Bought by Birdette

Bioderma Sebium Products Review

2014-04-12T08:42:00.001+10:00

Hey Readers, it's great to have you here for my review of this range. Bioderma have been released in Australia for less then a year now but even before that there has been a plenty of buzz about them. Why? Because they're THAT good.
I was lucky enough to be sent the entire range of Bioderma's Sebium products to test out and review, which is perfect because it suits my skin to a tee. To describe my skin in all brutal honesty I would call it oily with a side of pores. The range has been specifically created for those looking to decrease and control oilyness, reduce the appearance of pores, and help diminish any acne. Cannot get much more suited then that.
The reason why I am reviewing this range is because in recent weeks they have released two key products, Sebium Global and Sebium Pore Refiner. I have been using the range in conjunction with my normal makeup removing cleanser in the evening, as you don't want to get this stuff in your eyes. A normal morning looked like this:
Cleanse for around a minute with Gel Moussant (or Gel Gommant to exfoliate for two minutes).
Apply Global if my skin was behaving well or AKN if I had any spots.
Apply Pore Refiner across my nose and cheeks to hide my pores.

Because the formulas do not contain sunscreen and are not recommended around eyes, I would then apply sunscreen and go about my makeup routine as per usual.

So how has that gone for the last month? While my skin is not particularly mattefied it feels much less congested and like it's operating how it should. Taking the extra effort to double cleanse with a makeup remover and the Gel Moussant in the evening has really helped. Straight after using the Gel Gommant scrub your face looks and feels amazing and applying the base products leaves skin feeling soft and perfect. I noticed my skin did clear up and my pores were cleaner while using the products, not shrunk but a cleaner pore is much less of a hassle to hide! The base products do make an excellent base for makeup, but the mattefying abilities didn't stand much of a fight against a Queensland never-ending Summer, but then again, what does? None the less because of the fact that my skin was much more refined and functioning better it did have less of an issue and just feels much more healthier.

Would I buy the range? I think I would, I have each of the bottle next to me as I'm typing this and the only one I wouldn't go for again in the micellar product, and that's only because I'm not a big fan of the cleansing water thing.

Something interesting to note is that while I was staying in Melbourne earlier last month is some horrid Wintery weather, my face felt tight when I used pore refiner all over, and it did feel quite mattefied. if you want a mattefying option for winter, it's a winner!

You can find these products at Terry White Chemists and Priceline Stores across Australia.
Please note that though I was gifted the range all opinions written in Bought by Birdette are my own.

How to Stretch out too small Shoes

2014-02-08T09:58:00.000+10:00

With the advent of the internet came internet shopping and with that, the oh too familiar cry of "It doesn't fit!" minutes after that shiny new parcel arrives in the post. The majority of retailers are actually quite good at letting customers know what size will suit them with measurements etc but there's still room for error, Brick and mortar stores invented change rooms for a reason after all.
Shoes seem to be an area of particular concern, with UK sizing and American sizing frequently being out of whack I have ended up with shoes that just don't fit on numerous occasion, too big can be dealt with thanks mostly to socks being back in fashion, however shoes that are too small? What can we do?
Lucky I have two techniques for stretching out small shoes involving common household items that you should already have lying around, and they're both easy to achieve. Method one will suit leather better, method two can be tried on other fabric shoes. Please note they will not work miracles when the shoes are sizes too small, but that extra 1/2 to one full size? Give them a go, you've got nothing to lose and wearable shoes to gain!

Shoes available from Dune London

Hair Dryer available from Priceline

Socks available from Topshop

Method one

You will need:
Two pairs of socks
Blow drier
Shoes in question. I have tried this with normal leather shoes with success, but I don't know how it would go with patent, let me know if you have tried it!

Put the two pairs of socks on your feet and the shoes over the top, it will be a very tight squeeze, but the socks should cushion so you don't feel pain, once you have all that on your feet, get your blow dryer out and give the shoes a blast all over for few minutes on a hot setting, careful not to scorch them! You want the shoes nice and warm but not too hot. This will help make the leather pliable.
Once the shoes are warm, get up and walk around your house until they have cooled down.
Lather, rinse, repeat as necessary! Do it at least three times or until your shoes feel more comfortable without the socks.

Marc Jacobs Shoes available from StyleBop

Plastic Zip Lock bags available from Coles

Freezer available from The Good Guys

Method two

You will need:
A freezer
Tough zip lock plastic bags
Shoes in question

This method works particularly well for shoes that pinch, and where you would use some extra toe room.
Stuff the plastic bags into your shoe so that the opening is accessible, and the bag reaches into the nooks of your shoes.
Take this contraption over to the sink and pour some water into the bag, not too much, you need there to be room in the bag for the water to expand into, make sure you squeeze out air from the bag too before snap sealing it closed.
Pop the shoes into the freezer overnight with the toes angled down.
Again you may need to repeat the process, and I'd be hesitant to try this out with patent shoes, but I have done with with leather shoes without issue.

Thanks for reading! Have you tried these methods before? How did they work for you? Do you have any foolproof methods for stretching shoes? Let me know in the comments!

Topshop launches in Brisbane!

2014-01-18T10:28:00.002+10:00

Yes, completely aware that I'm a little late in this news and hopefully you've all already been to check out Topshop's gorgeous new store in Brisbane! During launch night I was lucky enough to gain access to the event and even ask Chairman of Next Athleisure Hilton Seskin (The company responsible for bringing Topshop to our shores) a few burning questions about Topshop.

How will Topshop/Topman cater to Brisbane?
A lot of research goes into any new location we open in, and we strive to understand the local fashion scene in order to tailor our collections to the audience. Combining this with our fast fashion philosophy, this is one of our key points of difference in the market.

Where will you be opening next in Australia?
These is a new location coming to Melbourne at Highpoint Shopping Centre and a store is planned for Perth in 2014.

Has Brisbane influenced the current collection?
We have sent Topshop/Topman designers to Brisbane to design exclusive wares for our latest audience. The collection we have in store here is custom selected and designed with Brisbane in mind, so there are many items in here that you won't find online or in other stores.

Are the collections in Australian stores what you'll find online?
Not quite, You will find completely new designs for each store each season and while there may be familiar themes we select different fabrics, shapes and stories across our stores.

What do you like about Brisbane?
I have been here many times and I'm finding that Brisbane is becoming more quirky. There is a renewed interest in the little laneway cafe and the trendy restaurant, There is a lot of personality and individual touches to find.

So how about that! I'm really impressed to find that amount of research and care is put into each Topshop location, Have you checked out the shop? What did you buy!

Chalky roots, Begone!

2014-01-04T10:54:00.000+10:00

Chalky roots, ugh. Since becoming a pink haired fiend I've been washing my hair less and have become a slave to the wonderful world of dry shampoo. Always used it since it become the new thing but just never as much as I have in the last few months! Personally I love the Batiste brand as it comes in so many yummy varieties, but following that is Klorane, the scent may not be as delicious by but god it does the degreasing job like no other! Both of these varieties can be easily found at Priceline.

Anyway, I've discovered a neat little trick to avoid the chalky roots that makes it so obvious that you didn't have the time to wash your hair.
Spray your hair with dry shampoo the night before! You want to do it the usual way, shake the bottle, lift sections of your hair to focus on your roots and remember that a little can go a long way.
By doing this you ensure that while you're sleeping, the product will get dispersed throughout your hair and you won't get obvious marks. You may need to change your pillowcase, but to me that's a small price to pay for perfectly non greasy hair the next day.

Have you got any other nifty tricks for dry shampoo? What brands do you use?

Sambag Celebrates their First Birthday at Wintergarden Brisbane

2013-11-30T10:54:00.002+10:00

I love an Aussie success story! After reading the news and seeing stories about renowned labels going into administration, or being sold to new overseas owners it really makes my day to see Sambag thriving.
For those who haven't heard of this label yet it is the epitome of Simplicity being the ultimate in sophistication. Renowned for their impossibly soft ballet flats and classic accessories, it's a brand that you cannot go wrong with.

Luxe Scarves to finish off an outfit

I'm completely in love with these Leopard Print Ballets!

Earlier this month I had the privilege of having an early viewing of their upcoming range and to meet the designer and creator of Sambag - Sam Wagner herself. I have a lot of admiration for her, as a single mother building an entire label from the ground up into an international brand with stores in Australia and Hong Kong, Sam even sold her engagement ring to help fund the venture, which as you can see has truly paid off!

The store invites you in with chic light scarves perfect for our upcoming Summer hanging luxuriously from displays, accompanying supple leather bags and shoes that beg to be touched. The Signature shade of blue speaks volumes of the effortless chic the label embodies.

Designer Sam Wagner with her creations (Pink flats! <3!)

Jewelry by Deepa Gurnani, Clutch by Sambag

Of course I had to try on some of the wares! I completely fell in love with these incredible bracelets by Deepa Gurnani. The Cuff styles are created on a leather base with lobster claw closures, and I simply adore the studded one on the top, Perfect to stack, you've really got to go and see them on yourself.

The wonderful team at Sambag Brisbane

Sambag Brisbane is located in the recently refurbished Wintergarden Shopping Complex, Nestled in Brisbane's humming CBD, the girls in store are waiting to help make the shopping experience something to savour!

Sambag Brisbane

Wintergarden Shopping Centre

Shop G14, Ground Level

171-205 Queen Street Mall

Brisbane

(The same block as the Hilton Hotel)

Opening hours

Mon – Thurs 9:00am – 5:30pm

Fri 9:00am – 9:00pm

Sat 9:00am – 5:00pm

Sun 10.30am – 4:00pm

Have you been to Sambag or Wintergarden recently? What gorgeous things did you find?

How to choose the right Fake Tan for your Skintone

2013-11-04T09:37:00.000+10:00

Summer's coming, for a lot of us out there it feels like it's already here too! So here I'm going to tell you how to avoid a common dilemma with an ubiquitous Summer product.
How many of you out there have used fake tan only to leave the experience looking like a Cheeto/human hybrid? Or even something more interesting? This has scared lot of girls into never going there again or worse, shelling out far too much money at the professional spray booths. Sunless Tans come in a massive array of brands and varieties that it can be hard to find which one will work for you, but hopefully you will know your skintone, and that can make selection a lot easier.

A lot of the girls who have an issue with looking too bright after applying tan have either used a shade that's too dark to start with, or have a cooler skintone that doesn't work with a more orange based tan. Unfortunately a lot of the time you will get this problem with cheaper brands, in the ads the girls go a lovely bronzed colour when it reality you turn an unnatural shade of cheese and bacon ball.

Those with cooler tones will get a better result from self tans with a green tint to them. Sounds gross right but no shit this actually works because the green tones bring about more of a brown colour. I remember walking through my TAFE some summers ago after just applying a rather in your face instant bronzing mousse (with the green tinge) and the boys lapped it up. The Campus may have been dominated by a combination of female fashion students and male tradies... stellar combination of people but that's beside the point.
Most brands have their product in a variety of application methods, in order of goof proof they are Gradual-Mousse-Spray-Lotion.
So without further ado, please find the below recommendations depending on your skintone!

Warm Skintone Brands:

A - Le Tan

B - Garnier

C - Dove

D - ModelCo

Cool Skintone Brands:

A - St Tropez

B - Bondi Sands

C - Skinny Tan

This list is not extensive by any means, of course there are many other choices and brands out there but this list is merely to get you started! If you still find you're having trouble, try layering a brand from each category in light shades. Some of us don't neatly into the Cool/Warm categories. The trick is also to remember moderation! The vast majority of girls will look smashing with a subtle 'has she or hasn't she' glow that still looks natural

So after doing that research now I'm interested in you guys, What's your skintone? Have you found any brands that work especially well for it?

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How to Fake a Beestung Pout in one step

2013-10-13T10:23:00.004+10:00

I finally caved and bought the lipsick du jour and I'm so glad I did! Ruby Woo by MAC really is an excellent go to shade for those with cool colourings and the impact is amazing. When I wear it I feel like a gorgeous forties starlet, when lipstick was bold and glamorous. I find it really fascinating that when economies go down sales of prestige makeup actually goes up, even if ladies can't buy designer clothes they still want that designer pout!

My favourite tip for lips any day is to use a brow highlighting pencil to create that pillowy, Angelina Jolie look that both men guys and ladies swoon over. A good budget option I love is this one by Models Prefer, available from Priceline. Simply trace the outside edge of our cupids bow and the lower outside of your bottom lip before you apply lipstick and liner, to see what I mean have a look at the picture below:

Once you have drawn the lines, use your ring finger to gently pat the product to blend any harsh lines.

This is a great trick to use with any lip colour, but if you want to look even more pouty, dot a bit of complimentary shimmery eye shadow in the middle of your lips (gold or silver are ideal). I skipped this step as my lips need a little boost, not a full on transformation.

What I really find interesting is that when I went to a MAC counter some years ago and asked for a good matte red they didn't suggest this one. I may or may not have a large MAC red lip collection but when a brand does them so well it's hard to stop at just one.

Do you have a go to brand for lipsticks? What shade do you find yourself reaching for again and again?

How to hand wash your Delicates

2013-09-22T19:12:00.002+10:00

Hand-washing. Ugh, who has the chance to do it honestly? So much time that I could be doing things I actually enjoy.That's why I'm glad I found this method, it makes it an utter cakewalk, and the results are much better then handwashing in a basin. This method is ideal for small delicate items, such as bras, knickers and slips made of lace and silk.

Take a large jar that you have washed thoroughly (or put through the dishwasher, we're talking low effort here!) I like to use Kilner jars, the ones with the slip top lid and rubber seal or giant Moccona coffee jars.

You will also need:
Laundry Powder suited to the items your washing
Water
Dirty Delicates!
That's about it actually ...

Put a small amount of washing powder in the jar along with some hot water. Seal the jar and shake shake shake!
Once the powder has dissolved, fill up the jar to about halfway, pop in your laundry. One item at a time works best but it depends on the size of your jar really. Continue to shake for a minute or two (See? It's a workout and laundry in one! Time saved!)
Repeat with any remaining smalls until you're done, you can use the same soapy water but replace it if the water becomes murky ...
Replace the soapy water with clean cold water and shakes again to rinse. Replace the water as required.
Once they're washed, lay your smalls on a clean dry towel and blot them with the other end to mop up excess water. Delicate items don't tend to like being wrung out so please don't do that.
Hang them out to dry!

This method works much like a small washing machine in order to give great results with maximum safety for your clothes. Because fabrics such as silk actually get weaker when wet it's a common occurance for them to tear when washed in a machine.
Make sure you wash the lid properly too, We don't want bits of dinner on our freshly laundered bras!.

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Bioderma, Uriage and Nuxe coming soon to Priceline!

2013-09-10T17:43:00.002+10:00

This is great news you guys! Priceline Australia are about to start stocking some incredible brands from France and I couldn't be happier. (Not having to use eBay to find potentially fraudulent cult status items? Defs a win!)
What am I talking about? Bioderma, Nuxe and Uriage! Three world famous brands and rightly so, their products have both stood the test of time and are coveted by those in both the beauty industry and at homes across the world. This is just a quick introduction to their star products, make sure you go and check out the ranges in store soon.

Bioderma is a cult status beauty brand. With the ubiquitous product Crealine in their arsenal they are a brand to be reckoned with. Bioderma create products with the belief that skin in distress not only needs to be treated but also encouraged to use its own resources to aid in healing itself, this has led them to create incredible non irritating formulas that will make those with sensitive skin weep with joy. What makes Crealine so special is the Micellar technology that attracts oil based cells. When applied to a cotton pad and wiped across the face it binds makeup, oils and pollutants to the pad without interrupting the skin. Quite often you'll find it's the only make up remover an artist will use because it's effective without irritating a model's overworked skin.

Chances are you have an oil product in your Beauty Stash and Nuxe may just be the brand you have to thank for this! Aliza Jabès (a Pharmacist's Daughter) created the Dry Oil product Huile Prodigieuse over two decades ago, introducing what would become one of the best selling beauty products around, a bottle of this glorious oil is sold every 6 seconds worldwide! You can use it in your hair, as well as your face and body. It absorbs super quickly and has the most heavenly scent. A great use for it is actually before you shower, Comb it through your hair and leave for 20 minutes -under a clean towel is ideal to create warmth- and them shampoo and condition your hair as normal. Easy, gorgeous soft hair!

Something for those with problematic and sensitive skin, where even tap water can freak them out is the star product of Uriage. The product is so effective that there is even an Uriage Thermal Centre, where people can be treated for severe skin irritations using the special naturally balanced water sourced from Uriage-Les-Bains, near Grenoble, Uriage Thermal Water spray is the take home version. For every day users like myself it's great for setting make up at the start of the day with a quick spray but it also wonderful for use during the day. It won't ruin your make up if you give yourself a very light spray during the day, but will in fact refresh it. I think it's going to help me survive summer!

These brands are going to start appearing on Priceline's shelves soon and are expected to be out by mid October, so do yourselves a favour and keep an eye out for them, Bioderma is already available at Terry White Chemists if you just can't wait though!

Have you ever used these products before? What did you think of them? Be sure to tell me in the comments!

Products have been provided for consideration.

Link Love: Craft Suppliers

2013-09-08T15:28:00.001+10:00

I've recently rediscovered my love of creating, and it's finding its way into almost everything I do at home! I feel much better watching TV if I'm keeping my hands busy crocheting or cutting up fabric to patchwork at the same time! Here are some places that I like to buy my fabric and gear from, I hope you like them too.

Super Buzzy: Yeah yeah, patchwork and quilting is something that your grandmother tried to teach you and you thought was daggy as right_ Well I can tell you right now this isn't your granny's sewing shop. Super Buzzy stocks an amazing array of incredibly cute Japanese inspired fabric and notions, Kawaii sushi with little faces, too cute woodland animals, and nursery stories just to name a few, but you will also find other crafty goods for crochet, knitting, felting and more. The postage can be pricey but the product is just too cute and hard to find!

Hawthorne Threads: A huge range of quality quilting fabric brands at great prices, stock is regularly updated with new brands at reasonable prices for both product and postage, this site is a great place to start for up market brands with a nod to trends. A great staple site, make sure you sign up for the newsletters as they are full of inspiration, competitions and what's new in store.

Hancocks of Paducah: Quite simply the best site if you're after a bargain, with prices on fabric starting from under $5 per yard you're bound to find something to your tastes. While the variety isn't as hip and cool as the two previously mentioned sites, it is a great place to visit for basics and the occasional gem, I often rack up sales of a few hundred dollars!

Quick Style Buys for Spring 2013

2013-08-14T09:18:00.001+10:00

We've been lucky enough in Brisbane to have had a gorgeously mild Winter, even looking outside the window today the sun is shining and is beckoning me to get out and enjoy it.
But of course there's the little matter of what to wear. This is a new season coming and the warm, snug options we've been bundled up in just aren't going to cut it! Fashion is heading towards a massive mash-up where the more it clashes, the more eclectic, the more individual, the better. For great inspiration, look at how fearless Rihanna, Cara Delevingne, and Rita Ora are with their styles. You know the girls I'm talking about!
Here are Birdette's hot picks to add to your wardrobe for the upcoming season.

The Loose Boyfriend Tank:

Cotton On Alive Printed Muscle Tee

The slouchy cool styles we've been stealing from the less then fairer sex are the most comfy things ever! make it your own with a print and cut you love -slogans are perfect- and pair with my next pick for an instant outfit.

The Wrap Skirt:

Asos Wrap Skirt in Linen

We're leaving behind the Hi-lo styles of recent times and going back to a rather sleek asymmetrical style, tuck in your top, add some cute shoes, and easily bring this new addition to your wardrobe.

The Maxi Skirt:

Boohoo Selina Jersey Split Skirt

This is an example of a trend that has transformed into a regular style staple (much like Skinny Jeans) the style to go for this season are body skimming jersey versions, buy with a split to keep you cool in Summer. Make sure you wear VPL free knickers too!

The Boyish Boots:

Boohoo Lisa Cut out Boots

We didn't get much of a chance to wear these last Summer as the trend was only just trickling into local stores.Cut out boot styles are also still very stylish but make sure it's not going to rain, no one likes squishy feet! Brogues are also still very cute and stylish.

The Hat:

(Left to Right)

Sportsgirl Lace Baseball Cap

Shopbop Basics Leather Baseball Cap

Baseball caps in sleep leather type fabrics have been popping up everywhere, thankfully this time with any chav connections, very sleek, very wearable, just don't wear them like a douche, the brim goes over your face dear!

The Bag:

Ooh La La Addie Top Handle Bag

Admittedly the backpack is still going to be huge this season, but if you want to stay ahead of the curve, buying a ladylike top handle will do the trick, something to juxtapose all the styles stolen from boys this season. Look for top handles you can wear daintily on your elbow, (but I also love a shoulder strap for convenience!)

The Accessory:

Diva Silver Love Ear Cuff

That gorgeous Ear Cuff trend I was banging on about some time ago, You don't need to think about any other accessories once you put them on. Instant outfit finishers! Ears are the jewelry focus point of the season, moving on from handmade wristwear, and watches.

So tell me, what are you excited to add to cart for this season? I'm personally stalking my mailman!

Winter Facials by Guinot

2013-08-10T09:13:00.000+10:00

Earlier this week I had the pleasure of meeting Laura Pritchard of Guinot (pronounced Ghee-no for those new to the brand) to experience a Liftosome Facial, one of two Winter treatments (the other being the Hydralift Treatment) available from Guinot that lifts and firms the face. So off to Outshine Beauty Salon and Medi spa in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane I went to check it out.
Outshine is a chic little beauty haven nestled just off James Street where you can easily spend a day exploring some of Brisbane's best shopping. I've recently rediscovered this little nook down the hill from Fortitude Valley and love it to bits!

The Liftosome Facial from Guinot

What makes this facial so special?
Featuring a serum that includes four star ingredients (Pro Collagen, Alaria Esculenta, Vitamin C and Bio-peptides EL and CL) the treatment will take around 45 minutes. During the process they also apply a special clay mask that heats up to a gentle warmth to ensure that the applied product works its way deeper then usual into your skin for even better results. I asked to have a look at it afterwards, and it was interesting but also a little scary to see just how thick it was! It didn't feel that heavy at all.
Your beauty therapist will then massage your face, neck and decollete with the serum. This was my favorite part of the treatment, it's so relaxing to have an expert treating your skin with such care and excellent technique.
You also get some amazing results after just one treatment with firmness increased by 26.5% and wrinkles diminished by 20.4%
The end result is firmer, brighter skin with added perk. This is an ideal treatment for a special occasion as the results are quite immediate, but will get still improve even further after a short program of facials. I was really stoked with the results but felt even better about them when a friend of mine who didn't know I was going for this facial commented that my skin looked amazing two days later. She wanted to know what I had been doing differently lately!

For those who are interested in the Hydralift Treatment, while I didn't experience one firsthand I can tell you that it is an effective method to exercise the muscles in your face. Much like your body, your face benefits from working out too to give you a youthful look. By draining toxins and stimulating muscles the treatment reshapes, tones and firms, while minimizing fine lines. Products used during your Hydralift session will be tailored to your skin type with a choice of half hour, full hour or two hours for your treatment. Further sessions have the added benefits of being even more effective in banishing wrinkles and lifting the eye area.

For more information, please visit the Guinot Australia Website where you can also find your local Guinot treatment supplier.

Please note that while this service was complementary, the above opinion is purely my own and in no way swayed by any third parties.

Cheap trick to make stockings last longer

2013-07-17T19:07:00.002+10:00

We've all had it happen to us, you're going about your daily business when something catches your stockings and ping, you have a great tear in them. I used to be pedantic enough to carry a spare pair whenever I was wearing them, but I was told this quick and simple trick to help them last longer. Brilliant for your gorgeous expensive finds like silk stockings, fully fashioned styles or ritzy brands like Wolford. You just need three items, and your chosen stockings

Gather your supplies: Hairspray, a sealable freezer bag, a freezer and your stockings.

Spritz stockings lightly with hairspray.

Place stockings in sealable bag and squeeze excess air out, I found rolling really helped.

Freeze overnight.

Pull out of freezer 15 minute before wearing to allow them to warm back up.

Put them on and go!

You will have to repeat the process for every time you wash them, but the hairspray and freezing help make the fibres stronger against snags, and will even stop runs from being as bad as they would be otherwise. But I've found it a treat for helping to keep my pricier pairs in better nick for longer.

Have you tried this trick before? How did you find it worked for you?

Update

2013-07-10T10:10:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone,
I just wanted to stop leaving my wonderful readers in the lurch. I have been very slack with Bought by Birdette lately and I sincerely apologize. I'm not going to make excuses, I lost my drive to write. At this point in time I actually have quite a nasty hand injury that is hampering many everyday activities. (You should've heard me squealing in pain when my memory laapsed and I went to open a jar, ow!) So we'll still be slow for a little while, as typing isn't too bad, photo editing is another kettle of fish.
I've been thinking about introducing a few new topics into the fray to help reinvigorate my drive to write, so you may see more craft and cooking popping up, turning Bought by Birdette into a more lifestyle based blog until I truly find my niche. Also most certainly more personal style posts, I love doing these, I just need to find my confidence in front of the camera!
Otherwise, I would love to take this opportunity to ask all readers to please let me know what you like and don't like, do you have a particularly favourite post that I've done? Have I taught you something new?
I' really hoping to bring a lot of readers out of their bubbles on this one, and I'm aiming to get at least 20 responses. Don't think I wouldn't love to hear from you because really I would!
Thank you for reading.

So I went for a Sidecut

2013-06-01T11:17:00.000+10:00

Admittedly I have been off the radar for a the last few weeks, I guess I got myself into a little CBF funk that I'm now digging my way out of, ever have that feeling that's there's just so much to do that you don't know where to start? Yeah had that. Big time.

But I've felt myself come out of that little sooky corner of my mind this week, and after a chat with some of my most honest friends I went to the hairdressers and did something I've been pondering for months now, and had part of my head shaved.

This may well be the first time in my blog I've actually shown my face

Earrings: Lovisa
Top: Dotti

And I love it!

I based it on recent photos of Rihanna, it's easy enough to hide in my corporate day-job, but I've found it no problem so far. But for visiting Nanna all I have to do is change the part and then it only shows a little when I tuck my hair behind my ear. I went about the office quietly thrilled with myself and no one being the wiser on the day I had it done, until I excitedly revealed it to a few of them ...

What I find really curious is that the vast majority of people love it, and because I'm certainly not the first to do it in recent times, I'm not getting many stares on the street. A friend of mine warned me that doing something alternative can make Joe Average really judge you, but in this town of Brisbane where I happen across someone almost daily who is twice my age and has brightly coloured hair, perhaps society is becoming desensitized to the alternative and odd?

Even though I know it's prettymuch done it's round in fashion, with the nineties Grunge Trend taking off in a big way this season it's still relevant to fashion. while the clothes of the nineties don't really appeal to me, I find this haircut makes me happy.

Have you ever done something drastic to your hair? What was it? Did you love it or hate it?

100 Days of Thrift - Complete

2013-05-12T09:43:00.005+10:00

Check out the rules of the Thrift Challenge here!

I uh, sort of left this alone for a while didn't I?
We had ups and downs, but I think I learnt some really good tricks out of it, and can count off all of the beauty and fashion items I have bought in the duration.
So in no particular order:

These amazing boyfriend jeans from ASOS
I had not found a better pair in previous hunts, being just on the cusp of sizing and sometimes needing a size 16 it can be shit to go shopping in person - a lot of brands end on a size 14. (Talking Australian sizes here of course!) Since buying them they've been worn at once a week, in fact I'd consider buying a second pair.

Maybelline Lipstick in Coral Crush
How cruel would it have been to let me go the rest of summer without a gorgeous bright shade of lipstick? Very! I didn't entirely cheat with this one though, I received a gift voucher in the mail from the Priceline Rewards Program and off I went. See, technically not cheating!

This gorgeous clutch from Colette
I've had a longing for a go with anything clutch with a cute handle you slip your fingers through, brilliant go with anything colour and I bought it on sale though so there's some credit due there.

That Leather bag from Colette I had my eye on ...
50% off, boom!

Also some grey area items, I bought Bourjois 1,2,3 Perfect Foundation in Light Vanilla and L'Oreal Lumi Magqiue Highlighting Pen in Shade 2 I call these a grey area because I stipulated basic, non-colour cosmetics were allowed if I ran out of them.

I'll be writing some posts on other aspects of the Challenge over the coming weeks, I have some good advice to give to readers after this.

Also if anyone has any question about the challenge I'd love to answer them, just leave me a message in the comments and I'll get back to you!

Daiso now open in Myer Centre Brisbane

2013-05-08T20:49:00.000+10:00

I am very pleased to inform you all of an amazing chain of stores that has arrived to Australia and have just made their way to Brisbane. (Topshop, I'm still waiting.) Daiso Japan are a unique concept, while you may think you have seen every form of reject and two bob shop around, They aren't anywhere near as epic as this.
The main shtick of the stores is that everything they sell is the meager price of $2.80 AUD. I described it to friends this week as a store you will find almost every knick-knack you would see in a house. After visiting it over the weekend, I wasn't disappointed.
The place was completely humming with people but I spent a good hour trawling the shelves. what I love about it is the authentic Japanese variety of goods dispersed in a range of everyday Westerner items. Double eyelid tape next to eyelash curlers, Traditional Tabi socks, Pocket sandwich makers next to Pasta spoons.
Topped off with the cute manner that Japanese gets translated into English all over the product labels and you have an entire store brimming with stuff to make you smile. I recommend picking up everything you don't quite understand and having a read of what they do, some of them are pretty nifty.

Check out what I hauled after the Jump!

An important necessity for anyone with a gadget that gets hauled around a lot, screen protectors custom made for your toy can set you back upwards of $10 in electronics stores. Often you impulsively buy them at the same time too, grab one of these instead, cut it down to size and pocket the difference!

Cute kitchen goodies! How totally adorable are these kitchen sponges? The tray is printed with little hearts and the reusable chopsticks are going to be great for the Asian take away lunches favoured at my day job.

Some booty for the bathroom. A gorgeously girly tub of Cottontips, 12 Pursepacks of Tissues and two face cleansing tools, one of them being a soft, face-washer type material and the other being 100% silk exfoliating buds that you moisten, then cap onto your fingertip to then wipe over your face. I was curious!

I have to admit that I bought the False Eyelash storage case thinking it would be a little more sturdier then it is, but I can't wait to try the lashes, they have a wide variety of styles from basics to full on.

Also, I bought these hair band ties out of curiosity and now I'm not quite sure how to use them! If anyone could let me in on the secret I'd love to know! They came in stacks of colours and there was quite a collection, this may well be the only item that didn't come with an explanation on how to use them.

Have you got a Daiso store near you? What's your favourite thing they stock?

Loving this week - Tough Chic Jackets, Snobbery and Glitter Brogues

2013-05-05T17:09:00.003+10:00

It's time to bring back an old favourite of mine, loving this week is where I tell you exactly what's made me want to run to the shops or just happy in general lately.

Firstly is this insane Jacket from the guys at Boohoo.com drawing on a stack of key trends this winter I would love to have it in my closet, I'm not sure if the peplum can actually be zipped off like the photos suggest but the way the jacket hints it can be styled in different ways really has my heart racing. Perfect for creating curves on boyish body types and at the same time the cut will flatter hourglass shapes too!

Leah Jacket by Boohoo available here

I've always loved this style of notebooks and have been filling out a book one for the better part of my life (I like to think I read a lot, in truth I do read a lot ... of magazines). It's a perfect gift idea for anyone you know who likes to go and try new gastronomical experiences, food not their thing? What about Coffee Shops or Wine or even Boutique Beers? These books are an awesome tool to help with keeping track of what was epic, and what didn't really do it for you with heaps of room to enter details such as favourite waiter, dress code and wait time.

Available from Typo.com

I picked up these gorgeous newbies from a LipstikWindsor Smith Shoes Outlet in Melbourne last week and I am in love, I'm sure regular readers will already know about my penchant for sparkly shoes, and I've been hunting for a pair of brogues I like for a few seasons now. Silver glitter wingtips for $15? OMG yes please!

What's been making you smile this last week? Be sure to let me know in the comments!

Melbourne here I come!

2013-04-23T08:45:00.000+10:00

Hello Readers!
I'm sorry I've been neglecting you for the last fortnight or so, but now I'm on Holiday I'm going to get some epic posts up while I have the time. I also bought myself a tablet with the reward money I saved during my Thrift Challenge, Thank goodness I did something right!
I'm going down to Melbourne to see Family and shop, Please give me a shout if you want to catch up for coffee or have a really juicy recommendation for me to check out.
Personally I can't wait to go and visit Clear It in Fitzroy, Topshop in Chapel Street, and I find Discount Factory Outlets are so much better down there because a lot of Australian fashion labels are based down there.
Well I'm getting on a plane in four hours so I best finish off my coffee and get packing.See you on the other side!

Source

Got any recommendations for me to check out while I'm in Melboune Let me know in the comments, I'd love to find new things!

Follow Bought by Birdette on Bloglovin

2013-04-14T17:59:00.000+10:00

Just a quick one to keep us in touch into the future.

If you haven't heard the news already, Google Reader is going to be ceasing on July the 1st. meaning that anyone who subscribes to Bought by Birdette and any other blogs through Google Friend Connect or Google Reader will have to find another feed reader to stay up to date.

A great blog feed site that I would have to recommend for anyone looking to keep in the loop with favorite blogs is Bloglovin, Please take a second to follow Bought by Birdette on Bloglovin before the time is up, I would hate to lose contact with any awesome readers in the transition.
Thanks guys!

Where to buy Jeans to Flatter your Figure

2013-04-07T16:36:00.001+10:00

This post rounds out Birdette's three piece special on Denim for Winter 2013, Check out some great Skinny Jean styles or Top Trend Denim as well!

Anyone who has ever gone on the search for the perfect pair of jeans will know well and truly that one size does NOT fit all. Because of this shopping for your next pair can be a menacing heartache full of disappointment. Even worse is when you find a style that works amazingly for you, and just as you tear a nasty irreparable hole in them, you find that they're no longer in production.
So I've come up with this quick guide of brands that you'll find in Australia that may help you find your next pair of 'The ones',
Of course if you find something that you love that just doesn't quite fit right, the best option to add them to your wardrobe is to take them to a tailor for any minor adjustments.

Tch, where do you even begin?!

What to look for:
Feeling swamped by most clothing brands? Time to try some labels that cater especially to petite girls and those with youthful bodies out there, keep an eye for for brands that offer different leg sizes and extra small sizes.
Tailor them? Ask your tailor to take up the hem in a manner that retains the original hem, so you don't lose any of the detail. This normally requires cuffing them once, then sewing as close to the original hem seam as possible before cutting off the excess.
Brands that work for you:
Bettina Liano
Supre

What to look for:
Hello? Curves? Can I please have some of what Beyonce has happening?? If your figure leans towards an adolescent boy you're after a pair of jeans that will give you some booty and show off your beautiful legs (ever noticed how drag queens have amazing legs?)
Brands that work for you:
Just Jeans
Sportsgirl

Similar to the boyish shape,If you're tall and slim you're already pretty close to what a lot of girls aspire to anyway, you can really get away with and wear it all!
Tailor them? Some styles come untreated and you may be able to let them seam down as required, but it's much easier to look for brands that come with a longer leg option.
Brands that work for you:
Sportsgirl
Sass and Bide

What to look for:
With your ample hips and tiny waist it's a challenge to find anything that will fit both of these points of your curvy body at the same time right? We need brands that have a little extra room in the butt and thigh while nipping in at the waist with no gape.
Tailor them? Get the pair that fit your legs and take them to a tailor to adjust any waist gape.
Brands that work for you:
Jeanswest
7 For All Mankind

For girls who have a bit of a tummy or love handles, we define you as an Apple. Finding a pair that don't pinch in the waist is a dream come true. Keep an eye out for styles and brands that don't bring the waist in too much.
Tailor them? Make sure they fit your waist perfectly and then have your tailor streamline the legs to perfection.
Brands that work for you:
Levi's Curve ID in Slight style
Target

It can be really hard to try and find good modern cuts that will flatter a bigger frame while still being in Fashion, luckily with the boom in internet shopping it's easier then ever to fill the gap between retailer and customer and find jeans that suit Plus Sized girls out there.
Tailor them? Depending on where your weight lies you may need the hems taken up, the thighs slimmed or any waist gap taken in, choose a style that doesn't pinch anywhere, and adjust as required with your tailor.
Brands that work for you:
ASOS Curve
Jeanswest

Happy hunting girls! Have I missed anyone? Or if you have a particular body shape and a failproof store let me know about it so I can add it in!

Image Source: Clean Wal-Mart

More Hot Denim for Winter

2013-04-04T20:49:00.000+10:00

This is the second post in a three part special following Birdette's picks for Denim, Please find part one here and watch out for part three, helping you find what stores to shop for your figure later this week.

In this second part of my series this week I want to focus on Skinnies. They have become a featured style in the wardrobes of many girls out there because they can flatter a multitude of figures. It's all about finding the right cut as it is with all kinds of jeans. Skinny jeans should not be made without at least 2% Elastane to ensure a snug fit that will bounce back wash after wash.
This thing to remember this season for Skinny Jeans is avoid your basics and go all out with prints and colours. Put your everyday blacks and blues away for this season and say hello to great colours and look at me prints.

A great option for those who just can't go past their Skinnies are to find a gorgeous pair of coloured jeans. The perfect antidote for the plain denim for those who who find Printed Jeans a bit confronting, Skinny cuts are the ideal canvas to show off such a bold colour statement. To find your perfect pair it's best to go back to the makers of your favourites and see what incarnations they have for the upcoming season. Find a colour you love that will sink easily into your normal fashion scheme for the pair that will work best.

A - Boohoo Gemma Metallic Skinny Jeans

B - Sportsgirl Stevie Jeans

C - Jeanswest Super Skinny Jeans in Boyzenberry

Possibly the easiest way to add notable trends such as Baroque and to your wardrobe, Printed Jeans will take your anywhere this Winter. It's best to keep such graphic denim in a Slim cut before you run the risk of looking like you've stepped out in your Nan's Pajamas. (And no, I did not understand the Pajama dressing trend recently....)

A - Target Baroque Print Skinny Jeans

B - Forever 21 Floral Print Skinny Jeans

C- Cotton On Maison Skinny Jeans in Portia Garden

I'm also a huge fan of union jack printed skinnies, I'm still on the prowl for a reasonably priced pair, let me know if you spot some before I do!

Hot Denim for this Winter

2013-04-02T19:21:00.002+10:00

This is part one of a series of Three, Please check out my post on gorgeous skinny styles for this season too!

Jeans for most girls are the essential wardrobe staple. The ultimate go anywhere, do anything piece of clothing that can make you look fab in seconds. It can be a hard slog finding the right pair but by god when you've found them, you'll wonder what life was ever like without them.
This upcoming season as always there are a plethora of varieties out there and I'm always grateful for this, as it means that there should be something gorgeous for every body type. Here are my picks for the season.

For a few years I've been cuffing the legs of my old faithfuls and they've been cute in their own right, but they just lack the cool slouchy feel that come with the right cut and style. These are really quite flattering to all kinds of body types, even though they sit low on the hip which can be a little confronting after these years of high waisted styles. If in doubt (and they're sliding down your butt) remember that they are supposed to be loose, buy a size bigger because this style will shrink a little in the wash and wear them with a leather low slung belt. I love the look of heels with this style as the cuffs draw attention to anything on your feet, pull out your best statement shoes!

A - Jay Jays Ripped Boyfriend Jeans

B - ASOS Brand Boyfriend Jeans

C - Uniqlo Women's Slim Boyfriend Jeans

Dungarees (or Overalls as we call them here in Australia) are a little dubious to me but there's no use denying that they're everywhere right now. They're at that critical tipping point where you can't open a magazine without seeing a pair because Alexa Chung and the cool girls are embracing them but I am still yet to see them on the streets here in Brisbane. Heck, I can still remember the last time they were cool. I was 10! To style them it's best to stick to the modern slimline styles otherwise you'll look like you belong on a Dexy's Midnight Runner's Videoclip. Cuff them like boyfriends and follow the same shoe rule as above, (so hot and elongating with heels!) otherwise wear a shorts style with tights. Cute loosely slung tops and singlets are best, anything too tight and babydoll tees are way too much of a throwback.

A- Topshop Moto Bleach Denim Dungarees

B- ASOS Vintage Wash Dungarees

C- Boohoo Lexie Twill Denim Dungarees

What styles are you looking to add to your wardrobe this year? I personally can't wait to get my hands on my ASOS Boyfriends as featured above!

100,000 Pageviews? Whaaaaaaat!!

2013-03-25T14:07:00.000+10:00

After reaching this monster of a milestone yesterday I just wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you to all of my awesome readers and sponsors. Without your kind words and support this blog simply couldn't happen and I am very grateful that you take the time to give me some love!

If you haven't already, please take this opportunity to like, follow and share Bought by Birdette so that we can spread the word and make it greater then ever. Like I've mentioned previously, without support this blog can only go so far!

Like on Facebook

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Of course if there's anything you'd like to see more of on the blog, any opinions you'd like to share, or even just to say hi, please leave me a comment on any of my posts, I'd love to hear from you and to find out all about you guys!

Until next time, Love always!

Aveeno Skin Relief

2013-03-23T16:04:00.001+10:00

As I've previously mentioned, my mother wasn't someone who I learnt a lick of my beauty routine or knowledge from, while my grandmother's on the other hand have occasionally given me great pearls of wisdom over the years. For instance, one of my grandmothers believed in oatmeal baths for itchy sensitive skin to calm it right down. We didn't know the science behind it but by goodness they worked a treat.

The goodies from Aveeno

Aveeno have taken the science behind this phenomenon and rolled it into their amazing Skin Relief moisturising range of skincare products.They were kind enough to send me both their Skin Relief Body Wash and Skin Relief Moisturising Lotion to try out and I couldn't wait to get my mits on them. They have been on the scene since 1945 and the world famous Mayo Clinic was their first customer! Aveeno have got to be doing something right!

I'm not great at keeping up the routine of applying moisturizer after every shower I take but I promised myself to make a good effort to try out the wash and moisturizer every time I got my body wet, and my skin is singing with joy that I did! Left to its own devices my skin can get really awful, to the point of scaly even. But normally it itches up such a storm that I have to take action before then. While using Aveeno, the wash was a very gentle clean with a light lingering softness, while the moisturiser replenishes the moisture that showers and baths can unfortunately sap. My skin after over a fortnight of use is softer, more even toned and it even has a nice glisten from being so damn happy!

One of the really good things to note about Aveeno and their ranges is that their products are also backed up with science and testing, a lot of companies out there make outrageous claims about what their products can do with barely a step into the laboratory. Like so:

"Alright folks can it moisturise?"
"Well it moisturizes until the high alcohol content content dries it up ..."
"Good enough! Lets label it quick drying and be done with it."

You always have to look for the asterix in the claims people. Aveeno spend a lot of time making sure their products do a really top job of what they say they're going to do and because of this standard of quality they have been recommended by dermatologists for more then 60 years.

What I didn't like about the moisturiser was the smell, there is a subtle lanolin kind of smell to it, and while it is very subtle it still reminds me of the sheep on my mother's farm. Lucky there's fragrance free varieties too then!

I would definitely recommend both products to those with sensitive skin, they are incredibly gentle products that soothe and smooth skin that normally like to riot. but even if your skin isn't sensitive I would say they are a good choice for fuss free and thrifty body care products.