Well I have been lucky enough to be treated to just that. Dreams Beds kindly treated me and Mr WLL to a champagne afternoon tea as part of their 'Win An Hour Back' campaign.

Oh and what a treat it was! Sat in a couple of cosy chairs, in front the huge windows looking out over the lawn with the sun pouring in, we enjoyed some delicious dainty sandwiches made up of cucumber with cream cheese, smoked salmon, ham with mustard and egg mayo, all finished off with an array of sweet cakes and a freshly baked scone with clotted cream and strawberry jam. Whilst Mr WLL opted for a freshly brewed coffee after his glass of Laurent-Perrier Brut NV Champagne, I chose a warming pot of Afternoon Darjeeling tea.

What really made it a treat though was the time we were able to spend together- that's what really matters. Thank you Dreams for giving us some quality time together.

You can follow Dreams Beds on their Twitter account and read all about the #WinAnHourBack campaign.

What would you do if you could win an hour back?

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WhatLauraWore: Stepping Into Spring

2013-04-28T15:01:00.000+01:00

Today, the sun is shining and the temperature is heating up. I'm out with the girls for a few cocktails in Revs this afternoon so I thought I'd share with you the outfit I'm wearing before I go out.

This dress is from AX Paris- surprise, surprise, I have a wardrobe full of dresses from them as they're my favourite retailer for night out dresses, I absolutely LOVE them. The dress I'm wearing here is the Border Print Collar Dress in their latest print and it is perfect for summer. The mix of summery shades with the cream skirt compliment each other so well and scream spring time to me. It is a skater dress shape with a really pretty floaty skirt that really catches the air as your walk. It has a cute collar and the top buttons up so you can tailor it to your tastes and show as much cleavage as you like! I'm wearing it here with my cropped denim jacket to keep it casual and some pretty sandals.

WhatLauraWore:

Border Print Collar Dress from AX Paris

Cropped Denim Jacket by Joe Browns at Simply Be

White and gold clutch bag from Claire's Accessories

Flower sandals from Primark

Gold diamante watch from D&G at Goldsmiths

What are your plans for the summer? How would you style this dress?

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Xen-Tan Dark Lotion, Body Scrub and Mitt Review

2013-04-27T23:30:00.000+01:00

When it comes to tanning lotions, the Xen-Tan Dark Lotion is leading the way. If you're looking for a deep and dark yet natural tan then this HAS to be the false tan for you. Earlier in the week I wrote about this tanning lotion in a comparative post with two other dark lotions but I love it that much I thought it deserved it's own post.

The Xen-Tan Dark Lotion has a light lotion formula that applies evenly all over my body. I can even use this on my face without it clogging my pores or giving me spots. I wear latex gloves and a towelling buffing mitt to apply the lotion as I find that works best for me and my skin but the Xen-Tan applicator mitt below works equally as well (£3.50 from Feel Unique). The drying time on this lotion is just about right. It doesn't sit wet on the skin for ages meaning that I have to stand in an awkward fake tan position for an hour and it also doesn't dry incredibly quickly either so that it can't be buffed into the skin.

Dark Lotion includes coconut and walnut oils within it's ingredients and I think that this definitely influences it's effect on the skin. After application, my skin is left feeling soft and moisturised which is unusual for a false tan as usually they make my skin feel very tight and dry. It is also left smelling pretty good too- like marzipan and almonds... very similar to Cherry Bakewells. It is only after it has been left on my skin for many hours that it begins to have a faint scent of fake tan. The tan really sinks into the skin too and looks even and smooth, making it ideal if you want to apply it and go about your day. As it happens, I tend to tan at night but I have, on the odd occasion, popped out to the shops wearing this tan and it didn't generate any funny looks- result!

This is one of my favourite false tans simply because of the colour. It is the one that I turn to when I need a deep dark colour after just one application, such was the case when it came to my photoshoot with Simply Be. After only one application of the Dark Lotion I was photo ready. Wearing this tan made me feel more confident, slimmer and perfected. I never have to worry about turning orange and streaky with Dark Lotion because it has a great olive colour. Being green toned means that any orange tones are counteracted, giving the tan a gorgeous olive, golden tan. Think two weeks in the Caribbean.

I find that Dark Lotion lasts on my skin for about a week before I need to scrub the remaining tan off which is more than long enough for me as I tend to tan the night before a specific event or night out.

Xen-Tan is a premium tanning brand so it is more expensive than some of the more budget tans out there. With Dark Lotion, you really do get what you pay for though and if you're looking for a dark tan but you're worried about going orange or too dark then I'd really recommend this one as it is completely fool proof. When bought from the official Xen-Tan website it is priced at £28.99 for 236ml however I tend to buy mine from Feel Unique where it is lots cheaper at £20.95 with free delivery!

A new addition to my tanning routine has been the Xen-Ten Body Scrub.

At first I thought this wasn't going to work for me as it isn't very abrasive at all but the more I used it, the more I realised that that's why its so good. I use my usual abrasive body scrub before tanning as I have psoriasis so I have some dry patches on my skin but once I've tanned, I use this body scrub each time I wash to exfoliate my skin. It doesn't strip the tan from my skin whatsoever, it just allows it to fade evenly. I love that it has a fresh minty smell too.

The Xen-Tan Body Scrub is £10.95 from Feel Unique.

What are your thoughts on the Xen Tan Dark Lotion?

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Rose Gold Jewellery Haul

2013-04-26T08:00:00.000+01:00

There's not many WhatLauraWore outfit posts that go by without my rose gold DKNY watch on my wrist. I absolutely love it but I must admit I don't actually have any rose gold coloured jewellery to go with it. It's only been the last few months that rose gold costume jewellery has really become popular but up until now, I could only find the more alternative, spike style jewellery. Now I know what you're all thinking... if that girls buys any more jewellery she'll need to hire out some self storage, but trust me on this one, I HAD to have these. Behold my rose gold jewellery haul.

For girly girls who want to wear rose gold but with a bit of a sparkle then I'd highly recommend going to Next for your jewellery. They have some AMAZING pieces. Lets take a closer look...

I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw this necklace as it is EXACTLY what I've been looking for and the fact that it is in rose gold is the icing on the cake. I often see girls wearing these chunky chain necklaces but I have yet to find one that suits me as they all seem too chunky with the chain going all the way around. This one is half and half so it has a more dainty necklace with the larger chain detailing at the bottom, where your chest would be. One of the links is covered in diamantes which adds so much sparkle to an already eye catching necklace. At £12 it is more expensive than the cheap costume jewellery I buy from Primark but I'm really trying to move away from the cheaper jewellery and instead, investing in some great pieces that I can mix and match. This necklace is great value for money as it is so high quality.

Another take on rose gold are these disc and ring earrings for £8. Again, these are such fantastic quality and I've worn them several times since I bought them and they are yet to tarnish. They look great peaking out through my hair and the diamantes really catch the light.

Pink and rose gold were made for each other as this bracelet shows. I love the different sized hearts on it, they really sparkle and catch the light. The bracelet is stretchy but it is generously sized to begin with so this would fit many wrist sizes. At £12 this is another great buy for my jewellery stash.

Cream and gold bangle with the summer coming up- need I say any more? It's £8, an absolute bargain as it's great quality. Go out and get it, go go go!

What is your favourite piece? What great rose gold pieces have you found in the shops?

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Sleeping Yourself Beautiful

2013-04-25T08:00:00.000+01:00

When I studied psychology at college, I learnt all about the different theories of sleep and the repair and restoration theory sticks quite prominently in my mind now. It's the notion that sleep is essential for revitalising and restoring the body and mind so that remains healthy and functions correctly. Looking back, I don't think I fully appreciated my student days and the potential sleeping hours I passed up in favour of partying till the small hours and still making it into college for a 9am lecture. Nowadays, I'm much more partial to an evening in on the sofa in front of the TV and an early night. With that in mind, I'm always partial to trying out products designed to either aid a good nights sleep or to restore the body while I'm sleeping and I've got a great selection here to share, all from Holland and Barrett.

Black Cherry Concentrate, £11.69

For a healthy alternative to cordial and fizzy pop, trying adding some of this Black Cherry Concentrate to still or sparkling water. Use it hot as a soothing, warming drink at bedtime or to combat a cold. Having a hot drink before bedtime helps you to feel sleepy and so can aid a peaceful nights sleep- its the cooling sensation that can make you feel tired as your body warms up as you drink and then cools back down. A little goes a very long way with this and you can sweeten it to taste, although I find it doesn't need it. As this is purely black cherries, there are no hidden nasties and additives so you can rest assured that you're taking in only goodness. Black cherries are rich in antioxidants and are supposed to reduce inflammation making them a great alternative therapy for gout and arthritis.

Wonder Oil, £10.89

Wonder Oil is a strong, orange scented multi-use oil packed full of oils, herbs and fruits. Rich Olive Oil, Safflower Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Sesame Oil and Jojoba Oil combine with 14 herbs, Grapefruit, Lemon and Orange to create a potent mix that works wonders on the skin. Having a hot bath is another way to make you feel sleepy and ready for bed. Wonder Oil is great for two reasons as not only can it be used as a bath oil but it can be massaged into the skin too. It is packed full of goodness to keep your body continually moisturised all night long as your skin literally drinks it in and when you wake up, your skin is super soft. I tend to apply this to the patches of psoriasis that I have as the skin in these areas can become very cracked and sore. Wonder Oil gets to work on these areas while I sleep, leaving the skin feeling renewed and pain free.

Lavender Pure Essential Oil, £4.99

Another way to create a relaxing, night time bath is with the edition of essential oils, namely lavender as it is highly regarded for its soothing and comforting properties. Run a hot bath and add a few drops of this into it before soaking for 15 minutes. I like to use it most on my pillow. I drop a little onto a tissue and slide it underneath my pillow case and I really find that it helps me to drift off into the land of nod that little bit quicker and stay there as if I wake up during the night I tend to fall straight back to sleep as the lavender is so relaxing. Both my body and mind feel the benefits of getting a good nights sleep. When I am well rested, I am more alert, amiable and patient, my skin looks youthful and full of life, I don't have unsightly bags under my eyes and I generally feel more positive and energetic.

Dr Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Night Cream, £9.49

The Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Night Cream can be used both on the face and the body to provide bioactive overnight therapy for the skin. It is packed full of vitamins, antioxidants like Kigelia, Roselle and Boabab, and essential fatty acids as well as organic essential oils and fruit extracts like orange, patchouli oil and aloe vera leaf juice. While you sleep, it deeply softens and moisturises the skin, increases the levels of vitamin C which assists in the production of collagen, helping you to wake up with more youthful looking skin. It is thick and easily absorbed into the skin so it is perfectly fine to apply it just before bedtime as it settles into the skin in no time at all.

What products do you use to sleep yourself beautiful?

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Empties #12

2013-04-24T08:00:00.000+01:00

There's nothing more satisfying than chucking out empty bottles and this time, I've got a great mix to share with you all. Feast your eyes on this little lot...

Estee Lauder Doube Wear Light- Available from Estee Lauder and Boots
Double Wear Light is my favourite foundation. It gives my oily skin a matte medium coverage that lasts for most of the day and it doesn't oxidise at all unlike Double Wear which I find does start to turn orange when worn for longer periods. I've done a full review here.

Molecule 01 fragrance by Escentric Molecules- Available from Liberty and Cult Beauty

This perfume is so difficult to explain the scent of. It is made up of one molecule, the one that is supposed to make you smell sexy and alluring, like natural pheromones. I was first introduced to this fragrance by Gemma Collins who told me that all of the TOWIE girls wear it. Well that was all I needed to know and I've been wearing it ever since. Most recently on a recent night out to some bars in London while I was there attending an event and I couldn't believe how many times I was asked what fragrance I was wearing! I'd definitely repurchase this.

Klorane Eye Make Up Remover- Available from Escentual and John Lewis

This is by far my favourite eye make up remover, ever. I've already repurchased this on a recent trip to John Bell and Croyden in London. I soak a small amount onto a cotton pad, hold it over my eye lid for a few seconds and then I wipe away the make up. It gets rid of all eye make up, even the toughest waterproof liquid liner and eyelash glue. The formula isn't oily in the slightest and it is so gentle that even the most sensitive of skin types could use it. Read my full review here.

Sugar Crush Body Scrub by Soap and Glory- Available from Boots

OMG absolutely love this. It smells amazing, just like key lime pie and does an awesome job at exfoliating my skin, leaving it soft and smooth. I've already repurchased it and I'll continue to for years to come I'm sure! Read my full review here.

Avene Gentle Toner- Available from Boots

If you have sensitive skin then I'd really recommend the Gentle Toner from Avene. It's alcohol free making it super gentle and it is able to remove all lasting traces of make up, dirt and excess oil without making the skin feel tight. It is designed for dry and very dry sensitive skin but I find it works great on my oily complexion. I wouldn't repurchase it at the moment, only because I have a few other toners to get through first but I certainly would recommend it. Read my full review here.

Dove Maximum Protection deodorant- Available from Boots

My usual cream deodorant is the Sure Maximum Protection Deodorant however I bought the Dove version as it was on offer for £2.50 instead of just over £5, thinking it would be exactly the same as the Sure version. It isn't. I didn't find this to keep me feeling fresh all day, unlike the Sure brand. The pomegranate and lemon verbena scent is pretty but I definitely wouldn't pay the full price for this deodorant as I think it is very over priced for something that doesn't work particularly well. If I'm spending £5.30 on a deodorant then I expect it to be high performing. Needless to say, I'll not be buying this again.

Angela Langford Scrub Up- Available from Angela Langford

Scrub Up by Angela Langford is a light fruity scrub that helps to clean and clear the skin. It isn't particularly abrasive and I have come to realise that I prefer to use something a little more harsh on my skin so I wont be repurchasing it myself but I would definitely recommend it to those who prefer something more gentle as it is lovely. Read my full review here.

Origins GinZing Eye Cream- Available from Origins and Boots

I love this eye cream as it is so cooling which really helps to de-puff my eyes in the morning and get rid of the bags nestling under my eyes from my regular lack of sleep. The salmon colour of the cream helps to counteract any discolouration under the eye and the light reflecting particles ensure the eye area is looking bright and awake.

Bare Minerals in Warmth by Bare Escentuals- Available from Feel Unique

Warmth is an all over face colour, designed to warm up the complexion. I've used this for years and years having received many pots in the Bare Essentials Starter Kits. It's too orange toned to be used as a contour powder. I apply this where the sun would hit my face, leaving a sun kissed glow on my skin.

Maybelline Expertwear Blush in Rosewood- Available from Boots

This blush is as old as the hills. I'm not even sure it is on sale any more! It was a gorgeous rosy pink, quite vintage looking. The powder wasn't too finely milled but sat well on the cheeks and didn't seem to wear off on my oily skin throughout the day. I wouldn't repurchase it as I have other blushers that I prefer but I did enjoy using it up in its final weeks.

Ojon Hydrating Thick Shampoo and Conditioner- Available from Ojon
Perhaps the most disappointing combo I've ever used. Yes, they got my hair clean but in terms of thickening or volumising my hair- zilch. I'll be saving my pennies next time and purchasing something else.

Clarins Instant Eye Make-Up Remover- Available from Clarins

Considering I hate oily bi phase eye make up removers, I quite like this one. It works very well to remove stubborn eye make up and if I wasn't so in love with the Klorane eye make up remover, then I'd probably buy the full size bottle of this.

Too Faced Eye Shadow Duo in Lovey Dovey- Available from Debenhams and Boots
Lovey Dovey is an eye shadow duo combining Sable Brown and Fawn Shimmer. Too Faced are possibly my favourite eye shadow brand- they're SO much better than MAC. These powder eye shadows are so rich and creamy and intensely pigmented, they last all night without creasing. I got this one a while ago so I'm not sure if these duos are still available but I'd definitely recommend checking out the brand- their palettes are amazing.

Klorane Quinine Shampoo and Conditioner- Available from Escentual

The Klorane Shampoo and Conditioner with Quinine is great for hair that is thinning, limp or lifeless. I love the smell of it as it reminds me of mens aftershave! Read my full review here.

I must sound like such a nerd but I've been so proud of myself for using up all of these Empties. Each time I use up products, I store them in an old Glossy Box until it is full and then I get the box out to review.

I'm so pleased to be able to dispose of all of these empties now!!

What products have you used up recently?

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WhatLauraWore: Ditzy Print and Studs All Round!

2013-04-23T08:00:00.000+01:00

Last week, I went out for lunch for my best friends birthday and the occasion called for a cute daytime outfit. I opted for this ditzy print dress from Curve Clothing who are a new brand for women sized 14 to 32 with a great Facebook page offering a prompt delivery service and a cracking place in Hartlepool for all you Northern readers. If you're looking for fresh and fashionable plus sized clothes then girls, head on over to their page or follow them on Twitter.

This dress was perfect for my lunch out as it looked so pretty and girlie. The ditzy floral print is bang on trend for the spring and summer and the colourful hues in this dress enable it to be paired with any number of coloured accessories. It comes with a separate black slip to go underneath and then the light weight dress sits on top of it. The shoulders and skirt of the dress is frilled at the bottom, adding to the feminine style of the dress. It buttons down at the bust too showing a subtle hint of cleavage. It is dual sized and I found it to be true to the lower size. It fits like a glove and looks great whether you dress it up or down. I'm wearing it with a waterfall jacket from New Look and some leggings from Simply Be.

The bracelets I'm wearing are the ones I received in my goodie bag at the #NorthMeetUp. They're from an online store called So In Fashion. The Lacey Coloured Bracelets are stretchy and provide a great fit on the wrist. I love how bright and colourful they are and they look great when paired with the Livi spiked bracelet in orange. The bag I'm carrying is the studded clutch from Simply Be that I wore previously in my photoshoot with them and I'm wearing studded loafers from New Look on my feet.

WhatLauraWore:

Ditzy Print Dress from Curve Clothing

Waterfall Jacket in black from New Look

Black leggings from Simply Be

Lacey Coloured Bracelets from So In Fashion

Livi Orange Bracelet from So In Fashion

Studded bag from Simply Be

Spike studded loafers from New Look

How would you style this dress? What is your favourite piece from Curve Clothing?

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