OOTD - Parisian Chic

Just a quickie to let you know what I wore today. The sun was shining and the breeze was warm (well for a little while anyway) so what better to do than attend a nice summer BBQ by the beach.

It was actually a friend of the families birthday, so we attended a celebratory Birthday BBQ. I did not want to dress up in a dress or sorts, as the weather is not guaranteed here in the UK, so I went for a pair of thin, wide leg Palazzo trousers. Of course I had to add a touch of summer, hence the floral print.

Parisian Palazzo Trousers (with belt) New Look
Vest Primark
Tan Sandals Primark

I love these trousers, they are really on trend at the moment and are great for those cooler summer days or nights. They look amazing paired with a denim jacket and gold accessories.

Love Chessie

How to Find Your Perfect Pair of Jeans!

Everybody is on the hunt for the 'Perfect Pair' of jeans. We all want something that will bring out our best features and hide away those that we don't like, but it is always a job finding a pair of jeans that will do this. 

Whilst reading 'Coleen's Real Style', a style guide by the beautiful and fashionable, Coleen Rooney, I came across one of her tips that I thought might appeal to many of you. So I thought I'd share it with you, and what better way then through a post.

Coleen States, "I just think that jeans are such a big part of your 

wardrobe that it's worth putting the effort in."

So Coleen's tip states that you should dress the part when trying on jeans. She says that you should set out wearing the kinds of clothes and accessories that you would pair with your perfect jeans, for example a top that you intend to wear with them and a belt. If you are wearing flats she says to take a pair of heels in your bag, and vice versa. That way you will be able to experiment with different styles and be sure that they are the right pair for you, before you go swiping your credit card.

I hope you enjoyed this tip and will be able to put it into action the next time you are out shopping for your 'perfect pair'. 

Love Chessie

Rihanna - California King Bed

I love Rhi's look, it is so subtle, yet extremely noticeable at the same time. Great for that special romantic date. I would die to be as gorgeous as Rhianna in this video, wouldn't we all. 

Again, I am sorry about the bad quality, once I have sorted out the memory cards I will be using a proper camera :( x

Products Used:

Shimmer Cream Shadow

UD Sin shadow

Front Cover Mineralised shadow in Frosted Almond

UD Buck

UD Virgin

Benefit Georgia Box Blush

White Kohl Pencil

Bourjois Liner Feutre in 11 Noir

Maybelline Colossal Volume Express mascara in 100% Black

Rimmel moisture renew lipstick in 700 Nude Delight

Avon lipstick in Pout

Ciaté lip gloss in a Nude/Pink colour

Benefit High Beam

Benefit Dandelion Box Blush

MUA Blush in Shade 1 (I think) :)

• Prime the lid with a shimmery cream shadow, I would recommend using a cream colour.
• Pat a shimmery pink champaign (UD Sin) shadow all over lid and into inner corner. 
• Then taking a fluffy blending brush, blend a shimmery brown/bronze (Front Cover Frosted Almond) and a peach (Benefit Georgia Blush) into crease and bring under lower lash line. 
• Highlight brow bone and inner corner with a pearl shadow (UD Virgin). 
• Apply a matte brown (UD Buck) onto outer corner. Be sure to blend all colours together, to reduce any harsh lines. 
• Line upper lash line with a black felt tip/liquid/gel liner (Bourjois Liner Feutre in 11 Noir), and wing out ever so slightly on the end. Remember not to make the line too thick as it is a natural look.
• Line waterline with a white kohl pencil.
• Curl lashes and apply two coats of mascara (Colossal Volume Express). Again remember not to make it too clumpy as it is a natural look. Tip - If you want your lashes to look even more natural use a brown mascara. 
• Line lips with a nude lipstick/liner (Rimmel 700 Nude Delight). Fill in with a pale pink (Avon Pout). For a glossy look apply a dot of nude/clear gloss to centre of lips. 
• Sweep a pale pink (Benefit Dandelion & MUA Shade 1) blush across apple of cheeks and up to temples for a flushed look. 
• Pat some highlighter onto cheekbones and down centre of nose. You may dot a bit onto cupids bow, this will enhance you lips natural pout.   

I dare you to try this look out and tell me what your friends think. :)

Love Chessie

Swagger Jagger Cher Lloyd - Part 2

Warning - this is a continuation from Part one of the Cher Lloyd, Swagger Jagger look. If you have not seen part one click here >>

This part of the tutorial is what I refer to as the night look, as it consists of a very dark winged eye. By all means you can wear this look in the day, however personally (and I am sure many others would agree) I would not be brave enough too and prefer neutral make-up in the daytime. 

 

I think this look really suits Cher and it is great for making a statement on a night out. 

 

:O I am aware that this picture is not the nicest, I suppose I was not in the mood to take another. 

Products Used:

Black Cream Shadow (MAC Blacktrack Fluidline)

UD shadow in Gunmetal  

Avon Glimmerstick in Blackest Black

Maybelline Colossal Volume Express in 100% Black

Benfir High Beam

Benefit Lip Plump

Natural Collection Moisture Shine lipstick in Apple Blossom

Benefit Georgia Box Blush

Girls Aloud Eylure fake lashes Cheryl

•  Pat a black cream shadow (I do not own one so I made do with a MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack) all over lid and up to crease. 
• Then taking an eye liner brush, draw a thin line from outer corner up to a couple of mm below ending point of brow.
• Fill in line to create a thick wing from crease to point. 
• To add shimmer, take a glittery shadow (UD Gunmetal) and pat over the top of the cream shadow. This will also hold it in place for a little longer. 
• For some extra shimmer highlight brow bone (Benefit High Beam).
• Line the lower lash line with a black pencil of kohl (Avon Glimmerstick in Blackest Black).
• Curl lashes and apply some false ones (I love the Cheryl Cole ones form Eylure). Apply a couple of coats of black mascara (Colossal Volume Express).
•  Prime lips with a matte nude primer (Benefit Lip Plump). This step is completely optional, however I think it just makes the lips a little nuder. 
• Once dry, smooth on a layer of nude pink lipstick, I recommend Natural Collection's Moisture Shine Lipstick in Apple Blossom, (think it might be my new fave shade). 
• Sweep on a pale coral or pink blush (Benefit Georgia) for a flush of colour. 

Hope you enjoyed this look and again don't forget to check out Look 1 >>

Love Chessie

Swagger Jagger Cher Lloyd - Part 1

I loved watching Cher Lloyd on the X-Factor last year. Her first audition was amazing and it was obvious that we would soon be seeing more of her.  

A year on and Cher has hit the charts and TV screens once again with her new single, Swagger Jagger. I love the video, packed with attitude and Cher's own edgy style, as well as two key make-up looks that can be suited to day and night. 

Look 1 - Day Neutrals

This look is great for the day. I love the matte skin and neutral lined eyes, not to mention the pop of coral on the lips, bang on trend this summer. 

Sorry about the bad quality. :(

Products Used:

White Matte Base (White Kohl Pencil will do)

UD Naked shadow (matte)

UD Smog shadow (satin)

UD Buck shadow (matte)

UD Virgin shaow (pearl)

MAC Blacktrack Fluidline

Avon Glimmerstick in Blackest Black 

Maybelline Colossal Volume Express Mascara in 100% Black 

Coral Pink lip gloss (matte)

• Apply matte white base over lid with finger (I do not own one so I used a white kohl pencil). 
• Then pat a matte beige shadow (UD Naked) over the lid.
• For definition sweep a mid satin brown shade (UD Smog) into crease and outer corner. Blend out to reduce any harsh lines. 
• Taking a matte brown (UD Buck) shadow, apply to outer corner and blend.
• Highlight brow bone with a pearl shadow (UD Virgin).
• Line upper lash line with a black gel liner (MAC Blacktrack) and finish with a small flick. Then taking a black pencil or kohl (Avon Glimmerstick in Blackest Black), line lower waterline.
• Curl lashes and apply a couple of coats of black mascara (Colossal Volume Express). Remember we are going for a neutral look so don't make it too clumpy. 
• Finally apply a coat of coral lip gloss (a matte one will give a stained effect), and Voila.  

I hope you enjoyed Cher's first look.

Click here for Look 2 >>

Love Chessie

NOTD - French Manicure

My mum decided to take me out today for tea and cakes (yummy). But when in our car on our way to the Range café (how classy) my mum mentioned how much she needed to have her nails in-filled, and when she offered to pay for a manicure for me I accepted, who wouldn't. 

Our tea and cakes were delayed as we headed to the nail salon for some pampering. 

I am a little disappointed as the tips seem to have cracked a little already, but nothing a touch up can't fix. :(

I was originally going to ask for just a solid colour, like a pale pink or coral. However when I was shown the list of colours I was not drawn to any of them and so I decided to go for the classic French Manicure.  

I really like this look on my nails, as my fingers are extremely long. I think the squared tips make my fingers seem a little shorter, and more proportioned to my hands. 

Maybe I will be visiting the salon again this summer. :)

Love Chessie

"Beauty Lies Within!"

Warning, this is a slightly different post than normal, although it can still be associated with fashion and beauty.  

As I was searching the internet for inspirational quotes, I came across a website housing many quotes from various designers, celebrities and icons. All of the quotes are fashion/beauty related and I think some of them are rather quite useful and will bring a smile to your face. 

 "The best color in the whole world, is the one that looks good, on you!"

Coco Chanel

"For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others;

for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness;

and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone."

Audrey Hepburn

"Nothing is impossible, the word itself says I'm possible!"

Audrey Hepburn

"If you're gonna be two-faced at least make one of them pretty."

Marilyn Monroe

"Beauty lies within!"

So the next time you are feeling down about yourself, or just need some encouragement, check out some of these quotes and you will be feeling better in no time. 

Love Chessie

Last Friday Night (TGIF) - Katy Perry

I love Katy Perry's 80's inspired look in her song 'Last Friday Night (TGIF) ' from album Teenage Dream. The blues and purples of the eye make-up and statement lip liner are sure to get heads turning.

Base Products Used:

Benefit Dandelion Box Blush

Benefit High Beam Highlight 

Eye Products Used:

Shimmery Cream Shadow

Front Cover mineralised shadow in Azimuth 

Lilac shade by Miners

Front Cover mineralised shadow in Silver Dollar

MAC Blacktrack Fluidline

White Kohl Pencil

MaxFactor False lash Effect Black

Lip Products Used:

MaxFactor Lip Liner in 16 Rose

Avon Lipstick in Pout

MAC Plushglass in Fashion Fanatic (LE)

 

• Apply shimmery cream shadow all over lid and up to brow bone (base).
• Pack on pale blue shadow (Azimuth) over lid and up to crease, build up to create an electric blue shade, blend under lower lash line.
• Sweep lilac shadow into crease, bringing it all the way down into inner corner, blend up to brow bone. 
• Once the lilac shade has been built up to a brighter purple, add a little more blue (Azimuth) to lid. 
• Taking a shimmery white (Silver Dollar) shadow, pat onto brow bone, this will act as a highlight.
• Line the water line with white kohl pencil, before lining upper and lower lash lines with gel liner (Blacktrack by MAC).
• Wing liner slightly and curl lashes. Coat with black mascara (False Lash Effect), build up until lashes are lengthened and voluminous.
•  Line lips with bright pink lip liner (MaxFactor 16 Rose) and apply pale pink lipstick (Avon pout).
• For more shine add a pale pink lip gloss to centre of lip (MAC Fashion Fanatic, LE).
• Finally sweep cheeks with pink blush (Dandelion) and highlight cheekbones and down nose with cream highlighter (High Beam). 

I hope you enjoyed this fun, 80's inspired look. 

Love Chessie

To Prime or Not to Prime

Shadows (L-R) - UD Naked, UD Toasted, Rimmel Colour Rush in 010 Envy, MAC Goldenrod.

I have never understood why priming the eyes before applying shadows was so important. I had always been told to moisturise my face before applying foundations, concealers and powders etc, however had never thought to invest in a primer.

I have tried a sample from benefit of the "that gal" brightening face primer and although I did enjoy it, I just cannot justify spending that much money on it. I do not find that having a good primer is crucial in a make-up collection, and think that an everyday moisturiser works just as good. 

I thought the same with eye shadows, as I do not really wear them I did not think it was important to invest in one. That was until I purchased the UD Naked Pallet, which came with a sample of the UD Primer Potion (for eyes). 

After trying this out for tutorials and looks for this blog I began to realise that maybe it did improve the staying power and pigmentation of the shadows, as well as finish. However again I do not think one should spend a large amount of money on a primer when it could be going towards something more.

I am not saying that you should not invest in a eye or face primer for that matter, just don't waste money on it if you know you are not going to enjoy using it. I have also tried a couple of cheaper alternatives, suck as cream shadows or those 'jumbo' eye pencils from the drugstore and to be honest I think they work just as good. 

Love Chessie

Skincare Haul and Review

I have not always been one to splash out on skincare products, and spend hours searching for organic or natural cleansers and face washes. In fact I have never really been one to have a set skincare routine, as I suppose I have always been able to make do with a face wipe.

However looking back I think it was bad of me not to spend a few minutes a day caring for my skin. I am not saying that you have to spend hours applying face masks and handfuls of expensive moisturisers, just that it is important to keep your skin moisturised and pores clean.

Believe it or not, I am happy with my skin and am thankful that I am lucky enough not to be faced with the effects that growing up can have on it. Again I just wanted to ensure that I am giving my skin the goodness it needs everyday, and to me that meant spending a couple of minutes of my time caring for it morning and evening.

I had been eyeing the new Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit range for a couple of weeks now, and was eager to try it out. I don't know whether it was just because it was pink and smelt great, or if it was the fact that I was keen to begin a new friendship with my skin (maybe a bit of both). 

When I ventured into Boots with my friend and saw that the whole of the Neutrogena range was on offer (2 for £5) I almost collapsed with excitement. Yes you've guessed it, I purchased some of the products (you can't let an opportunity like that slip). 

L-R
Daily Scrub - claims to help eliminate spots and blemishes with a fresh clean feel. Facial Wash - aims to help eliminate spots and blackheads with a fresh clean feel. 

 After sampling the products with my friend I was so pleased with the way that they made my skin feel, so soft and glowing, that I was certain I would eventually purchase the third product of the range. 

So when in Superdrug the next day my friend and I decided to share the offer and purchase another product. 

Cream Wash - aims to gently cleanse skin, to help prevent spots and blackheads without overdrying the skin.

I love this wash too, and along with the others it makes my skin feel extremely soft, smooth and hydrated. As it  claims, it does not overdry my skin. At first I was worried that this statement meant that it would contain extra oils that would cause my skin to become greasy, however it does not and brings it to the perfect balance. 

Order of use, L-R.
This is the complete Pink Grapefruit range.
Dermatologist tested.

Directions For Use: In morning and evening apply small amount onto moist hands and massage onto wet face. Rinse thoroughly. I apply the products in this order: daily scrub, facial wash and finally the cream wash. 

I find that all products from this range claim to do the same basic thing, therefore I think it is completely up to your personal preference and aim, as to which products you end up purchasing. For example if you were looking for a product that will eliminate spots and blackheads, as well as cleanse the skin, and you have trouble with dryness, than I would recommend the cream wash as it claims to do this. So on and so forth. 

I am thrilled with the performance of these products, and would really recommend them to those of you who are happy with your skin and are just looking for a product, or range of products, that will keep it in good condition and just give it the moisture, hydration and clean feel it needs. In addition to this they smell great and are enjoyable to us. I think that for a bargainous £7.50 for the bunch you cant go wrong. 

Love Chessie

Lions are Coming

 This is a series that I am very much excited to be posting on my blog. Through out this series I will be creating various make-up looks inspired by street art. The inspiration behind the looks can come from art forms of  graffiti, statues, etc.   

For my first look of the series I will be creating a look inspired by one of the many decorative lions that have been planted in and around the town of Bournemouth, in order to raise money for charities and organisations including Julia's House. 

You can visit the lions around the upper and lower gardens, as well as around the high streets   

I believe the lions are decorated by local schools and members of the community, and then sponsored by businesses and retailers.   

I think that the idea is great, and many of the lions created are extraordinary. 

I love the blues on this lion, and the gemstones embedded on the sides really remind me of the glistening sea.
Name: Singah
 Number: 23
 Location: 13
 Sponsor: Sembcorp Bournemouth Water Ltd

I was inspired by the blues in this look, and the tear-drop shape of the eyes.

Shadows Used: Front Cover To Go Palette
Azimuth (baked)
Moondust (baked)
Bayou (pressed)
MAC Forgery (pressed)

• Apply (Urban Decay Primer Potion) a base all over lid and up to brow bone.
•  Line waterline and lower lashes with WHITE kohl liner, taking it onto the inner corner of lid.
• Pat pale blue (Azimuth) shadow onto lid.
• Build up bright navy (Bayou) shadow into crease, blending right down into inner corner to add definition. 
• Blend dark navy (Moondust) shadow onto outer corner.
• Taking a shadow line or clear liquid liner, dip into dark navy (Moondust) and apply thick line onto upper lash line. Flick a little in outer corner to curve into shadow. 
• Now go over with a little of the pale blue (Azimuth) shadow over liner, and onto lower lash line. Also use as a highlight on brow bone. 
• Curl lashes and apply two layers of mascara, (MaxFactor's False Lash Effect is my fave). 
• For lips, apply white kohl pencil as base.
• Then taking shadow line or clear liquid liner, again dip into dark navy shade (Moondust), and use to line lips. 
• Finally mixing all blue shadows, apply lightly onto cheeks for added colour. 

I hope you enjoyed this look, and will be able to gain inspiration from street art near you. Definitely check out some of the lions and have a go at raising money for charity.   

Love Chessie

Lauren Luke Looks

Yesterday, whilst out shopping with my granddad, I purchased a couple of books from various discount book stores. One of which was a beauty book by YouTube sensation Lauren Luke. 

I had heard of Lauren and her book through various make-up gurus on YouTube, but I had never thought to purchase it.  However when roaming the shelves yesterday I came across it, and immediately recognised it. 

I know it has only been a day since I purchased the read, and I should probably wait a little longer to review and recommend it to you all, however after skimming through it last night, I already feel it is worthy of a post. 

The book is absolutely stunning, and definitely deserves a place on your book case just for this ...

... however the looks and tutorials (created by Lauren herself) are something of a work of art. They are truly gorgeous  and although I haven't actually tried any out for myself, I am sure there is something for everyone ...

... The layout is also simple and easy to follow, with step by step instructions and great tips and tricks that make applying make-up enjoyable and easy. 

Lauren states, "I want to make everyone feel special!"

With 25 celebrity and everyday make-up tutorials I highly recommend this book to all beauty addicts out there. Whether you like to experiment with colours or just learn the basics to applying make-up, this book will be great for you. 

The book retails for $22 US, so I definitely encourage you to check out a discount book store, as I managed to grab mine for only £2, what a bargain.

Check out Lauren on YouTube for more Tutorials as well as Tips and Tricks:

 http://www.youtube.com/user/panacea81?blend=1&ob=4

Love Chessie

  

OOTD - Rust Orange

I find this outfit is a little dull for the summer time, and the rusty orange colour of the trousers reminds me of autumn leaves. However when I spotted them in Primark yesterday I fell in love with the shape and style (although they remind me slightly, of what my old headteacher wore, eeeek). 

Don't get me wrong I love the colour and think it compliments my hair very well, but I just think it may be better worn in Autumn (though saying that I will end up wearing them all summer, :o)

Anyway, for the price I think it was a steal, at only £10, these trousers will be key in my wardrobe all year round. 

White Top (Long Sleeve) Primark
Rust Trousers Primark
Brown Sandals Primark
Turquoise Stone Ring Primark
Rope and Chain Necklace Primark

Eeeek, it seems that yet again my entire outfit was purchased from Primarni!!! :O

Love Chessie

Yummy Cupcakes

This is a slightly different post than usual, as it does not involve fashion or beauty, but cupcakes. 

I am staying with my nonna (Italian for Nanna) and grandad this weekend. On my first night at their beautiful house I decided to assist my Nonna in baking some cupcakes to sell for charity. 

We cheated a little, as we opted to use a ready made mix, as not everyone has the time and patience to make one of their own, at least we didn't. 

Hope you Enjoy it as much as I did! xx

Sorry about the poor quality. Blackberry's are great phones, but do not have the best cameras. :)
They tasted great :)

I really enjoyed making and decorating the cupcakes with my Nonna. I suggest making some with your family and or friends this summer. Even if they don't turn out so great, you will be sure to have fun making them. 

Love Chessie

Summer Sales

I am supposed to be saving up for a trip to Paris later this summer (whooo), but as soon as I saw the large red sale signs plastering the high streets for the summer sales I just knew the saving scheme was not going to happen.

So I hit the high streets immediately with my friend in search for some great savings. However I always find with sales that you must be patient, and the majority of the time be willing to stretch items to a couple of sizes bigger than normal. 

Just remember to be willing to search the racks, and I promise you will find something to your taste.

Find out my tips and tricks for surviving the sales >> 

Here are a couple of things I have picked up this month:

Enjoy!

High Waisted Shorts £10 New Look Sale

Oversized Pocket Top £2 Primark Sale

Lace and Denim Tie Shirt £15 Miss Selfridge Sale

Floral Tie Shirt £10 New Look Sale

Coral/Pink Lace Crop £10 River Island Sale

Chain & Rope Necklace £1 Primark Sale

Turquoise Seahorse Pendant Necklace £1 Primark Sale 

Turquoise Blue Ring £2 Primark

Snake Bangle £1 Primark Sale

Gold Leaf Bracelet £1 River Island Sale

Navy and White Stripe Espadrilles £1 Primark Sale

Please note that I made these purchases over various shopping trips, and most items were in the sales. :)

Love Chessie

Surviving the Sales

I love sales, and always end up finding great quality items for even greater deals. However many are put off by the messy racks, and car boot like atmospheres, that they pass life changing (well maybe a little exaggerated) offers.

So I have created a list of 5 of my top tips and tricks to surviving the sales, and coming home with bags of bargains.   

1. Be Patient - everyone loves sales, so it is not surprising that shops are bustling with customers. If you are finding it hard to bag a bargain than just be patient. I suggest dedicating a whole day to the sales, it may drain the life out of you, but it is worth it in the end. 

2. Sacrifices - also in sales you are not always guaranteed to find the perfect item of clothing. You should be willing to make sacrifices, like stretching to a couple of sizes larger.  

3. Really Rummage - it takes a lot of determination to find what you are looking for. As the racks overflow you must really rummage around to find what you are looking for. Sometimes the best things are hidden away at the back (or on the floor) :). 

4. Be Sure - just because it is a sale doesn't mean that it is worth tasking risks. I recommend that you try things on. Don't just go for any old bargain. 

5. Have Fun - it is important not to take sales too seriously. If you don't find anything in the first store than move onto the next. Invite a couple of friends to come along, together you can give each other you views on items, and sometimes the best thing I have brought have been recommended by friends.     

I hope you will be able to use my tips and tricks to bag yourself a bargain next time you are shopping the sales. 

Love Chessie

P.S. I would love to hear of any tips and tricks you have for surviving the sales. :)