A Little Real Techniques Haul

After recently testing the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge (read the full review here) I couldn't resist treating myself to a few more items from the collection. So - after spending at least half an hour browsing - I finally decided on three more brushes to test for myself.

The first brush I chose comes from the collections Flawless/Base collection. Thanks to its soft & light bristles the angled Foundation Brush claims to slowly build coverage to create a high definition & "pixel perfect" effect. If there's one thing I struggle with when applying foundation, it's covering the small & hard-to-reach areas.. So I'm very excited to see if this helps & allows me to finally achieve that perfect base.

Next is a brush that comes from the Finish/Perfected collection.. the Retractable Lip Brush. Described as a brush that "applies colour smoothly & expertly" around the contours & lines of the lip, this is a brush for perfect lipstick application. With an "ultra-firm" & "tapered tip" I'm hoping this will help create that gorgeous highly-defined lip that I often find myself lusting after.. Bonus - the retractable feature makes this perfect for travel.

The third & final brush is another from the Base/Flawless collection - the Real Techniques Powder Brush. According to the website, this brush is perfect for an even application of both mineral foundations & powder. The thing that really stands out to me about this brush is the size of the bristles themselves - something that should allow for applying powders without leaving skin feeling "cakey".

Like all Real Techniques brushes - each of the above is coloured a metallic shade which looks stunning sat on my dressing table. I'll be testing these for myself over the next few weeks - so watch this space for a review or two.

Have you tried any of the above brushes?

If so, what are your thoughts?

xxx

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge

When the Beauty Blender first became increasingly popular I'll admit that I just couldn't understand the hype.. why would I want to use a sponge (something that reminded me of hopelessly applying foundation at the age of 15) when I could use one of my lovely brushes?

These feelings stuck with me until around a month ago when I spotted the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge, innocently displayed near the check-outs of my local Superdrug.  In the split second before approaching the till I thought oh, what the heck... dropped the sponge into my basked & wondered off to pay.. *Yes, I do live life on the edge..*

Whilst un-boxing I'll admit that I was a little uncertain.. was this going to become my next holy grail item.. or would I simply end up throwing this in my draw - never to see the light of day again? However after trialling the sponge for around month now, I'm happy to say that I'm actually very impressed.

Whilst advertised as being an "all-round" product - meaning it can be used for powders & liquids alike - I personally prefer to use this for both foundation (using either the flat or rounded edge) & concealer (using the pointed tip to precisely cover any blemishes). I also imagine it would be great for blending liquid/stick bronzers & blushes, such as the Make-up revolution Blush Sticks (click here to read a full review).

For an every-day look - I personally think the best way to use the Complexion Sponge is damp. However instead of rinsing under water, I prefer to spray a few pumps of the MUA Setting Spray across the surface of the sponge. I've found this combination really helps to ensure my make-up is well blended & remains in place throughout the day.

The only downside to this product would be the recommendation of replacing every 1 - 3 months. Something that could become pretty expensive in the long run.. However I'm sure with good care & regular cleaning the sponge would last a lot longer.

Whilst I was pretty sceptical about using the Miracle Complexion Sponge at first, I can happily say that any doubt has now vanished. Whilst I will still use my brushes, the Miracle Complexion Sponge has definitely won a place within my favourite beauty items.

If you're interested in picking up this product for yourself, it currently retails at £5.99 & can be picked at Feel Unique, Boots & Superdrug.

Have you tried the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge?

If so, what are your thoughts?

xxx

Kate Spade ft. Minnie Mouse

If there's one thing I love, it has to be Disney. This - of course - means that as soon as I hear about any Disney collaborations, I will instantly be researching everything I possibly can (for those who have been reading my blog for a while now, my all about my MAC ft. Cinderella saga is a prime example of this). So as soon as I heard that Kate Spade (the creator of the most gorgeous & chic handbags) had teamed up with Disney, I knew straight away that I simply had to have a peek for myself.

The collaboration itself - Kate Spade New York For Minnie Mouse - is a limited edition collection that is described as "celebrating our shared love for polka dots and a well placed bow". Which is honestly one of the most adorable things I have ever heard (although I may be a little Disney-biased).

Whilst not all items seem to have fully released onto the UK website as of yet, after a little research (aka swooning over how pretty everything is) I've managed put together a few of my favourite items.

Image source: 1 2 3 

The first item to catch my eye was the adorable Minnie Mouse handbag. Whilst the design does obviously feature the famous Disney Character, I feel it has been done in a chic & classic way - meaning it can easily be used on a day-to-day basis without fear of looking too bold (if there even is such a thing when it comes to Disney).

The next item on my list had to be the Minnie Mouse iPhone case (designed to fit both iPhone 6 and 6s models). What better way to show your love for all things Disney than a super cute phone case? Plus - as an added bonus - this case features both Mickey & Minnie Mouse.. the ultimate relationship goal.

Last but not least is one of my favourite items from the collection, the Minnie Bow Clasp clutch bag. In contrast to both the handbag and phone case this item - whilst gorgeous - is a much more subtle nod towards Disney. So much so, that people may not even realise the bow symbolises a love for Minnie Mouse at all - perfect for a sophisticated night out where it may not be fully appropriate fully show how much you love Disney.

As a lover of all things Disney related I would be proud to have any of the above within my collection.

What are your thoughts on the Kate Spade ft. Minnie Mouse collection?

xxx

Another Primark Haul

As the title of this post suggests, I may have wondered into Primark a few times over the last few weeks & - of course - come home with some new treats. In order to try & help justify this little shopping spree, I thought the best thing to do would be to put together a haul post to share right here..

1. Hogwarts Alumni T-shirt - £6.00
2. Lace Pump Socks - £2.50
3. Weekend Bag - £10.00 

4. Monochrome Elephant Mug - £2.00
5. Laser Cut Brogues - £12.00
6. Bow Hair Bands- £2.00 

The first item I picked up on this little trip were the black laser cut out brogues. I thought these would be perfect alternative to traditional dolly-shoes for the spring & summer months that would look adorable with dresses/play-suits. To go with these I decided to pick up a pack of lace "pump socks". For those who don't know - these are essentially little socks that don't quite come up as high as regular "trainer socks". As someone who suffers with blisters quite badly, I thought these would be a perfect way to add a little cushioning between the shoes & my feet - plus if the lace does happen to peep over the top it'll just look super cute.

Whilst looking out for spring/summer items I also decided to treat myself to a two-pack of hair bands. Being elasticated these are perfect for tying hair around to on warm days..*watch this space.. I may attempt a hair tutorial post on this soon..*.

The next couple of items were based around a trip I have booked in April. My boyfriend and I have booked a few days away to visit the Harry Potter Studio Tour *squeals with excitement*. So being a true fan, I couldn't resist picking up this Harry Potter Alumni T-shirt..  I also decided that - as a classic "over-packer" -  it would be a good idea to pick up a smaller weekend-style bag. I've been on the hunt for a bag like this for a while now, so for only £10.00 I really couldn't say no to this.

The final item to *accidentally* fall into my shopping bag was this adorable little mosaic elephant print mug. I've been looking for a new mug to use in the office - my current is getting a little scratched in the dishwasher - so at £2.00 I thought this would be perfect for my morning (& afternoon) coffee fix!

I hope you enjoyed this little haul post.
Be sure to let me know you're favourite item(s) in the comments below.

xxx

Cocomelody* Dream Wedding Dresses

If you read my recent post featuring Cocomelody*, then you'll know that I instantly fell in love with their collection of wedding dresses. So when I recently noticed the brands new collection, I couldn't resist sharing a few of my new favourite designs here.

The first dress to catch my eye was this stunning backless wedding dress. The lace detailing over the shoulders, combined with the statement pink ribbon, is something that really stood out to me. This is perfect dress for brides looking for a little extra way to combine both dress & wedding theme together.

Although different from the first, the next dress on my list is one I instantly fell in love with. The delicate lace details of the material combined with the rhinestone detailing along with waistline is something I find stunning for brides looking a simple yet elegant design.

The third & final dress that caught my eye was the gorgeous & *dare I say it* slightly sexy backless wedding dress. Whilst the low-cut back to this dress adds a sexy twist to more traditional designs, I feel the lace detailing from the straps down the train adds the perfect touch of glamour to soften an otherwise bold design.

Wedding dresses are all about elegance & class, something I feel each of the CocoMelody dresses manage to balance perfectly. Whether you're a bride-to-be or know someone currently planning their dream wedding, be sure to check out the full dress range using code W20 for $20.00 off select designs online.

What are your thoughts on these dresses?

xxx

Rose Bombshell | Lush

For Valentines day this year I was lucky enough to receive a new new Lush bath bomb as part of my gift. I decided to wait until a particularly stressful day & then treated myself to a relaxing evening with the Rose Bombshell as an extra relaxing treat.

Although the detailing had slightly worn off, I instantly fell in love with the rose design product & couldn't wait to see the effect it had on my bath.

Luckily I was in no way disappointed & as soon as I dropped Rose Bombshell into the water is gradually turned it into shade of bright pink. Then- as the outer shell fizzed away - a hidden collection of rose petals appeared leaving my bath looking gorgeous.

The combination of Rose, Sicilian Lemon & Geranium oils (which claim to help with cleansing, restoring and uplifting) left my skin feeling soft & moisturised whilst the floral scent stayed in the air after use.

If you're looking for a bath product to help you relax after a long & stressful day I couldn't recommend this product enough. Rose Bombshell currently retails for £3.95 & is available both online & in Lush stores.

Have you tried Rose Bombshell?
What are your thoughts?

xxx

The perfect nude ft. MAC

Whilst on a recent shopping trip in MAC it suddenly dawned on me that my *ever-growing* lipstick collection was missing one crucial element.. the "perfect nude". Of course, this then became my mission of the day.. and after what felt like hours of intense research (aka swatching pretty much every shade available) I was delighted to finally settle on the nude lipstick of my dreams.. MAC's Creme in Your Coffee. 

With a mixture of pinky-brown tones, Creme in Your Coffee is a shade that I find perfect for creating the effortless "your lips but better" effect. This is great for those either looking for a simple yet glamorous look - think quick application whilst running out of the door in the morning -  or for pairing with a dramatic smoky-eye during the evening.

Besides the gorgeous colour, anther element of this product that I instantly fell in love with had to be the beautifully soft consistency. After application I found that the formulae left a slight sheen to my lips whilst leaving my skin feeling moisturised & hydrated (not a dry or chapped lip to be seen - yay!).

The only thing that could be considered a slight downside to this product is the slightly pricey retail cost of £15.50. Of course it goes without saying that this is more expensive than other lipsticks that are available on the high-street.. However, I honestly think the extra pennies are worth it if you're either looking to build your lipstick collection or (like me) are struggling to find that "perfect nude".

If you're interested in picking up this lipstick for yourself, Creme in Your Coffee is currently available both online & in local MAC stores.

What's your favourite nude lipstick?

xxx

88th Academy Awards - Looks I Love

With the end of February welcoming the 88th Academy Awards I was shamelessly excited about the various red carpet looks. Luckily it's safe to say that this years red carpet did not disappoint & after hours of research - aka staring longingly at pictures of gorgeous dresses - I managed to select a few of my favourite looks to share here on Small & Blonde.

Cate Blanchett                                                       Saoirse Ronan                                             Maria Menounos

Jennifer Lawrence                                             Sofia Vergara                                             Rachel McAdams 

Priyanka Chopra                                               Dorith Mous                                                  Rooney Mara

Was your favourite look from the 2016 Oscars mentioned above?

If not, be sure to let me know in the comments!

xxx

L'Oréal Professional - Mythic Oil

As someone with long & very thick hair, I am constantly on the look out for a new product to help tame my locks. So when my hairdresser recently recommended the L'Oréal Professional Mythic Oil, I jumped at the potential thought of finally having the smooth, glossy hair of my dreams.

Created with a blend of avocado & grape seed oil, Mythic Oil is a leave-in treatment that claims to add shine & nourishment to damaged hair. The L'Oréal Professionals recommend to dispense one or two pumps of the light weight formulae onto the palms of your hands before running it through the ends/mid-lengths of towel dried or freshly styled hair.

As someone with long, thick hair with slightly dry ends (thanks bleach!) I find two pumps perfect for adding an extra boost of life to my hair without leaving behind an annoying "greasy" residue. Plus the gorgeous scent instantly reminds me of being pampered at my local hair salon.

Currently retailing at around £16.00 for 100ml, this treatment is slightly on the pricey side.. However in my opinion for smooth, glossy hair this product is worth the extra pennies.

 L'Oréal's Mythic Oil it is available either online or from participating salons.

Have you ever tried this product?

What are your favourite hair oils?

xxx