Girl About Town

Spring / Summer 2012 Make Up Trends.

2012-03-11T00:22:00.002+00:00

Heya :)

So during the Spring/Summer 2012 Runway shows the make up trends consisted of a variety of looks. Perfect for those who like being Au Natural or those like me, who like being daring when it comes to make up. The ones that mostly stood out to me were Fendi's dramatic gold leaf eyeshadow, Jean Paul Gaultier's Retro Glamour, Dolce and Gabanna's super Feminine Cat like eyes (false lashes at the ready!), Miu Miu's rocking red bold eyes and last but not least Chanel's feminine but effective tiny pearl embellishments which acted as piercings to the models face.

Other looks consisted of extreme smokey eyes… (yawn), gentle smokey eyes…. (double yawn). Sorry Pat McGrath you are amazing but gentle smokey eyes are no fun. Lana Del Rey esque doll like delicateness, minimalism, bright bold lips, color contouring, no mascara and chocolate red satined lips.

As always we see some of the past trends re appearing in this years make up trends.
Here are some of my favorite looks from the Spring/Summer 2012 shows.

Fendi's dramatic gold leaf eyeshadow by Peter Philips.

Jean Paul Gaultier's oh so glam retro look by Stephaine Marais.

Dolce and Gabanna's sleek feminine cat like look by Pat McGrath.

Miu Miu's daring but beautiful bold red eyeshadow.

Chanel's delicate embellished look created by Peter Philips.

So those where the main looks that caught my attention for Spring / Summer 2012.
What are your thoughts on the looks and have you tried out any for yourself? :)
Let me know.
Chat soon.
Love, love.

Nadia. x

The Body Shop's 'Chocomania' Range.

2012-01-30T16:46:00.001+00:00

Official Promo Pic From The Body Shop Ireland.

Heya :) So I didn't think id be doing a new post until I got my blog revamped but change of plan. Anywho. As some of you may already know The Body Shop are launching a new range next month just in time for Valentines day called "Chocomania".

As I work in The Body Shop I was really lucky enough to try out and review the new range before it hits the shelves.

The range consists of a shower gel, body scrub, a body lotion, a body butter, a lip butter and little heart shaped soaps. Before I continue I have to let people know that amazing as this range is. It's not edible. :P And of course as always I'll give my 100% opinion on this range. I wasn't asked to give it a great review or sweeten it up. (No pun intended).

So first up I tried the shower cream which is €8.95 for a 250ml. As all body shop shower creams/gels this is soap free which means its kinder to the environment. It's a pearlescent shower cream that contains real Community Fair Trade Cocoa Butter and has an amazing chocolate scent.

As it contains Cocoa Butter it doesn't dry out the skin. The shower gel comes out brown in colour but turns white/clear as soon as its mixed with water. A little goes a long way so use a bath lily with it so get maximum usage. I loved this shower gel as it smelt amazing and left my skin feeling soft and smooth.

The Body Scrub. This is €18.95 for a 200ml. A little pricey but so worth it. It's brilliant for exfoliating the skin and also leaves the skin feeling real refreshed and soft. Also the scrub contains Cocoa butter and Cane sugar which is great for boosting circulation and of course removing dead skin cells.

The Body Lotion. The body lotion is €13.50 for a 250ml which is great and comes in a handy bottle with a pump for easy application. The lotion is lighter in texture and id recommend it for people with normal to dry skin. It absorbs easily and quickly into the skin leaving it smelling amazingly, luxurious and moisturized.

The Body Butter. The original body butter that contains LOADS of Community Fair Trade ingredients. Of course The Body Shop couldn't bring out a new range and not have a body butter. It's €18.95 for a 200ml. If you have tried any of The Body Shop body butters before you'll know how great they are. This particular body butter contains 13 Community Fair Trade ingredients. The most ever put into the one product. It provide's hydration for up to 48 hours and also absorbs quickly into the skin leaving it feeling softer, smoother and luxuriously without the heavy butter feeling. Ive grown up using The Body Shops Body Butter's and think I will always use them. They always been my favorite. I've tired other cheaper brands but they didn't feel as good on my skin.

I didn't get any of the soaps to try or the lip butters. I have tired other Body Shop Lip Butters before and I love them! So I can't wait to get the chocolate one.

They're great for dry, chapped lips as they condition and moisturize.

The range will be out in early February so make sure you get some before it's all gone!
Overall I love this range and can't wait for it to come out and for you all to try it. :)

Chat soon.

Love, love...

Nadia x

Good bye 2011, Hello 2012!

2012-01-01T21:16:00.000+00:00

Heya :)
First off id like to wish everyone a Happy New Year! 2011 was a good year for me but I feel 2012 is going to be even better! I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and got lovely gifts off Santa, family and friends.

As anyone who reads my blog knows I'm very bad for keeping it updated. But one of my resolutions for 2012 is to get my blog back up and running with updates alot more regularly.
I'm going to give my page a total re-vamp and I'll be also doing some giveaways throughout the year!

Until then,
Nadia x

Mascara Mini Haul

2011-09-26T18:30:00.000+01:00

Heya all :) So as usual I suck with my updates, ye should be used to it by now. :P
But I've a good excuse this time, I've been busy clearing out things from the house, doing some re-decorating (I now have a gorgeous make up room! Pic‘s to follow).
I've been to see Taking Back Sunday in Dublin and Ive been organising my charity skydive for the South Westmeath Hospice in Athlone.

But during those weeks, (months!) I've obviously been buying make up.
I’ve bought a few mascara’s so I'm just going to do this update on them. And another on the rest of the make up I bought.
So first up Mascara’s. I LOVE mascara’s. I’m not quiet the label whore that I use to be. The way I think now it that its not about what brand you use, its how you use it.

These 4 Mascara’s are by Avon and were on offer at 2 for €12 which is brilliant. They had such a selection that I couldn’t just pick 2 so I picked 4. Its no harm having some extra as they always come in handy for my kit.

Avon SuperShock Mascara 10ml:
Available in Black or Brown/Black. €12.
But part of the 2 for €12 offer.
I’ve tried this mascara before and I loved it.
I love the big brush/wand. It has a real high impact and separates the lashes beautifully. Will a few coats it makes your lashes look like you’re wearing falsies and really enhances your look.

Avon SuperExtend Mascara 7ml:
Available in Black or Brown/Black. €12.75
Part of the 2 for €12 offer.
I’ve also never tried to this mascara before. But I wasn’t overly excited about trying this one as I didn’t like the brush/wand. I usually prefer big brushes / wands as they separate the lashes better and give more volume. But anywho as I was saying I wasn’t over excited about this mascara as the brush / wand was a lot smaller and more comb like. As the name is “SuperExtend” it is suppose to give your lashes more length. To be honest, it didn’t give me the “Wow Factor” really. I thought it was just average. :/ Sorry Avon!

Avon SuperEnhant Mascara 8ml:

Available in Black or Brown/Black. €12.75
Part of the 2 for €12 offer.
I’ve never tired this mascara before but now that I have. I like it. It’s formulated with Botanical extracts and Royal Jelly which really conditions your lashes. The brush / wand is a nice size which is also curved / in an “8” shape. I found that this mascara is lightweight which is perfect for a day time look.

Avon ColourTrend Great Lengths Mascara 7ml:

I don’t really know much info on this mascara as I was sent this one by mistake. I didn’t notice it was the wrong one I ordered until after I had paid for my order. But I like this one and I'm happy with it. It has a nice sized brush / wand.
It applies nicely and is perfect for both day and night time looks.

L'Oreal Lash Architect 4D 12ml:
I’ve been wanting to try this mascara for ages! Not only was it on offer in Boots, Usually €16.49 but was on offer for I think it was 12 or 13 Euro, I can’t fully remember :S BUT I also got a free L'Oreal Real Chrome Intensity Eye shadow worth €7.49.
Happy days, more about that in my next update….
But back into the actual mascara. (I know I have a habit of going off topic, sorry! ) This mascara is available in black or brown. As I don’t like writing negative feedback about any product, but do like to give my honest opinion.
But I also didn’t get the “Wow Factor” once again from this mascara.
The brush /wand had a slight curve on it and was skinny but long. I know this was to create a 4D dimension but I wasn’t over enthusiastic about it. I found that the brush clumps a lot which wasn’t good and gave a messy application. Even though I had wiped the wand a few times it still re-clumped. So unfortunately I wouldn’t recommend this product. Sorry L'Oreal!

That’s it for my mascara “haul” as they call it. I was very happy with most of my purchases from Avon, as I saved over €20, happy days!
Until my next update. Which will be soon I promise!

Chat soon,
Love, love...
Nadia x

River Island Summer Sale.

2011-07-09T01:07:00.003+01:00

Heya :) So as we are well into Summer. Well if your living in Ireland like me it doesn't seem that way will all that rain and thunder. Anywho, so last Thursday River Island's summer kicked off. I think River Islands Summer Sale was the most talked about sale in a long time. It was trending all day on Twitter in the UK & Ireland. So as I'm a recessionista I like to find some bargains, so off I went in for a look. I was lucky to find some goodies as I heard people were queuing outside the store since 5.30am the morning of the sale! Crazy if you ask me but sure what harm.

So here's what I bought:

Cute black Summer Dress With Orange and Blue
Detail Across The Bust. It Also Comes With Detachable Straps.
This was reduced from €33.50 to €12.00.

Green "Silk" Scarf With Floral Detail.

This Was Reduced From €17.50 to €6.00
I Love Scarves, I Have SO Many.
I Can't Wait To Wear This With Something Dressy Or Casual.

Ok I Know Were In The Middle Of Summer But I Also

Love Cute Hats For The Winter. I Also Have LOADS Beanie Hats. I Nearly Always Wear One In The Winter.

My Friends Always Tease Me For Buying Crazy Hats, But Meh I Love Them And They Keep Me Warm.That's What You Want In The Winter Right? The Colours In This One Caught My Attention And The Cute Pom Pom On The Top! This Was Reduced From €23.50 To €6.00, So I Couldn't Leave It Behind!

Set Of Silver Bracelets. What Got My Attention With These Bracelets Was The Hamsa Charm. I Love Them. These Were Reduced From €17.50 T0 €6.00.

Brown Leopard Print Espadrille Wedges With Wrap Around Detail.
As I'm A HUGE Leopard Print Lover, Ive Had My Eye On These Leopard Print Wedges Since The Start Of Summer.
And Kept Meaning To Go In And Buy Them.
But Anyany I Was Lucky To Find A Pair In My Size And Them Being On Sale.
These Were €40.00 Reduced To Only €12.00! Bargain! ^_^

So that's what I bought in the River Island sale. I was very happy with my purchases!
Did you find anything nice in the RI sale? Let me know. :)

Chat soon.

Love, love...

Nadia x

ReflectoCollar's.

2011-07-07T22:11:00.000+01:00

Heya :) So as I've said before my blog is not for just make up, beauty and fashion. It is for also everyday life. And part of my everyday life is my dog Harley, who is my baby.
Like most dogs Harley is VERY hyper and can disappear from my sight within seconds. So I always like to keep him safe and well from the country roads he sometimes does be on.
A very good friend of mine suggested that I get him a high visibility ReflectoCollar.
With Harley's safety one of my main priorities I jumped at the chance.

Description

"Our entire catalogue is made with Pet and Human safety in mind. Our high Visibility Reflectable Collars provide better visibility for your Dog while out and about Day and Night. This in turn offers motorists an opportunity to easily slow down, identifying you and your Dog while walking. Reflectocollars are available in a range of different sizes for all types of Dogs".

The ReflectoCollars come in a range of colours, widths and lengths in either a D Ring or O Ring type collar. They are 100% waterproof , odour free and lightweight. Not only do ReflectoCollars keep your dog safe but they are also stylish. :) They range from €12 and ReflectoLeads are also available to buy from their webstore and all good retailers around Ireland. They also ship worldwide but postage and packaging may vary from each country.

Neon Green, D Ring ReflectoCollar.

Harley modeling his new ReflectoCollar which he loves!

For all you pet lover's like me, I hope you found this update useful. :)

Chat soon.
Love, love...
Nadia x

Sedona Lace Blush And Contour Palette Review.

2011-07-06T23:38:00.003+01:00

Heya :) Hope all is well with everyone. So a couple of weeks ago I purchased some Sedona Lace products from their webstore. I bought the 10 blush palette and the contour and blush palette. My order came very quick and I was notified by both email and twitter that my order was dispatched which I thought was very good customer service. My order was also delivered very quick and the packaging was well wrapped.

10 Blush Palette… $15.95 / €11.10 (approx).
Description
“Everyone knows that makeup is never complete without blush. We have introduced a palette with 10 shades varying from light pink to deep dark pink as well as a couple of neutral blushes. This palette is perfect for anyone who loves blush, 10 different shades in one palette!”

Ingredients
Mica, Mineral Oil, Kaolin, Titanium Dioxide, Magnesium Stearate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Lanolin, Methylparaben, Propylparaben. May Contain: Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Ultramarine Blue, FD&C Red No.40 A1 Lake, FD&C Red No.7 Ca Lake, FD&C Yellow No.5 A1 Lake, FD&C Blue No.1 A1 Lake.

My Opinion

I love these blushers as they come in a sleek black matt palette with the Sedona Lace name and logo on the front. The shades range from natural golden glow to summer tropical coral and even gorgeous hot pink. The pan’s are medium sized and the pigmentation is quiet strong so they do blend well and most importantly they last long. So you only need to apply a small amount. The only thing I dislike about the blushers is that they are a tiny bit talc-y / too powdery when you apply them but after there blended, they are perfectly fine. But for less then €12 I think these blushers are great.

10 Gorgeous Blushers, With Flash.

Left to Right, Top and Bottom.
Excuse the bad quality of the swatches, I suck at them :(

6 Contour and Blush Palette… €17.95 / €12.50 (approx).

Description
“2 in 1 palette contains 6 large pans for contouring, shading and blush. All 6 colors are matte and come in a durable packaged case to make it very convenient to use and travel with”.

Ingredients
Mica, Mineral Oil, Kaolin, Titanium Dioxide, Magnesium Stearate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Lanolin, Methylparaben, Proplparaben.

My Opinion
This palette is class! The pans are HUGE. They also come in a sleek black matt palette with the Sedona Lace name and logo on the front. The pigmentation is also strong in these so only a little amount is need when applying. It comes with 4 contour shades and 2 blushers. The contour shades range from pure white to a gorgeous mocha. The blushers are a beautiful baby doll pink and a hot bubblegum pink. These are also a tiny bit talc-y / too powdery when you apply them but after there blended, they are perfectly fine.

The Front Of The Blush & Contour Palette, With Flash.

Contour & Blush Palette, With Flash.

As You Can See The Pan's Are HUGE! :D

I think both palettes were great value. But the international shipping cost more than the actual products. The shipping to Ireland cost $20.34 / €14.11 approx. And I got a discount of $4. The Sedona Lace webstore nearly always has offers on shipping like a discount or even free shipping within the US.
But saying that I definitely will be ordering from the Sedona Lace webstore again soon.
Have you tried any Sedona Lace products? Let me know if you have and what you think of your purchase(s). :)

Chat soon,
Love, love...
Nadia. x

I'm back... with like's and dislike's.

2011-06-21T17:56:00.003+01:00

Heya! :) So sorry for my lack of updates the last few weeks, well months... Life got a bit hectic and blogging was the last thing on my mind! But now I’m back up and running again and ready to rock once again! :D
Hope you all are keeping well. For those of you who may have been doing exams, I hope they went well. And for those if you who weren’t. Well lucky for you! :P
Here are some of my likes and dislikes from the last few weeks. :)

Likes: :D

The long stretches in the evenings!
My morning walks with Harley. - Were on a mission to get fit!
Vision boards. - I had read about these before when I read “The Secret ” by Rhonda Byrne and was interested in finding out more about them. So my Aunt gave me a lend of a book of her’s called, “The Vision Board -The secret to an extraordinary life” by Joyce Schwarz. Since then I have made my own vision board. I’ll talk about these more in another update.
Garnier Body Lotion.- I was sent this to try out from the lovely people at Cosmo magazine. I couldn’t fault it, and I’m not saying that because it was sent to me. Id give my honest feedback. Anywho it’s the Garnier Body Intensive 7 Days Ultra-Softening Lotion with L-Bifidus (a re-enforcement that helps lock in moisture and helps the skin continue to be a protective barrier). It is a nourishing Shea Butter. I love everything about it. It leaves your skin feeling silky smooth, moisturized and smelling yummy! ^_^
Yankee Candles. - My love for these just grows and grows! I always try to have at least one in the main rooms of my house. The Yankee Candle shop in St. Stephen’s Green usually has good offers on. I got 2 big jars in Clean Cotton and Cherry Blossom for €22. It was buy one get one free! Happy days!
The Disney Store. - Ireland FINALLY has a Disney Store! And boy was I like a kid on Christmas morning when I went to see it. It is amazing! Expensive, but amazing! I treated myself and picked up a huge Minnie Mouse mug, a Pirates of the Caribbean Shopping bag and beach / bath towel. Oh for those of you wondering where it is in Dublin. It’s where the Laura Ashley store use to be on Grafton Street.
Positive Affirmations. - Well this one isn’t rocket science. No point in being a Debbie Downer. Be happy!
Simple Cleansing Wipes. - I picked these up one day in Boots when they had a 3 for 2 on all Simple products. The ones I bought were Simple Radiance Brightening Cleaning Wipes in Mango goodness. I know bit of a mouthful. What I like about them is that they are great for removing make up, especially heavy eye make up. They do leave your skin feeling clean, fresh, moisturized and they do actually brighten up your skin. Defo a must for the handbag for you ladies hitting the festivals this Summer!
Sedona Lace Blusher Palette. - I’ll talk about this more in another update.
MAC Lipstick in Cherish. - I could bang on all day talking about how much I love MAC lipstick. How good they smell, the texture on your lips, how long it lasts. But I'm not going to! Cherish is a satin, soft muted peachy beige which can be worn with day or night time looks.
Lady Gaga’s New Album.- Born This Way. One word…. AMAZING!

Dislikes :

This so called Irish Summer!- I mean REALLY?! Waking up to a “nice sunny day” and BAM! A few minutes later it’s lashing out of the heavens. Come on Mother Nature give us a break and give us some sunshine and heat.
Having my kitchen clean and tidy and Harley walking in messing it up.
LACK OF FUNDS. - No mon, no fun. Simple as.
People cancelling plans last minute. - It grinds my gears. Genuine excuses are accepted but not pissy ones.
Athlone town. - My home town. Nice town and all that but nothing fun to do that doesn’t involve spending a lot of money or drinking. BORING!
Girls who go after Guys who are already in a relationship. - You wouldn’t like it done to you so have some RESPECT.

What are you current likes and dislikes? :)
So that’s it really I think I've ranted and raved enough there. :P I pinky promise I’ll update more often. Blogger has been abit of pain recently and won’t let me update. But I've plenty of more goodies to talk about. :) Until then.
Take care and chat soon!

-Nadia x

Penney's "Foiling Around" Nail Foils

2011-03-28T20:05:00.002+01:00

Heya. :) Hope ye all are keeping well and enjoying the sunshine.

Well here in Athlone the weather has been amazing the last few days. I hope it stays like this for another few weeks. It's such feel good weather. We all need some Vitamin D to give us a spring in our step!

Anywho, I was in Penney’s, (Primark in the U.K.), with my Mam last week and she picked me out some foils for my nails! I had seen this on Xposé last summer but didn’t see them around much after that. But saying that they are really popular with celebs, such as Katy Perry and Lady Gaga. The first brand/company to bring them out were Minx, it's what most of celebs wear. But they are expensive. Now alot of high street places like Topshop and Penney's have brought out there own range.

The Minx foils vary in price, depending on the style and the salon. But they are usually around €30. The one I picked up in Penney's were only €3.50 which is a bargain. They only had one design though and they were black and white polka dots but I'm sure they’ll get more in over the next few weeks.

There are 18 foils in the pack and come with a set of instructions also.

What you will need for your application:

Nail file.
Nail buffer.
Cuticle pusher.
Scissors.
Hair dryer.

Instructions:

Manicure your nails. Trim nails and push back cuticles.
Buff nails lightly to remove oily layer.
Remove any file dust with a damp cloth.
Remove the punch out piece from the backing film that covers all 9 nail foils.
Select the nail foil that is closest to the size of your nail and trim with a scissors to fit exactly.
Peel the nail foil backing film.
Grasping between the thumb and index finger, lay the rounded edge against the cuticle.
Once in place, rub all areas of the nail foil firmly with a cuticle pusher.
Rub all areas of the nail foil firmly.
For best results, (which I feel worked better), warm up nail foils with a hair dryer on LOW setting. Then crease the excess around the nail edge.
Then crease the excess around the nail edge. Stick over layer edge onto fingertip and file off the excess in a gentle downward motion using a fine nail file. And you're done! :)

To Remove:

Wash hands in warm soapy water.
Or for better results, warm nails using a hair dryer and gently peel the nail foils off.

The end result! What do you think? :)

I think they look pretty cool for my first try. I hope Penney's bring out more designs.

Chat soon,

Nadia. x

Iron Fist Spring / Summer 2011 Collection

2011-03-13T19:30:00.001+00:00

Heya :) Time for another update. But first off I hope you all are having a great weekend. Now….onto the goodies. So Iron Fist have brought out there Spring / Summer 2011 Collection and I for one LOVE IT!
The shoes, clothes and accessories are amazing! Since my birthday is coming up in a few weeks I'm going to treat myself and get some new gear.

Here are some of my favourite pieces from the collection.

Go check out the rest of the collection HERE

Some of the prices are in dollars, sterling and converted to euro.
Each website will vary in price.

Ladies Barrio Muertos Extra Length Cardigan $70.00 / €50.10

Santeria Handbag £34.99 / €40.29

Santeria Wallet £24.99 / €28.78

Drop Dead Sandal Purple / Turquoise £24.95 / €17.85

Drop Dead Sandal Purple / Black £24.95 / €17.85

Sugar Witch Platform $45.00 / €32.20

Here I Lie Wedges $50.00 / €35.78

NYC Survivor Platform $50.00 / €35.78

So theres some of my favourites from the S/S Collection, I'm definitely going to be ordering some soon. The euro prices are not accurate as I just converted them online, it will probably cost more here in Ireland, with taxes, shipping, etc.

So yeah, if you like Iron Fist, have a look online and let me know what you think and what are some of your favourites pieces. :)

And if anyone from Iron Fist happens to be reading this and would like me to rock some of the new collection here in Ireland I would be extremely happy to and I can be contacted at nadia.annaburke@gmail.com.

Chat soon,

Nadia. x

Wonder Woman Collection

2011-03-12T23:24:00.000+00:00

Hey again :) So onto another update. I still have quiet abit to talk about! As we all know were finally into March which means the WONDER WOMAN COLLECTION is now available in Ireland! ^_^ This makes me very happy!
While I was in Dublin last week, I called into MAC in Brown Thomas to have a look and pick up some pieces of the collection. I would of liking to have bought more but lack of funds stopped me. But I did pick up 2 lip glasses and a lipstick!

The shades I bought are:
Lipstick- Shade: Spitfire - Bright creamy magenta (satin) (limited edition). €19.00

Lipglass- Shade: Emancipation - Pale neutral pink (limited edition). €21.50

Lipglass- Shade: Athena’s Kiss - Bright blue fuchsia (limited edition). €21.50

Swatch, without flash.

Same as above, with flash.

The lipglasses are abit more expensive in this collection because they are larger than the regular ones. I prefer these sized ones because not only do you get more product but the brushes/applicator is better.
I love what I bought, the colours are so fresh and summery. That can be used both for day and night looks. I think I may have to take another trip to Dublin to buy more. Id like to get another lipstick in Marquis d’ and a powder blush duo in Mighty Aphrodite.
I'm such a make up junkie I know! But I love it! :D
While I was in MAC I also picked up a black eye kohl pencil €17.50 and some prep + prime, transparent finishing powder...
"A silky finishing powder that provides an invisible way to set makeup. Reduces shine while optically minimizing the look of pores, lines, imperfections. Available in one universal colour that suits all shades. Wear over makeup or on bare, moisturized skin." €24.50.

The goodies I bought! :)

Ive been using the prep + prime since I bought it and I love it. I cant fault it at all. I love the soft, matt finish it leaves on my skin. So that's it for now.

Chat soon,
Nadia. x

I'm Back!

2011-03-12T18:22:00.001+00:00

Heya :) So I’ve been neglecting my blog lately, things have been busy but I'm going to get back on track now! I traveled a good bit back and forth to Dublin during the last month. My brother Tony threw a Super bowl Party as our team the Pittsburgh Steelers were playing. Only to get bet by the Green Bay Packers. Oh well! >:| I'll still wear my jersey with pride. :D
Even though the Steelers lost, we all had such a fun night and got to hang out with old and new friends. (Hiiii Bronagh! x).

Then My Chemical Romance were back in town on February 16th and played a great show in the 02 Dublin. It was so good to see them again after a couple of years. They played a lot of stuff from there new album "Danger Days: The True Lives Of The Fabulous Killjoys". And some really old stuff from "I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love". It was a class gig and I got to catch up with some close friends, which is always fun. :)

Mikey Way, My Chemical Romance.

Picture taken my me. Not a great one, because I didn't fancy being in the Pitt.

RAG Week was upon us again in the A.I.T. I haven’t been out for rag week since I was a student here in town so I decided to head out one of the nights with the girlie's.
We went out on the Tuesday night as The Rubberbandits were playing in Karma Nightclub. It was a really fun night but wasn’t organized too well, sorry Karma! I'm not sure the exact amount the A.I.T. made but I know it was a great amount.

The Rubberbandits.

Picture taken by me.

Then my next gig was Bruno Mars, on March 9th. Bruno (real name, Peter Hernandez) played a sold out show in the Olympia Theater, Dublin. It was such a class gig. I personally love gigs in the Olympia, even though it is a fairly big venue the gigs there are intimate which gives the artist a chance to kind of interact properly with fans and the likes. Bruno plays with a 5 piece band, The Hooligans, Who were amazing.The day after the gig I was extremely lucky to receive a signed copy of "Doo-Wops & Hooligans" in the post from my brother. Happy days! ^_^

Bruno Mars.

All pictures taken by me.

So while I was in Dublin I called into MAC in Brown Thomas to pick up some of the amazing Wonder Woman Collection. I’ll talk more about that in my next update.

As always, thank you for reading, feel free to follow my blog, leave comments, feedback, etc.

Chat soon,
Nadia. x

How To Clean Your MakeUp Brushes

2011-02-01T17:37:00.001+00:00

Heya :) So I get asked alot by clients and friends on how I clean my make up brushes, keep them in shape and how often should they be cleaned. So this update is simply going answer just that!

Sigma Professional Kit

Which can he purchased here

I have 2 sets of brushes that I use. A set I use on myself and a set for using on my clients.
After using my own brushes daily, I clean them down with a fresh baby wipe and wash out my foundation brush. But I give them a full clean each week or as often as needed.
With my other brush set I clean them thoroughly after each use as this is more hygienic and prevents cross contamination between clients. Sounds kinds disgusting to think about, but I prefer working with clean brushes!

Its really important to clean your brushes regularly as it will:
-Reduce the build up of make up residue.
-Minimize skin problems.
-Remove body oils and dead skin (nasty I know, but its true!!).
-Remove bacteria.
-Increase the life of your brushes.
-Help give you a flawless application to your make up.

What you need:
-Baby wipes.
-Mild shampoo or anti-bacterial brush cleaner.
-Tea tree oil.
-Warm water.
-Sink or small bowl.
-Dry towel.

Ok so onto cleaning your brushes :)

Fill your sink or small bowl with a couple of inches of warm water, (depending on how many brushes you have to clean). Add a cap full of shampoo or brush cleaner, 3-4 drops of tea tree oil and work to a sludsy mixture.

Place your brushes in the solution and gently rub the bristles between your fingers for at least 30 seconds for each brush. Try not get the ferrule (metal or plastic part, depending on the brush) wet as the water will soften the glue and the hairs may fall out of your brush.
Rinse each brush thoroughly in clean warm water, making sure to get all the shampoo residue off.

Pat the brushes dry with a clean towel. Lay them flat on the towel, reshaping the bristles. Keep them in a warm dry area. Do not dry your brushes with a hair dryer or heater as the heat will cause the glue to melt and your brush will fall apart! You may need to reshape the bristles again so that they reform their proper shape again.

So that's it really, hope that update was of some help to ye. Let me know how ye get on. :)
Chat soon,
-Nadia x

Spring / Summer Make-Up Trends 2011

2011-01-31T21:16:00.003+00:00

Heya :) As we are into a new year and saying goodbye to a cold winter its time to look forward to the Spring / Summer Trends for 2011. This season theres going to be LOTS of variety, from Neon's with Bold eye popping shades, to Pastel nude shades. This is the season to go wild and embrace your alter ego with some colour! :D

As we all are different and have different skin tones, etc. It is important to use the right products to compliment our skin tones.

List of Skin Tones:
Warm - yellow undertone.
Cool - pink undertone.
Neutral - blend of both, or are more olive toned.

The looks for this season are very versatile as it can take you from your office desk to a night on the town in less than a couple of minutes.

Natural Nudes:
Some people are huge fans for natural make up. While others, like me tend to like being more extravagant. Make up is for ENHANCING your beauty and not covering it. As I already said it can take you from a day look to a night look in minutes. Use a natural foundation to help create flawless looking skin, enhance your eyes using a few coats of mascara, then apply a small amount of blush on your cheekbones to emphasize them and optionally apply a clear lip gloss or slightly tinted lip balm on your lips to make them stand out.

Jeanne Lanvin Spring / Summer Collection 2011.

Pastel Shades:

Pastel shades can suits many people as it can be used in two ways. They can be used light or bold. Depending on your own personal preference and style you can apply the pastel coloured makeup as you wish to suit your own style as well as shape of your eyes.

Shades that are bang on trend this season are orange, red, pink, blue, green. Find the hue which suits your skin tone best, eye color and hair color best and apply the makeup whatever way you desire! :) To make the colour be more bold or vivid use an eyeshadow primer or dampen your brush to create the look you're going for.

Christian Dior Spring / Summer Collection 2011.

Bold Eye Make-Up:

So the bold/neon eye make-up look, I think it looks real 80's and Scene. But I love it. I think the more colour the better. But all in moderation. You don't want to be hitting the town looking like a clown. I personally wouldn't wear bold eye make up and lips as I think it would be too much. But as I say each to there own, if they feel confident enough to wear it and can pull it off well, I say go for it! :D You can use bold eyeshadow colors such as green, blue, purple, pink, red, orange, yellow, etc, as they all rock. Mascara and liquid eyeliner are a big must for this type of makeup as it helps give a more defined finish to your look. If you're abit nervous and afraid to try out a bold look you can still use any colour you wish but turn it into a smokey eye, continue with liquid eyeliner and mascara and you're sorted! :) Also don't forget to tame those brows ladies!

Christian Dior Spring / Summer Collection 2011.

Bold Lips: Another reason why I love make up so much, bold, vibrant lipstick. Don't get me wrong I like natural shades too. But prefer colourful lips. I remember trying on my Mam's red lipstick when I was younger and ended up looking like a lil drag queen with lipstick all over my lips and teeth....yeah not a good look! But anyway! :P When I'm wearing a strong colour on my lips I tend to just usually go for a natural eye with liquid eyeliner and flick with a few coats of mascara. You don't need to spend a small fortune on lipsticks for this season. Barry M have some great colours and are really affordable so you can be more daring and splash out on more colours. This season you don't really need to match your lipstick to your outfit. Its all about being bold and kinda outrageous. If it's a red, hot pink, orange, coral or even a blue lip color, keep it sleek and chic and you're ready to rock. Simple as that!

So there you have the main make up trends for Spring / Summer 2011.

Hope ye have fun trying out some of these looks. And remember they don't have to be exactly as they are on the catwalks. Don't be afraid to give them your own twist, because remember make up isn't about doing it perfect and by the book. Its about being CREATIVE and enhancing that beauty that you already have!

Feel free to leave comments and feedback.

Chat soon,

-Nadia x

MAC Wonder Woman Collection Spring 2011

2011-01-30T22:07:00.002+00:00

Heya :) So as some of ye may have already heard MAC have been working with Warner Bros. and DC Comics to bring out the Wonder Woman Collection for Spring 2011!
I personally am so excited to get my hands on some of this collection as I'm a huge Wonder Woman fan. Here is what MAC has to say about the collection :

"Banish any thought of being a Plain Jane: M∙A∙C and Wonder Woman have joined forces! For Spring 2011, take a trip to Paradise Island with a legendary line up of super-sized MineralizeSkinfinish, bold Eye Shadow quads, Pigment, Opulash, Lipsticks and oversized Lipglass, jumbo-big Powder Blush and Penultimate Eye Liner, Nail Lacquer and Lash inspired by the larger-than-life Bold Babe. Dashing and dazzling, the iconic super heroine reminds us that inside every woman is a Mighty Aphrodite full of courage, confidence and charisma. Kaboom! Mission Accomplished!

Wonder Woman has always known the importance of astounding accessories. For her collaboration with M∙A∙C, we’ve infused her sense and fantasy and wonder into a vivid collection of awe-inspiring accessories as fierce and feminine as the heroine herself. Bright, bold, superhuman designs in Makeup Bags – from radiant Red to Bulletproof Blue, Utility Belt Brush Sets, and exclusively online, the WW T-Shirt and Invincible Mirror. Shazam!"

The launch dates are:

U.S. / Canada - February 2011.
International - March 2011.

Prices range from $14.00 to $59.50 why the prices are so expensive for this collection is that some of the products are larger sizes than what they normally are. And also prices in Ireland will cost more.

So onto the good stuff! :D

Lipstick
Marquise d’ – Sandy cream peach (Lustre) - (Limited Edition).
Russian Red – Intense bluish-red (Matte) - (Permanent).
Spitfire – Bright creamy magenta (Satin) - (Limited Edition).
Heroine – Brown bronze (Frost) - (Limited Edition).

Lipglass (These are larger in size than the regular lipglasses).
Emancipation – Pale neutral pink - (Limited Edition).
Wonder Woman – Bright red with soft pearl - (Limited Edition).
Athena’s Kiss – Bright blue fuchsia - (Limited Edition).
Secret Identity – Mid-tone copper with soft pearl - (Limited Edition).

Opulash Mascara
Victorious – Purple - (Limited Edition).
Army of Amazons – Green - (Limited Edition).
Themyscira – Blue - (Limited Edition).
Black – Black - (Limited Edition).

Penultimate Eye Liner

Rapid black – True black - (Permanent).

Nail Varnish
Obey Me – True red - (Limited Edition).
Spirit of Truth – Navy blue - (Limited Edition).

False Eyelashes
#48

Eye Quad – Defiance
Defiance – Iridescent white pink (Veluxe pearl) - (Limited Edition).
Paradise Island – Soft warm pink (Satin) - (Limited Edition).
Star Studded – Mid-tone violet pink (Satin) - (Limited Edition).
Real Drama – Dark burgundy with pink pearl (Satin) - (Limited Edition).

Eye Quad – Lady Justice

Lady Justice – Bright silver with white pearl (Frost) - (Limited Edition).

Insurmountable – Dirty blue grey (Veluxe Pearl) - (Limited Edition).

Bold Babe – Deep metal blue with white pearl (Frost) - (Limited Edition).

Deep Truth – True dark blue (Frost) - (Limited Edition).

Eye Quad – Valiant

Valiant – Light lime with yellow pearl (Frost) - (Limited Edition).
Spinning Transformation – Deep olive bronze with yellow pearl (Frost) - (Lim' Ed).
Diana Undercover – Dark forest green (Satin) - (Limited Edition).
Manila Paper – Pale frost white gold (Veluxe Pearl) - (Limited Edition).

Reflects Bronze

Reflects Pearl - White glitter with pearl sheen (Glitter) - (Permanent at MAC PRO).

Reflects Gold - Sparkling rich gold (Glitter) - (Permanent at MAC PRO).

Pigments

Bright Fuchsia – Bright magenta - (Permanent).

Marine Ultra – Vivid marine blue - (Permanent at MAC PRO).

Powder Blush Duo
Mighty Aphrodite – Warm peach coral with gold pearl/Bright coral pink with gold pearl (Satin/Frost) - (Limited Edition).
Amazon Princess – Bright yellow pink/Deep blue pink with gold pearl (Satin) - (Limited Edition).

Mineralize Skinfinish
Pink Power – Peachy rose with pink shimmer/Soft rosy bronze/Soft shell pink with fine shimmer - (Limited Edition).
Golden Lariat – True coral with fine gold shimmer/Soft suntanned bronze/Soft gold with fine shimmer - (Limited Edition).

Wonder Woman Make Up Bag

Wonder Woman Red (Limited Edition).
Bulletproof Blue (Limited Edition).

Utility Belt Eye Brush Set
224SE.
213SE.
194SE.

Utility Face Brush Set
129SE.
109SE.
190SE.

Invisible Mirror
Online Exclusive - (Limited Edition).

Wonder Woman Tee
Online Exclusive - (Limited Edition).

So that's all of the collection, what do you guys think of it? :D I can't wait until its available here in Ireland. As always feel free to leave feedback. :)

Chat soon,
-Nadia x

January Sales!

2011-01-11T16:01:00.001+00:00

Heya :) Here’s another update on what I bought in the January sales. Normally I think whatever is on sale is just rubbish that the shop can’t sell, but this time round I picked up some goodies.

I headed to Athlone Town Centre with my Mam to have a look around and our first stop off was NEXT. There sale started pretty early in morning, I think it was about 5 or 6am? I wasn’t in shopping that early now! But I did pick up a cute lil Cupcake cushion that was €20 reduced down to €7.50. I got it because I got the same one as part of my Christmas presents from my Mam and Dad, so I got the other one so id have a pair. This year I'm hoping to re-decorate my kitchen and its going to be cupcake themed! I’m so excited to get it started.
Just thinking there, I seem to always get cushions in the NEXT sale, I bought a pair of furry grey leopard print ones in there Summer Sale. :P

Then we went to have a look in River Island. I had my eye on 2 scarves in there since before Christmas so I thought id wait to see if they would be in the sale. The main one I wanted was a black and white devore skull scarf with velvet trim in near the same design of the Alexander McQueen one. This wasn’t on sale though. :( So maybe I’ll get it next time I'm in town if its still in stock. The Alexander McQueen one is €175 and the River Island version in €39.

The other scarf I had my eye on was grey devore with velvet trimming also but had wings on it. I loved it as soon as I seen it. This one was on sale, it was €39 reduced to €12.

Excuse the creases :S

We stopped off in Gloria Jeans for a coffee. I’m so in love with there White Iced Chocolate with cream. It’s just so amazing, its kinda like a vanilla milkshake really. But it’s gorgeous. I can’t walk by the shop without buying one. ^_^

Next stop was The Golden Island Shopping Centre, I wanted to call into Boots to see what there sale was like. I was really good. All there Christmas gift sets were half price including perfumes and aftershaves.

I picked up a Front Cover Eye Make Up Bag which contained 2 pairs of party false eyelashes, (one is thick with little gems at the ends of them and the other are a natural to medium lash with glitter). A double sided mascara wand with gold and silver on each end, and another double sided mascara wand with black mascara on one side and black liquid liner on the other. I personally wouldn’t be mad about the liquid liner as I think it comes out very pale and faded. A pot of loose eye shadow pigment powder in “Cloud Dancer”, I think its quiet like “Pink Opal” eye shadow pigment powder by MAC, as it is frosted with a bright white / pink undertone to it. It also comes with a double sided brush and sponge applicator which would be handy to pop in your make up bag for when you’re on the go!

This set was €24 reduced to €12. Which I thought was great value.

"her lashes swept the garden path"

And lastly my next and final stop was to the Calendar Club. I needed to get a new calendar as I forgot to pick one up before now. I wanted to get another Hello Kitty one, as my one last year as cute and colorful but as I had left it to the last minute to get one they were all sold out. BUT… I did find a really nice one, of one of my female idols…. a Marilyn Monroe one which I was really happy with. It has stunning pictures of her. She was one classy, stunning, elegant lady, who stole the hearts of many. It was €14.95 reduced to €8.95 so that was cool.

"Happy January!"

That was all my purchases for one day, which I think weren’t bad? Did you guys get anything nice in the sales? Tell me :)

Chat soon,

-Nadia x

Compact Mirrors By Model Mirror

2011-01-05T21:50:00.002+00:00

Heya :) So here's another of my updates I was suppose to do over the Christmas but I didn't get a chance to. It's a review on the Compact Mirror by Model Mirror. I seen a review about this on Make Up By Nadia not me, another Nadia. :P And her blog can be seen here. As soon as I read Nadia's review, I though "ooh I must get one of them" and I did. :)

"Compact mirrors are essential for any girl's handbag. They're perfect for touching up your makeup when away from home and they'll help you keep your polished look all day long.

But what happens when you're in a darker location? Maybe it's a poorly lit powder room or a dark club - or maybe you're out camping at a festival with no electricity at all. In situations like this, even the most hardcore fashionistas might put their compact mirrors away and keep their fingers crossed that their makeup remains unblemished.

But at Les Tai Tai, we're no longer concerned about the dark. Our fabulous Model Mirror compact mirrors feature eight battery-powered LEDs, which emit a bright light similar to a backstage makeup mirror. Simply turn on the power with the push of a button and you can enjoy the luxury of a lighted compact mirror wherever you are".

The mirrors come in a selection of styles and colours cost between £18 - £22.
They can be bought on www.lestaitai.com or www.chicaboutiqueonline.com

I bought mine on Chica Boutique.

From what I know they have sold out on Chica Boutique. I bought the Hippy Skull II and it cost me €28, and postage was under €5. Lil pricey but I love it and find it great for when applying make up or just doing a touch up.

I had a little mix up with my order but the staff from Chica Boutique were very help full and sorted out my order straight away and it was delivered to me the next day. But onto my actual review. The skull on front of the mirror is the original Hippy Skull design but now in shiny gold foil. As the description says it has 8 mini battery operated glamorous LED lights around the mirror for a more accurate application, that switch on with the touch of a button. It is also sleek, stylish and can you can just pop it into your purse or clutch on a night out. Each mirror comes with a replaceable 23A 12V battery that should normally last around 6 months, gift box and a velvet pouch/cleaning cloth to prevent the plastic from scratching.

Here is the one I bought....

The Hippy Skull II

The Front....

Inside...

Back...

So overall I would definitely recommend this mirror, I think its great and I've been using it since I got in it the post. So happy days! :) Hope you liked this update/review? Feel free to leave comments or feedback. Thanks! :)

Chat soon,

-Nadia x

December Favourites

2011-01-04T20:22:00.001+00:00

Heya :) Hope you all had a fun, safe New Years. I don't like New Years so I just stayed in my family and it was great. :) So onto the updates, while I was out Christmas present shopping for family and friends I decided to treat myself to some bits too.

Here is what I bought!....

Medium Yankee Candle in Sparkling Cinnamon - "spicy warmth of real imported stick cinnamon with a hint of cloves". I bought the 2 medium candles in a gift set that was €19.90, which I think is really good value as there normally €14 each for the medium sized candles.

Large Yankee Candle in Christmas Cupcake - "rich, moist vanilla cupcake covered with sweet buttery holiday icing". I got my Aunties store discount for the large candles, there usually over €20 depending on each store but I got mine for €15 each.

Large Yankee Candle in Mandarin Cranberry - "vibrant, fruity sensation of sweet, sunny oranges and crisp, tangy cranberries".

Medium Yankee Candle in Sparkling Snow - "crisp, naturally fresh scent of gleaming, snow-covered pines with hints of patchouli and fruit".

MAC Lipstick in Up The Amp - "Lavender violet, Amplified Creme". I got this lipstick in MAC in Brown Thomas, Dublin by recycling my 6 empties. It would usually be around €17. I haven't taken a swatch of the lipstick, to be honest I cant use my camera properly and the colour always looks different on your hand compared to your actual lips.

Red Leopard Print Scarf - I got this scarf because I think its more affordable to the Louis Vuitton "Red Stole Leopard Scarf". I got mine in Penney's for under €10. Bargain! The only difference between the Penney's version and the actual designer one is that the designer one says "Louis Vuitton" at the bottom of the scarf.

The picture quality isn't too great on the above picture of the scarf but the red and the rest of the colours in the scarf are alot more vibrant in person. The colour can be seen alot better in the first picture of this update. But anyway that's the Penney's version (above) of it and here is the original Louis Vuitton version (below)....

Yeah you can sort of tell the difference (if you're a designer junkie) but really, who my age can afford to spend that amount of money on a scarf? We've all become recessionista's thanks to the Irish Government. So yeah that's what I bought over the month of December while I was out Christmas shopping. :)

Chat soon!

-Nadia x

Bye bye 2010....Hello 2011!

2010-12-31T19:16:00.001+00:00

Heya everyone :) SO SORRY I haven't been updating much, like most of the country I was stressed to the eyeballs over Christmas and the no water drama. But all is sorted I think. *fingers crossed* anyway!

So this is just a lil update so say Happy New Year! Hope everyone has a great 2011 with lots of best wishes, health, love and happiness. I'll get the updates I wanted to put up over the weekend. Hope everyone has a fun safe night.

-Nadia x

Christmas Wish list 2010

2010-12-06T12:57:00.002+00:00

Heya :) Hope ye all are keeping well. Here's just a few ideas on my Christmas Wish list.
Just because I'm posting this it doesn't mean I'm getting everything on it. After all it's just a Wish List. Ok so lets get started!

MAC - A Tartin Tale Winter Collection.

5 Warm Thrillseekers Pigments / Glitter.

MAC - A Tartin Tale Winter Collection.

5 Cool Thrillseekers Pigments / Glitter.

The Tattoo Chronicles by Kat Von D.

Galaxy Selection Box.

Yummers ^_^

The Beauty and the Beast Diamond Edition DVD + Blu Ray.

Yankee Candles.

They are expensive but burn for hours and smell amazing!

Love, Peace & Juicy Couture Perfume.

The Beano 2011 Annual.

I get this every year since I was little, it's tradition.

My Brother and I fight every Christmas morning over what annuals we get.

I ALWAYS get The Beano and he gets The Dandy.

Professional Make-Up Directors Chair.

Thanks for checking out my blog.

Chat soon and keep warm! :)

-Nadia x

Baby It's Cold Outside!

2010-12-01T21:06:00.004+00:00

Heya :) So as we are well into Winter now and the cold weather might be affecting our skin, especially on our face. Ive decided to recommend some products and tips that I found a huge help to me and my skin. With going into hot and cold temperatures I have started to feel the difference on my skin. My skin has been feeling really dehydrated and just horrible really.

The first product was recommend to me by a friend and its called

Eucerin Replenishing Face Cream with 5% Urea.

" A gentle moisturiser for the daily care. Noticeably improves the condition of facial dry skin, absorbs easily and reduces the skins tightness. Replenishes the natural moisturisers Urea and Lactate. Leaving the skin feeling smooth and supple. Also as a adjunctive care."

As soon as I was told about this I went out and bought it straight away. I used it twice a day and I could feel the difference in my skin after 3 days. It is medicated so it is also fragrance and colourant free. It is rapidly absorbed oil-in-water emulsion and can be used in adjunctive care in atopic Eczema and Psoriasis. And more importantly it can be used under make-up :) It can be bought in any chemist for €9.99 but each store will vary in price.

Water

Drink water. It's simple. It keeps you internally moisturized and nourished, and is the number one way to prevent dry skin, especially in cold weather. So fill up on liquids and stay away from excess caffeine and alcohol. The recommended six to eight glasses a day is a good guideline. Even though with the cold weather water isn't something we want to be drinking but if you boil the kettle and add some luke warm to your glass it'll be easier for you to drink.
So give it ago and see some results, after all it's free! :)
Also Green Tea does the same job. (It appears to exert sun damage protection by quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation rather than by blocking UV rays. Therefore, green tea may synergistically enhance sun protection when used in addition to a sunscreen).

Vaseline

Keep your lips moisturised. The skin on your lips retain less moisture than other parts of the body. Use a good lip balm to lock in the moisture. If you have really dry lips, try using some medicated lip balms like Carmex which contain extra-moisturizing ingredients like Camphor. To remove dead skin from you lips, brush them gently with a toothbrush once a week. Then apply a good moisturizing balm. Vaseline is a time-tested favorite and suggested on many medical and beauty websites. You can even get some with SPF 15 with Shea Butter, Aloe Vera, and also with Rose and Almond oil, with is always an added bonus. And for only €1.99 for a pocket size (20g) you can't go wrong. :)

Exfoliate

Exfoliate once a week and use a body scrub before showering/bathing. Scrubbing your skin (gently) will help remove dead skin cells and promote healthy skin. Use a scrub that is paraben-free, or make your own by mixing 1/2 cup coarse sugar with one cup of Coconut Oil. Apply scrub to skin using gentle, circular motions. Scrub your whole body and then rinse off with lukewarm water. Sorted!

Olay Complete Defense Daily UV Moisturizer SPF 30, Sensitive Skin

"Extra Olay UVA/UVB protection against sun damage with a light non-greasy formula that gives complete defense. Gives your skin complete care, providing everything it needs most to stay beautiful, plus extra protection against sun damage in a light, non-greasy formula.

Protects with SPF 30 that provides extra UV protection against 97% of the sun's harmful rays to help prevent sun damage, so skin stays healthy and younger looking. Olay, in partnership with The Skin Cancer Foundation, recommends daily use of an effective UV sunscreen moisturizer which may help reduce the risk of skin cancer."

I love this moisturizer as it has a non-greasy formula with Vitamin E, Aloe, and Green Tea Extract that replenishes moisture and absorbs quickly into skin. And is also light enough to wear every day. As nearly all of the products and items I've listed this can also be got in chemist or grocery store for around €11 but each store will vary.

Neutrogena Hand Cream Norwegian Formula

"Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream delivers effective relief for dry, chapped hands. It is so concentrated that only a small amount instantly leaves even dry, cracked hands noticeably softer and smoother after just one application. Used daily, it helps prevent dry, chapped skin; used overnight, it heals dry skin - even under the harshest of conditions. It started with Norwegian Fishermen faced with some of the harshest, coldest weather on earth, they used a formula that delivers concentrated levels of glycerin to dry, chapped skin providing immediate and lasting relief. Five years of independent clinical testing confirmed what the fishermen knew all along - Norwegian Formula Hand Cream consistently outperformed other products. Today, the Norwegian Formula product line includes a variety of body, hand and foot moisturizers to meet your individual dry skin needs."

This is another product I love. Ive been using it for a good few years now thanks to my Nana. She loved different hand creams and this was one of her faves. It works with each individuals own skin care needs and you only need a lil bit as goes along way. It is €3.60 for a 56g tube so its handy to just pop in your bag or have in your drawer in the office.

And last but not least a good Hat, Scarf, pair of Gloves and Earmuffs (if needed) and your sorted! :)

Hope you found some of these tip and products helpfull.

-Nadia x

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow!

2010-12-01T16:44:00.002+00:00

Heya :) So as promised, here's another update. As some of ye may already know I live in Ireland, in a little town in the midlands called Athlone.
Today is Wednesday and it's our third day of bad snow and frost. I know people that maybe reading this outside of Ireland might be thinking,"What's the big deal?, It's only snow". But here in Ireland, the tiny-est bit of snow and the whole country shuts down. Saying that where I live the snow is really bad and I can't even leave my house. Therefore I can safely say cabin fever has well and truly set in :( It was fun Monday to wake up to a winter wonderland but after a few hours the novelty wore off.

Needless to say, Harley my dog LOVES it. If he's not rolling around in it, jumping in it or eating it, he's just sitting in it happy out. (Little weird dog). But anyway here are some pictures I took of the snow in my area.

It is pretty to look out at, but I'm getting kinda bored of it now and I can't go anywhere because of it and the roads being so bad. Hopefully tomorrow they'll be alot better and I'll be able to venture into town. :)

-Nadia x

When Im Not Painting Faces

2010-12-01T04:32:00.001+00:00

Heya :) So as your all probably use to it now. For those that actually read my blog. Ive been neglecting my updates yet again. But I was really busy the past month. But anyway.

So first off. Ive finally graduated!!! ^__^ I am now a qualified Make Up Artist.
Woowhoo! I graduated on the 6th of this month, (November) and at the minute I'm currently building up my portfolio. So my graduation took place in the RDS Concert Hall in Dublin and to be honest it was a great day. I wasn't the college type person and I'm so proud of myself for passing my exams and graduating. :) Both my parents travelled up with me for the ceremony, and they enjoyed it just as much as I did.

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Then I went to see Avenged Sevenfold in Dublin on the 8th. It was kinda weird to see them again without Jimmy. :( </3 But I know that if I didn't go I would of been kicking myself later. They performed well and Mike Portnoy was amazing but he will never fill The Rev's shoes as far as im concerned. As Jimmy was part Irish, I got an Ireland Jersey with his surname printed on the back to give his parents. I gave it to Matt and he said that he would personally make sure Jimmy's parents would get it and that it was a lovely thought. He himself loved it and said Jimmy's parents would too. So that made me extremely happy. ^_^

I didn't get to hang out with the band this time they were in Dublin, but I got to say a quick hello to Matt and his wife Val [ she was really sweet :) ]. They played for over an hour and as I already said they preformed well but I don't think id go to see them again.
foREVer <3
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Then I went on a mini break to Liverpool with my good friend Elaine. I was never there before. Elaine use to live there and was always inviting me over, so I finally went.
I LOVED IT there! It is such a pretty city with so much to do. Even the accent is amazing! I think I even prefer Liverpool to London. As we were only there for 2 nights we didn't have much time to see all we had planned but we did get to do some shopping! Along with picking up some Christmas presents for my family, I picked up some gorgeous Nightmare Before Christmas decorations for my Christmas tree in the DISNEY STORE! ^_^ One of my favourite shops. I'll post some pictures of them when I put my tree up. I also got to see where she use to work and met some of her lovely friends. I think I can safely say we will be definatley be taking a trip back again soon. :)

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So as I'm always looking to try new things, Ive started a new hobby. Re-designing and painting old furniture! My dog Harley was the reason behind this new hobby. When he was a pup he started chewing all my furniture, mainly my chairs in the kitchen. So after searching for single chairs to use my Aunt had some old wooden ones that she gave me. They looked pretty dull and boring so I decided to funk them up abit. I have 4. Each are have different designs and are hand painted and papered by me.

These have been done for quiet awhile now, but the were the first of my creations. :)
I have got LOADS of compliments about them and people asking to buy them. But these are not for sale. So a friend of mine approached me asking would I like to submit some pieces to a Christmas craft fair she was holding. So I jumped at the chance. And here are 2 of the few pieces I submitted. :)

Beano Comic Lamp/Coffee Table

Top Table Up Close

Leopard Print Kisses Coffee Table

Top Of The Table

Both pieces are available to buy. For information on them or any of my work. You can contact me by emailing nadia.annaburke@gmail.com

As always thanks for reading my blog. Feel free to follow and I'll follow back. :)
More updates tomorrow. [ I promise ;) ].

-Nadia x

Hallowe'en!

2010-11-06T21:16:00.001+00:00

Heya :) Yet again I've been delayed writing this update. But however better late then never right? Hope ye all are doing ok and had a fun, safe Hallowe'en. I had a great Hallowe'en weekend. My good friends Lisa and Ray came to visit for the weekend. They arrived down to Athlone Saturday evening, so we decided to go out that night to see everyone dressed up. As Hallowe'en was on a Sunday we thought not many people would be out that night due to work on Monday so we went out Saturday night. So anyway when they got here we had dinner and started to get ready! Lisa dressed up as a Zombie Nurse, Ray dressed up as "Party Poison" Gerard Way's alter killjoy ego, my other friend Mairead called over too and dressed up as a Zombie Air-Hostess, and I dressed up as one of the Military Zombie dancers from Marilyn Manson's video for mOBSCENE. As I'm a make up artist and LOVE doing other people's make up, I done Ray's and Lisa's. So when we were ready we took some pictures of each other, had a few drinks and headed into town.

Mairead, Me, Ray and Lisa.

So when we went into town we headed to some bar, before hitting the nightclub. As we were in Athlone, we got STARED OUT OF IT. We were asked could people pose for pictures with us. We were told we looked to scary for Hallowe'en. From what I can remember Hallowe'en is....

"Halloween (or Hallowe'en) is an annual holiday observed on October 31, primarily in Ireland, Scotland, Canada and the United States. It has roots in the Celtic festival of Samhain and the Christian holiday All Saints' Day, but is today largely a secular celebration. Common Halloween activities include trick-or-treating, wearing costumes (NON-SLUTTY) and attending costume parties, carving jack-o'-lanterns, ghost tours, bonfires, apple bobbing, visiting haunted attractions, committing pranks, telling ghost stories or other frightening tales, and watching horror films. Hallowe'en costumes are traditionally modeled after supernatural figures such as monsters, ghosts, skeletons, witches, and devils."

But anyway we had a great night, drinking shots and dancing the night away to spooky music.

My version of a Military Zombie dancer from Marilyn Manson's video for mOBSCENE.

Lisa our GORE-ous Nurse

Party Poison

Mairead our GORE-ous Air Hostess

So Sunday... HALLOWE'EN!!!! ^__^ It's finally here! My Favourite day of the year! :D And were about to do it all again. After a good long sleep I cooked dinner, well breakfast for us and got ready for round 2. We headed to the shop to get more mixers and got ready as kids were starting to go Trick or Treating pretty early. We handed out all the goodies, had some drink and headed to the lighting of the Bonfire!

Picture Credit : Ray Keogh Photography

So because the fireworks display at the bonfire were getting a lil out of hand we decided to go back home to have Vodka Jelly Shots, have a dance and set my smoke alarms off by messing with sparklers :P

Picture Credits : Ray Keogh Photography

After all that we had some food and watched scary films, which I thought were the biggest load of bull so I fell asleep. So that was my Hallowe'en really, I know im a week late update my blog, but whatever. Hope ye all had a fun, safe Hallowe'en. Id love to see some creative costume ideas of what people dressed up as. Anyway, chat soon!

-Nadia x

Autumn / Winter Make-Up Trends 2010

2010-10-14T20:51:00.001+01:00

Heya :) so as Ive been neglecting my blog alot lately to due to being lazy really, I'm going to blog more about things I buy, mostly make-up and give you my opinion on it.

So anywho onto this years Autumn/Winter make-up trend!

This Autumn/Winter looks includes smokey eyes, red berry lips, matte skin, colorful eyeshadows and natural/nude looking makeup.

A natural look is about flawless skin so it is important that you take care of your skin to keep it looking it's best. So with along with using your daily facial cleanser, use a moisturiser cream with a medium to high SPF to protect your skin from harmful and aging effects from the sun. You mightn't think you need it but you do. Also your blush should match either your eyes or your lips. But in any case the cheeks should be emphasized.

And now onto some of my personal favourite looks, smokey eyes and red lips.
Dark lips and fall fashion seem to go hand in hand, and this season is no exception. To keep your vampy lips from looking too goth, keep your eye makeup light and stick to mascara and a nude shadow, or just skip it altogether. Another difference in the dark lip trend for Autumn 2010 is the finish. Matte lipstick is out - glossy, moisturizing lipstick pencils are in!
Also full false eyelashes aren't in this season, as they are compensated by the shaded dark pencil at the out corner of the eye line. But if you really want to make your eyes really pop,use some individual false eyelashes on the outer upper edge for a more dramatic feline eye.

Eyebrows! I don't know why but I've always had a "thing" for eyebrows. Ive always had hideous eyebrows growing up and now in my twenties they seem to be no different. I try to keep them "tamed" but my right eyebrow just has a weird shape. And yes I know the famous saying "Eyebrows should be sisters, not twins" but I just hate mine so I just draw then on. Anyway, eyebrows are a really important part of the face and make up application. They can totally just lift your face in an instant and just really defines the face. I personally wouldn't recommend someone to do them themselves, if its plucking or waxing. Some people get abit too brave and before they know it, they've taken WAY too much off. So leave it to the professional ladies!

This season eyebrows can vary wildly, from pencil thin or even completely drawn on to wild and unruly, and the trend this season is definitely leaning toward the thick side. That doesn't mean you should toss out your tweezers altogether, but saying that you're still going to need them to remove stragglers and shape brows for that bold, groomed look. If your brows aren't naturally dark, consider investing in some brow cake with wax or pencil. I personally just use a dark eyeshadow on mine. Darkening your brows will help frame your face and draw attention to your eyes.

So that's enough for now. Can't wait to get glammed up and try out these looks for a night out.

As always Id like to hear feedback :) Have fun trying out these looks.

-Nadia x